"In de wacht" is an intimate documentary about the struggle for self-worth within the uncertain and unclear framework of the asylum process in the Netherlands, seen through the eyes of asylum seeker and English teacher Mehran (32), and asylum seeker and musician Mazis (27).
Working on this film made me reflect on the boundaries of documentary filmmaking. We chose to shoot much of it using a dolly, even in unscripted, observational scenes. This approach created a surprising and powerful effect - the camera took on a transcendental role, allowing the viewer to more fully immerse themselves in the haze and disorientation that Mehran and Mazis are experiencing.
