En Passant

Public spaces are the lifeblood of urban life, where moments of connection, conflict and community quietly play out. In En Passant, Chris de Krijger captures this ephemeral beauty within the Central Library near Rotterdam Blaak, using the chessboard as a symbolic stage. Yet, it is the people – vibrant, complex and unexpected – who take centre stage: Jacques deliberating over his next move, Harold and Ilona locked in an argument, and a security guard searching for a lost plush toy.

A seemingly routine day takes an unexpected turn when a critical incident challenges the group’s ability to act with empathy and solidarity.

Presented on dual screens, En Passant brings attention to the details of everyday life within a public space. The carefully framed scenes prompt the viewer to make choices about where to direct their attention, reflecting the decisions and distractions of the library’s visitors.

De Krijger reminds us that public spaces are not merely backdrops but vital settings where diverse lives and perspectives meet. In highlighting these quiet encounters and shared moments, En Passant offers an intimate slice of life of the small yet significant ways we coexist in our cities. It is a reflection on what it means to be part of a community, shaped by both individual actions and collective presence.

– Eva Langerak

Trailer

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