This is a rather splendid film which has been forgotten by film history. Because it is Dutch, it has gone by quite unremarked, although it was a success on release. This is European 'art-film' at its best: high quality, well written and expertly directed. And superbly entertaining at that. But most of all: a stunning performance from lead actress Soutendijk, who could and should have gone on to greater things. For about ten years, she appeared in challenging and often demanding roles in remarkable Dutch and German films (Meisje met het rode haar, Vierde Man, Spetters, Wo immer du bist). Then she went to America and blew it. Nowadays, European art cinema is dead and she's left making TV-fare. A cinema that has no room for the talents of Soutendijk is quite dead and buried. See this magnificent film at all costs.
Review of The Cool Lakes of Death
