De Idylle

A life affirming drama following different generations of an extended family searching for the same, near impossible thing: perfect fulfilment of life, in the first film written by director Aaron Rookus (Goodbye Stranger, IFFR 2023).

Victor has left his 10-year relationship and embraced his sexuality, but comes to terms with the idea that he might have arrived at his decision a little too late in his life for the dating game he has embarked upon. His sister Annika, a world-renowned opera singer, imagines how different her life could have been after receiving a surprising diagnosis from her doctor. Grandma Joke ponders on the worth of a life with limited options but can’t quite find the right, or easy, way to end it all. Meanwhile, Timo just wants to fulfil his modest wish list. Just an ordinary family, dealing with the highs and lows of life as they make their way through it.

Following on from his feature debut Goodbye Stranger (IFFR 2023), writer-director Aaron Rookus delivers a sprightly drama with De Idylle, whose heavy themes are grappled with the lightest touch. Expanding his vision to reflect facets of the modern Netherlands, the filmmaker adopts a bright visual aesthetic that contrasts with the gravity of certain characters’ predicaments, embracing a lightly sardonic touch rather than mordant satire as each character attempts to find some solace, if not the peace or happiness they ultimately crave, in the world.

– Vanja Kaludjercic

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