Dutch documentary film-maker Johan van der Keuken will be presented with the Bert Haanstra award in recognition of his life-time's work at the International Documentary Filmfestival Amsterdam (November 21-29).

The Dutch Film Fund, which will present the award, described van der Keuken as a "cinematic poet whose international acclaim is impressive". His latest film, produced this year, is the award-winning The Long Holiday, which documents his battle against prostate cancer.

Meanwhile, the Dutch Film Fund plans to step up its support of documentaries, and has appointed producer-director Kees Ryninks to scout new projects and talent. Ryninks returned to the Netherlands in 1997 after working for 15 years in the UK on both drama and documentaries. His credits include Sonja Herman Dolz' portrait of Cuban musicians, Lagrimas Negras, which won several international festival awards.