It surprised me. I went in expecting a rom-com I'd watch for my wife-a genre I don't love-but Schitterend stands out: funny, emotionally sincere, with a solid story and good acting. About halfway through I realised I was watching a genuinely good drama.
The acting is mostly strong and the dialogue feels lived-in; the script is emotionally intricate and smart without showboating. As a Dutch father I found it uncomfortably recognisable at times, yet the film stays light on its feet-there are several truly laugh-out-loud moments that arise from character, not punchlines. It's sincere too, which is a welcome shift for Dutch (romantic) comedies.
Structurally it flows well: a patient build-up, scenes that stack and pay off, and a path that isn't too predictable yet coheres more and more as it goes. It's still a feel-good movie, just one with a backbone. Don't expect the world-expect a story about life, across ages, about real struggles treated with respect and a quiet depth. Call it an eight: assured, sincere, and worth your time.
