Susan Baart

No film-maker has ever before been given permission to follow a Dutch election campaign with the camera. On the basis of a few contractual conditions, film-maker Niek Koppen was given a glimpse into the 'kitchen' of the Labour Party election campaign in 1998. From the making of the publicity photos by Anton Corbijn to the celebration of the election victory on 6 May 1998. In the Prime Minister's residence, Koppen recorded how decisions were taken during intimate discussions, phone calls and meals. The film focuses on the arduous cooperation between the veterans Wim Kok and Jacques Wallage and the much younger campaign director Karin Adelmund. De keuken van Kok (Working for Labour) provides a picture of the emotions, ambitions, tactics and the ups and downs of a long and tiring process. (filmcommission.nl)

On March 6, 2002, Pim Fortuyn, as leader of Leefbaar Rotterdam, achieved a resounding victory in the municipal elections in the city on the Maas. Nationally, Fortuyn would instantly secure eighteen parliamentary seats; the political landscape had been permanently changed by him. March 6, 2002, concluded with a now-historic television debate between Pim Fortuyn and Ad Melkert, among others, moderated by Paul Witteman. What exactly happened behind the scenes surrounding the key players Fortuyn and Melkert? Confidants of the leading figures of that time tell their story. Moderator Paul Witteman also looks back on the debate.