Belgian Filmmaker’s ‘Apple Cider Vinegar’ Acquired by Syndicado, Set for World Premiere at IDFA

Belgian filmmaker An van Dienderen’s latest creation, ‘Apple Cider Vinegar,’ has been acquired for worldwide sales by Syndicado, building anticipation for its upcoming world premiere at the prestigious International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA). The visually captivating film, narrated by esteemed actor Sian Phillips renowned for her roles in ‘I, Claudius’ and David Lynch‘s ‘Dune,’ delves into the realm of stones, offering a unique perspective that ventures into the lives of individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Phillips sets the tone through a personal anecdote involving a kidney stone, sparking a poignant exploration of various stone-related narratives. From the Palestinian quarry workers to the fervent British geologist, and the inhabitants of the striking lava fields in Fogo, Cape Verde Islands, the film weaves together a rich tapestry of human experiences interwoven with geological wonders.

Inti Films’ Peter Krüger shines as the producer of ‘Apple Cider Vinegar,’ with Pieter van Huystee from Pieter van Huystee Film contributing as the co-producer. The cinematographic brilliance behind the lens is credited to Jonathan Wannyn, adding a visually stunning dimension to the film’s narrative tapestry.

Supported by key entities including Vlaams Audiovisueel Fonds, Nederlands Filmfonds, Taxshelter van de Belgische Regering, and Le Centre du Cinema de la Federation Wallonie-Bruxelles, ‘Apple Cider Vinegar’ stands as a testament to collaborative filmmaking that transcends boundaries and genres.

An van Dienderen’s impressive filmography includes acclaimed works like ‘Fronterismo,’ ‘Blue Meridian,’ and ‘Desert Haze,’ with ‘Victoria,’ a co-directed piece, garnering accolades at the Berlin Film Festival and securing the coveted Caligari Prize.

In a statement reflecting on the film’s essence, An van Dienderen expressed a desire to challenge prevailing perceptions of the geological world as mere inert matter, aiming to embed these natural marvels within the fabric of our daily lives. By juxtaposing the mundane with the grandeur of geological narratives, ‘Apple Cider Vinegar’ promises to captivate audiences with its thought-provoking storytelling approach.