War film enthusiasts are praising an underrated Netflix drama as 'Oscar worthy' and comparing it to classics like Saving Private Ryan. The Forgotten Battle, a Dutch film released in 2020, has garnered a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and countless rave reviews for its moving storyline about real-life events during World War II.
A Forgotten Battle Brought to Life
Directed by Matthijs van Heijningen Jr., the film retells the story of the Battle of the Scheldt in 1944, a lesser-known conflict often overlooked in history books. This series of military operations aimed to open the Scheldt River for shipping between Antwerp and the North Sea, a crucial strategic objective. The film follows three perspectives: a Dutch Axis soldier, a British glider pilot, and a resistance woman from New Zealand, whose lives intersect on the flooded island of Walcheren.
Characters and Cast
The heart of the film lies in its three young characters, whose choices shape their futures and the freedom of those around them. The cast includes Susan Radder as Teuntje Visser, Gijs Blom as Marinus van Staveren, and Jamie Flatters as William Sinclair. Notably, British actor Tom Felton, famous for playing Draco Malfoy in the Harry Potter films, appears as Lieutenant Tony Turner. The film's strong focus on the brutality of battle and its immense impact on the war's outcome has resonated deeply with audiences.
Critical Acclaim and Viewer Reactions
Viewers have shared powerful reviews online. One Rotten Tomatoes user wrote: 'Before watching this film I had no prior knowledge of it and no particular expectation. However, I found it engrossing and extremely realistic. It made me reflect on what being a soldier could be like, and I thought of my grandad, who fought in the First World War. Ultimately, I found it very moving.' Another commented: 'A gripping war drama, detailing the horrors of war. Great acting, great cinematography. Based on factual events, of which I didn't know about.'
Netflix Success
Released exclusively on Netflix, The Forgotten Battle had a budget of approximately €14 million, making it the second most expensive Dutch film ever made. The investment paid off: within its first month, it ranked among Netflix's all-time top 10 non-English language movies, amassing 60.93 million hours watched in just 28 days. One reviewer described being 'intrigued' from the start, comparing it to 'a really good book that you read from start to finish in one sitting.' Another called it 'terrific' and 'gripping,' praising the realistic scenes and dialogue.
To experience this moving portrayal of the Battle of the Scheldt, stream The Forgotten Battle now exclusively on Netflix.
