Watch Hemel

Hemel is a Dutch drama film released in 2012, directed by Sacha Polak and starring Hannah Hoekstra, Hans Dagelet, and Mark Rietman. The movie explores the relationship between a hedonistic young woman named Hemel and her father Gijs, a womanizer who has trouble committing to long-term relationships. The film opens with an unapologetic, sexually liberated Hemel, engaging in a series of flings, each one seeming to leave her unsatisfied. Her father, an anthropologist and museum curator, is also struggling with his own demons, including alcoholism and a tendency towards casual sex. Hemel and Gijs have a strained relationship, one marked by emotional distance, arguments, and moments of tenderness.

The plot thickens when a handsome older man named Steven enters Hemel's life, and she begins to fall for him. However, as their relationship deepens, Hemel struggles to come to terms with her own insecurities and fears of intimacy, seemingly passed down to her from her father. Meanwhile, Gijs is forced to confront his own shortcomings as a father and a human being.

Throughout the movie, Hemel grapples with issues of attachment, vulnerability, and self-doubt. She is fiercely independent, but at the same time, craves the stability and security of a committed relationship. Gijs, on the other hand, seems to be the embodiment of the id, indulging in his desires without much thought for the consequences.

The film is shot with a frankness and rawness that is both captivating and uncomfortable. Scenes of nudity and sex are presented in a matter-of-fact way that is jarring and occasionally difficult to watch. This is not a movie for the prudish, as it explores sexuality and relationships in an unflinching way.

Despite this, Hemel never feels exploitative or gratuitous. There is a sense of honesty and authenticity to the characters that is refreshing. Hemel, in particular, is a complex and fascinating character. She is simultaneously tough and vulnerable, confident and insecure. Hoekstra's performance is mesmerizing, capturing Hemel's contradictions without ever feeling forced or caricatured.

Throughout the film, there are moments of tenderness and beauty amidst the chaos. Hemel and Gijs share a spontaneous dance in a museum, for example, that is both joyful and melancholic. The cinematography is stark, with a muted color palette that emphasizes the characters' emotional states.

Ultimately, Hemel is a deeply introspective film that explores the complexities of human relationships. It is not perfect, and there are moments when the characters' actions may frustrate or confuse viewers. However, it is an undeniably powerful work that is worth watching for its raw emotion and unflinching honesty. Sacha Polak's direction is thoughtful and restrained, and the performances of the cast are superb. Hemel is a challenging but ultimately rewarding cinematic experience.

Hemel is a 2012 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 23 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.