Adaptation of Inge Schilperoord’s controversial novel Muidhond about 23-year-old paedophile Jonathan, who has just been released from prison due to a lack of evidence. With his mother and in a new apartment, he tries to put his life back on track whilst controlling his urges. To keep his mind off things he takes care of a muidhond, a carp with supposedly healing properties. Unfortunately, though, the 10-year-old girl next door is determined to be his friend.
Jonathan’s inner struggle is made tangible by the camera perspective that alternates between what he sees and an intense focus on him. The film, supported by John Parish’s measured soundtrack, delves deeply into the emotional life of a man who doesn’t want to be what he is, but – as he desperately puts it – “cannot be anything else”.