The Rise and Fall of Belgian Tech Bros: A Cinematic Reflection on the Dotcom Bust

"Dust," a feature film directed by Anke Blondé and written by Angelo Tijssens, explores the downfall of two Belgian tech entrepreneurs, Geert and Luc, during the late 1990s dotcom boom. The film, set against the backdrop of rural Belgium, follows the duo as they navigate the impending collapse of their startup, which has been built on fabricated profits and deceit. As investigative journalist Aaron confronts them with the truth, the narrative unfolds over a tense Sunday before their world crumbles, leaving them facing financial ruin and potential imprisonment.

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The film is inspired by real-life financial fraud scandals that characterized the early days of the internet, particularly the dotcom bust that affected many startups globally. This historical context serves as a cautionary tale, reflecting on the consequences of unchecked ambition and the fragility of financial success.

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• Geert: Portrayed as a gay man in a casual relationship with his assistant Kenneth, Geert is depicted as someone who is deeply invested in maintaining his facade of success, even as he plans to escape to a South American country to avoid prosecution.

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• Luc: A family man with a father in a care home and a strained relationship with his wife and daughter, Luc's character experiences a poignant breakdown as he confronts the reality of his failed dreams.

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"Dust" serves as a reflection on contemporary issues surrounding technology and ethics, drawing parallels between the past and present. The film's narrative warns of the dangers of prioritizing profit over integrity, especially in an era increasingly obsessed with technological advancement and innovation.

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Critics have noted the film's ability to resonate with current societal concerns, suggesting that the "smallness and sadness" of the story encapsulates a broader commentary on the tech industry's pitfalls. The film's portrayal of Geert and Luc's desperate attempts to salvage their lives before the impending fallout has been described as both timely and relevant.

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Some reviewers argue that "Dust" feels parochial and lacks a broader appeal, questioning the necessity of revisiting a crisis from the 1990s. They suggest that the film's focus on personal drama may not fully engage with the larger implications of the tech industry's evolution.

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• “The “dust” of the title is that dust into which all of these vain dreams of riches will crumble.” — Anke Blondé, Director

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• “His dreams of a glitzy future here mocked by the reality of an economy which was for centuries suitable only for agriculture?” — Angelo Tijssens, Screenwriter

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As "Dust" continues to screen at film festivals, discussions surrounding its themes and relevance to today's tech landscape are expected to evolve, prompting audiences to reflect on the ethical responsibilities of entrepreneurs in the digital age.

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