We have enjoyed the experience of viewing the selection of Dutch films, because all films had very interesting themes and were technically well made. We have seen with a lot of interest how Dutch filmmakers immersed themselves into the world, but we would have liked to see the same involvement in exploring themes in their own country, a tendency they have in common with other north European countries. Though every film raised interesting and thorough discussions, the ultimate decision was unanimous and clear.
900 Days (WINNER):
A film about today’s Russia through the dark and painful hidden memories of a tragedy that took place 70 years ago. A haunting film, that is not about heroes but about victims, that stands against interpretation and defies the barriers of being judgmental. A film that peels the crust of propaganda from around the naked body of pain. Truth is only possible through the eyes and voices of human beings, not in historical volumes or in state discourses… 900 Days by Jessica Gorter
Jerome Jerome:
A complete immersion in the world of a mentally-challenged adolescent, the caretakers and family that takes us very close into its characters… We found the camera work extraordinary, as it allows a very close approach to a complex situation without any need for explanation and it does that with cinematographic excellence. It is a coherent, sincere and touching film. Jerome Jerome by Peter Lataster and Petra Lataster-Czisch
Stories from Lakka Beach:
After a disastrous war, Sierra Leone is a country that walks towards its future; without denying the past atrocities of war, the film introduces us to people who are vivid and hopeful, and takes us away from all the clichés we always receive in films about Africa…. With this nomination, we also want to welcome a young and talented filmmaker, who did the directing, camera, editing, music and producing of his film, as he steps into the world of documentary cinema with such confidence and promise. Stories of Lakka Beach by Daan Veldhuizen