Sat 29 March 2025

Deep Dive: Introduction by Maren Merckx (VPRO Tegenlicht)

Maren Merckx is a creator at VPRO Tegenlicht. She is a big fan of Chaplin and The Great Dictator because even back then, people had a sharp eye for power—and it remains incredibly relevant today! She hopes to sharpen our perspectives with her thoughts.

With a background in visual anthropology and theater, Maren discovers stories in the most unexpected circumstances through improvisation. Her topics are close to her heart, such as the episode The Mother of All Myths, in which she reflects on the maternal instinct.

Maren has a deep appreciation for “odd birds”—strong-willed individuals who challenge reality in their own way. Turning those encounters into stories is, to her, the most beautiful thing there is.

The Great Dictator

Charles Chaplin, 125 minutes
Restored version of Charlie Chaplin’s sharp satire of Adolf Hitler and Nazi Germany. Chaplin excels in his double role as a fascist dictator and Jewish hairdresser. He completed The Great Dictator two days after Hitler had declared war on Poland in 1939. A clumsy soldier (Charlie Chaplin) saves the life of German offic...

Speakers

©Movies that Matter - Jacky Tang

Maarten Stoltz

moderator

Maren Merckx

guest