Until now I have been making films that were more or less feel-good stories. At this time in my life I feel the urge to tell a different kind of thing. A story that touches more the core of our existence. A story about love, life and death. After a long search I stumbled upon the book "Harder Than Snow" by author Stefan Hertmans. A difficult, sensitive and complex novel, but I immediately knew that I wanted to translate this story into my own.
Thematically, there are several reasons why this book attracted me. Identity – nothing is ever what it seems. Religion – the world became more religious and should step into more dialogue instead of less. Terrorism and paranoia – suddenly fear is everywhere and it is pushing us into a state of incurable melancholy and loneliness. A big conspiracy of something incomprehensible, which makes us look indifferent and helpless. We stare at it and slip into a state of catatonia. Everything is suspicious.
Nothing is safe. "Harder Than Snow" is more than a thriller. It transcends the genre. It is not a religious film, but it includes all religions. "Harder Than Snow" is at the same time bloody, soft and sexual.