The Forgotten Battle (original title: De slag om de Schelde) is a compelling 2020 war drama that brings a crucial yet often overlooked chapter of World War II to vivid life. Directed by Matthijs van Heijningen Jr., this Dutch-Belgian production focuses on the pivotal 1944 Battle of the Scheldt, where Allied forces fought to open Antwerp's port for crucial supply lines. The film masterfully interweaves three distinct perspectives: a conflicted German soldier (Gijs Blom), a determined British glider pilot (Jamie Flatters), and a courageous Dutch resistance fighter (Susan Radder). Their personal journeys collide against the brutal backdrop of war, creating a powerful narrative about sacrifice, morality, and the human cost of conflict.

The film excels in its balanced portrayal, avoiding simplistic hero-villain dichotomies to explore the complex motivations driving each character. Performances are uniformly strong, with particularly nuanced work from Blom as the German soldier grappling with his conscience. Van Heijningen's direction combines intimate character moments with visceral, well-executed battle sequences that feel authentic without glorifying violence. The cinematography captures the bleak, waterlogged landscapes of the Scheldt estuary with striking realism.

Viewers should watch The Forgotten Battle for its educational value and emotional depth. It serves as both an engaging historical drama and a poignant reminder of the personal stories behind major historical events. The film's multilingual approach (in Dutch, English, and German) adds authenticity, while its themes of choice and consequence resonate universally. For fans of thoughtful war cinema like Dunkirk or A Bridge Too Far, this is an essential and moving viewing experience that highlights an important European perspective on WWII.