Ice Storm

Airing times

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Ice Storm (De hel van '63, 2009)
The Netherlands

Director: Steven de Jong
Cast: Willeke van Ammelrooy, Chris Zegers, Pierre Bokma
Genre: Thriller
Length: 105’

Presentation:

In the bitter chill of January 1963, amidst howling winds and a landscape cloaked in ice, a legend was born on the frozen waterways of the Netherlands. Eurochannel premieres Ice Storm.

In the frosty depths of January 1963, against the backdrop of freezing winds and treacherous ice, thousands of daring souls embarked on a harrowing journey across 100 miles of the Netherlands' icy terrain. This epic tale of resilience and determination unfolds in the riveting Dutch-Frisian drama Ice Storm, directed by Steven de Jong.

The film immerses viewers in the heart-pounding drama of the Elfstedentocht or Eleven Cities Tour, known as the "Tour of Tours," where only the boldest and most resilient dare to tread. Amidst plummeting temperatures and blinding snowstorms, the Frisian Eleven Cities Committee, under pressure from the media and public fervor, reluctantly gives the green light for the historic race to commence.

Ice Storm weaves together the gripping personal sagas of four central characters: Henk Brenninkmeijer, a soldier who risks desertion for the chance to skate; Kees Ferwerda, a determined worker facing personal turmoil; Sjoerd Lelkema, a farmer's son striving to prove his mettle; and Annemiek, a nurse skating in honor of a lost friend.

As the race unfolds, the biting cold and relentless winds test the endurance of every skater. The icy terrain, riddled with treacherous cracks, becomes a formidable adversary. Yet, against all odds, these four protagonists push through, driven by personal goals and the unyielding spirit that defines the Elfstedentocht or Eleven Cities Tour.

The decision to proceed with the race despite the perilous conditions sets the stage for an unforgettable cinematic experience. The courage and resilience displayed by the skaters mirror the indomitable human spirit in the face of nature's most extreme challenges.

Ice Storm not only captures the physical demands of the race but also delves into the emotional landscapes of its characters. It portrays moments of triumph and despair, highlighting the profound impact of this legendary event on those who dared to participate.

Join us as we relive history through Ice Storm, a cinematic masterpiece that honors the heroes of the 1963 Elfstedentocht and their unforgettable journey across the frozen landscapes of the Netherlands. Brace yourself for an exhilarating ride under a blanket of snow, where each mile skated is a testament to the power of determination and the enduring legacy of a race unlike any other.

Synopsis:
Based on a true story. When a brutal storm suddenly hits, a 100-mile ice skating marathon takes a deadly turn.

Awards and festivals:
• Emden International Film Festival 2010 - Nominee - Emden Film Award - The Bernhard Wicki Award
• Golden and Platin Film, Netherlands Klaas de Jong 2009 - Winner - Golden Film

Airing times