Country
The Netherlands
Year
2026
Language
Dutch spoken, no subtitles
Director
Niels van Koevorden
Duration
84 min
The bad news, incurable cancer, they have already received. Now Rob, Rein, Tilly, Ben, and Marian are trying to face their situation in the oncologist's office.
What initially seems unreal is becoming more and more concrete. The first questions are about treatments and of course: how much longer? As weeks and months go by, the reality sinks in more and more. There are ups and downs. How long do you hold on to hope, and when do you choose to embrace the time you have left? And what else do you want? That could be a big trip to see family one more time, or, despite dwindling energy, simply bravely continuing to do the ordinary things. The oncologist is a sympathetic conversational partner but can provide little certainty.
The five speak directly into the camera, which takes the position of the doctor. This makes the viewer a part of the intimacy of the situation. It is a minimalist, clear, and unsentimental format, with occasional moments of silence or a comforting arm around the shoulder. Touching and honest.
12:45 PM - 2:09 PM
€ 11.50
Camera 4
It's not what you look at, it's what you see
International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam in Groningen is the chance to see the documentary hits of the coming year on the big screen.
