Hunger
Hunger

Hunger

2008Movie96 minEnglish

The story of Bobby Sands, the IRA member who led the 1981 hunger strike during The Troubles in which Irish Republican prisoners tried to win political status.

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Insights

IMDb7.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes97%
Metacritic88
Google Users89%
Director: Steve McQueenGenres: Biography, Drama, History, War

Plot Summary

Bobby Sands, a young IRA volunteer, begins a hunger strike in a Northern Irish prison to protest the British government's treatment of IRA prisoners. As Sands and his fellow inmates endure increasing physical deterioration, the strike becomes a desperate battle of wills against prison authorities and a potent symbol of resistance.

Critical Reception

Hunger received widespread critical acclaim for its powerful depiction of the 1981 hunger strike and its unflinching portrayal of suffering. Michael Fassbender's performance as Bobby Sands was particularly lauded, earning him numerous awards and nominations. The film's minimalist yet intense style, directed by Steve McQueen, was praised for its artistry and its raw emotional impact.

What Reviewers Say

  • A visually striking and brutally honest depiction of political protest and sacrifice.
  • Michael Fassbender delivers a transformative and unforgettable performance.
  • Steve McQueen's directorial debut is a masterclass in visceral filmmaking.

Google audience: Audiences overwhelmingly praised the film's intensity and the lead actor's performance, with many highlighting its historical significance and emotional power. Some viewers found the film's graphic nature challenging but ultimately impactful.

Awards & Accolades

Won the Caméra d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival (2008), Michael Fassbender won Best Actor at the British Independent Film Awards (2008). Nominated for numerous other awards, including BAFTA Awards and Golden Globes.

Fun Fact

Michael Fassbender lost over 30 pounds for his role as Bobby Sands, maintaining a strict diet and exercise regime to accurately portray the physical toll of the hunger strike.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

2 reviews
badelf

badelf

Ouch. Margaret Thatcher was a huge bitch. If people can watch this movie and not realize that oversized, corrupt governments are pure evil, then something is deeply wrong. Fassbinder is absolutely phenomenal in this.
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Well nobody could ever accuse Michael Fassbender is giving half measures here in this graphic and brutal biopic of Irish Republican prisoner Bobby Sands. Shortly after Margaret Thatcher was elected in Britain, he was incarcerated in Belfast...