Steve McQueen's follow up to his 2008 hit Hunger is the utterly provocative Shame. The film reunites Fassbender and McQueen in this film that follows the life of New Yorker Brandon (Michael Fassbender), a man seemingly incapable of intimacy with women, only using them to fulfil his addictive sexual desires. The arrival of Brandon's younger sister, Sissy (Carey Mulligan), forces old memories to surface, resulting in Brandon's life to fall apart.
Steve McQueen delivers a hugely provocative and compelling film, using image over dialogue throughout most of the first third of the film. He uses the opening third to outline Brandon's routine before the arrival of his younger sister; something which allows the audience to see the full effect that Sissy has on Brandon's compulsive addiction.
McQueen shows an interesting side of New York, a side which plays to the addictive nature of Brandon. Brandon can always satisfy his need, whether that be through prostitution, night clubs or just on the subway. Brandon's professional life is only seen in brief spurts, possibly highlighting how holding a job is not the main priority to Brandon; frequently bringing his addiction into work.
Michael Fassbender shows what a top actor he is as he goes the extra mile and beyond in Shame. He exquisitely portrays a man troubled by his addiction, ruled by his impulses. He delivers darkness and need in an extremely believable way. Fassbender highlights his talents throughout this film as his use of gesture and facial expression play as his primary way of getting his obsessive seductive charms across to his target.
One of the most provocative films in recent years. Quality acting and direction.
J.Henderson.
8/10.
Good review :) I still have problems with this film though. I'd predicted the ending before it happened and the lack of substance began to grate when I realised McQueen wasn't going to widen his scope anymore. I enjoy stylisation taking over a film every once in a while, but I thought Shame was incredibly shallow and not as revealing as I'd have liked considering the subject its exploring. I had similar issues with Drive, but enjoyed it more on the second viewing. Will have to see if the same happens here. Acting was great though and Mulligan and Fassbender's relationship was well handled.
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