Whenever I rank the 13 feature films of Stanley Kubrick, “A Clockwork Orange” is always a major headache. Along with “Dr. Strangelove” (1964) and “2001: A Space Odyssey” (1968), it shows Kubrick at the peak of his great filmmaking career, but it's also one of the most violent and disturbing movies even today, and I usually am conflicted about where to put it on the list. Yes, it's certainly a very important work from one of the greatest filmmakers of the 20th century, but I don't think I really like it, even while recognizing its undeniably iconic status, which has been steadily solidified along with its lasting notoriety.
Some of you may say that the movie, based on the novel of the same name by Anthony Burgess, is worthwhile to watch for its thought-provoking themes and many visually striking moments. I agree to that to some degree, but, seriously, you may think twice before recommending it to others around you. I still remember well when I showed it to my parents in 2006. My mother was so horrified by what is shown during its first 20 minutes that she eventually walked out, and I came to take a more cautious view on the film when reflecting more on her immediate negative response to it.
