Dutch Cinema

Dutch cinema, though often overshadowed by Hollywood and other European film industries, has a rich history and a unique voice that reflects the culture, history, and social issues of the Netherlands. From classic films to contemporary masterpieces, Dutch cinema offers a diverse range of stories and styles. Here’s a guide to some must-watch Dutch films that have left a significant mark on the industry and continue to captivate audiences.

1. “Soldaat van Oranje” (Soldier of Orange) (1977)

• Director: Paul Verhoeven
• Genre: War/Drama
• Why Watch: This epic war drama, directed by Paul Verhoeven, is based on the true story of Erik Lanshof, a Dutch student who becomes a resistance fighter during World War II. The film is renowned for its gripping narrative, strong performances, and historical accuracy.
• Notable Achievements: The film was a massive box office success in the Netherlands and remains one of the most iconic Dutch films of all time.

2. “Antonia” (1995)

• Director: Marleen Gorris
• Genre: Drama/Comedy
• Why Watch: “Antonia” is a heartwarming and feminist tale that follows the life of Antonia and her family over several decades in a small Dutch village. The film explores themes of independence, community, and the passage of time.
• Notable Achievements: The film won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 1996, bringing international recognition to Dutch cinema.

3. “De Aanslag” (The Assault) (1986)

• Director: Fons Rademakers
• Genre: War/Drama
• Why Watch: Based on the novel by Harry Mulisch, “De Aanslag” tells the story of a man whose life is profoundly affected by a tragic event during World War II. The film is a powerful exploration of memory, guilt, and the long-lasting impact of war.
• Notable Achievements: The film won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 1987.

4. “Karakter” (Character) (1997)

• Director: Mike van Diem
• Genre: Drama
• Why Watch: Set in 1920s Rotterdam, “Karakter” follows the life of a young man determined to succeed despite the challenges posed by his estranged father. The film is a compelling drama about ambition, resilience, and complex family dynamics.
• Notable Achievements: The film won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 1998.

5. “Zwartboek” (Black Book) (2006)

• Director: Paul Verhoeven
• Genre: War/Thriller
• Why Watch: Directed by Paul Verhoeven, “Zwartboek” is a gripping thriller set during World War II. It follows a Jewish woman who joins the Dutch resistance and becomes entangled in a web of espionage and betrayal.
• Notable Achievements: The film was a critical and commercial success, both in the Netherlands and internationally.

**6. “Simon” (2004)

• Director: Eddy Terstall
• Genre: Drama/Comedy
• Why Watch: “Simon” is a poignant and humorous film about friendship, love, and the complexities of human relationships. The story revolves around a gay man and his straight best friend, exploring themes of acceptance and identity.
• Notable Achievements: The film received widespread acclaim for its honest and heartfelt portrayal of LGBTQ+ issues.

7. “Turks Fruit” (Turkish Delight) (1973)

• Director: Paul Verhoeven
• Genre: Romance/Drama
• Why Watch: Based on the novel by Jan Wolkers, “Turks Fruit” is a passionate and controversial love story about an artist and his tumultuous relationship with a young woman. The film is known for its raw emotion and bold storytelling.
• Notable Achievements: The film was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film and remains a classic in Dutch cinema.

8. “De Marathon” (The Marathon) (2012)

• Director: Diederick Koopal
• Genre: Comedy/Drama
• Why Watch: “De Marathon” is a feel-good comedy about a group of friends who decide to run a marathon to save their local pub. The film is filled with humor, camaraderie, and heartfelt moments.
• Notable Achievements: The film was a box office hit in the Netherlands and has become a beloved modern classic.

9. “Borgman (2013)

• Director: Alex van Warmerdam
• Genre: Thriller/Drama
• Why Watch: “Borgman” is a dark and surreal thriller about a mysterious man who infiltrates the lives of an upper-class family. The film is known for its unsettling atmosphere and thought-provoking narrative.
• Notable Achievements: The film was selected to compete for the Palme d’Or at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival.

10. “Michiel de Ruyter” (Admiral) (2015)

• Director: Roel Reiné
• Genre: Historical/Drama
• Why Watch: This historical drama tells the story of Michiel de Ruyter, one of the most celebrated naval heroes in Dutch history. The film is a visually stunning and action-packed portrayal of his life and battles.
• Notable Achievements: The film was a major box office success in the Netherlands and received praise for its production values and historical accuracy.

11. “De Tweeling” (Twin Sisters) (2002)

• Director: Ben Sombogaart
• Genre: Drama/Historical
• Why Watch: Based on the novel by Tessa de Loo, “De Tweeling” follows the lives of twin sisters separated during World War II and raised in different countries. The film is a moving exploration of family, identity, and the impact of war.
• Notable Achievements: The film was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.

12. “Oorlogswinter” (Winter in Wartime) (2008)

• Director: Martin Koolhoven
• Genre: War/Drama
• Why Watch: Set during the final months of World War II, “Oorlogswinter” follows a young boy who becomes involved in the resistance after discovering a wounded British pilot. The film is a gripping coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of war.
• Notable Achievements: The film was a critical and commercial success and was submitted for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.