The Hunger (1983)
Warner Brothers
David Bowie stormed the charts in 1983 with his
Let’s Dance album, but a starring role in Tony Scott’s film
The Hunger, barely registered with the general public that same year.
The Hunger is a highly stylised Vampire film, which has Bowie teamed up with iconic French actress Catherine Denevue and a very stunning Susan Sarandon who all become embroiled in a bizarre love-triangle. Bowie and Denevue play as the Blaylocks, married swingers who trawl edgy punk/new wave nightclubs in New York, seducing young pretty things for their nefarious bloodlusts.
Miriam Blaylock is a true immortal, whilst John (Bowie), has begun to age rapidly after 200 years of being youthful. John seeks out Dr Sarah Roberts (Sarandon), who is trying to reverse the aging process. Mrs Blaylock seduces Dr Roberts while her husband suffers a ‘living death’ in the attic.
The Hunger is a riveting watch, hauntingly scored by an unsettling soundtrack, which features Bela Lugosi’s Dead by Bauhaus. The film is a visual feast, brimming with amazing outfits, classic "smoke & mirror" effects, Bowies janky teeth, erotic violence and one of the most tasteful lesbian scenes ever committed to film.
The Hunger definitely lives up to its title and is now a true cult hit and is thankfully available on DVD.
- Review by Jordan Bloomer