1970 Classic Crime Film With Iconic Rock Legend Ranked Among 'Greatest Soundtracks' of All Time
Some films boast a cast so iconic that they build a passionate cult following on that basis alone. That was precisely the case for this 1970 crime drama, which featured the acting debut of one of rock's biggest frontmen: Mick Jagger of The Rolling Stones.
In 2024, Rolling Stone ranked the 101 best movie soundtracks of all time, compiling a list of cinema's finest scores. Ranked among classics such as Adrian Lyne's 1983 film Flashdance at No. 64 and Adam Shankman's 2007 musical Hairspray at No. 62, Donald Cammell and Nicolas Roeg's 1970 film Performance secured the No. 63 spot.
Released in the U.S on August 3, 1970, Performance originally bombed at the box office. The film only grossed $93,000 against a $1.8 million budget-a failure that was somewhat predicted by Warner Bros. executives, who shelved the movie for two years due to intense backlash over its radical content.
Upon its eventual release, the film was vilified by critics and test-screening audiences alike for its graphic violence and pervasive substance use. Despite flopping initially, Performance gradually grew a dedicated cult following, heavily driven by the magnetic presence of its famous lead.
The film centers around Jagger's role as Turner, a reclusive, eccentric former rock star who has faded from the public eye. When a ruthless London gangster named Chas shows up at his townhouse to hide from the mob and the police, the two men's identities begin to merge, creating a surreal psychological battle.
The role of Turner marked Jagger's debut acting performance and explored his diverse talent across different creative mediums. He was cast in the film due to his friendship with co-director Cammell, who ran in the same social circles as the rock star. While writing the script, Cammell intentionally had Jagger in mind, using the frontman as the direct inspiration for the character.
Even after over five decades, Performance continues to endure as an iconic crossover masterpiece for rock and film fans. On Rotten Tomatoes, the movie holds an audience score of 78%, attesting to the lasting power of a passionate cult fanbase.
Related: 1973 Crime Film With Classic Hit Song Ranked Among ‘Best Movie Soundtracks' of All Time
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This story was originally published May 19, 2026 at 5:34 PM.