Watch Lepel

Lepel is a heartwarming family film released in 2005. The film's story revolves around a young orphan boy named Lepel (played by Joep Truijen) who has never celebrated his birthday, since no one knows when it is. Lepel is considered an outcast amongst his peers and adults, and is bullied by pretty much everyone in his life. The movie is set in a small Dutch village where everyone knows each other's business. Lepel lives in a drab and dingy orphanage run by the stern Reverend. Although the other kids in the orphanage tease Lepel and make fun of him, he doesn't let their bullying get him down. Lepel is a bit of a loner and spends time creating his own flights of fancy, dreaming of far-off lands and adventures.

Lepel's life takes a dramatic turn when he meets a quirky girl named Tess (played by Neeltje de Vree) who is an escaped circus performer. Tess is a fun-loving, free-spirited girl who is the polar opposite of Lepel. She is fascinated by Lepel and is curious about his life in the orphanage. When Lepel tells her that he has never had a birthday, Tess is shocked and decides to throw him a surprise party.

Tess and Lepel embark on an adventure together, and encounter many curious characters along the way. One of their encounters is with an eccentric jazz musician, who teaches Lepel how to play the drums. Tess and Lepel's bond grows stronger each day, and she teaches him to break out of his shell and enjoy life.

Complications arise when the Reverend discovers Tess and Lepel's adventure, and threatens to send Lepel away to a stricter orphanage if he doesn't return immediately. Lepel is torn between his loyalty to Tess and his fear of being punished. The tension in the movie grows as Lepel is forced to make a difficult decision, revealing the resolution of his conflict.

Throughout the movie, Lepel's character undergoes a transformation. Although he is initially shy and introverted, he gains self-confidence and independence as he learns to stand up for himself. Tess also transforms in the film, overcoming her own fears and learning to care for others.

The film is beautifully shot and the Dutch landscapes lend a picturesque backdrop to the story. The movie's music score is also noteworthy, with jolly rhythms throughout the film which boost the film's light-hearted tone.

Overall, Lepel is a delightful family movie that teaches its viewers important life lessons. It teaches its younger viewers that it is ok to be different and that one's uniqueness should be celebrated. And for the adults, the movie resonates the importance of nurturing and fostering a child's potential. Lepel is wholesome and endearing, suitable for audiences of all ages.