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Performance is a 1970 crime drama film directed by Nicolas Roeg and Donald Cammell. The film stars James Fox as Chas, a violent and tough member of the London underworld, who seeks refuge in the home of reclusive rock star Turner (played by Mick Jagger) after a botched hit. Anita Pallenberg plays Turner's girlfriend Pherber. The film is noted for its experimental approach to storytelling, as well as its exploration of themes such as identity, gender, and violence. The first half of the film focuses on the gritty, violent world of Chas and his criminal exploits, while the latter half explores the surreal, drug-fueled world of Turner and his bohemian lifestyle.

Upon its release, Performance was controversial due to its explicit depictions of violence, drug use, and sexuality. However, it has since become a cult classic and is considered one of the most influential British films of the 1970s.

The film opens with a violent scene in which Chas and his team carry out a robbery. When the job goes wrong, Chas is forced to go into hiding. He seeks refuge in the home of Turner, a mysterious and enigmatic rock star who lives in a decaying mansion with his girlfriend Pherber.

At first, Turner and his friends seem indifferent to Chas's presence, but as he is drawn deeper into their world, he begins to lose touch with his own identity. He becomes involved in drug-fueled orgies and becomes infatuated with Pherber, leading to a series of tense and surreal confrontations.

As Chas becomes more immersed in Turner's world, his violent tendencies begin to resurface, leading to a shocking and bloody climax.

The film is notable for its striking cinematography, which blends naturalistic and surrealistic elements to create a dreamlike atmosphere. The use of music, particularly the songs performed by Jagger, adds to the film's otherworldly quality.

Performance has been praised for its exploration of themes such as gender and identity. The character of Turner is seen as a subversion of traditional gender roles, with his feminine demeanor and sensuality challenging conventional ideas of masculinity. The film is also notable for its depiction of sexual fluidity, with characters engaging in same-sex relationships.

Overall, Performance is a daring and provocative film that challenges traditional ideas about violence, gender, and identity. Its unique blend of gritty realism and surrealism has made it a cult classic and an important work in the British New Wave movement of the 1970s.

Performance is a 1970 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 45 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7.