IFFR Filmclub x Dokhuis

For this edition of the IFFR x Dokhuis Filmclub, we’re presenting three Rotterdam films by Rotterdam-based makers, all centred on the theme of new beginnings. Join us on Friday 5 September.

From residents forced to leave the Tweebosbuurt neighbourhood, to coping with loss and the experience of becoming a new father — in this new edition of IFFR x Dokhuis Filmclub, the protagonists of the three films each face a ‘new beginning’ in their own way. After the screenings, we’ll talk with the filmmakers and round off the evening with drinks and bites.

About the films

Fantoomwijk (Ravi Sandberg, 2023)
The Tweebosbuurt in Rotterdam has turned into a ghost town. After the residents were uprooted to make space for luxury homes, all that remains are ruins and rubble. Fantoomwijk gives a voice to the residents, who reminisce about their own neighbourhood that was erased from the city. The film investigates how perceptions determine policy and the ensuing impact on those affected. Filmmaker Ravi Sandberg won the RTM Pitch Prize at IFFR 2022, which allowed him to realise this film.

After Lasik (Shannon Liang, 2024)
This meditative exploration of vision – both literal and metaphorical – finds symbolic ways to convey the traumatic loss of Shannon Liang’s then-partner. The film opens with unflinching footage of Liang’s own laser eye surgery, which leaves her with a persistent ‘halo’ distortion in her left eye. In this sensitive short film about the transformative power of grief, the ‘halo’ becomes both a symbol of impaired vision and an enigmatic marker of loss, subtly shifting the way we perceive the world around us.

Papa, ik ben (Sam Nieuwenhuis, 2025)
28-year-old musician Ilias, better known by his stage name Vlins, has just become a father. The birth of his daughter places his position as a son, and his complicated relationship with his own father, in a new perspective. Initially fatherhood is a hard  balancing act between his work and private life, but in the end, Ilias manages to draw inspiration from his newfound role.

About the IFFR Filmclub

Filmclub is a new initiative of IFFR, currently in the pilot phase, where (future) film lovers, young filmmakers and creatives come together to watch films and exchange interests. The idea is that the Filmclub will take place biweekly at various locations throughout Rotterdam, where a mix of (inter)national films, both new and true classics, will be shown in a relaxed setting in combination with discussions, workshops or parties. Whether you are discovering cinema for the first time or are already well on your way as a filmmaker, the Filmclub is a place to get inspired, network or just come and watch a film. The club works together with local communities throughout Rotterdam.

About film at Dokhuis

Dokhuis offers a unique space where people can come together to watch and create films. They believe cinema possesses the transformative power to help us explore not only the world around us but also the depths of our own selves. It serves as a dynamic medium for fostering meaningful dialogue and connection.

Starting in 2025, Dokhuis will host a monthly film evening on the first Friday of every month, as part of the IFFR Filmclub.

Tickets are free (reservation is required)