3. Performance (1968)
Why It's Controversial: It was Mad Cyril! Made in 1968 by Nic Roeg and Donald Cammell, but not released until 1970, this British crime drama stars Mick Jagger, James Fox and Anita Pallenberg. This is another film which gave the censors a bloody good run around. It is a dark, experimental film involving sex, drugs and violence. Scenes of contention include: Anita Pallenberg shagging Mick Jagger. Thr rumour mill had it that the pair were going at it for real in the film. This greatly displeased Keith Richards who was going out with Pallenberg at the time. Jagger in a menage a trois relationship in the film with Pallenberg and Michele Breton. James Fox fed hallucinogenic drugs leading to some interesting trips.
Why It's Good: Shot to pieces by the critics in 1970, the year of its official release, Performance has grown and grown in reputation and stature as the decades have passed. It has had a considerably wide cultural impact, for example, director Paul Schrader has mentioned that Performance is one of his favourite films and has had a considerable impact on him own films. The film is unlike anything else ever produced - part crime film/part psychedelic LSD freakout. Apparently it messed with James Fox's head so much he didn't make another film for several years. It is full of compelling dark imagery and boasts a fabulous soundtrack. One for the Christmas stocking then!