The Forgotten Battle, a Dutch war drama on Netflix, has earned a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes and is being praised by viewers as an "Oscar worthy" hidden gem. The film, released in 2020, chronicles the 1944 Battle of the Scheldt, a relatively obscure and "forgotten" chapter from World War II.
A Dutch Production With a Big Budget
Directed by Matthijs van Heijningen Jr from a screenplay by Paula van der Oest, the film features Gijs Blom, Jamie Flatters, Tom Felton, Susan Radder, Jan Bijvoet, Coen Bril, Theo Barklem-Biggs and Scott Reid among its ensemble cast. It ranks as the second most expensive Dutch production ever created, following the 2006 picture Black Book (Zwartboek). The Forgotten Battle was produced on a budget of roughly €14 million and earned $6 million at the box office.
Audiences have described the film as "spectacular", "unflinching", "outstanding", and "phenomenal". Some war cinema devotees claim the little-known Dutch production surpasses even Saving Private Ryan, frequently regarded as the Holy Grail of war films.
Critics and Viewers Agree
The war drama's official synopsis reads: "In WWII's final years, a soldier in the German army, a British glider pilot, and a Dutch resistance fighter's paths intertwine. Their choices shape destinies, impacting not only their freedom but also that of others."
One reviewer described the film: "Unflinching, brutal, terrifying, sad, and gut-wrenching, The Forgotton Battle is at times absolutely stunning." Another critic noted: "If you've been missing a spectacular but uncomplicated wartime epic, this is it." A third review stated: "Sure to satisfy history buffs as well as fans of well-crafted personal journeys."
One fan wrote: "A top notch, nuanced portrayal of the many faces of war. This film reveals the duality and conflict in those involved, which so often missed. Incredible acting, historical accuracy, some powerful shots (approaching cockpit of glider canopy! ) and a balance of unique action scenes and interpersonal connection." They added: "The individual strands of the story come together at the end. This is brilliant cinema that inspires one to find out more about the events depicted. 'The Forgotten Battle' is an unforgettable movie."
Another viewer's review says: "The Forgotten Battle is an amazing movie and great story with many angles. Super realistic battle scenes, equal or better than Saving Private Ryan. This film is made in different style, not a typical Hollywood movie. You won't take your eyes and ears off of it. Oscar worthy film. Highly recommended!"
One IMDB user writes: "Even if you don't normally watch war movies you have to appreciate the quality of this one. It brings history to life with characters you care about. The film reminded me of Christopher Nolan's 'Dunkirk'. That story was also told from the viewpoint of a few individuals set against a backdrop of momentous events. And like Nolan's film the spectacular recreations are often caught on the edge of vision or seemingly by accident. The individual strands of the story come together at the end. This is brilliant cinema that inspires one to find out more about the events depicted. 'The Forgotten Battle' is an unforgettable movie."
The Forgotten Battle is currently available to watch on Netflix.
