A wild man runs rampant through a crowd of elite dinner guests at their tables. According to instructions, those who do not look at or engage with the beast, will not be bothered in return. Yet this is only what they are led to believe, for the beast is about to violate their trust. The themes and story line of the Square expand on this theme. The film explores the breakdown of trust in society and the consequences of living in bubbles and attempting to insulate ourselves from harm.
Christian, the main character, is an art curator who is both a victim and perpetrator of irresponsibility, indifference and arrogance. He suffers a series of misfortunes and bizarre situations including a stolen wallet, blackmail, sexual indiscretion and a social media campaign that backfires in an explosive way. While appearing outwardly calm, Christian is an unstable man. He is unable or unwilling to connect with the life, good and bad, that surrounds him. The consequences of this inaction are far reaching, both for society and his psyche.
The Square is compelling and persuasive in part because it is not judgmental and preachy. The peculiar and ingenious scenes provide jolts to perspectives without forcing conclusions. Cares and worries drop away, or are seen in a different light, because the story is so intriguing. The film is balanced in its portrayal of characters. It provides much food for thought. The acting is superb. The director of the film is hopeful that we can begin to heal our trust in others. By way of illustrating this he gave his wallet to a woman in the front row of the theater at the Toronto International Film Festival. She returned it at the end of the film. Palme d'Or winner at Cannes.
Christian, the main character, is an art curator who is both a victim and perpetrator of irresponsibility, indifference and arrogance. He suffers a series of misfortunes and bizarre situations including a stolen wallet, blackmail, sexual indiscretion and a social media campaign that backfires in an explosive way. While appearing outwardly calm, Christian is an unstable man. He is unable or unwilling to connect with the life, good and bad, that surrounds him. The consequences of this inaction are far reaching, both for society and his psyche.
The Square is compelling and persuasive in part because it is not judgmental and preachy. The peculiar and ingenious scenes provide jolts to perspectives without forcing conclusions. Cares and worries drop away, or are seen in a different light, because the story is so intriguing. The film is balanced in its portrayal of characters. It provides much food for thought. The acting is superb. The director of the film is hopeful that we can begin to heal our trust in others. By way of illustrating this he gave his wallet to a woman in the front row of the theater at the Toronto International Film Festival. She returned it at the end of the film. Palme d'Or winner at Cannes.