MSR
(Rotterdam / Veerlaan 13, Katendrecht, Fenixloods 1 – first floor)
Sweltering heat makes the sky vibrate in a desert landscape. Blown up sand makes the image blurry. In his video MRS Wim Catrysse (1973, Belgium) introduces the viewer to a realm where stray dogs seems to reign. The dogs dig a round hole and lie down, smoothly lining the shape of the hole to feel the coolness of the sand. Catrysse has always been captivated by landscapes in science fiction films, principal factor to evoke tension. ‘Physical’ landscapes with banks of clouds that are driven and gale-force winds work really well. Catrysse uses long travelling shots to underline the endless expanse. Tension is thus guaranteed and narrative and image seem to perfectly merge. MSR was shot in Kuwait, although the images can belong to any deserted beach in Africa. It is only when electricity poles, trucks and a gigantic trailer come into view that the viewer realizes that in fact a road runs through this apocalyptic landscape. Then a sand storm rises and obliterates the distinction between sky and sand. What we see reminds vividly of Turner. The ‘angry’ soundtrack is alternated by the straining sound of whirlwind and perfects this breathtaking, menacing images.