This edition of the Short Film Spotlight is a bit different. It’s not a short film, per se, but a video mural for the Standard Hotel in New York. Civilization depicts a journey from hell to heaven interpreted through modern film language using computer-enhanced found footage. This epic video mural contains over 300 individual channels of looped video blended into a multi-layered seamless tableau of interconnecting images that illustrate a contemporary, satirical take on the concepts of Heaven and Hell. It’s postmodern, stunning and haunting, like a mixed tape version of Dante’s Inferno. Also, do yourself a favor and expand this video to fullscreen to really appreciate the visuals.

The genius behind this installation is Marco Brambilla, who went to film school in Canada and also directed the Sly Stallone as Rumplestiltskin sci-fi actioner DEMOLITION MAN. Well, he’s focused now on photography and contemporary art, and he’s truly brilliant in his craft. So, next time when you’re in the 212, visit The Standard and ride the elevators. It’ll be a ride from Hell to Heaven and back.