Watch It's All So Quiet

It's All So Quiet is a Dutch film released in 2013, directed by renowned filmmaker Nanouk Leopold. The film is an adaptation of the 1948 novel "Boven is het stil" written by the famous Dutch author Gerbrand Bakker. The movie revolves around the life of a middle-aged farmer named Helmer, played by the late Jeroen Willems. Helmer lives a solitary life in the Dutch countryside, where maintaining the farm and dealing with his aging father Klaas takes up most of his time. Helmer's father is a disabled and bedridden old man, who is barely able to communicate with his son due to his deteriorating health. The only other person in Helmer's life is Henk, his employee, who helps him with the daily chores on the farm.

Helmer's mundane routine is disrupted when he decides to adopt a young calf which he names Daisy. Daisy becomes Helmer's only companion and symbolizes a new beginning for him. With her arrival, he begins to feel a sense of responsibility and purpose, which he has been lacking for so long.

The film shows Helmer's introspective journey, as he recalls his past and tries to come to terms with his present. The story is told through minimalist visuals and poetic dialogue, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere. The landscape and soundscapes are integral in conveying the muted emotions of the characters, which are not overtly expressed.

The film touches upon themes of loss, isolation, and acceptance. Helmer's past haunts him, as he grapples with the memories of his childhood and the strained relationship he had with his father. His inability to communicate his emotions and the burden of his past weigh heavy on his mind, making him a recluse. However, his interactions with Daisy and the unexpected arrival of his long-lost brother Johan, played by Wim Opbrouck, help him confront his past and embrace the present.

The relationship between Helmer and Johan is tumultuous, yet tender. Johan's arrival reopens old wounds and brings the family's unspoken issues to the surface. Through their interactions, Helmer realizes the importance of family and the need to forgive.

The film's performances are exceptional, with Jeroen Willems and Wim Opbrouck delivering powerful portrayals of their characters. Henri Garcin, who played Klaas, Helmer's father, captured the essence of a silent presence, conveying emotions through his expressions.

The cinematography by Frank van den Eeden is breathtaking, with his use of muted colors and natural light, immersing the viewer in the scenery. The sound design, done by Marco Vermaas, is equally impressive, allowing the audience to experience the sounds of nature and the silence of Helmer's world.

It's All So Quiet is a slow-burning film, which may not be for everyone. The film's pace and minimalistic approach may not resonate with viewers looking for more linear plots and overt emotions. However, for those who appreciate introspective cinema, It's All So Quiet is a must-watch.

Overall, the film is a poetic masterpiece, capturing the essence of quiet contemplation and acceptance. With its stunning visuals, soundscapes, and captivating performances, It's All So Quiet is a moving exploration of the human condition.

It's All So Quiet is a 2015 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 33 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4 and a MetaScore of 72.