There are films that are not only great fun, but also really touch you. Films that make you stop and think about life and inspire you to look at everything just that little bit more consciously.De Terugreis , a beautiful Dutch-Belgian road movie from 2024, is exactly such a film. It is a story about love, loss and new discoveries, but above all about how, even after almost fifty years of marriage, you can still travel together – both literally and figuratively.
We watched it ourselves after we got home from a midweek New Year's celebration with friends. Then it really hits like a bomb, I can tell you. We didn't have any good resolutions, but now we do: do lots of fun things and celebrate life!!
What is the movie about?
The film revolves around Jaap (Martin Waardenberg) and Maartje (Leny Breederveld) - a great couple by the way!! - an older couple who have shared their joys and sorrows for almost fifty years. Jaap, a somewhat stubborn and stuck man, has left his adventurous years behind him. Maartje, on the other hand, is still full of zest for life, although she is increasingly becoming forgetful. When the couple receives a letter from an old holiday friend who is dying in Spain, Maartje resolutely decides that they want to visit him. Jaap, although not exactly enthusiastic, eventually agrees.
And so begins a road trip through Europe, full of memories, encounters and unexpected moments. During the journey, Jaap is confronted with a heartbreaking reality: Maartje is suffering from dementia. What follows is not only a journey through the changing European landscape, but also an inner journey in which the couple rediscovers why they once chose each other.
A film that moves and inspires
What makes this film so special is that it deals with themes such as aging and dementia in an honest but hopeful way. Jaap and Maartje are confronted with major changes, but instead of just showing the severity of these changes, the film shows how love and connection can actually become stronger by facing challenges together.
The road trip symbolizes life itself: full of unexpected twists, beautiful views and moments of reflection. And just like any journey, it is not just about the destination, but especially about being on the road together.
What you can learn from The Return Journey
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Stay in the moment
Life is constantly changing, and that can be difficult at times. But by staying in the moment and being open to what is to come, you can enjoy what is there even in challenging times. -
Cherish your memories
Memories play a big role in the film. They are the glue that connects Jaap and Maartje, even when Maartje slowly starts to lose them. It is a beautiful reminder to stand still at the moments that make our lives special. -
Love evolves, but remains powerful
After almost fifty years of marriage, the love between Jaap and Maartje is different than it was in the beginning. But their journey shows that love adapts, moves along and sometimes even grows when it is put to the test.
A warm and positive feeling
What makes this film so great is the balance between humor and emotion. The dialogues between Jaap and Maartje are recognizable and often funny, while the deeper subjects really make you think. It is exactly the mix that makes you smile, while secretly wiping away a tear.
Plus, the beautiful cinematography – from the sweeping landscapes to the moments between the main characters – is a joy to watch. It’s a film that will stay with you and hopefully inspire you to take action in your own life.
Time for your own 'return journey'
The Return Journey, now streaming on Netflix , is more than just a film. It is a reminder that love, no matter how long you have been together, can always be rediscovered. It encourages us to live consciously, embrace the beautiful moments and cherish our relationships.
So, grab a blanket, make a cup of coffee or tea and let yourself be carried away by this heartwarming road movie. Who knows, it might inspire you to look at your own journey – no matter how small or big – with new eyes.
Have you seen The Return Journey yet? Share your most beautiful life journey experience in the comments! What memories do you cherish the most? We are curious about your story.
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