Sam Peeters

Right-wing populism is spreading through Western Europe like wildfire. It is most popular in quiet, white neighbourhoods where people are shielded from different cultures and lifestyles. In this unscripted documentary, Sam Peeters portrays an ironic caricature of life in the Flemish suburbs, which reflects the current European zeitgeist.

26 people live in the Belgian city of Doel, and they have no plans of moving anywhere. Even if everyone else is busy telling them how hopeless their beloved ghost town is. Vandalised, dilapidated and an ironic destination for urban explorers, car nerds and Dutch techno ravers. Doel is squeezed between an industrial port and a nuclear power station, and since the 1960s the government has regularly tried to raze it to the ground to make space for a container park in the name of globalisation. The school, the shops and even the church have closed, and most houses have either been torn down or abandoned. But the last inhabitants are not giving up. Young as well as old agree to defend Doel to the very end.

Isabella, a wealthy young lady, falls in love with Andrew at first sight. When she learns that Andrew lives in poverty, she offers to “adopt” him and “buy” his love with money. Andrew gradually fell in love with her. However, Isabella's father's company suddenly goes bankrupt and she is heavily in debt. Her father commits suicide and Andrew suddenly loses contact with her. Isabella has to pay off her debts and lives a life of misery. Years pass, and now Isabella works part-time in a bar, where she once again reunites with Andrew, who has become the richest man in New York. At this time, Isabella realizes that she has never forgotten the man who hurt her the most. However, their identities have long been different. In the midst of enormous pressure, will they be able to come together again?