Masters of None (2006)
Colour, sound. 11’ 55”
Harry Dodge and Stanya Kahn, 'Masters of None' Courtesy: EAI
At first glance, Masters of None could be the home video of a suburban (albeit pink-hooded) family, passing the time with charades, television and popcorn. As the narrative progresses, these everyday domestic activities are increasingly infused with suggestions of violence and danger. Disturbing television images appear; the popcorn catches fire. The game of charades leads to the death of one of the characters, who is buried in the backyard. The distorted soundtrack rises to a fever pitch, as the figures devour food through their shrouds, which carry intimations of Abu Ghraib. With its undertone of menace and dread, Masters of None could also be a fable of the proximity of violence and absurdity in Bush-era America.
