Paradijs Glaswater (Paradise Glass Water) is an overlooked gem of a documentary that offers a profound glimpse into the world of Marianne Schipaanboord, a deaf-mute artist who communicates solely through her drawings. The film, released in 2016, presents a unique challenge in portraying the experience of a multiply disabled woman living in the rural Zeeland region of the Netherlands.
The cinematography, characterized by static and locked-off shots, brilliantly represents Marianne's physical limitations. This deliberate visual approach immerses the viewer in her silent existence, allowing us to experience her world as she does. Through this technique, the film invites the audience to step into Marianne's skin, understanding how she navigates and perceives her completely silent life.
Set against the backdrop of the Zeeland countryside, the documentary subtly explores the historical context where physical disabilities were once considered divine punishment. Marianne's story intertwines faith and its questioning, showcasing how these seemingly contradictory elements coexist within one individual.
The film chronicles Marianne's journey as she gradually draws her way out of the constraints of her upbringing. Her artistic expression becomes a powerful means of communication and liberation, allowing her to transcend the limitations imposed by her disabilities and societal perceptions.
A pivotal moment in the documentary occurs when Marianne is invited to present her art in New York City. This opportunity not only showcases her talent on an international stage but also provides a stark contrast between her horizontal rural landscape and the vertical urban environment of New York.
"Paradijs Glaswater" is a testament to the power of art as a means of communication and self-expression, offering a poignant and insightful portrayal of resilience in the face of multiple disabilities.
PZC Public Award, Film by the Sea, Vlissingen, 2016
Best Art Documentary, Best Docs on Moviescreen Pro, 2017
Featuring: Marianne Schipaanboord
Director: Fifi Visser
Cinematography: Jean Counet
Sound: Gijs Haak, Eugène Paashuis
Editor: André van der Hout
Sound Post-production: Willem Schneider
Commissioning Editor Omroep Zeeland: Michel van Sluijs
Commissioning Editors NCRV: Jelle Peter de Ruiter, Yolande van der Blij
(C) 2016 De Aanpak
Director: Fifi Visser
Cinematography: Jean Counet
Sound: Gijs Haak, Eugène Paashuis
Editor: André van der Hout
Sound Post-production: Willem Schneider
Commissioning Editor Omroep Zeeland: Michel van Sluijs
Commissioning Editors NCRV: Jelle Peter de Ruiter, Yolande van der Blij
(C) 2016 De Aanpak
Watch the full film here: http://www.npo.nl/2doc-paradijs-glaswater/15-03-2016/KN_1677356
