A Classic that Predates Woke But Espouses Progressivism

This is easily one of my favorite movies. I am a huge fan of Stanley Kubrick, but I have to call out the progressive ideals of such a revolutionary and notable director.

As with many of his films, Kubrick intended to highlight certain tendencies in this movie. In this case, it was the concept of a conservative, authoritarian government that would punish even the protagonist of our story to forced propaganda. It was, as some consider it, a right-wing fascist state, but these are terms best left for the academic and over-institutionalized. In reality, what Alex experiences in this movie is the definition of a collectivist totalitarian leftist state. His urges are dispensed of, at least theoretically, while his anarchistic nature is still in play, despite the mind control he experiences.

Make no mistake: This movie is leftist and built on the idea that behavioral modification is a right-wing tactic. That said, it predates the modern "woke" idea by over 30 years. It portrays a sociopath who is, in some ways very right-wing, but in others, very left-wing. The promiscuity and attacks upon the rich are deeply rooted in leftist ideology. The rejection of authority and creation of a gang independent from neo-London's oppressive rule are certainly right-wing. Overall, though, it is vey much a siren song to the equity-seeking left. Despite its very adult themes, A Clockwork Orange is a cautionary tale against the centralized government in that those in charge will use whatever means possible to change those who fight the system.

This is a movie that explores anarchism well, and finds it lacking. Whether you're a left or right anarchist, it is against absolute freedom, but it also fights against the the idea of control from the government. It is a movie built upon the idea that you should make your own decisions. For that, I applaud it.