The Black Square

The film's plot hinges on the theft of a replica or a painting inspired by Kazimir Malevich's seminal 1915 artwork, 'Black Square.' While the painting itself is a genuine masterpiece of abstract art and a significant piece in art history, the narrative of its theft and the subsequent events on the cruise ship are fictional. The film uses the iconic artwork as a central MacGuffin for its comedic crime caper.

While the premise involves a high-stakes art heist, 'The Black Square' appears to lean into a darkly comedic and somewhat absurd tone. The protagonists' attempts to navigate their predicament by impersonating musical icons suggest a blend of suspense and eccentricity. The unexpected turns of events, particularly their forced participation in the ship's entertainment, hint at a narrative that prioritises unconventional humour over straightforward thriller elements.

The film features a notable cast including Bernhard Schütz and Jacob Matschenz, who portray the central characters Vincent and Nils, respectively. Sandra Hüller also plays a significant role as Martha, the art expert designated to receive the stolen painting. Other cast members include Pheline Roggan and Christopher Schärf, contributing to the ensemble's dynamic.

Having been left without the crucial boarding passes and fake IDs by a missing accomplice, Vincent and Nils resort to forceful means to board the cruise ship. Their desperate act involves overpowering two men, only for them to discover that their victims are part of the ship's planned entertainment. To avoid exposure and maintain their cover, the duo are compelled to step into the roles of David Bowie and Elvis Presley impersonators, with predictably mixed results.

The film centres on Vincent, an aspiring yet unsuccessful artist who also moonlights as an art thief. His latest heist involves pilfering Kazimir Malevich's iconic 'Black Square' painting. The plan is to sell it to a wealthy Russian oligarch, with a rendezvous set aboard a cruise ship. However, complications arise when Vincent and his partner, Nils, find themselves stranded without their essential boarding documents, forcing them into a desperate, unexpected situation.