The Dutch Act

During 1998 and 1999, Pelon participated in various Internet newsgroups and lists where suicide is the main subject. Stories unfolded as the film was made; some reached the point of no return. The subject of suicide is very candid on the Internet, due to its anonymity and the freedom it allows from the usual taboos around the subject. The newsgroups and lists have become a relatively safe place for the many people that find themselves isolated because of their interest in the idea of suicide. During research for the film, Pelon also discovered how these meeting places are taken over by anti-suicide interventionists. In the film, the names, places and addresses of participants have been changed in order to protect their privacy. Some conversations have been re-written.

Made in co-operation with Roos Geevers, Martijn Gerfin and Edward von Tetterode. With Ben Duivenvoorden.