Burning Out

Heavy-handed banter breaks out in the fire engine as the brigade heads out on a new mission. “We already have a Pole, a Moroccan, a bald guy and a woman, all we need now is a gay person”... It's clear that the promotion of diversity and inclusivity, implemented on the orders of management, is shaking up the macho culture of Amsterdam's oldest fire station. As the leader of this microcosm, Gerrie is more worried about the understaffing of his station - partly impacted by the imposed quotas - than his team’s gender or colour. In her new film, Saskia Gubbels (Sheltered, VdR 2020) observes the lively debates animating these firefighters, the flames of which are occasionally dampened... by the fire alarm. Duty calls! Without sarcasm, but displaying a keen eye for framing, the Dutch director underscores the comedy contained within these attitudes, entrenched views and situations. Carried by Gerrie's old-school charisma, Burning Out allows us to peep through the keyhole, revealing the stubborn resistance to societal change inflaming our institutions. 
Emmanuel Chicon

Burning Out, 2024
Sheltered, 2020
Naomi's Secret, 2016
Dear Jayvano, 2015
0,8 Amps of Happiness, 2014
When I Look in the Mirror, 2012
Through Ellen's Ears, 2011
Scenes uit het Omgangshuis, 2010
Azza, 2010
De Zee Lacht me toe, 2009
Het Gelijk van mijn Tante, 2007
De Grote Voorstelling, 2003
Het Huishouden van Don Quichot, 2000