The Eclectic Choice: Performance

Performance (1970)
dir. Donad Cammell & Nicholas Roeg


Another pick from Cammell and his cohort in crime Nicholas Roeg who would go on to a very impressive career of his own. This was the first directing gig for both of them and the results would be a mind bending look at identity, inspiration and culture clash.

Mick Jagger plays a rock and roller who is dried up and looking for that magic touch. James Fox plays a hitman who is on the lamb from a job gone wrong and ends up renting the guest room in Jagger's pad. Then all the rules are thrown out the window.

This is a really bizarre flick that is all over the map as it delves into philosophy and the surrounding counter culture. More than anything though it is an incredibly well acted and stylized, showing off the developing talents of both of its creators. Plus it contains one of the best lesser known Mick Jagger songs, "Memo From Turner" as well as a psychedelic soundtrack from the likes of Jack Nitzsche, Randy Newman and Merry Clayton.

Well worth the purchase if you want to see something very off the wall.