Marcel

Bregt Verhagen received a grant for the development of the film Marcel (working title). The film explores the longing for connection, love, and autonomy from the perspective of a man with an intellectual disability. It is not solely about Marcel's disability but primarily showcases his emotional depth. The film also highlights the complexity of interpreting social cues that many people with intellectual disabilities face. Marcel observes his brother in a happy, loving relationship and tries to replicate it. However, his limited understanding of social boundaries leads to awkward situations. Sonia, balancing empathy and professional detachment, tries to support Marcel while grappling with her own sense of responsibility and boundaries.

Bregt studied Film Studies at the University of Amsterdam. After creating various music videos, an online series of mini-documentaries, and an independent feature-length documentary, he directed and produced his first self-written short fiction film in 2019. In 2022, he wrote and directed his second short film, titled CAMOUFLAGE, which was selected for several (inter)national film festivals, including the Golden Calf Competition at the Netherlands Film Festival. He is currently developing his first feature film, FREE FALL, with support from the Netherlands Film Fund. This project won the Global Audience Award at the most recent edition of the Holland Film Meeting, the platform of the Netherlands Film Festival for promoting and developing Dutch film projects with international potential.