Reykjavik to Rotterdam (2007)

Reykjavik to Rotterdam (2007) is a documentary film directed by Ruurd Oosterbaan. The film follows Dutch filmmaker and journalist Maarten van Rijn on a journey as he attempts to purchase, transport, and legally sell 100 kilograms of marijuana from Iceland to the Netherlands. The premise of the documentary hinges on the differing legal statuses of cannabis in the two countries, exploring the complexities and perceived inconsistencies of drug policy within the European Union.

The film documents the challenges van Rijn faces, including navigating Icelandic laws, sourcing a significant quantity of marijuana, dealing with logistical hurdles associated with transportation, and interacting with law enforcement officials both in Iceland and the Netherlands. The documentary also includes interviews with experts, politicians, and individuals involved in the cannabis trade, providing context and diverse perspectives on the issues raised by van Rijn's experiment.

The film generated significant media attention and sparked debate about drug policy reform and the regulation of cannabis in Europe. Its impact extended beyond the immediate controversy, contributing to broader discussions on the effectiveness of existing laws and the potential alternatives for managing the production, distribution, and consumption of cannabis. The documentary seeks to illustrate the perceived absurdity of laws that criminalize activities considered harmless by some, and to highlight the difficulties faced by individuals navigating conflicting legal frameworks.