The Hire: Powder Keg

Raw imagery, shaky camera work, and above all, a story that has something to say. Not as wild as, let's say, a Guy Ritchie film, but a gritty story set in wartime where a BMW jeep is condemned to travel not on a highway, but on a dirt road. It is definitely not a bad thing. A filmmaker of Iñárritu’s caliber takes great care to ensure that content and form do not overshadow each other, and he proves that he can evoke depression in the audience within a few minutes. Clearly the best episode of Season 1. (16.12.2005)

The best achievement of the entire series. Alejandro González Iñárritu's directorial handwriting is able to create an unprecedented atmosphere in which the handheld camera doesn't let you breathe for a second. (12.01.2006)

The best and most moving Hire. In such a short space, Iñárritu manages to give a clear message, while making a BMW commercial at the same time. A raw and realistic car chase, shaky camera, confusion and a sad ending make Powder Keg number one, foe me at least. (29.01.2007)

Excellent harmony of well-positioned camera, aptly chosen music and cast under the baton of the excellent Alejandro González Inárritu. Next to Star, this is probably the best short of The Hire series. (15.07.2011)