(2017) is a satirical black comedy written and directed by Ruben Östlund that won the prestigious Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. The film skewers the pretensions of the contemporary art world and explores themes of social responsibility, class privilege, and the "bystander effect". Plot and Narrative Threads
The story centers on (Claes Bang), the respected but morally complacent chief curator of a modern art museum in Stockholm. His life spirals into chaos through two primary subplots: The Square (2017)
Ruben Östlund: ‘The Square Becomes What We Make Out Of It’ (2017) is a satirical black comedy written and
The film is structured as a series of increasingly uncomfortable and provocative set pieces: His life spirals into chaos through two primary
: Christian is preparing to launch a new conceptual artwork called "The Square"—a literal illuminated quadrilateral in the museum courtyard meant to be a "sanctuary of trust and caring".
: After being pickpocketed in a elaborate street scam, Christian embarks on an ill-advised, high-tech quest to retrieve his phone and wallet, leading to unintended consequences for a young boy in a low-income neighborhood. Key Scenes and Motifs