Oct. 15, 2021|Netherlands | Lithuania | Belgium|124 Min.|TV-MA
Genre: Drama;History;War
Description: The Forgotten Battle (2021) is a film set during World War II, focusing on the lesser-known yet crucial battle to liberate the Scheldt region after the Allies had freed the Antwerp Port. The story begins in German-occupied Normandy in June 1994, introducing Teuntje Visser (Susan Radder), a doctor’s daughter whose family treats German soldiers. Her brother, Dirk (Ronald Kalter), harbors deep resentment toward the Germans and causes an accident by throwing a rock at a German vehicle, forcing him to flee. Meanwhile, William Sinclair (Jamie Flatters), a spirited young English glider pilot, lies about his age to join the fight for Arnhem’s liberation. Marinus van Staveren (Gijs Blom), a Nazi soldier on the front lines, struggles with the horrors of war.
As the narrative unfolds, each character faces tragedy. William’s unit crash-lands, Dirk is captured after being exposed as a Resistance member, and Marinus grapples with severe PTSD. The film powerfully depicts the devastating realities of war, showcasing harrowing scenes of death, starvation, and widespread destruction. Teuntje desperately tries to save her brother, William witnesses his comrades fall in battle, and Marinus clings to his last shred of humanity. Gijs Blom delivers a standout, emotionally charged performance as a soldier drained by the brutality of war, awaiting his inevitable fate. The Forgotten Battle offers no happy ending, as it underscores the immense cost of conflict and sets the stage for the larger struggles ahead.
Cast director: Matthijs van Heijningen Jr.
Cast actor: Gijs Blom, Susan Radder, Jamie Flatters, Jan Bijvoet, Tom Felton, Coen Bril, Theo Barklem-Biggs, Scott Reid, Marthe Schneider, Ronald Kalter
Original name: De Slag om de Schelde