The Bastard

About This Movie

The Bastard (2018) dives deep into the lives of Daniel Hoek and his father, Joop, both grappling with abandonment and its ripple effects. The documentary has a raw, intimate tone that pulls you into their personal narratives—Daniel's descent into crime feels almost inevitable as he traces it back to his father's absence. The pacing is deliberate, allowing for moments of reflection where you really feel for both men. The use of practical effects is minimal, leaning more on candid interviews and personal footage, which adds to the authenticity. The performances, if you can call them that, are strikingly genuine, making their stories resonate. It’s a film about the weight of legacy and the chains of history that bind us, presented in a way that many documentaries shy away from.

Focuses on themes of abandonment and legacy.Features raw and candid storytelling.Deliberate pacing allows for deep emotional engagement.