Dertigers: Season 1 (2019)

In the first episode of "Dertigers," we are introduced to a group of young friends living in a small town. The main character, a passionate and ambitious soccer player named Joris, dreams of making it big in the sport. He is often seen practicing on the field, showcasing his skills and determination. His best friend, a more laid-back character named Sam, supports him but is more focused on enjoying life and having fun. The dynamics of their friendship are established, highlighting Joris's drive and Sam's carefree attitude.

As the episode progresses, the group of friends, including Joris, Sam, and a few others, decide to form a soccer team to compete in a local tournament. They gather at Joris's house to discuss their plans, and excitement fills the air. However, tensions arise when they realize they need a coach. Joris is determined to convince his former coach, who has a reputation for being tough but fair, to help them. This decision sets the stage for the challenges they will face.

In a pivotal scene, Joris approaches the former coach, who initially refuses to take on the responsibility. Joris passionately argues for the team's potential, revealing his deep desire to succeed. The coach, moved by Joris's determination, reluctantly agrees to help them, but only under strict conditions. This moment marks a turning point for Joris, as he realizes the weight of leadership and the commitment required to pursue their dreams.

The team begins training under the coach's guidance, and the rigorous practices push them to their limits. Each character's personality shines through during these sessions; Joris's competitive nature drives him to excel, while Sam struggles to keep up but remains supportive. The camaraderie among the team grows, but so do the pressures of competition. Joris becomes increasingly focused on winning, which leads to friction with some teammates who feel overwhelmed.

As the tournament approaches, the team faces a major setback when one of their key players, a talented striker named Max, injures himself during practice. The injury threatens their chances in the tournament, and Joris is faced with a difficult decision: to either replace Max or to rally the team to adapt and overcome the loss. He chooses the latter, emphasizing teamwork and resilience, which inspires the group to come together.

On the day of the tournament, the atmosphere is electric. The team arrives at the field, filled with a mix of excitement and anxiety. Joris delivers a motivational speech, urging everyone to play their best and enjoy the game. The first match begins, and the team struggles initially, facing a strong opponent. Joris's frustration grows as he tries to lead the team, but they fail to execute his strategies.

During halftime, Joris reflects on his approach and realizes he needs to trust his teammates more. He encourages them to play freely and support one another. The second half sees a transformation; the team plays with renewed energy and cohesion. They score a crucial goal, igniting their spirits. The match ends in a nail-biting finish, and they emerge victorious, celebrating their hard-fought win.

However, the victory is bittersweet as Joris grapples with the pressure of expectations. He begins to question whether his ambition is worth the strain it puts on his friendships. This internal conflict sets the stage for future challenges, as the team prepares for the next round of the tournament, and Joris must learn to balance his drive with the importance of camaraderie.

In subsequent episodes, the team faces various obstacles, including rival teams, personal conflicts, and the strain of competition. Joris's leadership is tested as he navigates the complexities of friendship, ambition, and the realities of sports. Each character's journey unfolds, revealing their motivations and struggles, ultimately leading to a climactic showdown in the tournament that will determine their futures both on and off the field.

In the ending of "Dertigers," the main characters face the consequences of their actions throughout the season. The group, having navigated various personal and collective challenges, comes to a pivotal moment that tests their bonds and individual growth. The season concludes with a sense of resolution for some, while others are left with unresolved issues, setting the stage for potential future developments.

As the final episode unfolds, the tension among the group reaches its peak. The characters gather at a familiar location, a place that has been significant throughout their journey. The atmosphere is heavy with unspoken words and lingering emotions. Each character reflects on their personal struggles and the choices they have made, leading to a moment of reckoning.

Scene by scene, the narrative begins with the group arriving at the location, a once vibrant space now tinged with nostalgia. The camera captures their expressions--anxiety, determination, and a hint of hope. They sit in a circle, mirroring their initial gatherings, but this time the stakes are higher.

One character, who has been a source of conflict, stands up to address the group. Their voice trembles with vulnerability as they recount their journey, acknowledging the mistakes made and the pain caused. The others listen intently, their faces a mix of empathy and frustration. This moment serves as a catalyst for the group to confront their own shortcomings.

As the conversation unfolds, another character, who has been struggling with feelings of isolation, finally speaks up. They share their own experiences of feeling unheard and unvalued, which resonates deeply with the others. This moment of honesty fosters a sense of unity, as the group begins to understand the importance of communication and support.

The climax of the episode occurs when a sudden external conflict arises, forcing the group to band together. A crisis, perhaps a threat to their community or a personal emergency, brings them closer as they work to resolve the issue. The tension is palpable, and the stakes are high, showcasing their growth as individuals and as a collective.

In the aftermath of the crisis, the characters experience a cathartic release. They embrace one another, tears of relief and joy mingling as they realize the strength of their bond. Each character reflects on their journey, acknowledging the lessons learned and the relationships forged.

As the episode draws to a close, the camera pans over the group, now more united than ever. However, the fate of each character is left somewhat open-ended. One character decides to pursue a new opportunity, symbolizing growth and the courage to embrace change. Another chooses to stay behind, committed to rebuilding their relationships and community. The final moments capture the essence of hope and resilience, leaving viewers with a sense of anticipation for what lies ahead.

In summary, the ending of "Dertigers" encapsulates the themes of growth, connection, and the complexities of human relationships, while also leaving room for future exploration of the characters' journeys.

In "Dertigers," Season 1, there is indeed a post-credit scene that adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. After the final episode concludes, the screen fades to black, and a few moments later, it cuts to a dimly lit room filled with shadows. The camera slowly pans across the space, revealing various photographs pinned to a corkboard, each depicting key moments from the season, including the main characters in tense situations and moments of camaraderie.

As the camera continues to move, a figure steps into the light, revealing a character who has been somewhat of a mystery throughout the season. This character, whose identity is initially obscured, begins to speak in a low, conspiratorial tone, hinting at a larger plan that has been set in motion. The dialogue is cryptic, filled with references to events that have transpired and foreshadowing future conflicts.

The emotional weight of the scene is palpable, as the character expresses a mix of determination and urgency, suggesting that the stakes are about to rise significantly for the protagonists. The scene ends with a close-up of the character's face, a smirk forming as they look directly into the camera, leaving viewers with a sense of foreboding and anticipation for what is to come in the next season. The post-credit scene effectively ties together themes of secrecy and betrayal that have been woven throughout the season, setting the stage for deeper intrigue in future episodes.

Joris is driven by a deep desire to prove himself both to his family and to the community. He struggles with feelings of inadequacy, stemming from his father's expectations and the pressure to succeed in the competitive world of football. His internal conflict is palpable as he navigates friendships and rivalries, often leading him to make impulsive decisions that reflect his need for validation.

Lotte serves as both a love interest and a source of emotional support for Joris. Her unwavering belief in his potential contrasts with his self-doubt, pushing him to confront his fears. Their relationship is tested by external pressures, including the demands of the sport and the expectations of their peers, but ultimately, Lotte becomes a catalyst for Joris's growth.

Initially, Joris's relationship with his father is strained, marked by high expectations and disappointment. As the season progresses, moments of vulnerability emerge, revealing the father's own fears and regrets. A pivotal scene occurs when they share a rare moment of honesty after a match, allowing Joris to express his frustrations, which leads to a tentative reconciliation.

The team encounters various challenges, including internal conflicts, injuries, and the pressure of high-stakes matches. A significant turning point occurs when a key player is injured, forcing the team to adapt and rely on their camaraderie. This struggle not only tests their skills but also their unity, highlighting the importance of teamwork and resilience.

Coach Van der Meer is a strict yet passionate leader whose coaching style initially creates tension within the team. His tough love approach pushes the players to their limits, but as the season unfolds, it becomes clear that he genuinely cares for their development. His backstory reveals his own struggles with failure, which adds depth to his character and influences how he mentors Joris and the others.

"Dertigers" is a drama series that explores complex themes and character dynamics, which may not be suitable for all audiences, particularly children or sensitive viewers. Here are some potentially objectionable or upsetting aspects that may occur:

1. Emotional Turmoil: Characters often experience intense emotional struggles, including grief, betrayal, and conflict, which may be distressing for younger viewers.

2. Family Conflict: The show delves into family issues, including arguments and misunderstandings that can create a tense atmosphere.

3. Themes of Loss: There are moments that deal with loss and the impact it has on family members, which could be upsetting for sensitive viewers.

4. Social Issues: The series touches on social issues that may be difficult to understand for younger audiences, such as poverty and discrimination.

5. Mature Language: There may be instances of strong language or adult themes that could be inappropriate for children.

6. Physical Altercations: Some scenes may involve confrontations or physical altercations that could be alarming.

These elements contribute to the overall emotional weight of the series, making it more suitable for older teens and adults rather than a family-friendly viewing experience.