Tags : Cinelogue

The concept of the supernatural, or at least of highly abstract events permeating reality, is not something new to serve as allegory for social fallout. Although grander in its designs, Victor Erice’s mesmerising El espíritu de la colmena (aka The Spirit of the Beehive) could be cited as such an example. The ghosts here signify an unease deep-rooted in the loss of a loved one and a fear of a future without them. Though it undeniably has its shocks, trying to tout The Eclipse as a horror story does it no favours.

Every one in the United Kingdom knows the story of Bobby Sands. He is a terrorist, freedom fighter, idealist, monster, hero, a sham and a fool depending on whom you ask. What Hunger does so well is using this historical consciousness of events to its advantage, deftly handling and, drawing on, long established and firm beliefs. This is a delicate subject—one certain to provoke—and a bold undertaking for first-time director Steve McQueen.