As the marketplace becomes increasingly dominated by sexual imagery and the internet affords previously unimaginable opportunities, Steve McQueen’s potent study of one man’s compulsive sexual behaviour paints a dark picture of the relationship between sex and society.

Brandon (Michael Fassbender) seeks constant sexual release from an endless round of one night stands and online porn. His carefully ordered existence is interrupted by the arrival of neurotic and needy sister Sissy (Carey Mulligan). There are hints that the two share a troubled past which affected them in different ways as Brandon is forced to confront his addiction and attempt to form real relationships. (Notes by Kevin Coyne.) 

This film is screening as part of Sex, the first of our three-month season dedicated to excess, presenting examples of how cinema has taken on sex, drugs and rock ‘n’ roll in Sex&Drugs&Rock&Roll.

See also our monthly film from the IFI Irish Film Archive, From the Vaults: I Can’t I Can’t, which screens on January 22nd.