Probably one of the strangest genres of film to review thoroughly is the slice-of-life genre. It's a genre commonly used in anime that doesn't have a plot or a traditionally structured central conflict per se. Instead, it is a feature-length montage of events and traditions found in a particular person's everyday life. Anime tends to favor this genre as it often provides quick and relatively easy storytelling. Not to mention, most anime can get away with utilizing the style most often, due in large part to the incredible spectacle of the hand-drawn visuals. Live-action, on the other hand, has less of an advantage. When tackling a slice-of-life concept in live-action, the subject matter at hand must not only be compelling, but relevant. Something that must present itself, thus further enhancing our understanding of culture and the human condition. While today's movie, if.... (yes, that is the film's title), can be best described as a slice-of-life film, I would not go so far as to call it a "perfect" example of the genre. Even though I did appreciate it and cautiously recommend it to those curious about it, I have no desire to see this film again. Not out of a lack of quality, but because of how disturbing it is.
Released in 1968, directed by Lindsay Anderson, the film takes place in a British Boarding School for boys roughly between the ages of 12 to 18. Most of the film follows the exploits of a teenager named Mick (Malcolm McDowell), the rebellious ringleader of a small group of equally defiant friends. They pull pranks, sneak alcohol into the school, and generally do all they can to reinforce their individuality and protest conformity. Not an easy task, considering the strict and militant nature of their school. Not at all helped by the unhealthy and evil hypocrisy practiced by both faculty and indoctrinated students alike. Especially when sexuality is concerned. All of which drives the insurgent group, calling themselves The Crusaders, to an unsurprising and unfortunate action that might shock some and reaffirm convictions to others. In any case, it won't be pleasant.
Movies like these tend to live or die by their level of execution. Films that lack a compelling central conflict or heavily rely on excessive, if witty, dialogue must present themselves in such a way that justifies their existence. They must have something relevant to say about the human condition, or they are nothing more than pretentious drivel that wastes our time. The movie, if...., escapes obscurity by presenting the inhumanity of a "classical" perception of society and expectations therein. Even though I can comfortably live the rest of my life never watching this film again, I am glad to have seen it at least once. If only for the artistic insight, as it gave me into an aspect of education and civilization, I had never considered before.
That's just about all I can say about the film without spoiling anything important. If you are the least curious, I must give you fair warning that the movie will demand your patience. If you can provide it, the film might reward your time in a dark yet relevant manner.
Ladies & gentlemen, I am TheNorm, thank you all for reading.
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