Kvadrat explores the daily life of a Russian techno DJ, Andrey Pushkarev. Shot in Switzerland, France, Hungary, Romania, and Russia, it unfolds like a pulsating techno beat, following Pushkarev through various stages of his journey. The camera seamlessly transitions between scenes on the road, in hotels, and at music venues, creating a rhythmic flow that mirrors the music Andrey creates. The title “Kvadrat,” square in Russian, seems like a symbolic representation of the square or grid-like nature of his routine, the repetitive sequence of being in a plane, hotel, and club.
One of the film’s strengths lies in its refusal to rely on conventional storytelling methods. Instead, it lets the camera speak for itself. The absence of voice-overs allows viewers to immerse themselves in the experience rather than being guided by a narrator. In that, the film captures the essence of Andrey Pushkarev’s world, allowing the audience to experience the highs and lows of a DJ’s life in an unconventional manner.