Watch Greatest Events of WWII in Colour

Featuring rare and restored footage from WW2, Greatest Events of WWII in Colour is a landmark documentary series produced by the Discovery Channel (UK) in 2019. The three-part series is narrated by renowned actor Derek Jacobi and features a panel of expert historians including Professor Geoffrey Wawro and writer and broadcaster James Holland.

Throughout the series, viewers are taken on a journey through some of the most significant and pivotal events of the war, from the early days of conflict to the final moments of victory. The series is unique in that it presents the events in full-colour, bringing a new level of realism and impact to the footage.

The first episode, titled "Blitzkrieg", explores the rapid military invasion of Poland by Germany in 1939, the resulting declaration of war by Britain and France, and the subsequent invasion of Norway and Denmark. The second episode, "Battle of Midway", focuses on the Pacific theatre and the turning point of the war in the region. The last episode, "D-Day", chronicles the Allied invasion of Normandy and the beginning of the end for Nazi Germany.

The series is not only visually stunning but provides a wealth of information and historical context. The expert panel offers insights into the military and political strategies behind each event, as well as personal stories from those who lived through the war. With a careful balance of narration, expert analysis, and original footage, the series successfully captures the humanity and horror of war.

One of the standout aspects of the series is the use of colourised footage. This adds an extra layer of detail and depth to the historical events, making it easier for modern audiences to fully appreciate the gravity of the situation. The restored footage is often accompanied by vivid sound effects, such as the echoing roar of a bomber flying overhead, adding to the immersion.

Another notable feature of the series is the use of animation to illustrate strategic considerations and decision making. These animated segments provide a clear and concise visual representation of complex military operations, making it easier for viewers to understand the tactics and objectives of each event.

Throughout the series, the expert panel offers fascinating insights into the motivations behind each event. For example, in the episode "Blitzkrieg", they discuss Hitler's obsession with military expansion and his belief in the superiority of the German people. In "Battle of Midway", they explore how the Japanese were caught off guard by the US Navy's tactics, resulting in a devastating defeat for Japan. And in "D-Day", they discuss the logistical challenges of planning and executing the largest amphibious invasion in history.

With its stunning visuals and expert analysis, Greatest Events of WWII in Colour is both entertaining and educational. The series provides insight into the human stories behind the war, making it a valuable resource for history enthusiasts, as well as anyone interested in the impact of war on society.

In conclusion, Greatest Events of WWII in Colour is a must-watch series for anyone interested in World War II. It provides a fresh and insightful perspective on some of the most significant events of the war, and the use of colourised footage adds an extra layer of realism and impact. With expert analysis and narration from a panel of distinguished historians, the series strikes the perfect balance between education and entertainment.