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The 1997 Dutch-Belgian film “Character,” directed and written by Mike van Diem, based on Ferdinand Bordewijk’s novel “Karakter,” is a gripping drama running for 122 minutes. Starring Fedja van Huêt, Jan Decleir, and Betty Schuurman, it explores complex relationships, leaving a lasting impact on viewers.
The Academy Award Triumph
“Character” achieved significant acclaim, winning the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film at the 70th Academy Awards. This victory marked a momentous milestone for Dutch-Belgian cinema. With a budget of $4.5 million, the film managed to earn $713,413 at the box office, making it a financial and critical success.
Behind the Scenes Excellence
The film’s success can be attributed to the outstanding work of the crew. Rogier Stoffers’ cinematography, Jessica de Koning’s editing, and Paleis van Boem’s musical score contributed to the film’s brilliance. They managed to capture the intricacies of the characters’ lives, highlighting their challenges and relationships.
A Collaboration of Two Nations
“Character” was a collaborative effort between the Netherlands and Belgium, showcasing the prowess of Dutch cinema on the global stage. The film’s triumph wasn’t limited to awards; it left an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape, cementing its position as an Academy Award-winning foreign language film.
Character Movie Ending Explained
In “Character,” the movie’s conclusion takes a surprising turn when Dreverhaven’s suicide is revealed. This revelation, discovered through a document left by Dreverhaven’s lawyer, transforms the narrative dynamics, adding emotional depth as Katadreuffe inherits his father’s wealth. It’s a poignant twist that highlights the complexities of their father-son relationship.
The pivotal moment comes when Dreverhaven’s will is unveiled, disclosing that all of his considerable wealth is bequeathed to Katadreuffe. This unexpected inheritance serves as a poignant twist, challenging the tumultuous father-son relationship that has been at the core of the film. Despite lifelong challenges, conflicts, and Dreverhaven’s attempts to hinder him, Katadreuffe ultimately inherits his father’s wealth.
A Reflection on Family and Resilience
The film’s ending is a reflection on the complexity of familial bonds, resilience, and the impact of the past on the present. It provides a thought-provoking resolution to the story, adding depth to the characters’ journey. The unexpected twist in the conclusion of “Character” adds an emotional layer, leaving audiences with a contemplative and resonant experience.
Character Plot
“Character” unfolds in the Netherlands during the 1920s, where a feared bailiff named Dreverhaven is found dead with a knife in his stomach. The prime suspect is Jacob Willem Katadreuffe, an ambitious young lawyer who had a tumultuous relationship with Dreverhaven, later revealed to be his father.
The story takes us back to Katadreuffe’s childhood when his mother, Joba, worked as a housekeeper for Dreverhaven. Despite an unwanted encounter resulting in Katadreuffe’s birth, Joba rejects Dreverhaven’s offers of money and marriage, choosing independence.
As Katadreuffe grows up, his life repeatedly intersects with Dreverhaven’s, leading to conflicts. Dreverhaven refuses to acknowledge Katadreuffe as his son, and even when Katadreuffe unwittingly borrows money from a bank owned by Dreverhaven, the bailiff sues him. Despite challenges, Katadreuffe pays back the debt and secures a clerical job, teaching himself English through an encyclopedia.
After paying his debt, Katadreuffe seeks another loan from Dreverhaven for education and legal studies. Despite Dreverhaven’s attempts to hinder him, Katadreuffe becomes a lawyer. The movie begins with Katadreuffe confronting Dreverhaven on the day of his celebration, resulting in a violent altercation.
Surprisingly, it’s revealed later that Dreverhaven committed suicide. Katadreuffe is initially suspected but is eventually cleared by the police. A will left by Dreverhaven discloses that all his wealth goes to Katadreuffe, emphasizing their father-son connection.
Character Cast
Actor |
Character |
| Jan Decleir | Dreverhaven |
| Fedja van Huêt | Katadreuffe |
| Betty Schuurman | Joba |
| Tamar van den Dop | Lorna Te George |
| Victor Löw | De Gankelaar |
| Hans Kesting | Jan Maan |
| Lou Landré | Rentenstein |
| Bernhard Droog | Stroomkoning |
| Frans Vorstman | Inspecteur de Bree |
| Fred Goessens | Schuwagt |
Where to Watch Character
You can enjoy the movie “Character” on popular streaming platforms like ZEE5 and Netflix. These platforms offer convenient access to the film, allowing you to watch it from the comfort of your home. Simply subscribe to ZEE5 or Netflix to explore the captivating story of Katadreuffe and Dreverhaven, portrayed by talented actors like Jan Decleir and Fedja van Huêt. With the availability of “Character” on these streaming services, you have the flexibility to watch this award-winning Dutch-Belgian film at your own pace, providing an accessible and enjoyable cinematic experience.
Character Movie Ending Explained – FAQ
- Is “Character” based on a book? Yes, “Character” is based on Ferdinand Bordewijk’s novel “Karakter.”
- Who won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film for “Character”? “Character” won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film at the 70th Academy Awards.
- Where can I watch “Character” online? “Character” is available for streaming on ZEE5 and Netflix.
- Who directed and wrote the movie “Character”? Mike van Diem both directed and wrote the film “Character.”
- What is the significance of Dreverhaven’s will in the movie’s ending? Dreverhaven’s will reveals an unexpected twist, leaving all his wealth to Katadreuffe, challenging their complex father-son relationship and adding emotional depth to the film’s conclusion.
Get ready to dive into the compelling world of “Character” and experience its thought-provoking narrative and impactful ending.
