This is a movie like Citizen Kane or I Am Cuba where the director deliberately and ambitiously experiments with filmmaking choices. (e.g. very little dialogue, then an uninterrupted 20 minute cut of dialogue; main character not introduced until middle of movie, etc). Steve McQueen is one to look out for.
Unflinching and unsentimental. McQueen is very good at examining the dehumanizing qualities of the prison apparatus, for both the prisoners and the warders/law enforcement officers. The contrast between the brutality of the first half of the film and the almost sanctified treatment of Sands during his hunger strike is fascinating; while the early resistance of the prisoners results in reactionary violence, the internalization of violence by the hunger-strikers upon their own bodies complicates and disturbs the cycle. Care is taken to provide every comfort for Sands as he literally wastes away. But why? The film is ultimately extremely ambiguous; a necessity, perhaps, considering the troubling subject.
I don't think that McQueen was attempting to present a "compelling story," at least not in the narrative sense. It seems to me to be a reflection on the prison institution, ideological fervour, and their effect on the body. More horrifying than "beautiful," and, although spare, conceptually complex.
The best movie debut by a director of the last 10 years. I would have expected McQueen to have a Haneke-like continuation of his career but instead he went hollywood and still made two other great movies. Fassbender is stellar.
Usually I respect other people's tastes and opinions but anyone who does not see the impeccable, intense and artistic structure of this film must be blind.
An unbelievably well-made, remarkable film that requires some stamina to make it through. That is only appropriate, as the film is about stamina and determination. If you have the strength, watch it-- it is worth it all.
Amazing debut film by director Steve McQueen. An unflinching masterpiece that has stellar performances especially by Michael Fassbinder. Great cinematography that uses minimalism techniques in certain scenes. ( the 11 minute single shot between bobby sands and the priest is awe breaking and has some Oscar worthy performances). The film tackles the very controversial true story of the hunger strikes of IRA prisoners during the troubles in a non biased view which is a feat of its own. Highly recommend well at times the film has quite a slow pace this didn't affect me as i was compelled by the visual and performances while some casual viewers may find it slightly hard to sit through. Overall i give the film an 8/10.
This is a very powerful and beautiful movie. McQueen manages to demonstrate hunger strike in a very poetic and devastating way, and it's as if we can feel it too. Fassbender is amazing as always. Loved it.
One of the best films made in the last decade. Steve McQueen's unyielding portrayal of Bobby Sands and the inmates of the Maze Prison leading up to the 1981 IRA Hunger Strike is striking in the inherent beauty found amongst such brutality. I cannot recommend this film enough.
Great debut film by Steve McQueen. Story of Don Quixoteian battle for rights of IRA prisoners. The long dialogue between Sands and the priest is one of the best I've seen in the movies from the last decade. The last third of the film depicts real slow dying of starvation, it is well detailed and it's not for those with weak stomach. Camera work is also great, as well as Fassbender's performance...
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Comments 1 - 15 of 17
greenhorg
This is a movie like Citizen Kane or I Am Cuba where the director deliberately and ambitiously experiments with filmmaking choices. (e.g. very little dialogue, then an uninterrupted 20 minute cut of dialogue; main character not introduced until middle of movie, etc). Steve McQueen is one to look out for.the3rdman
Unflinching and unsentimental. McQueen is very good at examining the dehumanizing qualities of the prison apparatus, for both the prisoners and the warders/law enforcement officers. The contrast between the brutality of the first half of the film and the almost sanctified treatment of Sands during his hunger strike is fascinating; while the early resistance of the prisoners results in reactionary violence, the internalization of violence by the hunger-strikers upon their own bodies complicates and disturbs the cycle. Care is taken to provide every comfort for Sands as he literally wastes away. But why? The film is ultimately extremely ambiguous; a necessity, perhaps, considering the troubling subject.I don't think that McQueen was attempting to present a "compelling story," at least not in the narrative sense. It seems to me to be a reflection on the prison institution, ideological fervour, and their effect on the body. More horrifying than "beautiful," and, although spare, conceptually complex.
stexdo
The best movie debut by a director of the last 10 years. I would have expected McQueen to have a Haneke-like continuation of his career but instead he went hollywood and still made two other great movies. Fassbender is stellar.V012
Usually I respect other people's tastes and opinions but anyone who does not see the impeccable, intense and artistic structure of this film must be blind.MM
Great performance by Fassbender in a brilliantly shot and powerful film. The 17 minute dialogue with the priest was extraordinary.jacktrewin
incredible film. the long scene with the priest is captivating and really allows us to understand his inner thoughts.McQueen has made a real work of art
stevekimes
An unbelievably well-made, remarkable film that requires some stamina to make it through. That is only appropriate, as the film is about stamina and determination. If you have the strength, watch it-- it is worth it all.Luke56
Amazing debut film by director Steve McQueen. An unflinching masterpiece that has stellar performances especially by Michael Fassbinder. Great cinematography that uses minimalism techniques in certain scenes. ( the 11 minute single shot between bobby sands and the priest is awe breaking and has some Oscar worthy performances). The film tackles the very controversial true story of the hunger strikes of IRA prisoners during the troubles in a non biased view which is a feat of its own. Highly recommend well at times the film has quite a slow pace this didn't affect me as i was compelled by the visual and performances while some casual viewers may find it slightly hard to sit through. Overall i give the film an 8/10.Carota
so intense and powerful.plus great performance by fassbender.
Earring72
Powerfull, in your face, gripping drama with a TOP NOTCH performance by Fassbender!Filmsthemostbeautifulart
A simple yet mesmerizing film. "Hunger" is all about the experience.... and, boy, it was so freaking brilliant!!mariannepaqn
This is a very powerful and beautiful movie. McQueen manages to demonstrate hunger strike in a very poetic and devastating way, and it's as if we can feel it too. Fassbender is amazing as always. Loved it.sha1tan
very, very powerfulThe Fable Muncher
One of the best films made in the last decade. Steve McQueen's unyielding portrayal of Bobby Sands and the inmates of the Maze Prison leading up to the 1981 IRA Hunger Strike is striking in the inherent beauty found amongst such brutality. I cannot recommend this film enough.Malteras
Great debut film by Steve McQueen. Story of Don Quixoteian battle for rights of IRA prisoners. The long dialogue between Sands and the priest is one of the best I've seen in the movies from the last decade. The last third of the film depicts real slow dying of starvation, it is well detailed and it's not for those with weak stomach. Camera work is also great, as well as Fassbender's performance...Showing items 1 – 15 of 17