Netflix war film fans have called the 'gripping' drama 'The Forgotten Battle' a rival to the classic Saving Private Ryan. The film has been praised by viewers on Rotten Tomatoes, earning a perfect 100% rating and drawing comparisons to the iconic war movie.
A Hidden Gem on Netflix
Released in 2020, the Dutch production directed by Matthijs van Heijningen Jr. recounts the story of the Battle of the Scheldt in 1944, an often-overlooked conflict in history books. The battle comprised a series of military operations that opened the Scheldt River, enabling shipping between Antwerp and the North Sea. Despite its historical significance, the film initially flew under the radar but has since gained a cult following.
Three Perspectives, One Battle
The narrative follows three young characters: a Dutch Axis soldier, a British glider pilot, and a resistance fighter from New Zealand. Their paths converge on the flooded island of Walcheren, where their decisions determine not only their own fates but also the freedom of those around them. The film focuses heavily on the brutality of war and the monumental impact of the battle on the war's conclusion.
Susan Radder stars as Teuntje Visser, Gijs Blom plays Marinus van Staveren, and Jamie Flatters portrays William Sinclair. Notably, British actor Tom Felton, best known for playing Draco Malfoy in the Harry Potter films, appears as Lieutenant Tony Turner.
Fan Reactions
A fan on Rotten Tomatoes 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 reviewer added: 'A gripping war drama, detailing the horrors of war. Great acting, great cinematography. Based on factual events, of which I didn't know about.'
Box Office Success
With a budget of approximately €14 million, 'The Forgotten Battle' is the second most expensive Dutch production ever made. The investment paid off, as the film became one of Netflix's all-time top 10 non-English language films, accumulating 60.93 million hours viewed within just 28 days of its release.
One viewer described being 'intrigued' from the opening moments, comparing it to 'a really good book that you read from start to finish in one sitting.' Another called it 'terrific' and 'gripping,' highlighting the authenticity of the scenes and dialogue.
To witness the poignant accounts of the Battle of the Scheldt brought to life on screen, 'The Forgotten Battle' is available to stream now exclusively on Netflix.
