Brunette highlights Hanekes brilliant use of uncompromising visual and aural techniques to express complex themes. His most recent films contain what has become his hallmark: a moment of violence or shock that is not intended to be exploitative, but that nevertheless goes beyond the conventional boundaries of most art cinema. Lauded for graphically revealing the powerful influence of contemporary media on social behavior, his films offer a chilling critique of contemporary consumer society. Brunette discusses Hanekes major releases in English, French, and German, including the film that first brought him to international attention, Bennys Video. The first full-length study of Hanekes work in any language, this book also includes an interview with the director that explores his motivations and methods.
