Dutch movies to watch on Netflix this holiday season

One of the biggest indulgences at this time of year is the freedom to cuddle up for an evening on the sofa watching as many films and series as you possibly can, without even feeling guilty about it because the weather outside is so cold and grey (and likely rainy) that staying indoors really is the sensible decision. 

But then, just as you’re ready with your popcorn and your cosy blanket you’re suddenly struck with one of life’s most difficult decisions: “What on earth am I going to watch on Netflix?” 

Fret not! IamExpat is here with our list of some of the Dutch movies you can sit back and enjoy this Christmas season. Plus - while maybe not quite as effective as taking a Dutch course - watching films is a great way to learn a new language. Fun entertainment and learning Dutch at the same time? What more could you want!

Dutch Christmas movies on Netflix 

There are a couple of fun festive (Dutch) films out there that you can watch this holiday season - and most of them even have English subtitles!  

1. The Claus Family (De Familie Claus)

The first official Dutch Christmas film on Netflix, De Familie Claus is a perfect watch that the whole family can enjoy. 

The film follows the story of Jules Claus who, when hanging around in his grandfather’s toy shop, finds a magical snow globe and discovers his grandfather is the real Santa Claus! In spite of the fact that he’s fallen out of love with Christmas, Jules decides to help his grandfather, and in the process learns to appreciate the most wonderful time of the year again.

Video: YouTube / Netflix Nederland & België

2. The Claus Family 2 (De Familie Claus 2)

The original Claus Family film turned out to be so successful that Netflix decided to go ahead and make a sequel which came out December 7, 2021!

The sequel once again follows Jules, who has now taken over some of the gift-giving responsibilities from his grandfather. Everything seems to be going well until he receives a letter from a young girl who asks for something very special (and rather tricky) for Christmas.

Video: YouTube / Netflix Nederland & België

3. The Claus Family 3 (De Familie Claus 3)

Can you see where we're going with this? 

The Claus family are back, having returned to Netflix in 2022 with the third instalment in this popular Christmas series. This film once again follows Jules, his grandfather and his younger sister Noor. When Santa Claus himself runs into a little bit of trouble and is unable to deliver all the gifts, Jules and Noor step in to try and help save Christmas - but will they be able to do it?

Video: YouTube / Netflix Nederland & België

4. Little Crumb (Kruimeltje) 

This is a bit of a vintage Christmas film, but it's festive and heartwarming nonetheless. Little Crumb is the story of a mischievous 10-year-old orphan who lives on the streets of Rotterdam in the 1920s. One day, when the woman whose care he's under passes away, Kruimeltje decides to go on an adventure to search for his biological father.

Video: YouTube / CNRArcade

Dutch movies you can watch with English subtitles

Not sure you’re in the mood for something festive? Don’t worry about it! There are plenty of other great Dutch movies available on Netflix that have English subtitles.

1. The Forgotten Battle (De Slag om de Schelde) 

The Forgotten Battle is undoubtedly one of the biggest Dutch films of all time. After premiering back in December 2020, the film was finally added to Netflix in October, 2021. 

The film revolves around the Second World War battle known as the Forgotten Battle of the Scheldt. It follows the lives of three young people as their paths collide during the deadly battle and they are forced to consider their motives as they all fight towards the same goal: freedom.

Video: YouTube / Netflix

2. The Resistance Banker (Bankier van het Verzet)

This film is simply a classic and one you have to have seen at some point during your Dutch residence. So, why not take a holiday afternoon to sit on the sofa with a bucket of popcorn while this film thrills you and reminds you that life wasn’t always peaches ‘n cream in the Netherlands.

Witnessing the devastation wreaked by the Nazi occupation of his homeland, Dutch banker Walraven van Hall decides to fight back. Using his unique skill set, he comes up with a method of surreptitiously financing the Dutch resistance. What starts out as a phoney “Sailor’s Fund” quickly develops into the biggest fraud in the history of Dutch banking. The bigger the operation gets, the higher the stakes and the riskier it becomes.

Based on a true story, this drama sheds light on a relatively unknown aspect of the war. As you would expect, there are dramatic Nazi raids, secret meetings and narrow escapes. But the film also has an understated quality in its fascinating exploration of the underground logistics of resistance: for all its focus on heroics and dramatic deeds, the Resistance Banker serves as a powerful reminder that even resisting evil has a price tag.

3. Anne+

There's something so magical about being able to see places that you recognise from your day-to-day life immortalised on the big screen. If you love the idea of diving into the cinematic side of Amsterdam then Anne+ might be the film for you. 

Based on the successful Dutch series, Anne+ follows the main character Anne, a young woman who has recently finished university in the Dutch capital and is attempting to navigate her career, social life and romantic relationships. 

Video: YouTube / ANNE+

Get cosy and get watching! 

What are you waiting for - grab that remote or switch on your laptop and find the perfect film for tonight's viewings!

On the hunt for more Dutch films with English subtitles? Check out our picks for the best films on Netflix for learning Dutch!