Exploring Dutch Art, Music and Culture through Film

Exploring Dutch Art, Music and Culture through Film

If you’ve ever watched a Dutch film, you’ll understand why they are beloved around the world. They always tell unique stories with beautiful visuals and powerful music. Dutch films show us a different side of art, music, and culture that we may not have experienced before. In this article, I’ll be exploring Dutch art, music and culture through the lens of film and explaining why they remain so popular today.

When you think of films from the Netherlands, Dogme95 films are probably the first thing that come to mind. Dogme95 films are a kind of independent films based around the “Vow of Chastity” set forth by Danish film directors Lars von Trier and Thomas Vinterberg. This vow called for films to be set in the here and now with little to no production values and no gimmicks. This initiated a new wave of filmmaking that focused on telling people’s real stories in a simple and real way. Dutch films embraced Dogme95 films more than other countries and today, it is still one of their most beloved and iconic genres.

What is it about Dutch films that have made them so popular? For one, there is a great deal of realism in their films that is captivating. Of course, there are films that are more fantastical, but most films focus on relatable people with relatable problems, which makes them highly engaging. Additionally, there is often a great sense of humour in these films, sometimes produced in a hilarious way. As such, these films create a unique feeling of being part of a community that makes them truly immersive. monochrome grass macro
Ty Finck @ Unsplash

At the same time, Dutch films place a great deal of emphasis on art and music, something that truly sets them apart from other films. Music plays a huge role in Dutch films, often as a way to tell stories and set the mood for a scene, but also as an expression of emotion. Similarly, Dutch films are often quite visual, utilizing art in the form of set designs, costumes, and incredibly detailed shots. This attention to art and music, coupled with their unique way of storytelling, makes Dutch films stand out among other films from around the world.

Finally, while other countries may be making more awe-inspiring films these days, Dutch films still remain popular due to their unique take on art, music, and culture. You don’t have to enjoy a typical action movie or superhero flick to appreciate the beauty of a Dutch film and really see the culture in it. From the music to the visuals, there is something special in a Dutch film that is unlike anything else.

What makes Dutch films so special and so beloved around the world? How do Dutch films use art, music and culture to explore the human condition in a unique way? These are some of the questions we can ask when exploring Dutch art, music and culture through the lens of film.
Quaid Lagan @ Unsplash

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