Character Relationship Map: Nena

Characters

• Nena (played by Abbey Hoes) — protagonist

  Protagonist navigating adolescence in the Netherlands in 1989. The narrative draws inspiration from the director's own youth and family experiences.

• Carlo (played by Gijs Blom) — protagonist
• Martin (played by Uwe Ochsenknecht) — supporting
• Martha (played by Monic Hendrickx) — supporting
• Theo (played by Fabian Jansen) — supporting
• Paul (played by André Jung) — supporting
• Heidemarie (played by Rachelle Verdel) — supporting
• Froukje (played by Robin Kraakman) — supporting
• Rector (played by Michiel Nooter) — supporting
• Chemistry teacher (played by Nelleke Zitman) — supporting

Key Relationships

• Martin → Paul (Social Friend)
• Martin → Martha (Family Spouse)
• Nena → Rector (Professional School Authority)
• Nena → Chemistry teacher (Professional Teacher)
• Nena → Heidemarie (Professional Teacher)
• Nena → Froukje (Social Friend)
• Nena → Theo (Social Friend)
• Nena → Carlo (Romantic Love Interest)
• Nena → Martha (Family Mother)
• Nena → Martin (Family Father)

Story Analysis

A coming-of-age drama exploring adolescence and family illness through a deeply personal lens.

Plot Progression

1. Setting the Stage
2. Navigating Family Trials
3. Romantic & Personal Growth
4. Critical Acclaim & Premiere