The Forgotten Battle | Official trailer | Netflix

“The Forgotten Battle” (2023) is a Dutch-Belgian war drama set during World War II, specifically centered on the Battle of the Scheldt in 1944, a crucial yet lesser-known operation to secure supply lines in the lead-up to the Allies’ liberation of Europe. Directed by Matthijs van Heijningen Jr., the film brings together three different perspectives—a British glider pilot, a Dutch resistance fighter, and a conscripted German soldier—highlighting how war affects individuals on different sides.

The movie stands out for its intense battle sequences and authentic portrayal of the chaos and moral complexity of war. Cinematography is a highlight, capturing both the brutal beauty of the landscape and the devastating impact of conflict.

Through its characters’ intersecting stories, “The Forgotten Battle” explores themes of duty, survival, and the blurred lines between heroism and villainy.

While some may find the pacing slow due to its deep focus on character development, this approach gives the film a more introspective feel, differentiating it from more action-heavy war films. Overall, “The Forgotten Battle” is a compelling, visually impressive film that sheds light on a neglected chapter of history and examines the cost of war from a human perspective.