The Last Vermeer

In the aftermath of World War II, Captain Joseph Piller is tasked with investigating the enigmatic artist Han van Meegeren. His objective is to uncover the mysterious circumstances surrounding Van Meegeren's recent arrest for selling a painting to Hermann Goering.

Han van Meegeren is arrested under accusations of fraud for selling a painting misconstrued as a Vermeer. The arrest, while seemingly simple, begins to unravel deeper complexities as Piller probes into the case.

As Piller delves into the investigation, he grows increasingly suspicious about Alex De Klerks' motives in pursuing Van Meegeren’s case. This unease sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the artist's past.

Through interrogations, Piller learns that Van Meegeren has led a double life, oscillating between a talented artist and a cunning fraud. His deceitful practices included fabricating lost Vermeer paintings to sustain a lavish lifestyle.

With Allied forces preparing to leave the Netherlands, Piller's realization that Van Meegeren may face the death penalty for looting spurs him into action. The pressure mounts as time runs short to clear Van Meegeren’s name.

Piller's former secretary, Minna, bursts into his home with urgent news about a Vermeer portrait resembling Piller’s love interest, Cootje. This startling connection deepens Piller’s resolve to uncover the truth about Van Meegeren.

Piller's curiosity leads him back to an abandoned safehouse, where he uncovers an unfinished canvas by Van Meegeren that resembles a painting confiscated from the Nazis. This discovery fuels Piller's belief in Van Meegeren's innocence.

During the court trial, Van Meegeren pleads his case, claiming to have depicted Piller himself on canvas. Despite his passionate defense, the prosecution secures a strong argument leading the judges to impose a severe sentence.

In a dramatic turn of events, Piller creates a diversion in the courtroom which allows him to secretly tamper with one of Van Meegeren's paintings. This act of desperation introduces new evidence that challenges the prosecution’s case.

The unexpected reveal of Van Meegeren's signature on a tampered painting leads to immediate disbelief and excitement in the courtroom. Piller’s actions culminate in an overturned verdict, transforming Van Meegeren into a public hero.

Following the trial’s outcome, De Klerks confronts Piller with a book written by Van Meegeren dedicated to Adolf Hitler. This revelation adds a troubling layer to the investigation and forces Piller to reevaluate his stance.

Piller visits Van Meegeren to confront him about the book, but is met with scorn. Disillusioned, Piller walks away, realizing the depth of deception that surrounds the artist and his choices.

In a gesture of cleansing, Piller throws the incriminating book into the flames. This act symbolizes his rejection of the lies that have been woven throughout the investigation and his commitment to seek the truth.

As the truth unveils, Piller reflects on the betrayal and moral complexities that arose during his investigation. The tumultuous journey illustrates the broader consequences of war on humanity and culture.