Dutch Darlings

Some of them are young, but most of them are old and need help getting dressed. What they have in common is that they always dress in the traditional costumes worn by their parents, grandparents and great-grandparents. Niek Koppen's new documentary shows that traditional Dutch costumes aren’t only to be found on display in museums, because there’re also being worn on the streets in some parts of the Netherlands. Koppen’s film follows women wearing traditional costumes in their daily lives, from the towns of Westkapelle to Bunschoten-Spakenburg and from Marken to Staphorst. We see them shopping for groceries, singing sea shanties and playing Rummikub in the afternoon. He paints a colorful picture of these women who lead a traditional life, while also being objects of interest for tourists and their fellow Dutch citizens alike. In typical Koppen style – simply recording events and being part of the group without judging – the women talk about their experiences making and wearing their clothes. The film brings to life both the colorful costumes and the women who wear them. (International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam)