De Leerling (internationally known as Under Tow) is a Dutch television drama directed and written by Rutger Veenstra. Released in 2015 as part of the One Night Stand film series, this psychological thriller explores power, intimidation, obsession, and the fragile boundaries between professional responsibility and personal emotion.
Starring Halina Reijn and Thijs Boermans, the film follows a middle-aged teacher whose life becomes increasingly difficult after a disturbing new student enters her classroom. With its tense atmosphere and morally uncomfortable premise, De Leerling examines the dangerous dynamics that can develop between people in unequal positions of power.
Movie Summary
Lana is a forty-year-old Dutch teacher working at a secondary school. Her professional life takes a troubling turn when Benny, a sixteen-year-old student, joins her class.
Benny is aggressive, unpredictable, and skilled at intimidating those around him. He repeatedly humiliates Lana, undermining her confidence and making her feel increasingly powerless in her own classroom.
Although she is frightened by his behavior, Lana experiences an unexpected and deeply unsettling attraction toward him. This contradiction leaves her confused and struggling to understand her own reactions.
As Benny’s influence over her grows, Lana finds it increasingly difficult to maintain the boundaries expected of a teacher. She desperately tries to escape his psychological hold, but the situation becomes more complicated as fear, fascination, and emotional vulnerability begin to overlap.
The film follows Lana’s increasingly uncomfortable struggle to regain control of her life and professional identity.
Star Cast
- Halina Reijn as Lana – A forty-year-old Dutch teacher whose authority and emotional stability are challenged by her new student.
- Thijs Boermans as Benny – An aggressive and manipulative teenage student whose behavior has a disturbing effect on Lana.
- Ali Ben Horsting – Appears as Lana’s husband.
- Romy van der Vaart – Plays a supporting character connected to Lana’s family.
- Anna Hermanns – Appears in a supporting role.
- Fenna Ebbinge – Plays a student.
- Jasha Rudge – Appears as Jeremy.
What Makes De Leerling Worth Watching?
1. An Uncomfortable Psychological Story
The film explores an unusual and disturbing power dynamic, focusing on the emotional confusion and psychological pressure experienced by its central character.
2. Halina Reijn’s Performance
Halina Reijn brings intensity and vulnerability to Lana, portraying a woman struggling with fear, shame, and conflicting emotions.
3. A Tense School Setting
The familiar environment of a secondary school becomes increasingly threatening as Benny challenges the authority of the adults around him.
4. A Short, Focused Narrative
At approximately 50 minutes, the film delivers a concentrated psychological drama without the extended structure of a traditional feature-length movie.
Movie Details
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Movie Title | De Leerling |
| English Title | Under Tow |
| Alternative Title | One Night Stand X – De Leerling |
| Release Year | 2015 |
| Country | Netherlands |
| Genre | Drama, Romance, Psychological Thriller |
| Director | Rutger Veenstra |
| Screenplay | Rutger Veenstra |
| Main Cast | Halina Reijn, Thijs Boermans, Ali Ben Horsting |
| Language | Dutch |
| Runtime | 50 minutes |
| Cinematography | Gregg Telussa |
| Music | Jorrit Kleijnen, Alexander Reumers |
| Production Company | BIND |
| Original Broadcasters | NTR, VARA, VPRO |
| First Broadcast | October 9, 2015 |
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Where to Watch De Leerling (2015)
Availability may vary depending on your country and regional licensing agreements. Check local streaming services and Dutch television archives for possible viewing options.