If you want historic proof of how the Dutch really are underrated and underappreciated, watch "The Resistance Banker." When talking about World War II, it's always the same countries that pop up in the conversation—Germany, USA, Great Britain, France, Italy, and Japan. Granted, they really were the major players of that conflict but the Netherlands, at the time still referred to as Holland, also played an impactful role. In this film, for instance, Walraven van Hall uses his expert skills as a banker to secretly usurp the Nazis that has since occupied his home country. It's a riveting period piece that will leave you at the edge of your seat!
Source: Netflix
But as there was resistance during World War II, unfortunately, there was also collaboration. "Riphagen- The Untouchable," tells the story of Dries Riphagen, one of the most notorious criminals at the time. So much was his greed and thirst for power that he betrayed his fellow countrymen just to continue his life of crime. During the Nazi occupation of Holland, Riphaen collaborated with the German soldiers in capturing jews. He would befriend his fellow Dutch of Jewish descent, make them feel safe, and when the time is right, they lead them into the Germans' hands. And he gets to keep the belonging that are left!
Source: Netflix
What is it about tragic stories that are so entertaining? To see how a man, once revered by all, descend into a life of crime. It's not a good thing to happen, and yet, when it comes to movies, it's one of the best tropes out there! In Dutch cinema, there's "Wolf," a talented kickboxer who falls into a life of crime. He uses his talents in the ring for criminal endeavours, making him a danger to society. And as much as he wants to escape it, he has already done so much and is so entrenched in this underworld, he might never get out!
Source: Netflix
How much trouble can one man get into? Well, in the case of Robertico Florentina, a whole lot! This charming criminal would invite people into people's fancy houses in Curacao, making them believe it's his to rent out. However, when a group of guests trashes the home of notorious mob gangster, the mischievous Robertocio now has to find a way to pay for the 200,000 Dutch guilders-worth of damages. As a result, he goes to Rotterdam to try and trick a businessman, Ken Maduro into "investing in him." But, in classic goofball comedy fashion, things go awry when Robertico falls in love with Maduro's daughter.
Source: Netflix
Now for some comedy. Film critics will tell you that "Loving Ibiza" is not worth your time but it's just their snootiness talking. If you want a fun flick that's all about partying and having a good time, this is for you! Everyone knows that Ibiza is the party capital of the world. It's an entire island practically devoted to partying and nothing else. In this light and hilarious movie, four stories surrounding completely different people intertwine on the famous summer destination. They couldn't be farther apart from each other in terms of personality and situation, but that's what makes the movie so fun!
Source: Netflix
The next time you go on Netflix, try to look out for any or all of these amazing Dutch movies. They're just as good, exciting, and entertaining as the ones you'd normally see from Hollywood or French and Italian cinema!
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