"The Conquest of High Passes" (Hemels Bewegen) is a groundbreaking documentary directed by Wout Conijn, released in 2010. The film follows three physically handicapped individuals on an extraordinary 1000 km bike trip across the Himalayas, from Lhasa to Kathmandu, conquering mountain passes over 5000 meters high.
This documentary holds a significant place in Dutch cinema history as it is the first Dutch film and documentary shot entirely on a DSLR camera, specifically the Canon 5D Mark II, which had just been released at the time. The revolutionary technology of a photo camera capable of filming provided the opportunity to capture footage in Tibet that would have been impossible otherwise, as traditional filming is not permitted in the region.
Jean Counet's work as the director of photography on this film marked his first major project after graduating. His cinematography immediately showcases a distinctive style of isolation, suggestion, and bold choices, setting the tone for the entire film. This visual approach effectively conveys the immense physical and mental challenges faced by the participants.
"The Conquest of High Passes" is more than just a travelogue. It's a moving portrait of individuals searching for inner strength against the backdrop of breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. The film explores the disconnect between mental determination and physical limitations, offering a poignant look at human resilience and the power of the human spirit.
Counet's cinematography plays a crucial role in bringing this story to life, capturing both the majestic panoramas and the intimate moments of struggle and triumph. His visual style enhances the narrative and helps viewers connect with the participants' experiences on a deeper level. The quality of Counet's work on this film brought him recognition at the prestigious Camerimage Festival in Poland, a renowned event celebrating the art of cinematography.
Director:
Wout Conijn
Producer:
Jos de Putter, Wink de Putter
Screenplay:
Wout Conijn
Cinematography:
Jean Counet
Sound:
Joris van Ballegoijen
Editing:
Stefan Kamp
Music:
Wouter van Bemmel
(C) 2009 Dieptescherpte B.V.
Wout Conijn
Producer:
Jos de Putter, Wink de Putter
Screenplay:
Wout Conijn
Cinematography:
Jean Counet
Sound:
Joris van Ballegoijen
Editing:
Stefan Kamp
Music:
Wouter van Bemmel
(C) 2009 Dieptescherpte B.V.
Bekijk de hele film hier: http://www.uitzendinggemist.nl/afleveringen/1123524
