Stricken

In the poignant drama Stricken, released in 2009, we follow the tumultuous life of Stijn, a charismatic Dutchman and a rising star at an advertising agency. Surrounded by his equally ambitious friend Frenk and a string of fleeting romantic encounters, Stijn seems to have it all—success, charm, and the thrill of the chase. However, beneath the glitzy surface of his professional and personal life lies a deep-seated greed for superficiality, one that he carries into his marriage with Carmen, a colleague who initially embraces his reckless ways. As they settle into the quieter pace of country life and start a family, their fragile happiness is shattered when Carmen is diagnosed with breast cancer, forcing Stijn to confront the very essence of love, loyalty, and the meaning of a fulfilling life.

The film deftly explores themes of love tested by adversity, the consequences of infidelity, and the struggle between ambition and responsibility. As Stijn grapples with his own flaws and the reality of his wife's illness, viewers are taken on an emotional journey that reveals the fragility of relationships and the unexpected strength that can emerge when faced with life’s harshest challenges. With a blend of romance and raw drama, Stricken presents a compelling narrative that prompts reflection on what truly matters in life, making it a thought-provoking watch for anyone who appreciates stories of personal growth and the complexities of human emotions.