Mohamed Bourouissa: The Genealogy of Violence (Short Film Review)

 This is a review of Mohamed Bourouissa's short film, The Genealogy of Violence.

On Friday, December 26, during my time at the Espoo Museum of Modern Art (EMMA), I saw the short film, The Genealogy of Violence, and it was absolutely relatable as it discussed the theme of police brutality, extrajudicial killing, and violation of fundamental human rights. Bourouissa's short film was aimed at raising awareness about how police extort youths and also dehumanize them, due to the possession of power.

The Genealogy of Violence

In the short film, a young French couple whose conversation about their future is abruptly cut off by a police raid. During a routine identity check, one of the protagonists is arrested. As the conundrum unravels, the male protagonist is undergoing a barrage of conflicting emotions as the two police officers inspect his body; he suffers inner turmoil that is conveyed through a nuanced array of special effects.

Meanwhile, his partner stares in disarray as he undergoes the uncomfortable moment. The short film plays for almost twelve minutes; it specifically ran for eleven minutes and fifty seconds (11:50).

Watch the clip on the Instagram page of the Uprising Platform:

https://www.instagram.com/p/DSxMe_DiEaO/?hl=en&img_index=1

Who is Mohamed Bourouissa?

Mohamed Bourouissa (b. 1978, Algeria) first gained recognition in the 2000s for his photographic work. He has since expanded his practice to include video and installation. His work often explores themes of social control and lived experience. This film is grounded in real-life events and is based on the personal story of a close friend.

Additionally, the high-tech media space, with its immersive sound system and 4K projection, showcases new acquisitions of media art featured in the Saastamoinen Foundation Collection exhibition.

Scheduled Timeframe: 24.09.2025 - 22.03.2026