The East

The East is a gripping 2020 Dutch film directed by Jim Taihuttu. The drama-thriller captures a turbulent period in history seldom represented on the big screen - the Indonesian War of Independence against the Dutch Empire. Crafted with an electric blend of intense drama, vengeful individuals, and historical upheavals, the movie serves as a riveting exploration of conflict, both internal and external.

The film features compelling performances by Martijn Lakemeier, Marwan Kenzari, and Jonas Smulders. They offer a captivating portrayal of soldiers each dealing with the tumultuous circumstances in their own unique way. The characters are writing into life with such depth that audiences find themselves immersed in the storyline, experiencing the characters' conflicts, dilemmas, and emotional struggles.

The film centers around Johan (Martijn Lakemeier), a young Dutch soldier, who is dispatched to the East Indies during the immediate aftermath of World War II. He is sent as part of an operation aimed at reclaiming control of the Indonesian islands that the Dutch had colonized for three centuries. Johan is initially optimistic about his mission, having been disillusioned by the Nazi occupation of his homeland during the war and eager to ensure such oppression is not carried out elsewhere. He is a man of principle, driven by the desire to serve his country faithfully but also morally torn by the atrocities he witnesses.

Kenzari's Captain Raymond Westerling further enriches the narrative by introducing the complexity of the conflict. Westerling is a charismatic but unnerving officer who does not shy away from using violent methods to suppress the emerging Indonesian revolution. His persona is eerily enticing, making viewers question the extents to which individuals will go to gain power.

The character of Johan's comrade Andries (Jonas Smulders) serves to highlight the psychological impact of war. His slow unraveling under the weight of violence and morality showcases the film's exploration of how war can lead to a psychological abyss.

The East is enriched by the sweeping visuals of the Indonesian landscape, drawing a stark contrast between the unruly beauty of the land and the violent conflict unraveling within it. Director Jim Taihuttu uses beautifully conceived long-takes, often employing a moving camera to create exquisite continuous shots that place the viewer right at the core of the unfolding drama.

Taihuttu also uses the lens to reveal much about the social fabric of the time. He establishes a visual commentary on colonialism and the real power dynamics prevalent in the late 1940s. The film does not shy away from showcasing the violence of this turbulent era, and it includes several graphic scenes that may be disturbing to some viewers. However, the intense realism simply enhances the credibility of the film's portrayal of this tumultuous time.

The East, while essentially being a war film, also sheds light on the inherent human questions about morality, loyalty, and the dehumanizing cost of war. It creates a compelling narrative about the dubious glory of war, the shifting sands of morality in conflict, and the devastating impact it has on individuals. The movie, through its intense performances and striking visuals, manages to grasp the viewer's attention from beginning to end.

The movie boasts an excellent score too which is used sparingly but to great effect, helping to accentuate the intense scenes of conflict and quieter moments of introspection. The cinematography, music, and strong performances all come together to create a cohesive and captivating cinematic experience in The East.

In summary, The East is fueled by the incredible performances of Martijn Lakemeier, Marwan Kenzari, and Jonas Smulders. The film delivers a stirring analysis of colonialism and its devastating impacts by depicting a slice of history rarely explored. It weaves together the personal narratives of its main characters to tell a gripping story about a pivotal moment in Dutch and Indonesian history. Despite its heavy themes, The East makes for an intriguing watch, leaving viewers with a deep sense of understanding and thoughtfulness. This movie is not to be missed by anyone who appreciates well-constructed historical dramas that hit home with their honesty and intensity.