Born in 1950, attended high school and studied Sociology. From 1978 to 1982, he attended directing and acting lessons at drama school in Amsterdam. At the same time, he taught sociology for 11 years, director of the other productions in schools, in areas of Rotterdam and in Amsterdam jail with prisoners. In 1984, he resigned as teacher and studied production work on the documentary “Where the Rats Are King” by Barbara den Uyl. In 1987, he founded Van der Hoop Film productions where he worked as producer and director.
Foundation Van der Hoop Filmproducties was founded in 1987 by Leen van den Berg and Barbara den Uyl and focuses on directing, producing and editing documentaries and experimental films and to a large extent.
Most films produced and directed are characterised by their social and political commitment.