“A Clockwork Orange” gives frightening view of the future
As far as science fiction flicks go, 1971’s “A Clockwork Orange” is an undisputed classic.
Based on the 1962 novel by Anthony Burgess, “A Clockwork Orange” takes place in a nightmarish new Britain beset by crime and decay. Youth gangs roam the streets and slums, while wealthier folks barricade themselves in well-guarded country estates.
Our guide through this not-too-distant netherworld is Alex DeLarge (Malcolm McDowell), a charismatic young lad with a taste for sex, violence and “the immortal Ludwig Van.” Beethoven, that is.
Together with his gang of dimmer-witted droogs, he chugs drug-laced milk and beats up winos. He rapes. He murders. And in one memorable scene, he beats a man senseless while warbling “Singin’ in the Rain.”
All good things must come to end, of course.
For Alex, this means an extended stay in prison where he’s given a choice: Volunteer for aversion therapy, and go from happy-go-lucky hooligan to brainwashed model citizen. Is it any wonder that Alex says “yes”?
Director Stanley Kubrick constructs “A Clockwork Orange” as a treatise on crime, punishment and social responsibility, contrasting the gleefully delinquent Alex with his tormented latter self. Violence is paired with vindication, cringe-inducing crimes with classical music.
It’s the kind of film that compels you to watch, no matter how many times you may long to look away.
“A Clockwork Orange” screens tonight at The Palm Theatre, 817 Palm St. in San Luis Obispo. Showtimes for the R-rated movie are 6:45 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.
Tickets cost $7.50.
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“A Clockwork Orange” is being screened as part of the Palm Wednesday series. It continues with:
- “Enter the Dragon” (Feb. 25)
- “Caddyshack” (March 4)
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