TIFF Picks 09: Alex van Warmerdam’s The Last Days of Emma Blank

#24. THE LAST DAYS OF EMMA BLANK

Director: Alex van Warmerdam
Cast: Marlies Heuer, Gene Bervoets, Annet Malherbe, Eva van de Wijdeven, Gijs Naber
Distributor: Rights Available.

Buzz: Can’t say that I’m familiar with the Dutch film industry or helmer Alex van Warmerdam, but I’ve made room in my schedule for this dark comedy based on a couple of stills and the trailer. TIFF’s Dimitri Eipides describes this as “a dark comedy so cynical it’s bound to make your head spin. The director even casts himself as a dog. Alex van Warmerdam pushes his way forward with a brilliant adaptation of a near-impossible screenplay.” I could see this being a fit on a label such as IFC Films.

The Gist: Emma is a lady living in high style, surrounded by family members who double as maids and servants. Everyone hopes Emma’s bad health will soon do her in, letting them inherit her substantial wealth.   

TIFF Schedule: Click here for screening times