The East (2020)

---

About The East

"The East" is a gripping war drama that depicts the story of indifference, disorder, and struggle during the Indonesian War of Independence in 1946. The protagonist, Johan, is a Dutch soldier who questions the morality of his actions and the true cost of war.

---

Making / Production

The movie is directed by Jim Taihuttu and produced by Sander Verdonk, Julius Ponten, and Hetzelle Media. The East was shot in RAW format in different regions of Indonesia over several months. The filmmakers aimed to showcase the undeniable beauty of Indonesia, contrasting it with the harsh realities of war.

---

Actors

• Martijn Lakemeier - Playing the lead role of Johan, Martijn gave a profound, brooding performance of a soldier caught in the morally ambiguous world of war.
• Marwan Kenzari - Portraying the character of Raymond Westerling, Marwan delivered a solid performance, embodying the ruthless nature of his character.
• Reinout Bussemaker - As Captain Beumer, Reinout expertly portrayed the tough yet empathetic officer.

---

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film is based on actual events during the Indonesian War of Independence in 1946.
• "The East" is the most expensive Dutch film ever made.

---

Quotes

• "War doesn't determine who's right. It determines who's left."
• "Tell me what is more honourable: to kill without looking, or to look at the one you kill?"

---

Music, Soundtrack

• "Where the Streets have no Name" - U2
• "Piano Concerto No. 2" - Rachmaninoff
• "Symphony No.5" - Beethoven