Shame....

....The first film I have seen in some time on it's opening night. Steve McQueen's second directorial outing, following his superb Hunger. McQueen employs Michael Fassbender, playing Brandon, once more as the protagonist in this portrait of a sex addict. The film is slow and moody, gathering momentum as it draws on.



Shame is perhaps titled to reflect what Brandon feels, his battle with his addiction and with what is clearly a deep sadness in his life. This life is only complicated by the arrival of his sister, Sissy, played by Carey Mulligan. 




The performances of the pair are simply stunning. Fassbender affecting and real in his seedy world. Mulligan captivating, doe eyed, ditzy and troubled. The sibling relationship has clearly always been difficult and Sissy's arrival only makes it more so. Her super slow rendition of New York, New York is a most memorable scene.



It is certainly the most overt sex I have ever watched at the cinema, but this didn't mean it was at all sexy. The direction by McQueen was first rate - long vivd scenes, obtuse camera angles, everything natural. The sex was never passionate and it showed.



In terms of performance, one of the strongest I've scene. As a film, it is a beautiful, if not disturbing portrait of a taboo subject. Handled by McQueen with artistry & artistic license.



A film to see and one would think a strong Oscar contender too.