Albert Jan Van Rees

For Film and TV director Albert Jan van Rees, things come together most satisfyingly at the moment when they start to fall apart. When directing comedy, Albert Jan seeks the fun in fiasco, or the pain hidden in a seemingly pleasurable moment. In his work, something as simple as a short elevator trip can become a hell ride of almost epic proportions, exposing the truth and pain of his characters. Because as much as all of us would like to hide our shortcomings, they will always come shining through in the end.

Ever since he graduated from the Dutch Film Academy in 1998, Albert Jan has delighted in working with actors, by seeing them as co-creators, often supporting them to work from their own material. It’s this very human approach to directing that has enabled Albert Jan to not only excel in the field of comedy, but to also be a successful drama director.

His work therefore ranges from sketch programs such as Daar Vliegende Panters, Draadstaal, Klokhuis, De Dinoshow and Toren C, to comedy series such as Shouf Shouf and De Band, to thriller series such as Klem and Overspel. He has directed three feature films: Adios Amigos, Doris and Het Irritante Eiland (A Most Irritating Island).

Albert Jan’s talent has gained recognition. Doris was the 2nd best performing Dutch film in 2018 at the Dutch box office. The French version of Toren C was nominated for an Emmy. And the thriller series Overspel got an American remake.

As his interests are broad, Albert Jan is always open to venturing into projects that test his abilities as a director. Because it isn’t until things seem to fall apart that you’re able to rise from your ashes and transcend your own shortcomings.