I was also 17 when I first saw ACO. I walked out of the theater feeling as if my head exploded. I've since watched it 4 more times over the last 50 years. You are very astute in your observation that it's very applicable to today. I am also a devout follower of Beethoven and found Kubrick's use of his music as a genius move. And Malcolm's current role in Mozart in The Jungle is quite refreshing. Thanks for the article. It's well written. Lee