WITTE WIEVEN (Heresy)

PRAYERS WON’T SAVE YOU

In a medieval Dutch village, a young woman is caught between her faith, fanatic townsfolk and the dark forces lurking in the woods…

Witte Wieven explores the confluence of religion and patriarchy in an excessively puritanical Dutch village. Blamed by her community for being childless, Frieda immerses herself in prayer and ritual. When she returns unscathed from the forbidden forest surrounding the village having evaded a lecherous butcher, she is condemned as an agent of the devil. Frieda, however, finds new faith in the dark powers that inhabit the woods.

Leon van Waas as Gelo in Witte Wieven
In Witte Wieven, a haunting cinematic tale by visionary director Didier Konings, actor Leon van Waas takes on the compelling role of Gelo — a mysterious and emotionally layered character whose presence lingers long after the scene fades. With subtle intensity and natural depth, Leon brings Gelo to life as both a guardian of hidden truths and a symbol of inner conflict.

Set against the eerie backdrop of Dutch folklore, Witte Wieven weaves a story of mysticism and memory, and Leon’s portrayal adds a grounded, human dimension to the supernatural narrative. His performance is both restrained and powerful, reflecting the internal battles of a man caught between myth and reality.

Leon van Waas delivers a performance that is visually striking, emotionally resonant, and perfectly in tune with Konings’ cinematic vision — confirming his place as a talent to watch in the European independent film scene.

World premiere: January 30th at International Film Festival Rotterdam TV release: March 16th 10PM at NPO3 or NPO Start Part of the ‘Koolhoven Presenteert’ program: a talent development program by VPRO in collaboration with NPO and NPO Fonds and with support of the Netherlands Film Fund.