The movie "Jimpa," a heartfelt exploration of queer identity and family dynamics, has garnered strong acclaim from its lead actor, John Lithgow. The film, which recently had its Dutch premiere, is lauded by Lithgow for its capacity to broaden perspectives and foster greater understanding in a challenging global climate. He underscores the film's timely message of empathy and kindness, expressing immense pride in his involvement with such a significant project.
Film 'Jimpa' Premieres at IFFR, Featuring Lithgow's Moving Performance
On Sunday, February 1, 2026, the 55th International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) hosted the Dutch premiere of “Jimpa.” This new feature film, directed by Sophie Hyde, delves into themes of queer identity, parenthood, and complex intergenerational connections. Celebrated actor John Lithgow stars alongside Olivia Colman and Aud Mason-Hyde, the director's child, bringing to life a narrative that resonated deeply with audiences.
The story centers on Lithgow’s character, Jim, a charismatic nonconformist who prefers to be called “Jimpa” to avoid the traditional “grandpa” title. Jim, inspired by Hyde’s late gay activist father, chose to live an openly gay life in Amsterdam, leaving behind his conventional family. The film chronicles a visit from his daughter Hannah (Colman), her non-binary teenager Frances (Mason-Hyde), and her husband (Daniel Henshall) to Jimpa’s Amsterdam home. Jimpa encourages Frances to immerse herself in Amsterdam's vibrant queer scene, where Frances encounters various individuals portrayed by talents like Romana Vrede, Hans Kesting, and Zoë Love Smith.
Following the Rotterdam screening, Lithgow and members of the Dutch cast participated in a panel discussion titled “Big Talk: A Queer Family Affair,” moderated by Dutch actress Hanna van Vliet. The session highlighted the ongoing struggles for queer rights worldwide, underscoring the film's relevance. Producer Marleen Slot emphasized the film's core message of “connection,” while director Sophie Hyde shared personal insights into the character of Jimpa, drawing parallels to her own father, who was a “very eccentric gay man” and later lived with HIV. Hyde expressed a wish that her child and her father could have shared their experiences and identities.
Lithgow, who also addressed the controversy surrounding J.K. Rowling’s anti-trans comments and his role as Albus Dumbledore in an upcoming series, praised the collaborative spirit on the “Jimpa” set, describing the entire experience as “a party” filled with shared excitement among the Australian crew and Dutch hosts. He spoke highly of Olivia Colman, calling her “an amazing actress” with profound emotional depth.
The veteran actor articulated his hopes for the film’s societal impact, stating that such projects have the power to “expand people’s consciousness, tolerance, acceptance of certain realities – empathetic films.” He reflected on his long career, noting that only a handful of films, including “Jimpa,” have filled him with such profound pride. Lithgow drew a poignant connection to the current global climate, observing, “Especially in this kind of hothouse moment where there’s such cruelty in the world and such misuse of power over people, it’s just wonderful that there’s a film that is all about empathy and kindness.” He acknowledged Jimpa’s occasional thoughtlessness but ultimately described him as “a dear man.”
Other cast members echoed Lithgow’s sentiments of joy and camaraderie during filming. Kesting remarked on the “love from the beginning” and Hyde’s success in fostering genuine “connection” among the cast. Smith shared her excitement about her first major international role, recalling an “immediate warmth and connection” during her audition. Vrede humorously expressed her delight at working alongside “John and Olivia,” commending their humble and grateful attitudes.
Smith also discussed the unique experience of filming an intimate scene with the director’s own child, Mason-Hyde, in the director's presence. While initially “a little bit awkward,” she found that when Sophie and Aud were on set, they transitioned into professional colleagues, making the scene less uncomfortable. She concluded that despite its intimate appearance, the scene was meticulously rehearsed, highlighting the technical artistry involved.
“Jimpa” stands as a testament to the transformative power of cinema, offering a narrative that not only entertains but also encourages introspection and a deeper appreciation for the diverse tapestry of human experience. In a world often polarized, the film emerges as a beacon of understanding, advocating for compassion and acceptance. Its exploration of complex family bonds and queer identity provides a timely and essential commentary on the evolving nature of human connection and the enduring need for empathy.