Susanne Brandstaetter's latest cinematic offering, 'Hungry', is far more than a typical documentary. Presented at the 55th International Film Festival Rotterdam, this film employs a unique science fiction framework to delve into critical global issues. Through the eyes of an enigmatic 'Being' in a post-human world, the film meticulously examines the causes of humanity's downfall, drawing upon a wealth of expert perspectives to highlight the intricate web of environmental, social, and political challenges facing our civilization. Brandstaetter's work is a powerful, immersive experience designed not to instill despair, but to provoke thought and inspire proactive engagement for a more sustainable future.
Director Susanne Brandstaetter's Vision for 'Hungry' Unveiled at Rotterdam Film Festival
On February 2, 2026, at the International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR), Austrian filmmaker Susanne Brandstaetter premiered her ambitious sci-fi documentary, 'Hungry'. Known for 'This Land Is My Land', Brandstaetter's new film, set in a world devoid of humans, follows a mysterious entity as it unearths the reasons behind mankind's extinction. This quest is achieved through a compilation of audio interviews with scientists and activists conducted before a series of 'extinction events'.
Brandstaetter embarked on the film's research in 2016, initially focusing on food supplements, which expanded into a broader investigation of unregulated industries and their far-reaching environmental, health, and economic consequences. The title 'Hungry' was chosen to reflect a double meaning, encompassing both humanity's fundamental need for sustenance and an insatiable greed that drives unsustainable practices.
The decision to adopt a sci-fi narrative emerged during the film's development, especially during the isolation of the pandemic. Living in a remote farmhouse in Austria, Brandstaetter pondered a world without human presence, leading to the innovative concept of a 'Being' creating the film itself. The visual landscape of 'Hungry' features haunting imagery of desolate environments, captured across Austria, Germany, Spain, the United States, and Malaysia. Extensive online research, including Google Street View, was employed to locate these sites, with additional on-site scouting revealing unexpected locations. Post-production efforts meticulously removed all traces of human and animal life, emphasizing the film's core theme.
Brandstaetter intentionally left the 'Being' largely undefined, inviting viewers to engage in their own interpretations. While initially planning for complete ambiguity, she ultimately provided enough context for the 'Being' to effectively serve as the film's narrator and creator. The visuals, often associative, complement the expert discussions, encouraging audiences to broaden their understanding beyond explicit verbal explanations.
Despite its dystopian setting, Brandstaetter insists that 'Hungry' carries an optimistic and empowering message. She views the film as a 'call to action', asserting her belief that humanity still possesses the capacity to enact positive change and reverse destructive trends. Currently, Brandstaetter is completing another documentary, tentatively titled 'What About Me?', which explores the lives of youths with migrant backgrounds in Vienna, showcasing her diverse filmmaking interests.
The release of 'Hungry' is a timely reminder that cinema, particularly the documentary genre, can serve as a powerful catalyst for social reflection and change. Brandstaetter’s innovative approach, blending scientific inquiry with a speculative future, challenges audiences to confront uncomfortable truths about our present actions. It compels us to consider not just what we consume, but the systemic forces shaping our world, and ultimately, our destiny. The film's message, while acknowledging the severity of global challenges, instills a sense of urgency and hope, suggesting that collective action remains our most potent tool against an uncertain future. It's a testament to the power of storytelling to ignite dialogue and inspire a commitment to preserving our planet.