★★★★★

Hunger (2008)

Written by Dalton Welsh - July 7, 2020

Many of the greatest filmmakers display in their debut films the great potential they have for their careers going forward, despite the fact that the film itself may not be as well polished as their later work. However, British director Steve McQueen acts as an exception to that rule, providing us with a true contemporary masterwork right out of the gate in his 2008 debut film “Hunger”. The film, based upon true events, follows prisoners in Northern Ireland participating in hunger strikes in the early 1980’s in protest of unjust prison laws set by the Irish government. The film gives us a harrowing look into the appalling conditions and treatment that these men endured to fulfill, what they felt to be, their civic duty. Presented with such command of visual storytelling, dedication from its actors, and an unconventional story structure that is provocative in the most compelling way.

One of the most intriguing and unorthodox aspects of the film is the way the story has been constructed. McQueen has seemingly done away with character arcs for his protagonists, or a traditional third act with an identifiable climax. While these aspects may sound detrimental to the film, by removing the shackles of these filmic conventions McQueen is free to tell a story that feels more real and authentic. Without a traditional story that has stakes progressively evolve or an evolution in our characters the film relies purely on your investment in the emotion of the scene at hand. And with limited use of dialogue throughout most of the film a heavy importance is placed on McQueen’s capabilities in visual storytelling, which he pulls of with extraordinary command. Every frame feels so purposeful in communicating the sentiments of the scene. Whether it be shots of the environment that give insight into the world and experiences of the characters, clearly outlining the claustrophobia of the prison setting. Or giving a holistic understanding of the intentions of our protagonists through the careful capturing of their non-verbal performances. Not only do these shots have great intent but the mise-en-scene has great aesthetic making for some truly striking imagery thanks to director of photography Sean Bobbitt.

With such heavy attention given to the emotional portrayal of the lead character it calls for the skills of a great performer. With Michael Fassbender more than up for the task as the film’s central protagonist Bobby Sands. Not only did Fassbender dedicate himself physically to the role, transforming his appearance and subjecting himself to scenes of great discomfort, he also gives his all emotionally. Convincingly conveying a great range from despair and fear to determination and control, almost entirely communicated through his facial performance.  In contrast to the lack of dialogue throughout the film, McQueen decided to have a single 17 ½ minute long take between Michael Fassbender and one of the other characters in the film, with the scene containing constant dialogue. Not only is it impressive on a technical level with the amount of rehearsal that would have needed to go into the shot, but the absence of cuts really gives the scene an engrossing quality as you feel like you are sitting along side listening to this riveting conversation. This juxtaposition of heavy dialogue amongst scenes of non-verbal communication emphasises their contrast, elevating both storytelling styles. The changes from great quiet to frequent noise gives a great balance to the pacing of the film. Displaying a story about persevering in the face of great challenge to let your voice be heard. While the film is unapologetically brutal and does not shy away from confrontational imagery, it never feels egregious. It is always done in service of the themes of the film and its intents never feel in your face, they flow naturally through the scenes presented.

McQueen’s debut film “Hunger” acts as a prime example of how to communicate ideas and emotion through visual storytelling in its purposeful and striking cinematography. As well as create scenes of greatly engaging dialogue drawing you into to the plight of the characters. Performed with great intensity and dedication from its actors, particularly Michael Fassbender. Making for a multi-faceted film experience that is both a technical and creative marvel. Made all the more unique by McQueen’s unorthodox and impactful storytelling style.