13 (1999)
A Belgian Dutch-language short drama in which a divine encounter sets one woman on an extraordinary, darkly comic mission of faith and motherhood.
13 - Movie Information
- Release Year: 1999
- Directed by: Gert Embrechts
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama
- Runtime: 15m
- Original Language: Dutch
- Release Date (Theatrical): January 24, 1999 (United States)
- Production Companies: Helado vzw
13 - Plot
When Jesus looks into the eyes of Magdalena, she thinks her fate is to become a nun. Until an angel tells her what God really wants: she must give birth to 13 children each of whom have to be born on the 13th of the month. So Magdalena sets to work.
Where to Watch 13
Looking for where to watch 13?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
13 - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Gert Embrechts
Main Cast
- Dimitri Duquennoy
- Ina Geerts
- Patricia Goemaere
- Lilian Keersmaekers
- Arthur Kristel
- Viviane de Muynck
- Sarah Van Marcke
- Lotte Vandersteene
Writers
- Gert Embrechts
Producers
- Gert Embrechts
13 - FAQs
What is 13 (1999) about?
13 follows Magdalena, a woman who locks eyes with Jesus and believes she is destined for the convent. An angel then reveals God's true plan: she must give birth to 13 children, each born on the 13th of the month. The film blends religious imagery with dark, deadpan humor in a compact 15-minute runtime.
Is 13 a short film or a feature?
13 is a short film, running just 15 minutes. Directed by Belgian filmmaker Gert Embrechts and released in 1999, it packs a complete narrative arc — complete with divine intervention and a very determined protagonist — into a tight, punchy runtime.
Who directed the 1999 short film 13?
Gert Embrechts directed 13, and also wrote and produced it. Embrechts is a Belgian filmmaker known for working in short-form storytelling, and this film showcases his ability to blend religious allegory with a wry, unsettling comic sensibility in a very compact format.
Where can you watch 13 (1999) online?
You can check current streaming and viewing options for 13 on JustWatch, which tracks availability across platforms in your region. Since it's a short film from 1999, availability may be limited, but JustWatch is the best place to find out where it's currently accessible.
What language is the 1999 film 13 in?
13 is a Dutch-language film, which places it firmly within the Belgian Dutch-speaking (Flemish) filmmaking tradition. For non-Dutch-speaking viewers, subtitles would typically be needed, and the film's dry, deadpan tone translates well across language barriers.
Who are the main cast members in 13?
The cast includes Dimitri Duquennoy, Ina Geerts, Patricia Goemaere, Lilian Keersmaekers, Arthur Kristel, Viviane de Muynck, Sarah Van Marcke, and Lotte Vandersteene. Viviane de Muynck is perhaps the most internationally recognized name, known for her work in Belgian theater and film.
What themes does the short film 13 explore?
13 plays with themes of religious devotion, divine calling, and female agency — all wrapped in a darkly comic premise. Magdalena's "mission" subverts traditional religious narratives by turning a spiritual encounter into an absurdly literal reproductive mandate, raising quiet questions about faith, obedience, and bodily autonomy.
What are similar films to 13 (1999)?
If you enjoyed 13, you might appreciate other short dramas like The Neighbors' Window (2019), Curfew (2012), or Anuja (2024). For something with a similar Flemish short-film sensibility, titles like Filip (2015) and Over Dinner (2013) offer comparable intimate, character-driven storytelling in a compact format.
More About 13
Explore further details about 13 on these trusted databases.