Boris Gerrets is a multifaceted creative force, excelling as a film director, writer, and editor. Born in Amsterdam, Netherlands, to a Bulgarian-German family, he was immersed in a cosmopolitan environment from a young age, having spent his childhood in the Netherlands, Spain, Sierra Leone, and Germany.
Gerrets' early academic pursuits took him to RWTH Aachen University, Germany, where he initially studied architecture. He later shifted his focus to art history at the University of Bonn, Germany, before earning a Master's in Fine Arts from the Düsseldorf Art Academy in 1976. This artistic foundation laid the groundwork for his subsequent endeavors in the visual arts, dance, and theatre, which spanned the 1980s and 1990s. During this period, he exhibited and toured his work across Europe, cultivating a reputation as a talented and innovative artist.
Gerrets' entry into the film world marked a significant turning point in his career. His 2010 film, People I Could Have Been and Maybe Am, garnered widespread acclaim and won an impressive twelve awards. Shot entirely on a mobile phone, this groundbreaking documentary created an intimate portrait of modern urban life, celebrated for its humanity and poignancy. Even after the festival circuit concluded, the film left a lasting impact on the documentary filmmaking landscape, fostering a loyal fan base.
Gerrets' subsequent film, Shado'man (2013),was set against the gritty backdrop of Freetown, Sierra Leone, at night. This bold and unflinching portrayal of life on the streets earned widespread critical acclaim, with many praising the film's cinematography, reminiscent of the works of masters such as Goya, Caravaggio, and Rembrandt. In recognition of his innovative approach to documentary filmmaking, Gerrets received the Prins Bernhard Cultuurfonds in 2013. The following year, he was honored as the Laureate of the Aster Award for his significant contribution to the world of film art.
