The Netherlands has a rich cinematic history, producing films that range from poignant dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies. Over the years, Dutch movies have gained international recognition, captivating audiences with their unique storytelling and cultural depth. Here’s a list of the 10 most-watched Dutch movies of all time (as of 2025), showcasing the best of Dutch cinema.
1. Turkish Delight (Turks Fruit) – 1973
Directed by Paul Verhoeven and starring Rutger Hauer, Turkish Delight is a romantic drama that remains one of the most iconic Dutch films ever made. The movie tells the passionate yet tragic love story between an artist and a young woman. Its raw emotion and daring portrayal of relationships struck a chord with audiences, making it the most-watched Dutch film in history with over 3.3 million viewers in theaters. Even decades later, it continues to be celebrated for its boldness and artistry.
2. Soldier of Orange (Soldaat van Oranje) – 1977
Another masterpiece by Paul Verhoeven, Soldier of Orange is a gripping war drama based on true events during World War II. The film follows a group of Dutch students who become involved in the resistance against Nazi occupation. With its powerful performances and historical significance, it became one of the most beloved Dutch films, drawing over 1.5 million viewers to cinemas.
3. The Forgotten Battle (De Slag om de Schelde) – 2021
This modern war epic gained widespread attention both in the Netherlands and internationally after its release on Netflix. Set during World War II, The Forgotten Battle explores the lives of three individuals—a Dutch resistance fighter, a British glider pilot, and a reluctant German soldier—whose paths cross during the Battle of the Scheldt. Its stunning visuals and emotional depth made it one of the most-watched Dutch films globally, with millions tuning in on streaming platforms.
4. Flodder – 1986
A comedy classic in Dutch cinema, Flodder tells the story of an unconventional family who moves into an upscale neighborhood as part of a social experiment. Their chaotic antics and clashes with their snobbish neighbors provided endless laughs for audiences. The film’s popularity led to sequels and even a TV series, cementing its place as one of the most beloved comedies in Dutch history.
5. Black Book (Zwartboek) – 2006
Paul Verhoeven makes another appearance on this list with Black Book, a thrilling tale set during World War II. The film follows Rachel Stein, a Jewish singer who becomes a spy for the Dutch resistance after her family is killed by Nazis. With its intense plot twists and strong performances, Black Book became an international success and remains one of the highest-grossing Dutch films ever made.
6. My Best Friend Anne Frank (Mijn Beste Vriendin Anne Frank) – 2021
This touching drama offers a new perspective on Anne Frank’s life through the eyes of her best friend, Hannah Goslar. Based on real events, the film explores their friendship before and during their time in Nazi-occupied Amsterdam. Its heartfelt storytelling resonated with audiences worldwide, making it one of the most-watched Dutch films on Netflix.
7. New Kids Turbo – 2010
A cult favorite among younger audiences, New Kids Turbo is an outrageous comedy about five friends from Maaskantje who decide to stop paying for anything after losing their jobs during an economic crisis. Packed with absurd humor and over-the-top antics, this film became a massive hit in the Netherlands and even spawned an equally popular sequel.
8. The Resistance Banker (Bankier van het Verzet) – 2018
This historical drama tells the incredible true story of two brothers who used their positions as bankers to fund the Dutch resistance during World War II. Their bravery and sacrifices are beautifully portrayed in this critically acclaimed film, which won multiple awards and attracted significant attention both domestically and internationally.
9. Gooische Vrouwen – 2011
Based on a popular TV series, Gooische Vrouwen is a comedy-drama about four women navigating love, friendship, and personal challenges in an affluent suburban setting. Its relatable themes and humorous moments made it a box office sensation in the Netherlands, drawing nearly two million viewers.
10. Faithfully Yours – 2022
One of the most recent entries on this list, Faithfully Yours is a gripping thriller that captivated audiences with its suspenseful plot about betrayal and deception among friends. Released on Netflix, it quickly gained millions of views worldwide, proving that Dutch cinema continues to thrive in the streaming era.
Bottom Line
The Netherlands has produced some truly remarkable films that have stood the test of time or captured modern audiences’ hearts through streaming platforms. Whether you’re new to Dutch cinema or looking to revisit some classics, these ten films are an excellent starting point for exploring this rich cinematic tradition!