Our Dutch Discoveries season at LIFF 2023 includes new films in Official Selection, classics in Rear View, and this short film programme. Featuring brilliant new animations, competition highlights and a previous LIFF favourite, the programme illuminates the breadth of film talent bursting from the Netherlands. Travel around the country as we encounter eccentric characters, discover the power of community, and consider the importance of taking pride in identity. An eclectic mix of styles and stories, our spotlight is a celebratory melting pot of creativity, much like the country it’s focused on.
Shiny New World | Jan van Gorkum | Netherlands | 2022 | 8mins
Barry is no ordinary cleaner: he mops up crime scenes after evil spirits have wreaked havoc. But whilst filming a trailer for his unique business, things go wrong in a very bloody way. Quirky, horror comedy from Jan van Gorkum.
Corrie | Marieke Widlak | Netherlands | 2022 | 24mins | UK Premiere
As Corrie’s partner Ashley transitions, Corrie wonders how she can develop herself whilst supporting her partner. The process provides surprising new insights about both themselves and their relationship. A poignant, honest documentary and a powerful ode to love.
It's Nice In Here | Robert-Jonathan Koeyers | Netherlands | 2022 | 15mins
Two teenagers with a tender friendship experience a tragic evening. What follows is a fractured retelling of that night, a single, fateful moment in time, seen from two perspectives. A disturbing study of implicit bias, beautifully animated by Robert-Jonathan Koeyers.
I'm Not a Robot | Victoria Warmerdam | Netherlands | 2023 | 22mins | UK Premiere
Also screening in our Fanomenon: Sci-Fi Shorts programme, I’m Not A Robot is a brilliant black comedy of existential crisis. After several failed attempts to complete a Captcha, a woman wonders if she is in fact a robot.
Fly | Patty Stenger | Netherlands | 2022 | 2mins | UK Premiere
Margot's daughter thinks she knows what's best for her mother. But Margot is bored of waiting for death. She’s going to die anyway, might as well go out dancing, drinking and with a new man. An expressive, entertaining animation.
Hannah's Dream | Emily Reekers, Eugene Arts | Netherlands | 2021 | 14mins
A young girl lives with her depressed father, a musician, during a COVID-19 lockdown. Struggling to get through to him, she concocts a plan that will bring together the whole neighbourhood and inspire her father to play again in this charming drama.
