To Be No. 1: Shepherd

In a bleak, post-communist Hungary, a former factory worker named Karcsi finds himself adrift and alienated. Consumed by alcohol and existential despair, he struggles to reconnect with his estranged daughter and navigate a world that no longer seems to have a place for him. His journey is a descent into the underbelly of society, marked by violence, regret, and a desperate search for meaning.

Béla Tarr's 'To Be No. 1: Shepherd' is a challenging and bleak masterpiece, often cited as one of his most profound works. Critics lauded its unflinching portrayal of existential dread and societal decay in post-communist Hungary, while acknowledging its demanding, slow-burn pacing. Audiences found it deeply moving but emotionally taxing, appreciating its artistic merit and powerful atmosphere.

• A hauntingly beautiful and deeply philosophical exploration of alienation and despair.

• Tarr's signature long takes and stark black-and-white cinematography create an immersive and unforgettable experience.

• Demands patience but rewards viewers with profound emotional and intellectual depth.

Google audience: Viewers praise the film's artistic vision and its powerful, somber atmosphere, with many finding the existential themes resonate deeply. Some find the pacing very slow and the subject matter too bleak, but the majority appreciate its challenging and thought-provoking nature.

Nominated for the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival.

Béla Tarr is known for his extremely long takes, and 'To Be No. 1: Shepherd' is no exception, with many scenes stretching for several minutes, immersing the viewer in the characters' bleak reality.