08/07/2026
"BLIKSEM is not the film I wanted to make. It is the film I needed. And now, it is a film that can offer comfort and recognition to others." - Aiman Hassani
Over the last few months, we’ve had the privilege of working on a deeply personal, brave, and moving documentary directed by long-time friend of the studio, Aiman Hassani. Produced by Rinkel Film BV Docs in co-production with VPRO, BLIKSEM (Lightning) is a vulnerable self-portrait about self-acceptance and resilience in the face of loss and clashing expectations.
As a Dutch filmmaker with Moroccan roots, Aiman initially set out to celebrate love and bring two worlds together. However, when his six-year relationship suddenly ended and his beloved cat Bliksem passed away, his planned future evaporated. When his father in Morocco became seriously ill, Aiman was forced to shift his perspective from what was lost to what could still be gained, opening the door to profound, healing conversations between father and son.
We were trusted with the sound design and mix for this complex project. Huge thanks to Mariana Dionisio and Kirill Den Outer for the sound effects edit, foley.
We worked closely with composer Jochem Weierink, who wrote an understated and haunting soundtrack, and we are grateful to co-editor Bobbie Roelofs and producer Julia Rombout for their dedication to bringing this film together.
BLIKSEM will broadcast on Sunday, July 12 at 22:40 on VPRO, NPO 2, and will be hitting the upcoming film festival circuit.