The Forgotten Battle (2021) Review: A Captivating Tale of Courage and Sacrifice

The Forgotten Battle (2021), directed by Matthijs van Heijningen Jr., is a powerful World War II drama that explores the Battle of the Scheldt, a crucial but often overlooked event in the European theater of the war. Set against the backdrop of the Dutch and Belgian coastlines, the film follows three individuals from different sides of the conflict, whose fates are intertwined as they face the harrowing realities of war. With a strong cast, stunning visuals, and an emotionally charged narrative, The Forgotten Battle brings to light the sacrifices made during this pivotal but largely forgotten battle.

Plot Overview: The Battle for the Scheldt and its Unsung Heroes

The Forgotten Battle is set in 1944 during the final stages of World War II. The story focuses on the Battle of the Scheldt, a vital campaign fought to secure the port of Antwerp, Belgium, which was key to the Allied supply lines. The battle took place between September and November 1944 and involved Canadian, British, and Dutch forces fighting against the German occupation.

The film follows three main characters:

• Wim (played by Gijs Blom), a Dutch soldier who is forced to fight for the Germans after being captured. As a soldier in the Wehrmacht, Wim struggles with his conscience and the brutal reality of the war.
• Veronique (played by Susan Radder), a Dutch Resistance fighter, is determined to sabotage the German forces and protect her people, risking her life to fight back against the oppressors.
• Bert (played by Mike Weerts), a Canadian soldier, is part of the Allied forces tasked with liberating the region. He faces the constant threat of death while trying to navigate the horrors of war and the mission to reclaim the port.

As the battle unfolds, the three characters are drawn into a tragic and brutal confrontation, each struggling with their personal demons while contributing to the larger goal of securing the region and ensuring Allied victory. The film highlights their sacrifices and the heavy emotional toll of the battle, underscoring the human cost of war.

Gijs Blom, Susan Radder, and Mike Weerts: Strong Performances

Gijs Blom delivers a standout performance as Wim, the conflicted Dutch soldier. His portrayal of a man torn between duty and morality brings depth to the character, capturing the psychological toll of being caught in the crossfire of a global conflict. Blom effectively conveys Wim’s internal struggles, adding emotional weight to his journey.

Susan Radder also shines as Veronique, a determined Resistance fighter who is willing to risk everything for the cause. Radder’s portrayal of a young woman who becomes an unlikely hero is both empowering and emotional. She provides a strong counterpoint to the other male characters, demonstrating the critical role women played in wartime resistance efforts.

Mike Weerts plays Bert, the Canadian soldier, whose resilience and courage in the face of danger offer a compelling contrast to the despair and hopelessness experienced by other characters. Weerts brings authenticity to his portrayal of a soldier who endures the horrors of war with grit and determination, serving as an emotional anchor for the audience.

Together, Blom, Radder, and Weerts deliver powerful performances that allow the audience to connect with their characters’ motivations, struggles, and sacrifices.

Matthijs van Heijningen Jr.’s Direction: A Thoughtful and Tense War Film

Director Matthijs van Heijningen Jr. crafts The Forgotten Battle as a meticulous and thought-provoking war film. While the film features intense battle sequences, Heijningen ensures that the story also focuses on the emotional and psychological impact of the war on its characters. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the audience to understand the personal stakes of the characters while also appreciating the larger historical context.

The battle scenes in The Forgotten Battle are both chaotic and immersive. Heijningen uses a mix of wide shots and intimate close-ups to capture the scale of the conflict, while also conveying the fear and tension experienced by the soldiers. The use of sound and cinematography adds to the authenticity of the battle sequences, with explosions, gunfire, and the natural environment all playing a role in creating a visceral experience.

Heijningen also excels at portraying the moral complexities of war. The film does not simplify the conflict, but instead, it presents the characters as multifaceted individuals caught in a tragic struggle. The nuanced performances, combined with Heijningen’s thoughtful direction, give the film emotional depth and gravitas.

Themes of Courage, Sacrifice, and the Cost of War

At its heart, The Forgotten Battle is a film about courage, sacrifice, and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals during times of war. The characters are all forced to confront difficult decisions—whether to fight for survival, resist tyranny, or adhere to their own personal sense of justice. The film explores the human cost of war, focusing not only on the physical violence but also on the emotional scars left on those who endure it.

The Battle of the Scheldt is often referred to as “the forgotten battle” because it is overshadowed by larger and more famous campaigns of World War II, such as D-Day. The Forgotten Battle serves to shine a light on this significant yet underreported moment in history. It reminds viewers of the countless lives lost and the immense sacrifices made by ordinary people caught in extraordinary circumstances.

The film also delves into the concept of resistance, not only in terms of military action but also in the form of civilian courage. Veronique’s role as a Resistance fighter highlights the importance of non-combatants who risk everything to fight for freedom, showing that resistance comes in many forms.

Critical Reception: Praise for Historical Accuracy and Emotional Impact

The Forgotten Battle has garnered praise for its historical accuracy, emotional depth, and strong performances. Critics have lauded the film for bringing attention to a crucial moment in history while also offering an intimate and human-centered narrative.

• Variety praised the film’s portrayal of the Battle of the Scheldt, calling it a “gripping war drama that honors the sacrifices made by the soldiers and civilians involved.” (variety.com)
• The Hollywood Reporter commended the film’s ability to balance action with emotional storytelling, highlighting the strong performances from the lead cast. (hollywoodreporter.com)
• Rotten Tomatoes has a favorable rating, with many viewers appreciating the film’s realistic depiction of the battle and its focus on the personal stories of the soldiers. (rottentomatoes.com)

Where to Watch

The Forgotten Battle is available for streaming on Netflix and can also be rented or purchased on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Google Play. It is also available for DVD and Blu-ray purchase for those who prefer physical copies.

Final Thoughts: A Powerful and Moving Tribute to Unsung Heroes

In conclusion, The Forgotten Battle (2021) is a compelling and emotional World War II drama that brings to light the sacrifices and courage of those involved in the Battle of the Scheldt. With strong performances from Gijs Blom, Susan Radder, and Mike Weerts, and directed by Matthijs van Heijningen Jr., the film offers a thoughtful and gripping portrayal of war, resistance, and survival. The Forgotten Battle is a must-watch for history buffs, war film enthusiasts, and anyone interested in stories of heroism and sacrifice.