Product: A Clockwork Orange [VHS] (1972)
Rating: 5.0
The Empire 5 Star 500 - #123
Can humans be truly rehabilitated? Furthermore, what is the real purpose of prison?These deep societal questions barely scratch the philosophical surface of A Clockwork Orange.The questions that arise depends greatly on the viewer.A Clockwork Orange was introduced in 1971. It was written, directed and produced by Stanley Kubrick. The screenplay was based on the Anthony Burgess's 1962 book A Clockwork Orange. To sum it up neatly this movie is excellent. It came out in 1971 and is still relevant and thought provoking. It is the quintessential cult movie. It is science fiction, horror, philosophy, violence and punk rock all rolled up into one. The film asks many important questions about life and society. The story revolves around a violent young man named Alex. He goes on a violent crime spree and ends up getting caught. After serving two years in prison he is offered an opportunity for early release. The early release comes equipped with a pseudo lobotomy called the Ludovico technique, an experimental aversion therapy for rehabilitating criminals. Alex participates in the experiment and is left unable to commit violent acts. In other words, he is stripped of his ability to be his criminal self. He is released from prison and the outcome is explored. Stanley Kubrick was an maverick film creator. A Clockwork Orange could be his best creation. The music, images, scenarios, and concepts are all memorable. If it has been a while, A Clockwork Orange is worth a revisit. The themes presented are human, challenging, and violent. It is a powerful trip that asks questions that will continue to resonate through time.