Helium

Crime boss Frans Weeling is persuaded to hide out in an almost empty holiday park on the island of Texel, away from the threat posed by Nigerian rivals. The quiet desolate surroundings give him time to reflect on his role in life, on what he has achieved and the emptiness he feels.

There is no car chase or gang violence in 'Helium', it is a sombre psychological study of a brooding morose criminal contemplating his situation.

No-one involved in the making of this film puts a foot wrong, the mood is maintained, the acting is superb and the direction is immaculate. The fact that this is Eché Janga's debut feature is astonishing. There are directors who spend decades making films and never reach this level of competence.,

I watched this movie without knowing anything about it. Until the very end I wasn't sure about the clue. But the total experience was extremely rewarding. There's a tension that kept me watching. And somehow I knew something was going to happen.

I admit to not understanding everything that happened. Somehow the movie only releases subtle clues until the very end.

I loved the cinematography and the music fit the threatening, dreamy atmosphere really well. Not much happens in this movie. The more impressive that it kept me at the edge of my seat from start to finish. The understated acting of Hans Dagelet impressed me deeply. And the end explains it all.

Don't expect an action movie. If you like mystery and psychological thrillers, I think this movie won't disappoint.