Let's delve into the fascinating world of cinema and the extraordinary story behind the film 'Hen'. This unique perspective on a biopic, told through the eyes of a hen, is a testament to the resilience of art and the power of storytelling.
The Birth of an Idea
'Hen' is a film born out of necessity and exile. Hungarian filmmaker György Pálfi, known for his innovative and experimental works, found himself in a creative wilderness under Viktor Orbán's far-right regime. With no funding available for independent filmmaking, Pálfi was forced to seek opportunities elsewhere, and in doing so, he stumbled upon a universal story that could transcend cultural boundaries.
A Hen's Perspective
The film follows the journey of a factory-farmed chicken, an unlikely protagonist, as she escapes her grim birthplace in Greece. Through her beady eyes, we witness a modern-day Greek tragedy unfold. This perspective shift is a bold and intriguing choice, inviting viewers to see the world from a unique and often overlooked viewpoint. As Pálfi puts it, "If you can go with the chicken after the first 15 or 20 minutes, then somehow you become the chicken."
The Challenges of Filming
Filming 'Hen' presented its own set of challenges. Pálfi had to work with eight identical leading ladies, each with their own unique talents and quirks. The chickens were trained for two months to become "human-friendly," and an animal trainer was on hand during filming. Pálfi discovered that each chicken had a special skill, whether it was running, pecking, or staying still, and they utilized these skills to bring the story to life.
The tight shooting schedule meant that the human actors had to adapt to a novel hierarchy, with the chickens taking center stage. Pálfi's favorite leading lady, Feri, often came to the rescue when other chickens were tired or unable to perform a scene.
A Conventional Approach
Interestingly, Pálfi, known for his experimental style, had to adopt a more orthodox approach due to the constraints of working with chickens. He couldn't indulge in his usual eight-minute-long shots or fancy arthouse techniques. Instead, he chose a classical Hollywood storytelling style, a decision he believes was the right one, as "the chicken could do it."
The Power of Perspective
'Hen' serves as an innocent eyewitness, offering a fresh and often moralistic view of human behavior. The audience is left to interpret the hen's beady gaze, which at times feels judgmental. Pálfi emphasizes the importance of keeping the chicken true to its nature, stating, "The chicken needs to be a chicken."
A Commentary on Society
Beyond its unique perspective, 'Hen' offers a powerful commentary on society and the treatment of both animals and humans. The film's depiction of factory farming and the quiet desperation of the hen's life may leave audiences questioning their choices. Pálfi suggests that while chickens may not have a perfect society, humans have the ability and responsibility to improve their way of living.
A Hopeful Future
With the change in government in Hungary, Pálfi and his family have returned to Budapest, and he hopes to continue making films in his home country. 'Hen' stands as a symbol of creativity's triumph over oppression, and its heroine offers a thought-provoking commentary on our times. As Pálfi asks, "Can we get our rights back?"
This film is a reminder that art can thrive even in the most challenging circumstances, and it leaves us with a deeper understanding of the world and our place in it.
