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The Masquarade

THE MASQUERADE is a visually expressive short film that blurs the line between narrative cinema and music video. Through masks, performance and confrontation, the film explores themes of identity, loss and emotional exposure. Acting as an extension of HAYLID’s music, the film translates the emotional core of the EP into images rather than explanations: bold, direct and unapologetically visual.

  • Pim Petersen
    Writer
  • Pim Petersen
    Director
  • Benjamin Morris
    Cinematographer
    The Cupcake Recipe
  • Mel Struijk
    Gaffer
    Aggrieved, Tijdstrijd
  • Pim Petersen
    Editor
  • Terra van Elferen
    Production Manager
    Joe Speedboot, The Balloonist, Als uw gat maar lacht, My Best Friend Anne Frank, Last Day of Summer, Merhamet, Funny Feeling, Hot tub Suicide, Kung Fu Leeuw
  • Yantley La Cruz
    Production Assistant
  • Jarome Zimmerman
    Production Assistant
  • Maurice Gorsira
    Key Cast
    "The mask"
  • Kyara Gorsira
    Key Cast
    "Herself"
  • Rik Hoens
    Key Cast
    "Himself"
  • Daniel Kerkmeester
    Key Cast
    "Himself"
  • Jilles Peters
    Key Cast
    "Himself"
  • Olliver Ulrich
    Key Cast
    "Himself"
  • Project Type:
    Music Video, Short
  • Genres:
    Drama, Music, Fantasy, Adventure
  • Runtime:
    14 minutes 17 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    January 22, 2026
  • Country of Origin:
    Netherlands
  • Country of Filming:
    Netherlands
  • Language:
    Dutch, English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    4:3
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Digital Cinema Package:
    Unavailable
  • Premiere
    The Hague
    Netherlands
    January 23, 2026
    Official film premiere
Director Biography - Pim Petersen

Pim Petersen is a Dutch filmmaker and writer-director focused on visual storytelling and atmosphere. His work spans various forms and subjects, from short films to documentaries and applied projects. By prioritizing image and experience over explanation, he creates films that leave space for interpretation.

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Director Statement

THE MASQUERADE was such an undertaking, making it the first true short film I've directed. Working with 70 cast and crew members was a challenge, but the experience and result offered me comfort: writing and directing is what I want to do for the rest of my life. And for that I'll always be grateful.

This project was created with a strong emphasis on collaboration, performance and atmosphere. More than a videoclip, THE MASQUERADE is a short film that uses music as its emotional vessel.