Fernand Moszkowicz (1910 - 2002) was a Dutch film director and screenwriter. He was one of the most influential figures in Dutch cinema and a major influence on the development of the Dutch New Wave.
Born in Amsterdam in 1910, Moszkowicz was the son of a Jewish diamond cutter. He studied at the City Academy of Arts and Crafts, and found work as an assistant cameraman in the 1930s. During this time, he developed a keen interest in film and was heavily influenced by German Expressionism.
In the late 1940s, Moszkowicz directed his first feature film, 'The White Horseman'. This film was a commercial success and established Moszkowicz as a director of note. He went on to direct a total of 23 films, including 'The Sea of Desperation' (1954), 'The Burning Heart' (1961) and 'The Bridge of Silence' (1966). His films often explored themes of love, loss and redemption, and featured strong female leads.
During the 1950s and 60s, Moszkowicz was a key figure in the development of the Dutch New Wave. He championed the work of young filmmakers, including Jan de Bont and Adriaan Ditvoorst. He was also a mentor to many of the leading directors of the era, including Paul Verhoeven and Frans Weisz. His influence was so great that he was commonly referred to as the "Dutch Hitchcock".
Moszkowicz was awarded the Knight of the Order of Orange Nassau in 1965, in recognition of his contribution to Dutch cinema. He retired from directing in 1969, but remained active in the film industry. He wrote several screenplays and produced numerous films.
Moszkowicz was a highly respected figure in Dutch cinema and his influence is still felt today. He was a master of psychological drama and a pioneer of the Dutch New Wave. His films remain timeless classics, beloved by audiences in the Netherlands and around the world.
