Synopsis
Northern Europe, mid-19th century. Jildau, an independent farmer, saves the life of a young deserter. Her three farmhands, with whom she shares her bed in turn every Sunday, are consumed by jealousy when she makes the stranger her chosen one. Passion drives them all toward tragedy.

About the film
Based on the novel by Theun de Vries (1975), The Sunday Bed is a fairy-tale-like story that combines tragic love, film noir, western, and a touch of fantasy. The film features dialogue in Low Saxon, Frisian and French.

Filming takes place in Groningen, Friesland, Drenthe and Lower Saxony (Germany). In terms of visual style, the film is rooted in and inspired by the Dutch painterly tradition, with attention to light, colour, composition and texture.

Directed by Fedde Hoekstra, screenplay co-written with Marlais Olijrhook. The film is produced sustainably and responsibly (“green filmmaking”) by Annemiek van der Hell of Windmill Film in collaboration with Mulholland Pictures. A theatrical release and participation in international film festivals are planned.

Relevance
Alongside its painterly approach, use of regional languages, sustainable production and unique mix of genres, The Sunday Bed also addresses several urgent social themes.

The story follows Jildau, an independent farmer who runs her own farm with three male workers. Exceptional for the 19th century, but the film subtly reflects on similar dynamics in our own time.

In the film, the power of nature-inclusive agriculture and biodiversity is portrayed. We highlight the beautiful landscape of Northern Netherlands and contribute to the visibility and audibility of the tangible and intangible heritage of this region.

The project aims for an inclusive cast and crew, and actively involves local communities and educational institutions in its realisation.

Contact
The Sunday Bed offers a unique opportunity to participate in an artistically and socially relevant project. We welcome partnerships and dialogue: info@thesundaybed.eu