Chatter Box Film

A review for the 2026 sci-fi documentary film titled ‘Hungry’; directed by Susanne Brandstaetter.

Hungry had its World Premiere at the 55th IFFR (Rotterdam) on 2nd February.

In the film; an alien arrives on Earth and finds the world decimated and destroyed. It scours the planet seeking to obtain information as to how this could occur. It finds ‘archive’ interviews with experts and draws its own conclusions to this reason. The Being creates the film Hungry, using said interviews, and asks was there any hope for humanity, if it was so keen on destroying itself.

Part science-fiction/very much documentary as the drone camera invades desolate abandoned properties that still exist in our world now to speak the message that we are destroying the planet with far too much ease. The cinematography of Joerg Burger is awe-inspiring at times, the inspired utilisation of drone photography pays off in maintaining our attention and focus on the problems at hand.

While it may appear to be an environmental film it carefully becomes a call to arms and a political statement – exposing hidden chains of cause and effect; the destruction of food security and the deterioration of labour markets.

Is this a desperate call to arms, or a message in a bottle that it is too late for us and future generations. This is a clever concept for a film that hopefully is celebrated, a film that is immersive and inspiring.

Director Susanne Brandstaetter states, ‘Setting the film in the near future in a world devoid of humans may seem at first downbeat and pessimistic, but actually the opposite is true. Because the film has a positive message. And though my films often show the darker sides of humanity, at heart I’m an optimist. I’m convinced that films, and that this film in particular, can make an impact and inspire people. Which is way I’m thrilled that HUNGRY has its world premiere with the diverse and discerning international audience attending the IFF Rotterdam.’

This is a film that as a multi-dimensional work, expands our world by bringing it sharply into focus.

My thanks to ARPR for the review opportunity.