The MAX program Netherlands in the cinema is back with a new series. Based on amateur films made by ordinary Dutch people with a camera, this 4th season also tells stories about everyday life in the Netherlands and how it has changed. This week’s theme is: daily life in times of war.
In this 3rd episode, host Wim Daniëls takes you to amateur films shot during the war years. The era of amateur cinema extends approximately from the beginning of the last century to the mid-1980s. Because World War II falls precisely in this period, many images have been made. Normal life continued for many people who were not Jewish. People got married, birthdays were celebrated and children were born. At first, the movies don’t even show that a war has broken out. Families play games together and have a good time. Until the eclipse is settled, you will see more and more that life is different from usual.
Read also: Unique images from the new season ‘Nederland op Film’ at the MAX
Bringing the stories to life
Strict rules apply during the war years. For example, soldiers may not be filmed and nothing may actually appear on screen regarding the negative aspects of war. Strict censorship applies. However, many people have succeeded in making images of time. Fortunately, because the number of people who lived through the war themselves is decreasing and that’s how the stories stay alive.
With Wim Daniëls, children and grandchildren look at the images of their parents or grandparents. They often know the stories of their ancestors and the video images have a personal face.
The war episode Netherlands in the cinema to see on Saturday July 15, 2023 at 8:40 p.m. MAX on NPO 2. Do you want to see it at the time of your choice or did you miss it? You can do this on NPO Start.
2023 – Episode 3 – Jewish Quarter | Photo © MAX