Is this the one, that inspired Stanley Kubrick?

Gekkenbriefje has been twice on Dutch television in the early 80's. So I am not surprised, that it had not received 5 votes yet at the time I wrote this review. Having it seen 25 years ago, I hope I have not mixed up things. At the other hand, with Cold War going on and me being 18 and possibly getting conscripted (I was declared unfit to my relief) Gekkenbriefje convinced me to duck the army.

The Netherlands around 1947. The country just has been liberated from the Nazi's, like Dutch East Indies from Japanese occupation. The Indonesian nationalists though want to get rid of Dutch colonists and conduct their liberation war. Sidenote: the Indonesians lost on the battlefield, but won in international politics.

Willem is in doubt. Remembering German occupation, he does not want to duck his duty. At the other hand he does not want to fight in/against Indonesia either. His sense of duty wins and he enters Dutch army. He gets drilled and humiliated, as the sergeant in charge thinks he is a pussy. This part is similar to Full Metal Jacket - and made several years before. Willem cannot stand the psychological pressure and finds a way to escape. He attacks a high officer and obtains from the army a lunatic note (gekkenbriefje). With this lunatic note he is dismissed and travels home with an army train. Willem decides to abuse his status. Once again he attacks a high officer. After showing the lunatic note Willem gets a whole compartment for himself.

I have hesitated to rate Gekkenbriefje, it has been so long since I have seen it. Like Full Metal Jacket the drilling part is very impressive. Unlike Full Metal Jacket this is the main part, preceded by Willem having scruples.

Acting is pretty good, with some talented and experienced actors. Directing is also OK, the movie is never getting hyper-emotional or preachy. I am pretty sure, that those who appreciate Full Metal Jacket, also will appreciate Gekkenbriefje. I certainly did.

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Gekkenbriefje

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