Prime Video’s latest addition, “Holland,” presents itself as an enthralling mystery thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Directed by Mimi Cave and penned by Andrew Sodroski, the film boasts a star-studded cast led by Nicole Kidman, alongside Matthew Macfadyen, Gael García Bernal, and Jude Hill. A rollercoaster of suspense, blending elements of drama and psychological intrigue, “Holland” is visually elegant with undeniable directorial style. It features an exceptional lead in Nicole Kidman, who plays a role she’s nearly specialized in: a married woman unsatisfied with her life.
It has all the ingredients for success, and yet, it fails to fully convince us.
Plot Summary
Set in the picturesque town of Holland, Michigan, the film follows Nancy Vandergroot, portrayed by Nicole Kidman, a meticulous teacher and housewife whose seemingly perfect life descends into chaos. As Nancy and a colleague delve into a mysterious secret, they uncover a web of deception that challenges their perception of reality.
Production and Release
“Holland” premiered at the prestigious South by Southwest (SXSW) Conference and Festivals before landing on Amazon Prime Video. Produced by a team that includes Nicole Kidman herself, the film is a collaboration between Amazon MGM Studios, Blossom Films, and several other production companies.
Our Take
“Holland” entertains and appeals on a superficial level, yet it fails to convince us on a deeper level. The direction and editing are elegant, with a measured pace and beautiful cinematography by Pawel Pogorzelski: colors, framing, and art direction all fit perfectly into one of those stylish productions that, with a retro touch, should work because aesthetically, it has it all.
And yet, Nicole Kidman once again immerses us in that role of an emotionally unsatisfied woman who seems to invent a story. In this supposed invention (that her husband has a lover), she involves another man and has an affair with him. Gradually, the plot unfolds: is it madness, or is something really happening?
Something in “Holland” seems like a plot that should indeed work much better in terms of story, plot, and overall narrative, but its contemplative rhythm perhaps weighs down the story itself.
We again have Nicole Kidman as the undisputed protagonist of the story in a role that she seems to have played a thousand times, and that may feel redundant to the viewer, who won’t find enough surprises in the plot resolution at a narrative level.
There’s a lot of talent, everything’s perfect at the production level, and yet, it’s another Prime Video production that doesn’t make enough of an impact and seems to fall short between its initial intentions and its final product.
“Holland” is enjoyable without being entirely convincing, staying on the surface of a story that ultimately ends up disappointing.
Where to Watch “Holland”
