Als werkelijkheidszin bestaat moet mogelijkheidszin ook bestaan

‘If a sense of reality exists, a sense of possibility must also exist’ is an adaptation of the theatrical play ‘The Enthusiasts’ by Robert Musil. Franciska Lambrechts has managed to turn this ‘unstageable’ piece into an intriguing film by radicalizing Musil’s work. In close consultation with the actors (from theatre companies including tg. Stan and Dito’Dito), she reduced the text to its core: the quest of a small group of people for truth and reality at a time when major ideologies fail. It has become a refined film with strictly framed black-and-white images and passionate acting.

Directed by Franciska Lambrechts, Als werkelijkheidszin bestaat moet mogelijkheidszin ook bestaan leans on a strong ensemble — Jolente De Keersmaeker, Sara De Roo, Willy Thomas — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 1995.