Costa!

Costa! is a Dutch film that premiered in 2001. The film was directed by Johan Nijenhuis and starred a talented ensemble that includes three Dutch big shots - Georgina Verbaan, Daan Schuurmans and Katja Schuurman. This film is perfect for a casual movie night, as it encompasses romance, drama, humour, and coming of age elements that make for a light, enjoyable watch.

The storyline of Costa! explores the lush life of vacationers in the vibrant city of Salou, situated in Spain. The movie showcases the beautiful Spanish setting and encapsulates the essence of the lively, energetic environment young tourists seek during their summer vacations. The main course of the film is divided between the striking beaches, the pulsating night clubs, and the relationships that blossom amidst this exciting setting.

The film centres its plot around two contrasting worlds, the high-spirited world of Proppers working in various clubs in Salou, and the world of conventional Dutch individuals who are on vacation, enjoying their summer holidays in this exotic destination. The Proppers’ job, in essence, is to entice as many tourists as they can into their clubs through various persuasions.

Georgina Verbaan portrays Janet, a typical Dutch girl who is there for holidays with her brother and his girlfriend. Janet, with her shy demeanour and conventional lifestyle, isn’t something of a party animal when she begins her vacation in the electrifying Salou. However, her outlook notably changes when she meets the club-team and gets fascinated by their energetic clubbing life, a stark departure from her routine.

The charming Daan Schuurmans plays Rens, an outgoing, charismatic Propper, whose life revolves around parties, beaches, and clubs. Rens, undoubtedly, is the most popular Propper, known for his confident charm and unparalleled knack to allure tourists to his club. However, his meeting with Janet sets on a journey of transformation and introspection for him. From being a hardcore party lover and endless flirt, he gradually evolves as he experiences unique feelings for Janet.

Katja Schuurman adds to the ensemble cast in the character of Frida, she too, a Propper working for a rival club. She brings another layer to the plot by introducing elements of rivalry, love-hate relationships and complicated friendships in the story.

What makes the plot interesting is a love-triangle that sets on, creating a series of humorous, dramatic, and emotional situations. There’s a palpable dynamic between Janet, the ideal goody-two-shoes girl, Rens, the charming heartthrob and Frida, the fierce rival Propper which forms the backbone of the story.

The film is accompanied by great cinematography and utilizes the enchanting locations of Salou, which contributes to the allure of the storyline. What also makes Costa! memorable is its lively soundtrack. The music of the film is invigorating and perfectly complements the energetic nightlife scenes, adding to the immersive experience for the audience.

However, Costa! is not just a light, feel-good film, it touches upon several themes that resonate with the young audience. It examines the notions of professional rivalry, the essence of friendship, the transformation that love can bring about, and most importantly focuses on self-discovery and accepting oneself along with changes.

So, if you are looking for a movie that’ll make you laugh, grab your attention with intriguing drama, and make you contemplate your own choices and changes, then Costa! is a brilliant choice. The exciting backdrop of the Spanish beaches and clubs, the heartwarming character evolution and the dramatic love triangle with humorous elements make Costa! a ‘must watch.’

The blend of romance, drama, humor and self-realization, all set in a wonderful holiday location with enthusiastic acting, makes Costa! a complete package for a delightful movie experience.