Excellent but probably not the right story for everyone

Rating: 10/10 (14 February 2017)

Undoubtedly the violence, rape and abuse featured in this film will offend or disturb some people. Of course Alex's commentary in the language of "Nadsat" will confuse some people, too. This is definitely not a film for everyone, but there are a lot of misconceptions around it that often turn people off of watching A Clockwork Orange before actually giving it a chance.
First and foremost, people avoid this film because of the graphic and violent content. Don't be fooled though, the constant sex and violence is not there for sadistic cruelty, there's a lot more to it than that. Yeah yeah, I'm sure there are a few edgy teen sickos who get off on this film, but to really understand the point of all the violence in the story, you have to really pay attention. Alex, the main character of the story, doesn't even view his cruel actions as "violent" or "abusive". He sees it as all in good fun. In truth, he's a momma's boy living in his parents' house who has an affinity for classical music and art. This is the side of him that nobody sees, because all too often he is judged by the sadistic nature of his actions. When an experimental treatment is performed on Alex, he is no longer violent, but he's stripped of enjoyment and personality. When he is released from prison, he is attacked, kicked out of his home, beaten-up and belittled. So, was Alex really a psychopathic sadist, or was his behavior just a response to an equally cruel dystopian society? Different viewers will interpret this masterpiece of a film in different ways, and that's part of what makes it so special.
Also, a lot of people don't watch A Clockwork Orange because they see it as a "hipster" film or an art film. Although very artistic in nature with its vivid colors, pop-out imagery and its impressive soundtrack, A Clockwork Orange is not all that alternative. It's a story that anybody can enjoy regardless of your interests, and it's a timeless story as well despite being produced in the 1970's. Besides, even if this film really was considered alternative, that's no reason to hate it. It has excellent acting, the director put evident talent into it and the characters become almost real.
Perhaps A Clockwork Orange is a little overrated for what it is, but love it or hate it, it's certainly a classic in every sense of the word, and watching it even just once will have you contemplating the world you live in and the people around you.