
Stand Up follows Vera, a carefree 23-year-old whose life changes after an accident leaves her using a wheelchair. As she struggles with the shift in her circumstances, a meeting with Xander helps her reconsider what independence and possibility can look like.
Stand Up is a 2026 drama about a young woman confronting a sudden, life-altering change. Vera begins the story as a fun-loving 23-year-old, but an accident leaves her in a wheelchair and forces her to reassess the life she thought she knew.
The film centers on Vera’s adjustment and her connection with Xander, who helps her understand that using a wheelchair does not mean her life has come to a standstill. Mari Sanders wrote and directed the Dutch- and English-language production.
Stand Up movie details
| Title | Stand Up |
|---|---|
| Release date | |
| Runtime | 1h 35m |
| Genres | Drama |
| Director | Mari Sanders |
| Writer | Mari Sanders |
| Country | Netherlands, Greece |
| Languages | Dutch, English |
| Status | Released |
Story without spoilers
Vera’s life is upended when an accident leaves her in a wheelchair. Struggling to cope with her new circumstances, she meets Xander. Their connection becomes important as Vera begins to look beyond the idea that her disability has limited her future or left her unable to move forward in life.

What to expect
Stand Up is identified as a drama, with its story focused on personal adjustment, changed circumstances and the relationship between Vera and Xander. The premise points to an emotionally grounded character story about adapting to a new reality and recognizing possibilities that may initially be difficult to see.
Cast and creative team
Lucia Zemene plays Vera, while Daan Buringa portrays Xander. The cast also includes Kendrick Etmon, Hana Hussein, Guy Clemens and Tamar van den Dop. Mari Sanders is credited as both director and writer.
- Lucia Zemene as Vera
- Daan Buringa as Xander
- Kendrick Etmon
- Hana Hussein
- Guy Clemens
- Tamar van den Dop
Release and production context
Stand Up is a 2026 production from the Netherlands and Greece. It is listed as released on November 12, 2026, and has a runtime of 1 hour and 35 minutes. The film uses both Dutch and English.
Movies Dock view
With its focused premise and compact runtime, Stand Up presents a drama about the disruption caused by an accident and the gradual reconsideration of what life in a wheelchair can mean. Its central story is carried by Vera’s adjustment and her meeting with Xander.
Frequently asked questions
What is Stand Up about?
Stand Up follows Vera, a 23-year-old whose life changes after an accident leaves her in a wheelchair. She later meets Xander, who helps her see that her life is not over or fixed in place.
Who plays Vera in Stand Up?
Lucia Zemene plays Vera.
Who plays Xander in Stand Up?
Daan Buringa plays Xander.
Who directed and wrote Stand Up?
Mari Sanders directed and wrote the film.
What genre is Stand Up?
Stand Up is a drama.















