Long Distance

A heavily sweating man, returning from a long trip, is telephoning from his car to speak to his wife. But he gets his daughter on the line. Lisette is constantly asking questions and tells about a drawing she made, but all the man is asking for is to get her mother. It seems he desperately wants to speak her, for what might be the last time. When Lisette is getting her mother out of the backyard, the man is still talking, telling Lisette should say to her mother he loves her. The sound of an approaching ambulance can be heard. When his wife finally gets on the phone, it's only a remarkable short conversation. She's asking him about his flight and to come back soon because Lisette misses him much. What is going on?

Directed by Dick Maas, Long Distance leans on a strong ensemble — Mark Rietman, Marjolein Beumer, Philippine Hillen — 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 drama titles of 2003.