Mick Jagger was originally interested in "A Clockwork Orange"
May 6th 2008 22:43
Stanley Kubrick's "A Clockwork Orange" is one of those movies that is universally loved by fresh-eyed college boys, drawn by its themes of alienation and the nature of choice. As a first-year university student, it was easily my favourite movie, appealing to me with Kubrick's sterile sense of style, the wonderful mise-en-scene, and the heady rush of sex and violence.
As I grew older, though, my tastes separated from "A Clockwork Orange" - I read thoughtful reviews by Roger Ebert and Pauline Kael; both writers criticized Kubrick for his indirect opinion that, yes, Alex is a bad kid, but, damn - a'int he cool?
Well, in another, parallel universe, Kubrick never made "Clockwork" with Malcolm McDowell. Instead, the film was first offered to John Schlesinger, director of "Midnight Cowboy", who got interest from Mick Jagger, lead singer of the Rolling Stones.
Younger readers will have to be assured that, yes, at one point in time, Jagger was actually a symbol of youthful rebellion, a vibrantly defiant rocker, instead of the shrill, commercial shill he's become along with his bandmates.
Even more bizarre, The Beatles were interested in providing the soundtrack - as the Guardian writer notes:
"But still it's thrilling - and horrifying - to imagine Mick Jagger prancing about in droog regalia, committing acts of heinous violence while Here Comes The Sun comes thundering out.
Maybe we can convince Mick, Paul and Ringo to develop a remake."
*this image is from the Daily Mail, which, interestingly, published an article about how celebrities in the 60s were photographed "enjoying a civilised party" - and then has a sidebar full of celebrities upskirt photos and pointing out cellulite.
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Comment by Jayne Kearney
Writers In Writing (and other writing)
I am a fan of A Clockwork Orange, but have to admit I was in love with the book by Anthony Burgess before I ever laid eyes on Malcolm McDowell as the definitive bad-boy, Alex. And yes, McDowell was supremely cool in the role - concerning perhaps? I would have to re-read the book and re-watch the film and then check out the reviews you mentioned to make a proper assumption. That's a lot of homework!
I loved the stylistic beauty of Kubrick's film and the Burgess book was a fascinating exploration of youth and society which I'm sure is still relevant today.
I can't imagine Jagger playing the part - memories of his turn as Ned Kelly perhaps - but you chose a fabulous image of him to include here which was a true reminder of his own sensual coolness in the '60's (not so evident today!)
Interesting post.
Jayne
Comment by Mr Nice Guy
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Comment by Cibbuano
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Kubrick is easily forgiven, though, with his insane sense of style and set-pieces. One of the few directors that doesn't make me nauseous with his slow motion.
Nice Guy, woo hoo! I'd tease the guy incessantly, using Stones' lyrics in everyday conversation. "Start me up!"
Louie, we live in a time where all the old rockers are getting back together for geriatric tours. Led Zep, Black Sabbath, where does it end?
Comment by James Rickard
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Comment by KylieW
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It is a shame that Mick is almost totally forgotten as the rebellious rockstar. Then again, hey, if you've been in the business for 40 years, you're probably allowed to sell out and just become a pop-whore (I love that term, Louie).......heck, I probably would too!
Comment by Miswanderlust
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Great bit of trivia! I think that I might have preferred Mick in the role. (No throwing tomatoes please) HA
Mis