Watch The Alzheimer Case

The Alzheimer Case is a Belgian crime thriller from 2003 directed by Erik Van Looy. The film follows detective Vincke (Koen De Bouw) and his partner Verstuyft (Werner De Smedt) as they investigate a series of brutal murders that seem to be connected to a group of retired cops. One of the retired cops, Van Hese (Jan Decleir), suffers from Alzheimer's disease and cannot remember his role in the murders. However, Vincke and Verstuyft suspect that Van Hese is hiding something and may actually be the mastermind behind the killings.

As the investigation continues, Vincke and Verstuyft uncover a web of corruption and betrayal within the Belgian police force, and they must navigate dangerous political waters in order to bring the killer to justice.

The Alzheimer Case is a tense and gripping crime thriller that keeps the audience guessing until the very end. The performances by Koen De Bouw, Werner De Smedt, and Jan Decleir are exceptional, bringing depth and nuance to their respective roles.

De Bouw's portrayal of Vincke as a tough and uncompromising detective is balanced by De Smedt's more empathetic and emotional Verstuyft. Meanwhile, Decleir's portrayal of the Alzheimer's-stricken Van Hese is both sympathetic and chilling at times.

The film's pacing is expertly handled by Van Looy, who keeps the tension high throughout and never allows the plot to become bogged down in unnecessary details or exposition. The script, written by Carl Joos, is intelligent and well-crafted, with plenty of twists and turns that keep the audience engaged and guessing.

The cinematography by Danny Elsen is also noteworthy, with the film's muted color palette creating a moody and atmospheric backdrop for the action to unfold.

One of the film's strengths is its exploration of the ways in which power and corruption can warp even the most well-intentioned individuals. The retired cops at the center of the murders were once idealistic and committed to justice, but over time they became corrupted by their own power and influence.

The Alzheimer Case also touches on themes of aging, memory, and mortality, particularly in the character of Van Hese, whose Alzheimer's disease forces him to confront his own mortality and the consequences of his actions.

Overall, The Alzheimer Case is a compelling crime thriller that will appeal to fans of the genre. The film's well-drawn characters, tense pacing, and thought-provoking themes make it a standout in the crowded field of crime thrillers.