Film:
Hunger
Year of release: 2008
Directed by: Steve McQueen
Run time: 1hr 36
Starring: Michael Fassbender, Stuart Graham
This was a graphically shocking film that was relentless in its portrayal of life inside the prison and the lengths that individuals would go to in order to gain status and influence.
There isn't a lot of dialogue in the first half of the film, so som understanding of the context in Northern Ireland at this time would be useful. I had that as it affected my family (which also gave me both an insight and a bias) but I realise that everyone doesn't have an understanding of the context.
Due to my own experience it was hard for me to see 'Sands' as a victim yet fully acknowledge that some of the treatment that he receieved was inhumane.
After the first 30 minutes I did think I got the point of the violence and mayhem in the prsion, yet it went on for quite a bit longer. I get that McQueen was trying to hammer home the point but after a while I was getting frustrated with it.
I think McQueen did a good job, but appreciate that it won't be for everyone, with some scenes having a 'real time' feel and not just the neccesary information like with the majority of films. An example would be the conversation with the priest - I enjoyed it but know that it will frustrate some.
The sounds of this film played as big of a part as the visuals and really enhanced the severity of what was going on.
The acting was quality and Fassbender was exceptional.
A well made film that is quite dark in nature.