Hunger Blu-ray Review

Steve McQueen's "Hunger," presented in its original cinematic aspect ratio of 2.39:1, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC and enjoying a pristine 1080p transfer, is an exemplary showcase on Blu-ray, thanks to Criterion’s meticulous efforts. The transfer emanates from the original 2-perforation 35mm negative, meticulously scanned at 2K resolution using an ARRISCAN pin-registered scanner. This rigorous process, endorsed by McQueen himself, ensures that the visual rendition of "Hunger" is not only faithful to its director's vision but also boasts a clarity and detail that elevate its already powerful narrative. The scenes within the H-Blocks, symbolic and harrowing in equal measure, emerge as vivid canvases painting an evocative narrative. Colors at pivotal moments are nothing short of overwhelming, especially in the film's poignant climax with Bobby Sands. Notably, the transfer remains free from digital anomalies such as edge enhancement and macroblocking, presenting a clean, stable image without any traces of debris or wear.

The visual fidelity extends to all facets of the presentation, highlighting the film's stark aesthetic contrasts. Fine details, especially in the unique textures and bleak environment of the prison setting, are rendered with exceptional clarity. Colors are employed with deliberate intent—muted and dreary to underline the oppressive atmosphere of confinement, yet capable of striking vibrancy when the narrative demands. The depiction of black levels is notably profound, contributing to a rich visual depth that complements the thematic gravity of "Hunger." Equally commendable are the skin tones, portrayed with naturalistic accuracy even as they reflect the deteriorating health of the prisoners, especially that of the protagonist. This conscientious approach to the visual transfer ensures that technical issues do not detract from the immersive viewing experience. Criterion’s release, region-locked to A, demands appropriate hardware but offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience "Hunger" in a manner befitting its cinematic importance.

The Blu-ray release of "Hunger" boasts an exceptional English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, unparalleled in its ability to immerse the audience into the film's atmospheric depth. The meticulous care in audio presentation brings every sigh, scream, and environmental noise to the forefront, crafting an auditory experience that is as unbearable as it is essential. Notably, the dialogue is rendered with crystalline clarity, ensuring that the emotional weight of the characters' words is felt, even as some viewers might find themselves reliant on the English subtitles due to the thick Irish accents present. Furthermore, the musical score by Leo Abrahams and David Holmes enhances the narrative, enveloping viewers in a soundscape that is both haunting and beautiful.

Director Steve McQueen's emphasis on the importance of sound design in "Hunger" is vividly realized through this audio track. The ambient sounds of the prison environment, from the echo of guards' footsteps on linoleum to the subtle buzzing of a fly, are rendered with such fidelity that they add a critical layer of realism to the viewing experience. This attention to auditory detail ensures that the setting is not just seen but felt, emphasizing the bleakness and desperation of the prison experience.

Moreover, the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track excels in its subtlety and nuance. The surround sound mix carefully balances dialogue, ambient sound, and music, ensuring that none overpower the other but instead work in concert to support the film's narrative and emotional arcs. It's a masterclass in sound design, making it clear that the singular audio option provided is more than sufficient. For those occasionally challenged by the accents, optional English subtitles are thoughtfully included, enhancing accessibility without detracting from the immersive audio experience.

The Blu-ray extras for "Hunger" offer an insightful and comprehensive exploration of both the artistic process behind the film and the historical context it depicts. Notably, the interviews with director Steve McQueen and actor Michael Fassbender, conducted by Criterion, shed light on the film's aesthetic ambitions and the emotional and physical commitment required for Fassbender's role. The "Making of Hunger" provides a succinct yet detailed overview of the production, featuring behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with key players. The inclusion of the BBC's "The Provos' Last Card?" expands the narrative by exploring the broader political landscape of the hunger strike, offering viewers a more rounded understanding of the events that inspired the film. Despite being unsuitable for marketing purposes, the theatrical trailer is complemented by the impactful "On The Threshold" essay in the accompanying booklet, making the extras a valuable resource for both fans and newcomers to the film.

Extras included in this disc:

• Steve McQueen Interview: A conversation with the director about his filmmaking process, the reception of "Hunger," and its historical backdrop.
• Making of 'Hunger': Behind-the-scenes look at the production with insights from the cast and crew.
• Michael Fassbender Interview: The actor discusses playing Bobby Sands and his approach to such a demanding role.
• The Provos' Last Card?: BBC's Panorama explores the wider political implications of the hunger strike.
• Trailer: A brief promotional piece for the film.
• Booklet: Features Chris Darke's essay "On The Threshold," offering critical context and analysis.

Steve McQueen's "Hunger," a film that clinched the Camera d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival and was honored with the Carl Foreman Award for Most Promising Newcomer at the BAFTA Awards, is presented on Blu-ray with exceptional quality by Criterion. This powerful portrayal of the 1981 hunger strike led by Irish Republican Army member Bobby Sands delves deep into the political turmoil and human rights abuses during this period. The Blu-ray edition is packed with insightful supplements, including interviews with McQueen and star Michael Fassbender, which enhance the viewing experience by providing background on the film's creation and the historical context. The disc also includes a BBC-produced news program and a 16-page booklet with an essay that further enriches the audience's understanding of the film's thematic layers.

At its core, "Hunger" is an immersive cinematic journey that brings audiences face-to-face with the harrowing realities of prison life and the complexity of political and ethical convictions. McQueen utilizes his background as a video artist to craft a visually stunning, albeit disturbing, narrative that focuses on human suffering and dignity. The stark, unflinching visuals combined with the performances, particularly Fassbender's transformative role as Sands, underscore the film’s intensity. The raw authenticity of the hunger strike depicted in its latter stages leaves an indelible imprint on viewers, making it simultaneously hard to watch and impossible to ignore.

The narrative structure of "Hunger," shifting focus from a prison officer to the newly arrived IRA prisoner, and finally to Sands himself, serves to effectively convey the multifaceted aspects of this historical moment. The inclusion of the extended dialogue between Sands and Father Moran encapsulates the ideological battles and personal sacrifices behind the hunger strike. This Blu-ray presentation captures the essence of McQueen's intention: to not merely tell a historical event, but to compel viewers to feel and endure the physical and emotional truths of it. The disc’s technical specifications, especially its high-definition transfer and region-A locking, ensure that the film's powerful visuals and audio are preserved in their most impactful form.

Hunger, directed by Steve McQueen, emerges as a profound cinematic exploration of an intensely difficult period in recent history, catapulted through its stunning visuals and deeply affecting performances. Criterion's Blu-ray presentation elevates this masterpiece with exceptional audiovisual quality, ensuring the film's powerful imagery and soundscape are impeccably preserved. The disc's assembly of informative supplemental features further enriches the viewing experience, providing crucial context and insights into the film's creation and the real-life events it portrays.

The Blu-ray's flawless transfer epitomizes Criterion's commitment to honoring cinematic artistry. Viewers can expect a pristine visual experience that captures every nuanced detail of McQueen's vision, paired with a clear, immersive audio track that envelops the audience in the film's intense emotional landscape. This release not only makes "Hunger" accessible in the highest quality but also serves as a comprehensive package for enthusiasts and scholars alike, thanks to its extensive bonus material. These aspects combined make this edition a must-have for collectors and a definitive version for first-time viewers.

In conclusion, the Criterion Blu-ray release of "Hunger" is a testament to the synergy between film preservation and technological excellence. It represents the pinnacle of home media presentation, marrying stellar audiovisual fidelity with enriching supplementary content. This edition is highly recommended not just for fans of Steve McQueen's work but for anyone seeking to experience a pivotal piece of cinema in its most resplendent form. Whether you're drawn by the compelling narrative, exceptional performances, or the historical significance of the story, this Blu-ray offers an unparalleled viewing experience that honors its source material with dignity and precision.