iHostage: The 2022 Apple Store incident that inspired Netflix's new Dutch thriller
The Netflix thriller iHostage, directed by Bobby Boermans, is based on the February 2022 Apple Store hostage crisis in Amsterdam's Leidseplein.
A 27-year-old man entered the store around 5:30 p.m., armed and wearing camouflage gear, and held a 44-year-old Bulgarian customer at gunpoint while demanding €200 million in cryptocurrency and a safe exit. The hostage situation lasted nearly five hours and drew a swift response from Dutch special forces.
During the incident, police evacuated around 70 people from the building, including customers who had hidden in storage areas. Gunfire was exchanged early in the standoff, and authorities initially feared the presence of explosives. The suspect also sent selfies and photos to local media, intensifying public attention.
The crisis ended when the suspect requested water. A robot delivered a bottle, and as the hostage moved to retrieve it, he fled. The suspect gave chase and was struck by a police vehicle outside the store. He was taken to a hospital but died from his injuries. Authorities later confirmed he was not carrying explosives.
Director Boermans, who lives near the Apple Store, was influenced by the real-life event and developed iHostage to explore the tension and complexity of that night. The film condenses the timeline and focuses on five fictional characters inspired by the wide range of individuals involved.
The suspect, later identified as Abdel Rahman Akkad, had a history of legal issues, including previous convictions for weapons possession and harassment. The decision to neutralise him with a vehicle sparked national debate. The Public Prosecution Service ultimately found the officer's actions justified, citing the urgent need to protect lives.
iHostage is now available to watch on Netflix.
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