Thys Ockersen, a renowned filmmaker, was born on February 3rd in Amsterdam, and his creative journey began when he enrolled in the NFA film school from 1965 to 1969. During his time at the prestigious institution, he worked tirelessly to hone his craft, ultimately graduating with a fiction/instructional short film titled "Surprise Surprise". This outstanding achievement earned him a prestigious Chicago student award in 1969, solidifying his reputation as a talented young filmmaker.
However, it was his picture being displayed on Dutch television that sparked a significant controversy. The broadcast featured a scene from his film, which depicted the cutting of an eye, a reenactment of a famous scene from Luis Buñuel's groundbreaking film "Chien Andalou". This provocative imagery caused a much-publicized riot, thrusting Ockersen into the spotlight and cementing his status as a bold and innovative filmmaker.
Throughout his illustrious career, Ockersen has directed approximately 50 documentaries, short films, and feature films, showcasing his versatility and dedication to his craft. Additionally, he has made significant contributions to the film industry as a film critic for prominent Amsterdam newspapers, including NRC/Handelsblad and Het Parool, and as a film teacher at the Rotterdam Artschool for over a decade.
Ockersen's passion for film extends beyond his professional endeavors, as he is also an accomplished writer, contributing to various magazines and running a film society in his hometown of Zandvoort. Recently, he embarked on a new project, a documentary about the reconstruction of a historic woodcutting mill that was demolished in 1942. This project is a testament to his continued commitment to storytelling and his dedication to preserving the past.
