Ruben 'Burn Down This Room' by Thor Brenne

Norwegian artist Ruben is back with frequent collaborator Thor Brenne for an unforgettable study of a troubled relationship.

Shot on location in Norway, Burn Down This Room depicts an abusive couple experiencing a vicious circle of violence and pain - revealed in forensic detail by Brenne, and his DoP Torkel Riise Svenson - with Ruben as the dispassionate witness.

The visuals are used here as another character almost, drawing the viewer in with the beautifully framed shots and strict execution - we can distance ourselves from some outrageously malicious acts as we escape into the beauty.

Almost like a metaphor for the relationship happening before our very eyes, Ruben stands in the middle of what is taking place. Is he the devil on the shoulders of the couple prompting their actions? In fact, a longing for peace is the running theme, and how one achieves it through reflection or chaos. The trance-like visuals compliment the impactful scenes and adds to the dark atmosphere that doesn't let up until the very end.