Backdrop preview A Song Called Hate backdrop
A Song Called Hate
9.0

A Song Called Hate (2021)

Jun 17, 2021 1h 30m Documentary

The pro-Palestinian, anti-capitalist, BDSM-provocative, techno-punk performance art ensemble Hatari unsurprisingly drew attention to themselves with their performance at the Icelandic qualifiers for the Eurovision Song Contest. So much so that they won and therefore were allowed to perform at the main event in Tel Aviv. But what now? Should they boycott the event, swallow their idealism, or use their airtime to criticise the host country for their illegal occupation of Palestine? The Icelandic director Anna Hildur joins the boys in the band all the way to the fateful final.

Watch Trailer
Directed by Anna Hildur

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Anna Hildur
Writer
  • Iain Forsyth
  • Jane Pollard
  • Skarphéðinn Guðmundsson
  • Anna Hildur
Producer
  • Anna Hildur
  • Iain Forsyth
  • Jane Pollard

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

A Song Called Hate represents a fascinating example of Documentary cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Anna Hildur brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2021, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of A Song Called Hate took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 150 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 1635 individual shots.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.

Historical Context

  • In 2021, when this film is released:
  • The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
  • Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While A Song Called Hate shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Trapped Time, which focuses more on action than character development, A Song Called Hate subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Sham 69: Tell Us The Truth and Document: A Film About Malojian explore similar territory, A Song Called Hate stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: June 17, 2021
  • Runtime: 1h 30m