The Children of Ruinerwold
On October 13, 2019, the Dutch village Ruinerwold becomes world news when a hidden farm is discovered. One of the children who lives there runs away and asks for help. Together with his sibling, he turns out to have led a secret, unrecorded life for years. The four oldest children tell their exclusive story in this 4-episode documentary series. They talk about their hidden existence, the faith of their father and the alleged abuse within the family. The documentary shows them as they celebrate a birthday for the first time, receive their own ID and visit their father in prison.
Cast: Jessica Villerius
Season 1
5 episodes
1. Episode 1After escaping the family farm, 24-year-old Israel is reunited with his older brothers, Shin and Edino, and sister Mar Jan. Together they recount their experiences growing up.9CC46minMar 24, 2021
2. Episode 2Allegations of physical and sexual abuse are discussed, and three of the older children decide to visit their father, who is being held in a secure hospital, following a stroke.9CC46minMar 31, 2021
3. Episode 3As their father’s trial starts, the four older children unpack the painful allegations of physical, emotional and sexual abuse and finally meet their five younger siblings, all now young adults, who continue to support their father.9CC45minApr 7, 2021
4. Episode 4As their father’s physical and mental state delays the trial, the four older children regroup, concerned for the welfare of their five younger siblings.9CC45minApr 14, 2021
5. Episode 5Shin, Mar Jan and Edino talk about how they fled. They tell how they had nothing, could pay nothing, but still had to organize their lives 'outside'. It also becomes clear that no one knew what their past really was, until now.9CC45minApr 15, 2021
The Children of Ruinerwold
On October 13, 2019, the Dutch village Ruinerwold becomes world news when a hidden farm is discovered. One of the children who lives there runs away and asks for help. Together with his sibling, he turns out to have led a secret, unrecorded life for years. The four oldest children tell their exclusive story in this 4-episode documentary series. They talk about their hidden existence, the faith of their father and the alleged abuse within the family. The documentary shows them as they celebrate a birthday for the first time, receive their own ID and visit their father in prison.
Creators and cast
- Directors
- Jessica Villerius
- Created by
- Jessica Villerius
- Studio
- Posh Productions
Maturity rating
9Check the rating before watching with younger viewers.
Audio languages
French, Dutch
Where to watch
Stream
