The Eating Club on Netflix: what does Saskia Noort think of the series?
Of course, I've already watched it again. Seven episodes cleanly lined up. And I just love Dutch series. And I'm not alone in that, because the new Netflix series The Eating Club is already at number 1. I really think that's deserved. What a top series. The cast, the houses, and the beautiful location where everything takes place. I read the book back then, but since that was so long ago (2004), it didn't ruin my own interpretation of the series.
But there is of course one person whose opinion is really interesting: that of Saskia Noort herself, the author of the book on which the series is based.
The Eating Club on Netflix: what is the series about?
In The Eating Club we see a group of wealthy friends who all lead a perfect life. All cozy dinners, children of similar ages, the most beautiful houses in the dunes, and really close friendships form the series. But behind that neat exterior, suddenly very different things start to happen. The friends may be too close to each other, while alcohol and drugs glue their nights together every weekend.
And something happens that will blow everything apart. Secrets, tensions, arguments, and relationships flow like blood vessels through the friend group. It all starts so fun and cozy, but quickly turns into an exciting thriller where nothing is as it seems.
The series is based on the book by Saskia Noort
The Eating Club is therefore based on the book by Saskia Noort. Her book was also previously adapted into a film in 2010, but now there is a series. This version does much better justice with seven episodes, as it has much more space to develop all the characters better, deepen relationships further, and tell the story more extensively.
By the way, the screenwriter and series maker of The Eating Club, Dorien Goertzen, has also previously collaborated with Saskia Noort on New Neighbours. That too is a series based on a book by Saskia Noort.
Also, the cast of The Eating Club is a hit
And then the cast, because I really think they are perfectly chosen for this series. What a good choice of actors. I actually think everyone is strong in their role. I really love series where Rifka Lodeizen plays. What a top talent she is. But also Loes Haverkort, Charlie-Chan Dagelet, and Noortje Herlaar, all perfect roles and characters. I didn't know Matthijs van de Sande Bakhuyzen as an actor yet, but he played his role brilliantly.
But again, that applies to the entire cast. The relationships, the tension, and the way the characters interact with each other feel very natural.
But what does Saskia Noort herself think of the Netflix series?
I am really curious about that. In an interview with NU.nl Saskia says that the series feels like a kind of tribute to the book for her. That as an author, it is of course extra special to see your own book being adapted again. Especially when the story has existed for years and now reaches a new audience via Netflix.
In her response, she also shares how she experienced the adaptation and what she thinks of the way her story and characters have been reworked.
“The creators have taken their freedom, and I think that works very well.”
She also addresses the space that a series offers to further develop the story. That depth can make an important difference compared to an earlier adaptation.
The Eating Club is, in my opinion, a must-watch
As I wrote, I completely understand why The Eating Club is currently being watched so much. The series has tension, secrets, complicated relationships, and enough developments to keep you curious for the next episode.
I love Dutch series, especially thrillers where an apparently perfect life slowly falls apart. So, The Eating Club you could definitely add it to your Netflix list. And Saskia? Is there also a sequel coming?
Have you actually seen The Eating Club?
