Netflix is a global streaming giant not just because its service is available in different regions across the world but also because it pursues to bring local content from all such regions. Netflix has become a platform for various filmmakers to leave a worldwide mark. And its not only these story-tellers who benefit from such local content but also the viewers who get to explore a sea of content across languages.
This time Netflix is ready to expand its slate of Dutch and Belgian content, as announced during a virtual Looking Ahead event. The platform aims to amplify local voices to bring new and never-before-seen stories from Belgium and the Netherlands to its members.
Talking about bringing more films and series from Belgium and Netherlands, Janey van Ierland, Manager Acquisitions and Co-Productions at Netflix said, “We are thrilled to expand our slate of Dutch and Belgian films and series. After the big success of hit series and films like Undercover and The Claus Family, we are proud to present some of our upcoming projects. It’s fantastic to partner with the incredible talent and creatives that we have in both countries and can’t wait to give you a taste of what’s to come this year.’’
Here’s the list of new and returning series and films from Belgium and Netherlands coming to Netflix :
Snelle: Without a Coat
A candid documentary about the Dutch artist ‘Snelle’. In a short period of time, a young underdog reaches the hearts of thousands with his honest and profound music. He became one of the most famous Dutch musicians of this decade. The documentary will be available in Belgium and the Netherlands.
Just Say Yes
In Just Say Yes Yolanthe Cabau plays the role of Lotte. Lotte has been planning her perfect wedding for years but sees her dream shatter in one million little pieces when the groom decides to cancel last minute. The film is coming to Netflix this spring and stars Jim Bakkum, Noortje Herlaar, Nienke Plas, Tino Martin, Kim-Lian van der Meij, Josylvio, Pip Pellens and many others.
Ferry
Frank Lammers and Elise Schaap – who made success as Ferry and Danielle in Undercover – will star together in the new feature film Ferry, about the drug lord’s early years. The film will have all the elements Undercover fans are used to suspense, surprising plot twists, emotion and humor. Ferry will be available globally on Netflix in 2021. Frank Lammers explains in his own words what the film is about and what to expect.
Into the Night S2
Production for the second season of Into the Night has just wrapped. Created and written by Jason George, newcomers in this season include Émilie Caen, Coen Bril, Joe Manjón and Marie-Josée Croze.
Buladó
This year’s Dutch entry for the Oscars is Buladó. The eleven-year-old Kenza lives with her father Ouira and grandfather Wljo on a junkyard in the countryside of Curaçao. The down-to-earth and avoidant mentality of her father Ouira no longer offers her all that she needs and Kenza slowly opens up to the more mystical and comforting traditions of her grandfather. Buladó launches on March 5th in the Netherlands and will be available on April 1st in Belgium, Luxemburg, Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, St Eustatius, Saba, St. Maarten and Surinam.
Forever Rich
The first Dutch Netflix film, Forever Rich, will be available globally at the end of 2021. The film tells the story of Richie and his journey to becoming the greatest rap-artist in the Netherlands. One evening he is violently robbed by a group of teenagers and loses his most prized possession: an expensive watch. When images of the humiliating robbery go viral, Richie’s hard-earned reputation is damaged. Can Richie restore his image or will this be the end of his career?
Announcements for the following upcoming Netflix originals..
Misfit 3: The Finale and Misfit: The Series
Misfit 3: The Finale will be available on Netflix from April 23 in the Netherlands and Belgium. But that’s not all! Netflix has also announced that there will be a spin-off series of Misfit created in collaboration with Splendid Film and NewBe. Misfit: The Series will launch exclusively on Netflix.
As per Netflix, in this series, ‘the Misfits are headed for a crazy year as they begin working on a super cool musical. While they are busy creating music and choreography, they receive news that the musical will be banned. The new headteacher, Agnes, wants the focus to be on discipline, high grades, and studying. Julia (Djamila) doesn’t want this to happen and comes up with a plan. Together with the Misfits and their new friends, they find a way to sabotage the headteachers’ rules and work on the musical in secret. Will the group of friends manage to perform their dream musical and get their school back?’
Next is the first Dutch Netflix comedy series. It will be created and co-produced by Anna Drijver, Elise Schaap and Jelle de Jonge together with NL Film. With Anna writing, Jelle directing and Elise starring as Michelle.
Describing the series Netflix says that it ‘tells the story of Michelle and her journey to becoming an influencer. Michelle becomes addicted to likes and followers and can’t seem to get enough. Blinded and addicted by online recognition, Michelle destroys the relationships she has with the people she loves the most.’
The series will launch globally on Netflix in 2022.