A Clockwork Orange - 1971 - Malcolm McDowell.

Disturbing and dark look on a near future society.

A Clockwork Orange follows the life of young man Alex (Malcolm McDowell) and his 'Droogs' who spend their nights drinking at the Korova Milkbar and then going out into the night to cause mayhem, embarking in 'a little of the old ultra-violence'. After a run in with the law, Alex is sentenced to prison, once inside he is offered a way of getting out early in the shape of a behaviour modification treatment. The treatment uses Alex's beloved 'Ludwig-van' against him, causing great psychological pain whenever subjected to violence. On being released back into the real world, and confronting all those he had done wrong to in the past, would he be able to stay out of trouble?

This film oozes Kubrick, from the camera work to the distinct use of sound. Any Kubrick fan would definitely not want to miss this picture. Malcolm McDowell (If... , O Lucky Man!) gives a defining performance, portraying Alex as the almost psychotic, sex crazed animal that consumes the opening half of the film, only for him to effortlessly transform into the innocent, helpless young man that develops during the behaviour modification treatment. On reflection, it's hard to believe it is the same man.

A Clockwork Orange is not however for the faint hearted. It's opening 15 minutes is littered with multiple rapes and beatings, shown in vivid detail. Kubrick gives a hugely stylish film filled with immense strong and powerful content. This doesn't let up throughout the film, as even with Alex's treatment comes horrific violence. Some could argue his treatment is a form of torture, and although the film is set slightly in the future, there is no way this form of treatment would ever be used. I don't want to give away any spoilers but in the main treatment scene, where tools are used to keep Alex's eyes open, Malcolm McDowell actually cut one of his corneas causing temporary blindness. Furthermore, in one of the more violent scenes, McDowell actually cracks a few ribs.

A powerful and quite disturbing film, not to be missed by any Kubrick followers.

J.Henderson.

7/10.