Rent O Lucky Man! (1973)
3.7 of 5 from 96 ratings
2h 51min
- General info
- Available formats
- Synopsis:
- Malcolm McDowell provides the original idea for and stars as wide-eyed innocent (not for long) Mick Travis in Lindsay Anderson's epic comedy 'O Lucky Man!'. Armed with ambition and a work ethic, coffee salesman Mick hits the road and finds that desire alone can't bring wealth and status. He meets rich and poor alike...and finds cunning and cruelty across the social spectrum. Ralph Richardson, Helen Mirren, Arthur Lowe, Rachel Roberts, Mona Washbourne and other stars in multiple roles knit Mick's picaresque adventures together. And commenting with wit and irony is Alan Price, providing a memorable song score. Once you meet Mick, you're the lucky one.
- Actors:
- Malcolm McDowell, Ralph Richardson, Rachel Roberts, Arthur Lowe, Helen Mirren, Graham Crowden, Peter Jeffrey, Dandy Nichols, Mona Washbourne, Philip Stone, Mary Macleod, Michael Bangerter, Wallas Eaton, Warren Clarke, Bill Owen, Michael Medwin, Vivian Pickles, Geoffrey Palmer, Geoffrey Chater, Anthony Nicholls
- Directors:
- Lindsay Anderson
- Producers:
- Lindsay Anderson, Albert Finney, Malcolm McDowell, Michael Medwin, David Sherwin
- Writers:
- David Sherwin, Malcolm McDowell
- Others:
- Alan Price
- Studio:
- Warner
- Genres:
- Classics, Comedy, Music & Musicals
- Collections:
- Cinema Paradiso's 2022 Centenary Club, Cinema Paradiso's 2023 Centenary Club: Part 1, Getting to Know..., Getting to Know: Helen Mirren, inema Paradiso's 2023 Centenary Club: Part 2, A Brief History of Film..., The Instant Expert's Guide, The Instant Expert's Guide to: Miloš Forman
- Awards:
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Reviews (1) of O Lucky Man!
Absurdist - O Lucky Man! review by griggs
O Lucky Man! is an absurdist film that presents a biting satire of 1970s UK society. Seen through 21st-century eyes, it becomes a grim reflection of its time, critiquing the socio-political landscape with a dark, almost prophetic tone.
Malcolm McDowell’s character, Mick Travis, is at the centre of the film, a proto-Thatcherite figure whose ruthless ambition makes him neither likeable nor sympathetic. His journey through various absurd scenarios serves as a vehicle for the film’s critique. Still, his lack of redeeming qualities leaves the audience detached, observing rather than engaging.
The ensemble cast, composed mainly of actors from 1970s UK sitcoms, adds an intriguing layer to the film. Their multiple roles create a tapestry of interconnected vignettes that enhance the absurdity. However, the appearance of Arthur Lowe in blackface (following a similar appearance by McDowell) is a stark reminder of the era’s problematic attitudes, leaving a bitter taste in the mouth. This unfortunate choice overshadows some of the film’s more compelling elements and mars its legacy.
Helen Mirren’s early role is a beacon of compassion in a sea of cynicism. Her performance adds a much-needed emotional depth to the narrative, offering a glimpse of humanity amidst the chaos. Mirren’s character is one of the few that evokes genuine empathy, highlighting her remarkable talent even at this early stage of her career. Alan Price and his band provide the film’s musical backbone, their songs interweaving with the narrative to underscore its themes. While their music is a highlight, the repetition of certain tracks suggests a fatigue with the story itself, reflecting perhaps the audience’s own weariness as the film progresses.
O Lucky Man! is a complex film oscillating between brilliance and discomfort. Its absurdist approach, ensemble cast, and poignant music are offset by dated and offensive elements. It offers insight and challenge for those interested in a satirical exploration of 1970s Britain.
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