Bear

1993
16mm film, video transfer
(10 minutes, 2 seconds)
Performer: Vernon Douglas
Camera: Noski Deville
For Desmond
The artist, courtesy of Anthony Reynolds Gallery, London

'[It] plays with the notion of a threatening black aggressor, but soon replaces it with a far more stimulating alternative. Rather than serving up a predictable stew of macho violence, McQueen turns the supposed combat on its head. A teasing vein of affection runs through this film. By staying close to both bodies and selecting dramatic camera angles, Bear sustains the aura of mystery.' Richard Cork