*Rated NC-17
Brandon Sullivan (Michael Fassbinder) is a successful New York businessman. On the surface he seems to have a charmed life: good looks, a modern apartment, and a bright future ahead of him. Brandon projects an air of confidence, and has impressed his boss, David (James Badge Dale) with his ability to smooth talk clients. However, the reality of Brandon’s life is far more chaotic. He spends much of his day distracted, thinking about sex, and looking for release. His nights are spent prowling bars for sex, paying prostitutes to come to his apartment, or visiting sex sites on the internet. Brandon’s need is so compulsive that his work computer eventually crashes; done in by all his virus laden pornography.
Brandon’s compulsion for sex only increases with the unexpected arrival of his sister, Sissy (Carey Mulligan). Enraged, he tells her to leave. She has nowhere to go. He doesn’t care. As modern as Brandon’s apartment is, it’s also cold and sparse. There are no pictures on the walls, or comfortable looking furniture. He is clearly a man who wants no personal connections. Privacy is of utmost importance; No one can be allowed to see his never ending cycle of hookers, masturbation and pornography.
Sissy’s arrival throws a huge wrench into Brandon’s well patterned life. Uninhibited and passionate, Sissy is Brandon’s polar opposite. Having lost both their parents, Sissy desperately wants a relationship with Brandon, but he refuses to get close to anyone. Instead, they express rage toward each other. In various scenes Sissy exhibits tremendous sadness—particularly one where she is singing in a cabaret as the camera remains fixed to her face. In time, we get the sense that Brandon and Sissy shared some childhood experiences that left them both damaged. McQueen never reveals any specifics.
No matter what’s going on around him, Brandon’s every waking moment is consumed with one goal: achieving orgasm. Yes, apparently he’s good at his job, but it makes no difference to him. Occasionally, Brandon and his married boss hit a singles bar for a drink. The boss is nervous, and uses over-the-top pick up lines; Brandon is quiet and cool. This isn’t about getting lucky; this is about need. For Brandon, sex is no longer pleasurable, it’s become his albatross.
In taking on the role of Brandon, actor Michael Fassbender has shown himself to be one of the most courageous actors working today. He and director Steve McQueen have crafted a character that is truly suffering from sex addiction. Further, McQueen dares suggest that there is no real cure for a man like Brandon; even though audiences might have felt a little better if they thought he was going to be alright.
Shame is forthright, eye opening and honest; it’s a film I’m not sure I could sit through again anytime soon.
Presented in the 2.35:1 aspect ratio, 20th Century Fox has provided a nice looking 1080p transfer. Sharpness is excellent, while colors have been desaturated throughout, giving the film a “steely” look that matches the coldness of the characters. Black levels are solid throughout, but contrast is somewhat uneven.
The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 sound mix is a bit of a disappointment, given the lack of rare channel involvement. The opportunity to showcase the sounds of New York City is missed. The spread across the front channels is good, with strong bass levels that become apparent when sounds of the city intercede. Dialogue has been well recorded, and is easily discernible.
English SDH, and Spanish subtitles are available.
Along with a standard DVD and Digital Copy, the following special features are included:
- Focus on Michael Fassbender (1080p, 3:01) the actor discusses his character.
- Director Steve McQueen (1080p, 3:09) discusses his special working relationship with Michael Fassbender.
- The Story of Shame (1080p, 3:19) brief interviews with stars Michael Fassbender and Carey Mulligan as well as director Steve McQueen, who discuss their characters.
- A Shared Vision (1080p, 2:38) Fassbender and McQueen offer more insight into working together.
- Fox Movie Channel Presents: In Character with Michael Fassbender (SD, 5:15) Fassbender discusses his character and his relationship with his sister.
- Theatrical Trailer (1080p, 1:47)
