🪶 Story & Synopsis
In Stanley Kubrick’s cult classic “A Clockwork Orange,” the audience is introduced to Alex, a young English hoodlum who leads a gang of fellow delinquents. Instead of attending school, Alex and his group indulge in acts of theft, rape, and violence. The film kicks off with a night of mayhem as the gang, known as the Droogs, visits the Korova Milk Bar where they consume drug-laced milk and gear up for a spree of violence.
During their escapades, they assault an elderly homeless man, engage in a gang fight with a rival group attempting to rape a woman, and proceed to steal a car for a joyride into the countryside. Once there, they invade the home of a prominent writer named Mr. Alexander, subjecting him to a brutal beating and his wife to a horrifying assault. Notably, Alex’s demeanor during these violent acts is oddly carefree, almost as if he derives pleasure from the chaos he creates.
However, Alex’s reign of terror comes to an end when he is arrested for murdering the Cat Lady. In prison, he volunteers for an experimental behavior modification program that aims to rehabilitate criminals by instilling in them a deep aversion to violence. After undergoing the controversial procedure, Alex is released back into society as a reformed man, but the tables turn on him as he becomes the target of those he once victimized.
The narrative delves into themes of free will, morality, and the consequences of tampering with human nature, all set against a dystopian backdrop of a futuristic England. With its striking visuals, iconic scenes, and a haunting soundtrack featuring Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, “A Clockwork Orange” remains a thought-provoking exploration of society’s approach to crime and punishment, leaving viewers to ponder the complexities of good and evil long after the credits roll.
🧑 Cast & Crew
Malcolm McDowell, Patrick Magee, Michael Bates, Warren Clarke, Adrienne Corri, Paul Farrell, Miriam Karlin, James Marcus
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Malcolm McDowell | Alex |
| Patrick Magee | Mr. Alexander |
| Adrienne Corri | Mrs. Alexander |
| Warren Clarke | Dim |
| John Clive | Stage Actor |
| Michael Bates | Chief Guard |
| Aubrey Morris | Deltoid |
| Miriam Karlin | Catlady |
💬 Reviews and feedback
Are you ready to dive into the twisted, dystopian world of “A Clockwork Orange”? Strap in, because this film is a rollercoaster of controversy, violence, and moral dilemmas that will leave you questioning the very essence of free will and societal control.
Imagine a milk bottle being broken over your head – not the usual kind of morning wake-up call, right? Well, that’s just the tip of the iceberg in this mind-bending tale. With scenes ranging from groin-grabbing to bloody noses, “A Clockwork Orange” doesn’t hold back when it comes to graphic violence.
At its core, this movie forces us to confront a crucial question: How much freedom are we willing to sacrifice for order? And on the flip side, how much chaos are we okay with in the name of liberty? It’s a philosophical tug-of-war that will leave your brain spinning long after the credits roll.
Now, let’s talk about Stanley Kubrick’s direction. The man was a master of weaving together disturbing imagery with dark humor. He creates a chillingly realistic dystopia that feels both familiar and utterly alien at the same time. Every shot is meticulously crafted to elicit maximum discomfort and introspection.
And let’s not forget about the acting. The cast delivers performances that will haunt your dreams – in a good way. From Alex’s charismatic yet sociopathic charm to the eerie presence of his droogs, every character feels like a piece in Kubrick’s twisted chess game.
The production design deserves a special mention here. The gritty, futuristic world of “A Clockwork Orange” is brought to life with such attention to detail that you’ll find yourself fully immersed in its bleak atmosphere. It’s like stepping into a nightmare where every corner hides a new horror.
As for the score, it complements the on-screen chaos perfectly. The haunting melodies and jarring soundscape add another layer of unease to an already tense narrative. It’s like music designed to make your skin crawl – in the best possible way.
- Binge-watching Tips: Watch with a friend so you have someone to discuss all the moral quandaries with afterwards!
In conclusion, “A Clockwork Orange” is not for the faint of heart. It delves deep into the darkest corners of human nature and societal control, forcing us to confront uncomfortable truths along the way. So grab your popcorn (and maybe a comforting blanket) and prepare yourself for a cinematic experience unlike any other.
Rating: 9/10
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Thought-provoking exploration of individual liberty vs. state control | Contains horrifying violence and extreme emotions |
| Raises important ethical questions about free will and morality | Depictions of graphic violence can be disturbing |
| Brilliant and audacious direction by Stanley Kubrick | Some critics find it to be a paranoid right-wing fantasy |
| Dark humor adds depth to the dystopian narrative | Violence, rape, and sadism scenes may be off-putting for some viewers |
| Part horror, part satire, and part drama with a unique Kubrick style | Excessive lewdity and nudity can be oppressive and disturbing |
Feedback
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A Clockwork Orange (film) - Wikipedia
136 minutes Countries - United Kingdom
- United States
Language English Budget $1.3 million Box office $114 million A Clockwork Orangeis a 1971 dystopian crime film adapted, produced, and directed by Stanley Kubrick, based on Anthony Burgess’s 1962 novel of the same name. It employs disturbing, violent images to comment on psychiatry, juvenile delinquency, youth gangs, and other social, political, and economic subjects in a dystopian near-future Britain.
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A Clockwork Orange (1971) - IMDb
Did you know
- TriviaMalcolm McDowell’s eyes were anesthetized for the torture scenes so that he would film for periods of time without too much discomfort. Nevertheless his corneas got repeatedly scratched by the metal lid locks.
- GoofsMany of the continuity errors are not in fact errors. Stanley Kubrick purposely included many continuity errors as a way of creating a feeling of disorientation for the audience. That is why people’s positions change, props are reorganized, and hats (and other articles of clothing) appear and disappear.
- Crazy creditsThere are no opening credits after the title, which is followed by the opening shot of Alex the Droog. Although it is now commonplace for major films to not have opening credits, in 1971 it was considered rather unusual and was considered a trademark of director Stanley Kubrick.
- Alternate versionsIn 1973, a new version of “A Clockwork Orange” was released to theaters with an MPAA rating of “R”, replacing the previous “X”. The new version contained approximately 31 seconds of replacement, less lascivious footage for two scenes: the high speed (2 fps) orgy in Alex’s bedroom, and the Ludovico rape scene. The bedroom scene was made more comical by having one of the girls fall off the bed and Alex joins her down there. The Ludovico rape scene was altered in that the scenes with the first two droogs was from the side and waist-up, so it is less explicit. The third droog was removed completely and replaced with a close-up of one of the doctor’s face as they are watching Alex’s treatment.
- SoundtracksSymphony No.9 in D Minor, Opus 125 Choral: II. Scherzo. Molto vivaceWritten by Ludwig van BeethovenRecorded by Deutsche Grammophon Gesellschaft
Featured review
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A Clockwork Orange | Rotten Tomatoes
Disturbing and thought-provoking, A Clockwork Orange is a cold, dystopian nightmare with a very dark sense of humor.Read Critics Reviews
A Clockwork OrangeWhere to WatchA Clockwork Orange
Rent A Clockwork Orange on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Apple TV, or buy it on Fandango at Home, Prime Video.
What to KnowCritics ReviewsAudience ReviewsMy RatingCast & Crew
Stanley KubrickDirectorMalcolm McDowellAlex DeLargePatrick MageeFrank AlexanderMichael BatesChief Guard BarnesWarren ClarkeDimJohn CliveStage Actor
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A Clockwork Orange movie review (1972) | Roger Ebert
Now streaming on:Stanley Kubrick’s “A Clockwork Orange” is an ideological mess, a paranoid right-wing fantasy masquerading As an Orwellian warning. It pretends to oppose the police state and forced mind control, but all it really does is celebrate the nastiness of its hero, Alex.
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A Clockwork Orange | Trailer | Warner Bros. Entertainment
⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)
At the ending of “A Clockwork Orange,” the main character, Alex, utters the line, “I was cured alright.” This statement has sparked debates among viewers about whether Alex was being honest or sarcastic. The final scene depicting a fantasized orgy adds another layer of complexity to this interpretation. Some believe that Alex might have pretended to be cured to manipulate his way out of the therapy program.
One crucial aspect to consider is the difference between the American and UK versions of the original book. In the American version, the missing last chapter aligns more closely with the film’s ending, suggesting that Alex remains unchanged. In contrast, the UK version’s final chapter implies that Alex chooses to renounce violence of his own volition, indicating a form of genuine rehabilitation.
In the movie’s context, the ‘cure’ can be seen as Alex regaining his ability to think independently, regardless of societal norms. The ending implies that the authorities were willing to allow Alex to revert to his previous self to serve their interests temporarily. Moreover, they leverage Alex’s conditioning and subsequent recovery to settle scores, revealing their manipulative nature.
Some viewers believe that Alex’s shift in priorities is evident in the final scene. Previously reveling in a life of crime outside societal boundaries, he now appears to aspire to a more conventional lifestyle while retaining traces of his wild nature. The fantasy sequence following his agreement to cooperate with the government’s narrative signifies a new deal with society, promising rewards if he restrains his impulses.
Within this fantasy, Alex’s character demonstrates a degree of maturation. The depiction of a monogamous and consensual sexual encounter, contrasted with his earlier violent and non-consensual acts, symbolizes his evolution. The approval he receives from the crowd of ‘normal’ onlookers highlights a shift from societal condemnation to acceptance, reflecting his altered mindset and behavior.
While some argue that Alex’s sarcastic remark about being ‘cured’ refers to his conformity to societal expectations, there is a deeper layer to his apparent rehabilitation. Director Stanley Kubrick’s portrayal suggests a nuanced exploration of the complexities of human nature, rehabilitation, and societal control, leaving audiences to ponder the true extent of Alex’s transformation and the implications of his final choices.
👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating
R
Age Rating:
This movie is recommended for viewers aged 14 and older.
Parental Guide:
Sex & Nudity:
- The movie contains frequent scenes of nudity, including brief instances of sexual content.
- There are depictions of rape, although they are not overly graphic.
- Nudity is present throughout the film, and some scenes may be uncomfortable for younger viewers.
Violence & Gore:
- The film features disturbing and violent images, including scenes of physical assault, beatings, and gang violence.
- There is a significant amount of violence portrayed, although it is not excessively gory.
- Themes of crime and punishment are prevalent throughout the movie.
Profanity:
- The movie contains instances of strong language and profanity.
- Profanity is used in various contexts and may not be suitable for younger audiences.
Overall Theme:
- A Clockwork Orange explores dark themes such as behavioral conditioning, crime, and punishment.
- The film delves into social, political, and economic subjects in a dystopian near-future Britain.
- Viewer discretion is advised due to the mature and controversial topics addressed in the movie.
📺 Streaming and where to watch
| streaming service | extra information |
|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | Rentals include 30 days to start watching this video and 48 hours to finish |
| Google Play Movies | Available to buy or rent |
| YouTube | Available to buy or rent |
| Microsoft Store | Available to buy or rent |
| AMC on Demand | Available to buy or rent |
| Vudu | Available to buy or rent |
| Criterion Channel | Available for streaming |
❝ Quotes and Cult
As I slooshied, I knew such lovely pictures!
It is as inhuman to be totally good as it is to be totally evil.
🤖A Clockwork Orange Reddit Talks
A Clockwork Orange is a 1971 dystopian crime film directed by Stanley Kubrick, based on the 1962 novel of the same name by Anthony Burgess.
The film is set in a dystopian future where Alex, a charismatic and violent young man, is apprehended and sentenced to undergo an experimental aversion therapy designed to cure him of his antisocial behavior. The therapy is successful, but it also leaves Alex unable to experience any pleasure, including the pleasure of music, which he had previously loved.
The film has been the subject of much debate and controversy since its release, with some critics praising it as a masterpiece and others condemning it as immoral and dangerous. However, there is no doubt that it is a powerful and thought-provoking film that raises important questions about the nature of good and evil, free will, and the role of the state in controlling individual behavior.
One of the most striking things about A Clockwork Orange is its use of violence. The film is full of graphic and disturbing scenes of violence, including rape, murder, and torture. However, Kubrick’s use of violence is not gratuitous; it is essential to the film’s message. The violence in A Clockwork Orange is a reflection of the violence that is inherent in human nature. It is a reminder that we are all capable of great evil, even those of us who consider ourselves to be good.
Another important theme in A Clockwork Orange is the question of free will. Alex is a complex and contradictory character. He is capable of great violence, but he is also capable of great love and compassion. The film raises the question of whether Alex is truly responsible for his actions, or whether he is simply a product of his environment. Ultimately, the film does not provide an easy answer to this question. It is up to the viewer to decide whether Alex is a victim or a villain.
A Clockwork Orange is a challenging and disturbing film, but it is also a brilliant and thought-provoking one. It is a film that will stay with you long after you have seen it. It is a film that will make you think about the nature of good and evil, free will, and the role of the state in controlling individual behavior.
Here are some of the different points of view, problems, reviews, and topics related to A Clockwork Orange that have been discussed on Reddit:
- The film’s violence is gratuitous and unnecessary.
- The film’s message is immoral and dangerous.
- The film is a masterpiece that raises important questions about the nature of good and evil.
- The film is a brilliant and thought-provoking work of art.
- The film is overrated and not worth watching.
Ultimately, whether or not you enjoy A Clockwork Orange is a matter of personal opinion. However, there is no doubt that it is a powerful and thought-provoking film that will stay with you long after you have seen it.
Top discussions
- https://www.reddit.com/r/flicks/comments/y8xi97/what_is_the_point_that_a_clockwork_orange_is/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/12tnzq9/do_people_actually_like_a_clockwork_orange/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/wt2y6c/so_i_finally_saw_a_clockwork_orange_and_have_to/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/18ny7te/finally_watched_a_clockwork_orange_and_i/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/12qmfz/a_clockwork_orange_discussion/
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the movie Clockwork Orange so controversial?
The film premiered in New York City on 19 December 1971 and was released in the United Kingdom on 13 January 1972. The film was met with polarised reviews from critics and was controversial due to its depictions of graphic violence.
What is the disturbing scene in Clockwork Orange?
A man gets a milk bottle broken over his head. A man grabs another’s groin then gets punched in the face. As a result, his bandaged nose starts bleeding. There are disturbing scenes of violence including beatings and murder.
What is the main point of A Clockwork Orange?
Throughout A Clockwork Orange, the film forces us to weigh the values and dangers of both individual liberty and state control, and consider how much liberty we’re willing to give up for order, and how much order we’re willing to give up for liberty.
What is the story behind Clockwork Orange?
A Clockwork Orange, novel by Anthony Burgess, published in 1962. Set in a dismal dystopian England, it is the first-person account of a juvenile delinquent who undergoes state-sponsored psychological rehabilitation for his aberrant behaviour.
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