My Compliments to Kubrick's "Clockwork"

Rating: 10/10 (9 April 2006)

Being a Kubrick fan (as of recently), I dove into this movie with both excitement (it being directed by Kubrick and being considered a classic) and hesitancy (due to its reputation as a depressing film filled with sexual references). At that time, the only other Kubrick films I had seen were "Dr. Strangelove", "Full Metal Jacket", and "2001: A Space Odyssey", so I was expecting an awesome, thought-inspiring movie. I was not disappointed. I say now without hesitation that this is my favourite Kubrick movie. The others I've seen were awesome, but this takes the cake.
"Clockwork" is a very well made movie, showcasing Kubrick's directoral talents in all their glory. The acting, though lacking any actors I'd heard of at the time, was wonderful. Alex was done with sublimity by Mr. McDowell (I believe that's his name, hehe), and was very threatening and dangerous before the treatment, and rightfully innocent and vulnerable after it. I honestly felt sorry for him.
Also, being a classical music fan, the soundtrack, which consisted of it entirely, pleased me deeply. I felt more sympathetic towards Alex, due to his love of Beethoven and, I presume, other classical music.
Despite its disturbing message, it was a wonderfully made movie that pleased me greatly. As always, Kubrick challenges the viewer to think, and perhaps that's why he's my favourite director. And this, to me, is the crowning achievement of his illustrious career. I recommend this film to anyone who enjoys Kubrick, likes to think, or has the stomach for some of the things this film can throw at them. It may not be for everyone, but nonetheless, give it a whirl, and you could, like me, find one of the most powerful and fulfilling movie experiences of your life.
And now I'm done.