Importance Score: 45 / 100 🔵
This compelling war film plunges viewers into a relatively obscure yet pivotal conflict of World War II, leaving them utterly captivated by its intensity. The Forgotten Battle unveils a gripping portrayal of courage and sacrifice amidst the chaos of war.
Delving into the Depths of The Forgotten Battle: A WWII Drama
The Forgotten Battle, a Dutch war drama, boasts a remarkable 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Released in 2020, this picture transports audiences to 1944, vividly depicting the Battle of the Scheldt, a crucial engagement fought on the Scheldt River between Antwerp and the North Sea.
Historical Context: The Battle of the Scheldt
During the war, the Scheldt River was essential for maritime transport, enabling the port of Antwerp to supply Allied forces in Northwestern Europe. The First Canadian Army spearheaded the effort to regain control of this strategic area, aiming to secure vital ports for the final push against Nazi Germany.
A Grueling Campaign
The Canadians, supported by British and Polish forces, endured five weeks of fierce combat, resulting in 20,873 casualties. Despite the heavy toll, their success in securing the region was pivotal, reopening Antwerp and facilitating the arrival of millions of tons of supplies crucial for the Allied offensive.
Critical Acclaim and Viewer Perspectives
Critics and viewers alike have lauded The Forgotten Battle for its immersive storytelling and realistic depiction of wartime struggles.
- One Rotten Tomatoes reviewer shared, “Before watching this film, I had no prior knowledge of it and no particular expectation. However, I found it engrossing and extremely realistic.”
- The reviewer added, “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 viewer commented:
“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 stand out in the genre.”
A Multifaceted Narrative
The film intricately weaves the stories of a Dutch soldier fighting for the Axis, a British pilot, and a woman involved in the Dutch resistance, all of whom become intertwined during the concluding years of World War II. As these young characters grapple with critical choices that affect their lives and the freedom of others, the film exposes the human dimension of conflict.
Notable Cast and Performances
The film showcases a talented cast:
- Gijs Blom
- Jamie Flatters (known for Avatar: The Way of Water and The School for Good and Evil)
- Susan Radder
- Tom Felton (of Harry Potter fame) makes a cameo appearance.
One viewer summarized the film’s impact, stating:
“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.”
Production Value and Availability
With a production budget of approximately €14 million, The Forgotten Battle stands as the second most expensive Dutch film ever made. Despite its modest budget compared to Hollywood war epics, the film was a celebrated piece. Upon its debut, it achieved a high ranking among Netflix’s most-watched non-English language films.
Final Verdict: A Must-See War Drama
Reviews have praised the film’s intense portrayal of war:
“Unflinching, brutal, terrifying, sad, and gut-wrenching, The Forgotten Battle is at times absolutely stunning,”
another said:
“Terrific and gripping Second World War story with excellent acting, realistic scenes and intelligent dialogue.”
For those keen on exploring the Battle of the Scheldt or simply seeking a compelling war film, The Forgotten Battle is currently available for streaming on Netflix.