"0,03 seconde" is a gripping documentary by Suzanne Raes that provides an intimate look into the world of elite swimming. Following top Dutch swimmers Femke Heemskerk, Ranomi Kromowidjojo, Sharon van Rouwendaal, Sebastiaan Verschuren, and Ferry Weertman, the film captures their intense preparations for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. With razor-thin margins separating victory from defeat—just 0.03 seconds can mean the difference between gold and heartbreak—the documentary explores the physical and emotional toll of striving for perfection in the high-stakes world of competitive swimming.
The swimmers train under vastly different coaching styles, from strict disciplinarians to supportive mentors, each pushing them to their limits. The documentary highlights the relentless drive and sacrifices required to compete at the highest level while revealing the human vulnerabilities behind the pursuit of glory. Winning and losing, joy and sorrow, fulfillment and emptiness often prove to be closer than expected.
The cinematography by Jean Counet plays a crucial role in elevating the film beyond a standard sports documentary. Counet faced unique challenges, such as capturing moments he could not physically witness—like underwater scenes during critical races. Through a clever collaboration with sound designer Alex Booij, Counet created a sensory experience that transcends traditional sports coverage. The combination of evocative visuals and immersive sound design brings viewers closer to the swimmers' inner worlds, making their struggles and triumphs almost tangible.
To overcome technical limitations, Counet employed bold and innovative techniques that pushed the boundaries of traditional sports cinematography. One particularly daring approach was using a handheld camera with a 600mm lens during crucial competitions. This technique, which requires exceptional skill and steady hands, allowed Counet to capture intimate, dynamic shots of the athletes while maintaining the intensity of the moment.
Critics have praised the film for its striking visuals and emotional depth. AD described it as "visually attractive" with sound design that makes "the athletes' world almost palpable," while NRC highlighted its exploration of "obsessive drive in top-level sports." De Volkskrant called it a "brilliant swimming drama," emphasizing its ability to capture both triumphs and setbacks.
"0,03 seconde" is more than a documentary about swimming; it is a powerful exploration of ambition, resilience, and human vulnerability in the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Director: Suzanne Raes
Research: Monique Lesterhuis
Production: Fabie Hulsebos
Cinematography: Jean Counet, Wiro Felix, Victor Horstink
Sound and sound design: Alex Booy
Editing: Elja de Lange
Music: Wouter van Bemmel
Broadcaster: NTR/NOS
Distribution: Cinema Delicatessen
Research: Monique Lesterhuis
Production: Fabie Hulsebos
Cinematography: Jean Counet, Wiro Felix, Victor Horstink
Sound and sound design: Alex Booy
Editing: Elja de Lange
Music: Wouter van Bemmel
Broadcaster: NTR/NOS
Distribution: Cinema Delicatessen
met steun van hetMediafonds en het Nederlands Film Fonds
(C) 2017 Docmakers
