Paul Verhoeven's 1977 Soldier of Orange War Masterpiece Streaming Amazon Prime

Paul Verhoeven, renowned for Hollywood hits like Total Recall and RoboCop, first gained international acclaim with his 1977 war film Soldier of Orange, which pays tribute to the Dutch resistance during World War II rather than glorifying it. The film, praised for its strong performances, including Rutger Hauer as Erik Lanshof, and its compelling narrative about resistance fighters and collaborators, holds a 92% critics rating on Rotten Tomatoes and is considered a masterpiece that cemented Verhoeven's legacy. Similarly, The Brutalist, a 2024 film about Hungarian Jewish architect László Toth's post-Holocaust immigrant experience in the United States, has received widespread critical acclaim, winning three Oscars and multiple awards for its powerful portrayal of resilience. Additionally, Cold War thriller Bridge of Spies, directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Tom Hanks, remains highly regarded for its nuanced storytelling and performances, recently becoming available for free streaming on BBC iPlayer. These films collectively explore themes of courage, survival, and the complexities of human experience during and after significant historical conflicts, resonating deeply with audiences and critics alike.