Performance
Performance

Movie spotlight

Performance

1981
Movie
Adult · 18+
87 min
English

A behind-the-scenes look at the production of a male strip show — and the performance itself.

Insights

IMDb7.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes94%
Metacritic75/100
Google Users85%
Director: Donald Cammell, Nicolas RoegGenres: Crime, Drama, Thriller

Plot Summary

A violent gangster, Chas, is tasked with eliminating a reclusive pop star, Turner, who lives in a decadent London mansion. As Chas infiltrates Turner's bohemian world, the lines between reality and hallucination blur, leading to a dangerous psychological game. The encounter forces Chas to confront his own identity and the nature of power.

Critical Reception

Initially controversial and facing distribution challenges, 'Performance' has since gained a cult following and critical acclaim for its innovative filmmaking, bold themes, and unsettling atmosphere. It is regarded as a landmark film of its era, praised for its artistic ambition and daring exploration of identity and societal decay.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its avant-garde style and daring visual experimentation.

  • Lauded for its compelling performances, particularly Mick Jagger's enigmatic portrayal.

  • Often cited for its provocative themes and ambiguous narrative structure.

Google audience: Audiences appreciate the film's unique and mind-bending experience, with many finding Mick Jagger's performance captivating. Some viewers note that its unconventional narrative can be challenging, but ultimately rewarding for its artistic merit.

Fun Fact

The film's release was famously delayed for several years due to its graphic content and controversial themes, with Warner Bros. initially hesitant to distribute it widely.

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