Join us for a cinematic road trip through the films of visionary director Wim Wenders, whose work has redefined cinematic storytelling. In conjunction with the LAB111 program Drifters and Dreamers: The Films of Wim Wenders and the stunning 4K restoration of Paris, Texas (1984), Tom Ooms and Elliot Bloom explore the recurring themes of transience, memory, and the search for meaning that define Wenders' expansive body of work.

Known for his haunting cinematography (often crafted by Dutch cinematographer Robby Müller) and his deeply humanistic perspective, Wenders’ films are both personal reflections and universal meditations on existence. We’ll examine his recurring motif of the traveler—whether an angel, filmmaker, or pilgrim—navigating between real and imagined worlds.

From the fractured narrative of Paris, Texas to the contemplative Perfect Days (2023), we delve into how Wenders transcends genre boundaries, using the road movie to create a unique cinematic language that speaks directly to the soul. Whether revisiting his classics or discovering his work for the first time, this episode offers an essential guide to Wim Wenders’ vision—why his films may not be for everyone, but are undeniably worth experiencing.

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Show Notes and Films Mentioned

Following a packed-out CC Film Club screening of Knight Of Cups, host Hugo chats with Tom van der Linden, the creator of the popular YouTube channel Like Stories Of Old, to explore this often-overlooked masterpiece by Terrence Malick. Like Stories Of Old combines media analysis with personal reflection in emotive video essays, offering viewers a fresh perspective on cinema. With millions of views, Tom inspires us to engage with films in new and meaningful ways. Whether you're a fan of Knight Of Cups or new to Malick's work, this discussion highlights the art of looking and how we can appreciate cinema on a deeper level. Discover more about Malick’s unique creative process in the making of this film.

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Visionary director Tarsem Singh joins Kiriko to reflect on The Fall (2006), once dubbed by the filmmaker himself as “the most expensive passion project” until Megalopolis. A film nearly derailed by Harvey Weinstein, The Fall has since been reclaimed by a dedicated fanbase, championed by figures like Roger Ebert. Now with a stunning 4K restoration, this cult classic is ripe for rediscovery—an ode to the enduring power of storytelling. Seventeen years in the making, spanning 27 countries, the film captures breathtaking beauty—both human and natural—in a visual tapestry unlike any other. Tarsem shares the challenges of realizing such an ambitious project, from shooting in remote, inaccessible locations to the personal motivation behind this pursuit.

Special thanks to MUBI for arranging this interview.

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Show Notes & Films Mentioned

Crafted on a shoestring budget, Kevin Boitelle's feature debut, Trip-Tych, serves as both a film about the art of filmmaking and a reflection on the creative struggle inherent in the process. In conversation with host Kiriko, Kevin reminisces about his formative film experiences and his early collaborations with friends, emphasizing his desire to preserve the joy of collective creativity. This audacious comedic satire offers a piercing glimpse into the Dutch film industry, where Kevin champions the need for filmmakers to embrace boldness and surprise, both in narrative and approach. Join us as we explore the intersection of passion and artistry, celebrating a work that challenges conventions and invigorates the discourse around independent cinema.

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There is nothing as hypnotizing than the larger-than-life women that we see on the screen—captivating, outrageous, and irresistibly seductive. Join us as we celebrate some of cinema’s most iconic female archetypes, from the bold ladies who are both excessive and exciting to the enigmatic witches who cast their spell through exaggerated feminine mannerisms. To coincide with the "Girls of Plenty" program now running at LAB111 and the release of her illuminating essay Liggend Naakt, film journalist and curator Basje Boer guides us through the magic of femininity in film. Together, we’ll delve into the performances of some of the founding mothers of exaggerated female stereotypes, revealing how playing out a gender role is nothing more than a really great performance.

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Show Notes & Films Mentioned

Fresh off her feature debut opening the Netherlands Film Festival, one of LAB111's resident filmmakers Laura Hermanides joins Hugo to discuss Witte Flits—a project that began as a documentary but evolved into a striking fictional narrative. The film tackles the complex, timely debate surrounding euthanasia, particularly in cases of unbearable psychological sufferings. Inspired by a real-life story, Laura examines whether the theory survives the reality, focusing largely on the profound challenge parents face in overcoming their love to set their child free of pain. In this candid conversation, she reflects on the film's journey—from working with a 700-page journal written by the father and forming a lasting friendship with the mother, to developing a distinctive cinematic language. Laura reminds us of the enduring power of storytelling in uncertain times.

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Show Notes & Films Mentioned

Orson Welles stands as a visionary filmmaker, a notorious showman, and an enigmatic storyteller who blurred the lines between fact and fiction. In this episode, Tom and Elliot dive deep into the life and legend of one of America's most celebrated yet elusive filmmakers, exploring the enduring allure of his work. As we celebrate the re-releases of The Third Man and F for Fake here at LAB111, we unravel the layers of myth Welles wove around himself—always performing, always crafting his narrative. Was he ever telling the truth, or was it all part of his grand act? Listen to a fascinating journey into the complex mind of the man who redefined American cinema, leaving behind a legacy as compelling and mysterious as his films.

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Show Notes & Films Mentioned

After his 1980s collaboration with legendary filmmaker Michael Powell on a documentary chronicling Powell’s career, director David Hinton knew the story was only half told. Now, Hinton returns with the complete portrait of The Archers, Britain’s visionary filmmaking duo, Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger. In this episode, Hinton sits down with host Elliot to reveal why only Martin Scorsese could narrate the intertwined lives of these cinematic icons, the enduring magic of Powell & Pressburger's films, and how their partnership—rooted in friendship and migration—redefined British cinema. This documentary isn’t just a tribute, it’s a celebration of how two kindred spirits shaped the art of film forever.

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Show Notes & Films Mentioned

To celebrate the 15th anniversary of the acclaimed stop-motion epic Coraline, Laura Gommans had the distinct pleasure of speaking with Henry Selick about his illustrious career and lifelong love for cinema. From scary tales at Aunt Lib's house to being terrified by the cyclops in The 7th Voyage of Sinbad, Henry reveals the origins of his eerie yet tender storytelling style. His obsession with stop-motion animation has not only pushed the boundaries of filmmaking but also reimagined what children's narratives can be. Henry passionately explains why it's crucial for children to experience a touch of fear in films, believing it helps them navigate and understand the complexities of the world.

Show Notes & Films Mentioned

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From screwball comedies to the golden age of 90s and early 00s romcoms, our love for romance remains strong. In this episode, entertainment journalist Laura Gommans joins us to discuss our favorite romantic comedies and what makes them so special. What appears to be a straightforward genre leads us to question whether the familiar clichés define a romcom or if there's more to it. As our values of love and romance have evolved, it seems the essence of romcoms has stagnated. Could the decline of mid-budget movies be a factor? Despite shifts in the industry, the audience's appetite for love stories will never fade. So, what does the future hold for romantic comedies?

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