Importance Score: 45 / 100 🔵
Acclaimed War Film “The Forgotten Battle” Continues to Captivate Audiences on Netflix
The compelling war drama, initially released in 2020 and subsequently available for streaming on Netflix the following year, continues to enthrall viewers and history enthusiasts. “The Forgotten Battle,” a World War II film depicting the brutal realities of combat, has garnered significant praise, including a perfect 100 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes. This cinematic portrayal of the Battle of the Scheldt remains a must-watch for those seeking powerful historical dramas.
A Gripping Depiction of World War II’s Battle of the Scheldt
Directed by Matthijs van Heijningen Jr., “The Forgotten Battle” vividly recreates the Battle of the Scheldt in 1944. The narrative interweaves the stories of three individuals caught in the conflict:
- A Dutch soldier fighting on the Axis side, portrayed by Gijs Blom.
- A British glider pilot, played by Jamie Flatters.
- A woman involved in the Dutch resistance in Zeeland, depicted by Susan Radder.
Adding to the film’s ensemble cast is Tom Felton (renowned for his role as Draco Malfoy in the Harry Potter series), who embodies Tony Turner, a Royal Air Force officer separated from his unit after an incident, alongside the central character Will Sinclair.
Critical Praise and Viewer Adoration
Critics have lauded “The Forgotten Battle” for its unflinching realism and emotional impact. One reviewer described it as “unflinching and gut-wrenching,” highlighting its moments of “absolutely stunning” visual storytelling. Audiences continue to be drawn to this poignant film, praising its powerful narrative and historical accuracy.
Fan Reactions Emphasize Film’s Impact
Enthusiasts have consistently expressed admiration for this epic war drama, with descriptions ranging from “magnificent” to “speechless.” One viewer recounted: “Before watching this film, I had no prior knowledge or particular expectations. However, I found it absorbing and exceptionally realistic. It prompted reflection on the experiences of soldiers, reminding me of my grandfather’s service in World War I. Ultimately, I found it profoundly moving.”
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Technical Excellence and Realistic Wartime Portrayal
Another review underscored the film’s “visual and technical aspects,” praising the “impressive cinematography” and “fitting musical score” that enhance the overall viewing experience. Despite a modest budget, “The Forgotten Battle” delivers “high-quality action sequences” and a “realistic depiction of wartime struggles,” positioning it as a standout contribution to the war film genre. It is widely regarded as both “gripping and educational,” offering a meaningful perspective on a significant yet often overlooked chapter of World War II history.
Box Office Success and Streaming Popularity
“The Forgotten Battle” achieved considerable success upon its release, evidenced by its perfect Rotten Tomatoes critic score. Within its first 28 days on Netflix, the film amassed over 60.93 million viewing hours, solidifying its place among the streaming service’s top 10 non-English language films of all time.
Recognition in the Netherlands and Platinum Film Award
In 2021, the film ranked third among the most successful films in the Netherlands, selling just over 507,000 tickets. Notably, it was the highest-ranking Dutch film on the list, surpassing major international releases. The film’s commercial triumph was further recognized with the Platinum Film Award for box office achievement.
Historical Basis and Authenticity
While the characters are fictional, “The Forgotten Battle” grounds itself in real historical events. Key moments and broad strokes within the film accurately reflect elements of World War II, including the tactics and military equipment employed during the Battle of the Scheldt.
The Significance of the Battle of the Scheldt
The Battle of the Scheldt was a crucial series of military operations involving Allied units, including Polish and British forces. Its objective was to secure the vital shipping route to Antwerp, enabling the port to supply Allied forces in north-western Europe. It stands as one of the largest and most intense military campaigns fought on Dutch soil during the Second World War.
Continued Praise and Enduring Impact
Further acclaim for the film emphasizes its lasting impact. One review asserts: “Astonishing movie and surely this should inspire many more films depicting the European WW2. It isn’t just the action…but the context, story, and characters provide a compelling combination that you won’t forget.”
Comparisons to “Saving Private Ryan” and Viewer Reactions
Although comparisons have been drawn to the acclaimed 1998 film “Saving Private Ryan,” some viewers expressed mixed sentiments. One commented: “This is a good war movie. Graphic at times, but the stories propel the movie forward. Very well filmed and acted. A well-made feature if you can tolerate war.”
Recent Reviews Highlight Enduring Realism and Power
Even five years after its release, “The Forgotten Battle” continues to garner glowing reviews. One viewer declared it “one of the most impressive movies about WWII” they had ever seen. They elaborated, “The battle sequences are evocative of the chaos, horror, brutality, and insanity of war. Most realistic, surpassing even ‘Saving Private Ryan’. Magnificent. I plan to study this one for quite a while.” Another viewer noted its unique focus, stating: “Surprisingly good WW2 film that had some drama and action. I really liked that it focused on a theatre of the war not normally covered by Hollywood.”
The Forgotten Battle is currently available for streaming on Netflix