21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Netflix 'spectacular' war film is 'must-watch' with perfect rating
The Forgotten Battle is a 2020 Dutch war drama film that has been leaving viewers 'gripped' as they watch the depiction of The Battle of the Scheldt, which took place in World War II
This war film has captivated audiences with its intense portrayal of a relatively obscure battle from World War II, leaving them utterly "gripped".
'The Forgotten Battle', a Dutch war drama, boasts a flawless 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Released in 2020, the film transports viewers to 1944, chronicling the Battle of the Scheldt, which unfolded along the crucial waterway connecting Antwerp to the North Sea.
The strategic importance of the Scheldt River during the war was paramount as it served as a vital shipping route to the port of Antwerp, essential for supplying Allied forces in northwestern Europe. The First Canadian Army, supported by British and Polish forces, engaged in a gruelling five-week campaign to reclaim control of the region, enabling the use of major ports for the final push against Germany.
Despite the heavy toll, with 20,873 soldiers lost, their tenacious efforts ultimately triumphed, securing the area and reopening Antwerp. This victory allowed millions of tonnes of supplies to flow through, proving pivotal in the Allied struggle against Germany.
A review on Rotten Tomatoes says: "Before watching this film, I had no prior knowledge of it and no particular expectation. However, I found it engrossing and extremely realistic.", reports the Express.
"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."
One viewer praised the film, saying: "The Forgotten Battle excels in its visual and technical aspects, with impressive cinematography and a fitting musical score that enhances the overall viewing experience. Despite its modest budget, the film delivers high-quality action sequences and a realistic depiction of wartime struggles, making it a standout in the genre."
The narrative of 'The Forgotten Battle' centres upon the intertwined fates of a Dutch Axis soldier, a British aviator and a resistance woman from the province Zeeland during the tumultuous last years of World War II. The audience witnesses how the characters' life-altering choices not only impact their destinies but also the fight for freedom, interweaving personal tales into the fabric of the larger conflict.
The leading roles feature promising talents Gijs Blom, Jamie Flatters and Susan Radder, while Tom Felton, famed for his role in 'Harry Potter', makes an unexpected appearance. Notably, Flatters, who portrays the pilot in the film, has gained recognition for his performances in 'Avatar: The Way of Water' as well as 'The School for Good and Evil'.
Another viewer was moved by the film, sharing: "Overall, it's a gripping and educational film that offers a poignant look at a lesser-known but crucial part of World War II history. It is a must-watch for fans of war movies and those interested in historical events."
Boasting a budget of nearly €14 million, The Forgotten Battle stands as the second priciest Dutch film to ever be produced; however, when stacked against its American war movie contemporaries, it is categorised as modestly funded. Following its release, it soared up the ranks to become one of Netflix's most-viewed non-English language films of all time.
A review lauds the film, praising it as "unflinching, brutal, terrifying, sad, and gut-wrenching, The Forgotten Battle is at times absolutely stunning," while another commentator affirms: "Terrific and gripping Second World War story with excellent acting, realistic scenes and intelligent dialogue."
For those eager to delve into the particulars of the Battle of the Scheldt or who are simply in hunt for an enthralling war drama, The Forgotten Battle is currently available for streaming on Netflix.
