Award winning director Michael Middelkoop signed by production company 100%

Today, 100% has signed Michael Middelkoop. , one of the Netherlands' most buzz-worthy directors. His upcoming film, "Dit Is Geen Kerstfilm" (This is not a Christmas movie), achieved great success at this year's Nederlands Film Festival, winning 3 "Golden Calves" in the Feature Film category for Best Director, Best Screenplay, and Best Supporting Actor. The film, an absurdist ensemble comedy, premiered at the Netherlands Film Festival and was exclusively released on Prime Video.

Middelkoop, a former advertising creative director at Czar, is known for his unique approach that blends the familiar with the unexpected, reflecting authenticity and multiculturalism in his work. He has an impressive portfolio, creating commercials, short films, feature films, TV series, and web series, winning several film awards and a Cannes Lion. Some of his other notable works include the horror comedy "Netflix & Chill," "Snor," a surreal story about accepting lost love, and the acclaimed TV series "Zina."

After studying Film in Amsterdam, Middelkoop started his career as an art director at renowned agencies like Saatchi & Saatchi, Happiness Brussels, Achtung!, and Dawn. He then transitioned to directing for brands such as adidas, Tele2, Lego, and Asics, experimenting with new techniques to connect with youth culture. 

Gijs Determeijer, Partner and Executive Producer of 100% (fka HALAL):  "We have really loved  working with Michael on his feature film over the past year. The whole process went so smoothly - and working with Michael truly felt like one big party. We are currently also developing two other feature films with Michael, so it only felt natural for us to also work on commercials together. With 3 big awards under our belt, the timing couldn't be more perfect. 

I am beyond excited that Michael has joined the 100% family.  I always enjoyed working with Michael when he was still on the agency-side, but now, I have gotten to experience him as one of the most well-rounded and ambitious directors in this country - a director who really knows exactly  how to get the best out of his actors.”

Michael Middelkoop about winning three golds: “My ambition was to make a film that examines modern society with intelligence and humor. Winning three golds not only shows me that this ambition can be achieved -  but also highlights that the future is bright for crossover movies: films that both have something to say, and have commercial value.”

“Weirdo”

And finally about his switch to 100%: “I’m actually a bit of a weirdo -  a director with a background as a creative. I get equally hungry from a strong ad campaign, a brilliant sketch or a good script that has something to say. I can only satisfy that hunger in one place - a place that is just as diverse as I am. I am very happy to open a new chapter and change the game with 100%!”

‘Dit is Geen Kerstfilm’ will be released on Prime Video on the 19th of December.