“Character is a film of epic proportions. Beautifully shot, with gifted performances, this tale lies somewhere between Oedipus and Dickens. A rich and nasty bailiff is dead, apparently killed by his illegitimate son, Katradeuffe, who is seen leaving the scene of the crime. When the police interrogate him, Katradeuffe recounts a bittersweet love story within a murder mystery. Teased for being the bastard child of a servant, he has been overpowered at every turn, even in his love life, by his harsh father. His hatred for his father is passionate, but forceful enough to murder? Dutch director Mike van Diem’s feature film debut is an intensely emotional paradox. How can one man, seemingly decent and honorable, be accused of such a heinous crime? Rich, complex and moving, this is one of those rare films that feels like an instant, cinematic classic.” -PSIFF 1998