The Forgotten Battle (2020): A Gripping Depiction of WWII’s Overlooked Conflict

The Forgotten Battle (original title: De Slag om de Schelde) is a 2020 Dutch war drama directed by Matthijs van Heijningen Jr. The film portrays the pivotal yet often overlooked Battle of the Scheldt in 1944, a crucial operation that enabled Allied forces to secure the port of Antwerp, facilitating the liberation of Western Europe. Through the intertwined stories of a Dutch Axis soldier, a British glider pilot, and a Dutch resistance fighter, the film offers a nuanced exploration of war’s moral complexities and the personal struggles within.

Plot Summary

Set in the German-occupied province of Zeeland, the narrative follows three young individuals whose lives converge during the Battle of the Scheldt:

• Marinus van Staveren (Gijs Blom): A Dutch volunteer in the Waffen-SS, Marinus becomes disillusioned with the Nazi regime’s brutal tactics, especially after witnessing the execution of civilians.
• Teuntje Visser (Susan Radder): A Dutch woman whose brother, Dirk, is involved in the resistance. Following Dirk’s arrest and execution, Teuntje becomes actively engaged in the resistance movement.
• William Sinclair (Jamie Flatters): A British glider pilot who crash-lands in Zeeland during Operation Market Garden. Separated from his unit, he joins Canadian forces advancing toward Walcheren Island.

As the Allies push to secure the Scheldt estuary, these characters’ paths intersect, highlighting the personal sacrifices and moral dilemmas faced during wartime.

Historical Context

The Battle of the Scheldt was a critical campaign in World War II, aiming to clear the Scheldt estuary of German forces to allow Allied access to the port of Antwerp. Despite its strategic importance, the battle remains relatively unknown compared to other WWII operations. The film sheds light on this significant yet underrepresented chapter of history, emphasizing the high cost of securing vital supply lines for the Allied advance.

Production and Reception

With a budget of approximately €14 million, The Forgotten Battle stands as one of the most expensive Dutch films produced. Filming took place in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Lithuania, capturing the authentic landscapes of the Zeeland region. The film was released on Netflix, marking the platform’s first Dutch co-production.

Critics have praised the film for its realistic portrayal of combat and the emotional depth of its characters. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 100% approval rating based on 8 reviews, with an audience score of 83% . Reviewers have highlighted the film’s unflinching depiction of war’s brutality and its focus on lesser-known aspects of WWII .

Conclusion

The Forgotten Battle offers a compelling and humanized perspective on a crucial WWII operation. By focusing on individual experiences amidst the broader conflict, the film underscores the personal costs of war and the moral complexities faced by those involved. Its attention to historical detail and character-driven storytelling make it a significant contribution to war cinema, illuminating a vital yet overlooked battle that shaped the course of history.