Expat Cinema Rotterdam

► ABOUT THE FILM
Daan (12), the third of four football-loving brothers, looks up to his coach Ries (35). Ries gains increasing influence over Daan’s life. He draws Daan into a secret, forbidden adult world, which marks the beginning of repeated sexual abuse. Daan starts behaving differently; he skips school and becomes distant toward his family and friends.

When other boys report Ries’ abuse, Daan becomes confused; he realizes he isn’t the only one. Although Ries admits to the abuse, Daan continues to deny it – until he can no longer do so. He feels overwhelmed by shame. His parents, shocked and well-meaning, seem to inadvertently contribute to his pain and distance. The clever and strong boy who once knew confidence and joy now feels lost and broken.

Reminder: film with a short introduction starts at 19.00 sharp!

The new film by Iranian master Jafar Panahi (Taxi Tehran). Earlier this year, the film won the prestigious Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. Panahi himself was sentenced to six years in prison and banned from filmmaking. Drawing on his own experiences, he shot It Was Just an Accident after his release — without the permission of the Iranian regime.

► ABOUT THE FILM
It Was Just an Accident is a thriller where revenge, humour and humanity collide. Vahid is working in his garage when a customer walks in with car trouble. He freezes as he thinks he recognises Eghbal — the officer who once tortured him in prison. The scent of revenge is in the air, yet doubt quickly creeps in. Together with a group of fellow survivors, he desperately tries to uncover the truth. Their pursuit leads them from risky to downright absurd situations. But how can they be sure they’ve found the right man?

Reminder: film with a short introduction starts at 19.00 sharp!