'Wil' (2024) air date, plot, full cast and is Netflix's war drama worth watching

Set against the backdrop of WWII, 'Wil' depicts complex and nuanced human behavior in the face of harsh realities
Official Netflix poster and a still from the movie 'Wil'
Official Netflix poster and a still from the movie 'Wil'

Movie Name: Wil

Platform: Netflix 

Date of release: January 31, 2024

Country of origin: Belgium 

Genre: War Drama

Director: Tim Mielants

Full cast list: Stef Aerts, Wilfried Wils, Matteo Simoni, Lode Metdepenningen, and Annelore Crollet, among others.

Directed by Tim Mielant, Netflix's upcoming film is scheduled to premiere on the streaming platform on January 31. The movie, which unfolds against the backdrop of WWII, draws its inspiration from Jeroen Olyslaegers's novel of the same name.

Written by Carl Joos and Tim Mielants, the movie was initially released in limited theatres in September 2023.

What is the plot of 'Wil'?

Set against the backdrop of World War II, the movie intricately weaves the emotional narrative of a Nazi-occupied Antwerp, Belgium.

Wilfried Wils (Stef Aerts), a young police officer, is torn between his sense of duty and humanity as he is forced to choose between saving a persecuted Jewish family or remaining loyal to his superiors.

'Wil' main cast 

Stef Aerts

The actor and director Stef Aerts plays the role of Wilfried Wils in the movie.

Aerts, who is renowned for his versatile acting chops, is a member of a Belgian theatre company with appearances in productions such as 'De Pool' and 'De Menseneter.

Aerts boasts an impressive acting portfolio, with notable credits that include prominent roles in the Netflix series 'Thieves of the Wood,' as well as the films 'Adem' and 'Belgiumica.'

Matteo Simoni


 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Matteo Simoni (@simonimatteo)


 

Matteo Simoni portrays the role of Lode Metdepenningen in the movie. The Belgian actor made his silver screen debut in 2011 with 'De Pool.'

He garnered acclaim for his performance in the 2013 film 'Marina.' His other notable works include 'The Racer,' 'Safety First: The Movie,' and 'The Man with the Golden Gun'.

Annelore Crollet

The Belgian actress Annelore Crollet plays the role of Yvette Metdepenningen. Crollet, known for her versatility in TV and theatre, entered the world of cinema with her debut in 'Dode Hoek' in 2017.

Recognized for her adept portrayal of complex characters, the actress is not only proficient in acting but also a skilled dancer. She has also appeared in various movies, including 'The Man with the Golden Gun and '13 Geboden'. 

Is 'Wil' worth watching?

The film effortlessly weaves together the personal narratives of those profoundly impacted by the war. While highlighting the reality of humanity being disregarded, it also emphasizes that amidst the darkness, individuals were willing to extend a helping hand to others in need.

If you have a deep appreciation for dramatic war films and are also eager to learn more about their impact on people, this movie deserves your attention.

'Wil' trailer



 

GET THE BIGGEST ENTERTAINMENT STORIES
STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX.

MORE STORIES

The three-part docuseries explores the fascinating story of doomsday cult Eternal Values and its leader, Frederick von Mierers
8 hours ago
Throughout the previous episodes, Carter skipped school and looked upon Dwight as some sort of a mentor
9 hours ago
Fan-favorite Netflix show is set to premiere its upcoming season next week on June 11.
9 hours ago
'NCIS' Season 23 finale ended on a cliffhanger after Wilmer Valderrama's Nick Torres confronted Mateo [Patrick Keleher]
11 hours ago
Here's everything we know about Sadie Sink's new FX series 'The Marriage Plot'
11 hours ago
The next season of the crime drama series will see Jon Hamm's Coop deal with the aftermath of Owen Ashe's death
12 hours ago
Katie Robbins and Ellen Pompeo previously collaborated on Hulu's limited series 'Good American Family,' which premiered in 2025
14 hours ago
Created and executive produced by Taylor Sheridan, the drama focuses on a family trying to rebuild their lives after a devastating loss
16 hours ago
Peter McFerrin returned for his next game and went head-to-head with Susan Moskop and Webster Guan
17 hours ago
The June 4 episode of ‘General Hospital’ featured a major departure following a last-minute deal for freedom
18 hours ago