UPDATED 24 September 2024 | LantarenVenster is once again buzzing with excitement, offering a diverse range of new films and special showings. From gripping premieres to insightful film specials, there is something for every cinephile.
LantarenVenster, located in the heart of Rotterdam, continues to be a beacon for both mainstream and Dutch independent films. Whether you're a fan of thought-provoking dramas, documentaries, or are looking for an enjoyable outing for the family, there’s something here for you.
Premieres to watch
The first must-watch is Witte Flits, the opening film of the Nederlands Filmfestival. Renée Soutendijk and Raymond Thiry deliver powerful performances in this Dutch drama about a couple facing the heart-wrenching reality of their 42-year-old son entering the final stages of an assisted euthanasia process due to psychological suffering. The central question of the film – Can love let go? — lingers long after the credits roll.
Another standout premiere is Firebrand, starring Alicia Vikander as Catherine Parr, the sixth wife of King Henry VIII (portrayed by Jude Law). This feminist take on Tudor-era palace intrigue is both intimate and dramatic. Catherine, battling her ailing yet increasingly violent husband, is forced to manoeuvre through a web of political and personal peril.
Then there’s Poison, the debut film of Desiree Nosbusch. This emotional drama, based on Lot Vekemans' play Gif, follows a couple who meet again a decade after the tragic event that tore them apart. Starring Tim Roth and Trine Dyrholm, this film explores themes of grief and reconnection, all wrapped in a story that feels both raw and real.
Must-see specials
For documentary enthusiasts, Boxing Against the Binary is a film special not to be missed. This compelling work by filmmaker Esmée van Loon follows the Queer Gym in Rotterdam, offering a glimpse into a space where non-normative bodies and the queer community can thrive. Through intimate interviews and captivating visuals, this documentary explores themes of community, self-expression, and physical empowerment.
Music fans will want to catch Paul McCartney and Wings – One Hand Clapping, a rarely-seen documentary that captures McCartney and his band Wings during a defining period in their musical journey. This intimate look at their creative process, featuring unreleased footage, is a gem for fans of classic rock.
As part of the Black Achievement Month, LantarenVenster is also showcasing Nomade in Niemandsland, a film that delves into the life of Caribbean artist Felix de Rooy, who explores what it means to be queer and Caribbean in the Dutch Kingdom. Also, be sure to check out Almacita di Desolato, a 35mm restoration of the 1986 classic by Curaçaoan filmmakers Norman de Palm and Felix de Rooy, which takes viewers on a journey through local mythology.
For the kids
LantarenVenster doesn’t forget its youngest visitors. CineMini, which starts on 3 November, offers toddlers and their families a unique first cinema experience. This programme, filled with short animated films and interactive play, is the perfect introduction to the magical world of movies for children aged 2 to 6. Additionally, the Cinekid Festival 2024, starting on 26 October, invites children to explore films, series, and hands-on workshops in an engaging setting, making it a wonderful way for kids to immerse themselves in creativity.
For more information and tickets, visit lantarenvenster.nl.
Where to find LantarenVenster
LantarenVenster is located in Rotterdam’s vibrant Kop van Zuid district, known for its modern architecture and lively atmosphere. The cinema, with its striking waterfront views, is a cultural hub that attracts both locals and tourists looking for a unique film experience. The venue is easily accessible by public transport and offers a stunning backdrop for an evening out.
