Based on the novel by Nobel prize­winner, Knut Hamsen, Hunger is about a penniless young writer in turn-of-the-century Oslo. The film is constructed with disruptive move­ments from reality to myth. The writer wanders around the city during an autumn day, unable to sell any of his writings, and reduced to a state of abject suffering and near-madness induced by starvation. In this profound state of misery, he somehow retains his sense of humour and a smattering of self-righteous dignity. He encounters several individuals, but every contact with humanity emphasizes the writer's solitude and his gradual acceptance of life as a dream-voyage.

Per Oscarsson's portrait of despair and hallucinatory exaltation goes beyond the boundaries of a semblance of actuality. It is one of the great film performances of our time.

Best Actor Award, Cannes Festival.