centrum
Delicious Solitude
by Masha Gurova
Discover the resilient journey of Hanneke, a 64-year-old restaurateur in Amsterdam, as she navigates life alone after her husband’s sudden departure years ago. Delicious Solitude is a thoughtful exploration of solitude, strength, and finding fulfillment on one’s own terms.
THE STORY OF Hanneke
The short documentary follows Hanneke, the 64-year-old owner of a cozy Bouchon Lyonnaise in the heart of Amsterdam. For 24 years, her restaurant has been a testament to her resilience and hard work, as she single-handedly manages everything—from handling supplies to cooking, serving more than 10 tables, and keeping the space spotless.
At 40, Hanneke's life took an unexpected turn when her husband of 14 years abruptly left her, leaving only a note on the kitchen table.
She never saw him again and never had the family she once envisioned. Instead, she poured her energy into building a life of independence through her restaurant.
The documentary explores Hanneke's unique journey, capturing her daily routines, her strength, and her relationship with solitude. As she reflects on her past and her present, the film poses a poignant question: is it possible to live alone and still find fulfillment and connection?
THE DIRECTOR
Masha Gurova is a director captivated by cinema's ability to explore new forms and experiment with storytelling.
Her path to filmmaking was not straightforward—she left her career in digital marketing in 2019 to pursue her passion, enrolling in a six-month film school program. During this time, she directed her first psychological horror, The Head, which delves into the subconscious and blurs the lines between dreams and reality.
Masha later ventured into documentary filmmaking with Kikel, a short novel that gained recognition at multiple film festivals. Her Dutch debut, Delicious Solitude, was part of the anthology film Amsterthem, showcasing her ability to capture the essence of individuals in intimate and reflective ways.
For Masha, filmmaking is about connecting deeply with people’s stories, regardless of genre, and sharing their unique experiences with authenticity and artistry.
