A powerful World War II drama, previously unknown to many, is currently captivating audiences on Netflix after achieving a remarkable critical feat.
A Hidden Gem Earns Perfect Acclaim
The Forgotten Battle, a 2020 Dutch production, has quietly secured a perfect 100% score on the review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes. Viewers and critics alike are praising its emotional depth, historical authenticity, and immersive filmmaking. The film, which began streaming on Netflix, sheds light on the crucial but often overlooked Battle of the Scheldt in late 1944, a pivotal operation for the Allied advance through Europe.
Directed by Matthijs van Heijningen Jr., the film distinguishes itself by focusing on the human stories within the vast conflict. It weaves together three interconnected narratives: a young Dutch man forcibly conscripted into the German army, a British glider pilot stranded behind enemy lines, and a Dutch woman thrust into the resistance while trying to protect her brother.
Audience and Critical Praise
The response on Rotten Tomatoes has been overwhelmingly positive. One reviewer described it as "a gripping war drama, detailing the horrors of war," applauding its performances and fact-based approach. Another viewer found it so compelling they compared it to "a really good book that you read from start to finish in one sitting." The emotional impact is a common theme, with many noting its realistic and moving portrayal of wartime dilemmas.
This acclaim extends to IMDb, where fans have ranked it among the genre's greats. "This is the best movie I have seen about WW2 in a very long time," wrote one, drawing comparisons to classics like Saving Private Ryan. Another viewer admitted, "I just finished watching it and I’m still a bit shocked at how it got to me."
A Landmark Production Finds Its Audience
The Forgotten Battle holds the distinction of being among the most expensive Dutch films ever made and marked Netflix's first original feature film from the Netherlands. Despite not having a Hollywood blockbuster budget, the production is noted for its efficient use of resources, delivering large-scale battle sequences alongside tense, character-driven moments.
The film's authenticity is further heightened by its use of multiple languages—English, Dutch, and German—reflecting the fractured, multinational reality of the war and the moral compromises faced by individuals. An award-winner in its home country, the film is now gaining well-deserved global attention, standing as a prime example of the high-calibre international cinema Netflix can bring to a worldwide audience.
As one reviewer succinctly put it, this is "one of the best foreign WWII films you will find." For those seeking a profound, historically grounded, and emotionally resonant war drama, The Forgotten Battle is now available to stream.
