The Square

**”The Square” (2017) is one of those films that snatches your attention and won’t let go, unraveling like a complex maze of social commentary and personal turmoil. Directed by the incredibly talented Ruben Östlund, this drama plunges into the world of contemporary art, examining both the absurdity and significance of how we connect with our surroundings… and each other.

Set against the backdrop of a prestigious Stockholm museum, the story follows Claes Bang as Christian, the impeccably polished art curator. He’s trying to navigate a tumultuous sea of both professional and personal crises. The setup of a new exhibit which is all about moral quandaries—the artist literally challenges visitors to be part of the art itself—leads to a series of mind-blowing, often uncomfortable situations. You find yourself thinking, “What would I do in that scenario?” and honestly, the answers aren’t always flattering.

Co-starring the brilliant Elisabeth Moss, known for her raw, captivating performances, and Dominic West, who brings a slice of charm wrapped in complexity, the film digs deep into themes of privilege, empathy, and hypocrisy. But wait, there’s more! The character dynamic is elevated even further with Terry Notary, whose physicality as a performance artist creates a juxtaposition that’s both hilarious and thought-provoking. Christopher Læssø joins the fray, adding layers that make the narrative even richer.

With a runtime of 151 minutes, the movie takes its time to peel back the layers of Christian’s psyche—wait until you see how he reacts to the unfolding chaos! Each moment teeters on the edge of discomfort, making you wonder how far you’d go to uphold the values you espouse. The film’s rating of 7.1 speaks volumes about the divisive reactions it evokes; some are left questioning, while others are simply entranced by its boldness.

Streaming now on Hulu, “The Square” isn’t just another film to tick off your list. It’s a total masterpiece that pushes boundaries and compels you to reflect on your own moral compass. At its core, it’s all about what makes us human… even in the least human of circumstances. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be both entertained and… a bit rattled.