Nova Zembla (2011)

Set in the heart of the historical epicenter of 1596, the Dutch city of Amsterdam is under the influential grip of Calvinist leader Petrus Plancius. In a desperate bid to rival the Spanish colonial trade, Plancius orchestrates a perilous expedition to uncover a North East passage to the Indies. The legendary explorer Willem Barentsz, haunted by past failures, is chosen to lead, alongside the pragmatic captain Jacob van Heemskerck. In a whirl of secrecy, Plancius's orphan foster son, Gerrit de Veer, is entrusted with the role of clerk-chronicler. However, unbeknownst to him, he is also tasked with sabotaging his clandestine romance with Plancius's daughter, Catharina. Initially scorned and belittled by a brutish crew, Gerrit's bravery eventually earns him their reluctant respect. As the expedition descends into treacherous waters, veiled instructions to substitute essential supplies with trade commodities come to light too late. Barentsz, steadfast in his adherence to an archaic map, insists on following the original, overly northern course. The result is a calamitous encounter with ice off Spitzbergen, forcing the crew to construct a makeshift winter shelter from their wrecked ship and fend off relentless polar bear attacks. Stranded on the icy outcrop of Novaya Zemlya, they must endure the harsh winter, their hopes pinned on a rescue in 1578. This captivating tale is told through Gerrit's eyes, providing an intimate account of their struggle for survival. Based loosely on the resilient officer's published diary from 1598, "Nova Zembla" weaves together a vivid tapestry of adventure, desperation, and the raw will to survive.

Nova Zembla is a drama movie featuring Robert de Hoog and directed by Reinout Oerlemans.

Nova Zembla is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Cineverse, Freevee and Tubi TV.

It is also possible to buy Nova Zembla on Amazon Video.