Review of if.... (1968) by Rob S — 18 Jan 2016

"If...." is forever drawing us back to its masterpiece of storytelling and dark sense of humour. This film delves into the life and sinister mind of "Mick Travis" (McDowell), teasing the audience with the contrast between Mick's thoughts and physical actions.

This is where we truly see Malcolm McDowell at his finest. Featuring as a sixth form schoolboy at a British Boarding School, McDowell convincingly brings us all back to our school days and revives that sense of rebellion lurking in the depths of our minds.

Director Lindsay Anderson cleverly balances out Mick's dark thoughts with the real world, making a particular scene almost appear on the brink of reality but only to spiral into madness and chaos as the scene progresses. This technique not only leaves the audience inconclusively but also heavily grasps control of the audience and constantly hooks their attention on uncovering the true meaning behind Mick and his friends.

Throughout the film we are shown intricately around the school at the sort of mischievous acts such boys might commit when under the strict supervision of staff and sixth form prefects. Darting between classes we are exposed to a great difference in age of the pupils. From youngest, who comically appear organised and hardworking. To the oldest who show signs of little care and short attention span, allowing their mind to run wild. and spawn incredible, dark and inappropriate thoughts. However, whether these are interpreted as thoughts or real actions is down to the audience themselves.

As though by the end of "if...." we haven't seen enough heart striking and powerful emotion. Anderson finishes us off with a spectacular finale like no other. With guns, grenades, rebellion and an epic closing soundtrack. We are left in wonder asking ourselves, what if...