

Movie spotlight
Terwijl het liefde was
Artistic director of the National Theater Eric de Vroedt writes and directs a performance about his own mother Winnie, who passed away in 2020. This piece, titled The Century of My Mother, is a family story about the migration from the Dutch East Indies to the Netherlands. It is De Vroedt's way of examining the relationship with his mother and not having to say goodbye to her yet: 'I can let her live on stage, but when the curtain falls, when the play is completely finished, then she is really dead'.
Insights
Plot Summary
A man named Bram is diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Facing his mortality, he decides to leave his family and embark on a journey to find his first love, hoping to find closure and perhaps a sense of peace. His quest takes him through memories and encounters that challenge his perceptions of love, regret, and the meaning of life.
Critical Reception
"Terwijl het liefde was" received a mixed to positive reception, with critics generally praising its emotional depth and strong performances, particularly from Yorick van Wageningen. Some found the narrative a bit predictable, but the film was often lauded for its sensitive portrayal of love, loss, and the human condition. Audience reactions were also generally favorable, resonating with the film's themes of reflection and reconciliation.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its touching exploration of love and mortality.
Yorick van Wageningen delivers a powerful and moving performance.
Some viewers found the plot to be somewhat conventional, but the emotional impact was undeniable.
Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the film's emotional resonance and its ability to evoke feelings of empathy and reflection. Many appreciated the mature handling of sensitive themes and the heartfelt performances, though a few noted a slower pace.
Fun Fact
The film was shot on location in the Netherlands, with many scenes capturing the distinct Dutch landscapes to complement the introspective journey of the protagonist.
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