The Film Kitchen

The Film Kitchen is a female-led production company creating feature films, documentaries, and series for national and international audiences. We collaborate with both established and emerging filmmakers to deliver authentic storytelling from original perspectives that explore societal issues and sparks dialogue.

Our team

The Film Kitchen, founded in 2016, is guided by Ineke Kanters and Lisette Kelder, two experienced female producers united by their passion for film. Despite their different backgrounds, they have each established impressive careers within the industry, with productions showcased at prestigious festivals and reaching wide audiences. Their direct and honest approach to filmmaking is complemented by a strong commitment to socially relevant themes.

In 2023, Lisette joined forces with Ineke, merging their expertise and shared vision. Together, they focus on creating impactful films—whether large or small—that resonate authentically with viewers. They believe in the transformative power of film to convey meaningful messages, and as producers, they strive to empower directors to realize their visions, even if it means challenging conventions and making the seemingly impossible possible.

While their primary focus is on serious themes, they also share a genuine love for comedy and youth films, often infused with humorous or darker twists. Through their collaboration, they enhance each other’s strengths, allowing their combined experience to elevate their projects.

Both of them are members of DAFF, EFA, and NAPA.

The Film Kitchen boasts a line-up of internationally acclaimed and award-winning projects, including Fight Girl (EFA Young Audience Award), Disappearance (TIFF), Little Man, Time and the Troubadour (DOK Leipzig), and Kauwboy (Berlinale, EFA Awards).

 

 

 

Ineke Kanters

Producer / Managing Director

Lisette Kelder

Producer / Managing Director

Lisette Kelder began her journey in the film industry after studying journalism in Utrecht. With over 20 years of experience as a (line) producer, she has worked on a diverse range of projects, including films, TV series, commercials, and art installations. In 2015, she joined Circe Films as a producer and later took on a role at Kaap Holland Film in 2018, successfully balancing her responsibilities between both production companies.

Throughout her career, Lisette has built a solid track record collaborating with distinctive filmmakers such as Peter Greenaway, Andrea Arnold, Nanouk Leopold, Emin Alper, Theu Boermans, Peter Hoogendoorn and Nina Gantz. Her credits include films showcased at prestigious festivals, including Wander to Wonder, Burning Days, Tiempo Compartido, and Cobain. In 2023, Lisette joined forces with Ineke Kanters at The Film Kitchen, stepping into the role of partner and CEO.

Maike Douma

Assistant to the producers

Maike Douma is the Assistant to the producers at The Film Kitchen, having joined the team in 2023. With a background in cultural education, dance training, and on-camera roles, she has a passion for the creative industry that drives her work. Her prior experience in management support makes her a vital ‘spider in the web,’ connecting various aspects of production.

Myrthe Laarakker

Junior Producer

Myrthe Laarakker uncovered her passion for film during her time at local television, which sparked her transition to film production. She graduated with four award-winning short films at the Netherlands Film Academy. She embarked on her professional journey at 100prct (formerly known as HALAL). Now a Junior Producer at The Film Kitchen, which she joined in 2024, Myrthe brings her creativity and dedication to bolster the team in both production and development.

Curicilium Vitae

The Film Kitchen specializes in producing and co-producing feature films, documentaries, shorts, and TV series for both national and international markets. Our mission is to deliver engaging and thought-provoking content that resonates with today’s society, appealing to a diverse audience.

With a rich legacy of producing and co-producing internationally acclaimed films, The Film Kitchen has garnered numerous festival accolades. Our recent successes include our co-production Holy Electricity (2024), which not only premiered at the esteemed Locarno Film Festival but also triumphed by winning the Golden Leopard for Best Film and the Junior Jury Award. This film has also received nominations at the Sarajevo Film Festival and the Thessaloniki International Film Festival, further solidifying our reputation for quality storytelling. Mr. K (2024), supported by Eurimages, made waves at TIFF with a nomination for the Platform Award.

Among our notable achievements is Fight Girl (2018), directed by Johan Timmers, which was celebrated with multiple honors, including the EFA Young Audience Award and Cinekid’s Best Family Film Jury and Audience Awards. In 2017, our co-production Cobain received widespread acclaim, winning Best Film at the Crossing Europe Film Festival Linz and the Golden Calf for Best Supporting Actor at the Netherlands Film Festival. Our documentary Little Man, Time, and the Troubadour (2019) premiered at DOK Leipzig.

Additionally, White Sun (2016), another co-production, captivated audiences worldwide and garnered several prestigious awards, including the Interfilm Award at the Venice Film Festival. Earlier, Kauwboy (2012) shone brightly, accumulating over 50 awards, including Berlinale’s Grand Prix for Best Youth Film and the EFA Young Audience Award.

At The Film Kitchen, we’re driven by a passion for bold storytelling and international collaboration. We remain committed to pushing creative boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on global cinema while inspiring and entertaining audiences everywhere.

Contact

Address

The Film Kitchen
's-Gravendijkwal 22 BG
3014 EB Rotterdam

Company details

KvK 65346785
BTW NL 856 074 731 B01

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