The film was already made in 1968, but broadcast was delayed for two years. At the time, the only documentary about the controversial Dutch war collaborator Anton Mussert consisted of archive material, and could only be shown in academic circles. Since it merely highlighted Mussert's demonic nature, Paul Verhoeven was determined to make a documentary that would also portray the human side of the NSB frontman. The VPRO network agreed, and Verhoeven conducted interviews with contemporaries of Mussert, including NSB members such as E.J. Roskam and Florrie Rost van Tonningen. However, because of the sensitive nature of the subject, the first showing on television was canceled at the eleventh hour at the recommendation of historian Loe De Jong. Two years later, the director of the VPRO (who had not been involved in the cancellation) suggested some changes to Verhoeven to make the film more acceptable for the public. Some footage of concentration camps and a narration were added, and the film was finally shown on Dutch television in 1970.