In 7 words or less: Real world horror comedy with 3x Sellers
What's it all About? A renegade American general who is several bockwurst sort of a picnic with all the trimmings, launches a pre-emptive nuclear strike against the Soviet Union. The U.S war room then then attempts to abort the strike.
Best bits? The monologue between President Merkin Muffley and the Russian Premier Kissof is a definite high point.
Also the scene where Dr Strangelove explains his post war solution of taking a selection of the population into underground mines is a thing of beauty.
Did it make you think thoughts? If you don't think Peter Sellers is one of the greatest actors of all time....you are mistaken. Here he gives a towering performance. Well, three towering performances actually, seeing as how he plays three different characters. The highlight of these is probably Captain Mandrake, a British officer caught in the middle of the whole sheebang. As he realises the dire situation he - and essentially the world - are in, his outgoing cheery outlook begins to slowly transform into a frightening realisation of the inevitability of nuclear war.
George C. Scott (General 'Buck' Turgidson) should also get a mention as he manages to be funny, earnest, over zealous and larger than life all the while displaying a hardline patriotic view that puts him at odds with those around him.
Sandwiched in between the deadpan delivered comedy is the real threat of nuclear war. Kubrick's scary use of satire is a powerful tool that helps to convey the randomness and idiocy of governments and politics in the face of disaster. Rogue General Jack Ripper, who is the catalyst of all these events, maintains a stern serious persona that manages to show how easily human rationality and sanity can be eroded by propaganda and fear.
Would you watch it again? Ultimately this is as much a timeless piece of cinema as you are likely to find and the themes still resonate with each viewing. That's a yes by the way.
Rating (out of 100%): It's not for everyone - I can see a lot of people not 'getting it' - but it should definitely be given a go if you haven't seen it. I give the good ol' doc, a good ol' 90%
