Watch The Great War Diary

The Great War Diary is a documentary series produced by the BBC that follows the events of World War I as they happened exactly a century ago. The show, which premiered in 2014, is hosted by Indy Neidell, Jesse Alexander, and Othais McCarthy, who serve as both historians and storytelling guides, walking the viewers through the complex narrative of the great conflict.

The series relies on two kinds of source materials: primary sources, such as diaries, letters, and other documents from people who witnessed the war firsthand, and modern technology, such as animation and drone footage, to provide the viewers with a unique viewing experience. The use of primary sources gives the series authenticity and immediacy, as viewers can get a glimpse of what life was like for people on the home front or at the front lines.

The series covers the entire duration of the war, from the tense pre-war years to the desperate finish. Each episode focuses on a specific week of the war, allowing the viewers to see how events unfolded in real-time. The show takes us through the initial enthusiasm, the bloody battles, the effects of new technologies, and the dawn of modern warfare. The series also touches on several themes, including the role of women during the war, the rise of nationalism, the impact of propaganda, and the emergence of new technologies.

Indy Neidell stands out as the main presenter of the series, lending his charm and humor to the narrative. He is an experienced presenter, having previously hosted the popular YouTube series "The Great War" with the same subject matter. Neidell's experience in tackling historical subjects is evident in his ability to make complex subjects accessible to viewers. He has a knack for blending history with humor, which makes the series engaging and enjoyable to watch.

Jesse Alexander and Othais McCarthy also play a significant role in the series, using their expertise to provide viewers with more in-depth analysis and context. Alexander is an expert in the history of WWI and has previously worked on other documentary series, lending his expertise to provide a deeper understanding of the various events of the war. McCarthy's background in military history also helps to shed light on the series' more technical aspects, such as the different types of weapons and their impacts on the battlefield.

The series' use of animation and drone footage also sets it apart from other documentaries about the war. The animation provides viewers with a sense of the scale and complexity of the war, while drone footage offers a new perspective on the locations that were once battlefields. The drone footage is especially effective in conveying the devastation wrought by the war, showing viewers how the once-beautiful landscapes were turned into wastelands.

The series' format of covering each week of the war in detail means that the story unfolds gradually, allowing the viewers to understand the context and the significance of each event. Although the show focuses on specific themes, such as battles or advancements in technology, it also offers a broader perspective on the war. By exploring the war from various angles, the series offers viewers a glimpse into the vastness of the conflict and how it affected people from different backgrounds.

Overall, The Great War Diary is a well-produced and insightful documentary series that provides an accessible, engrossing, and unique look into one of the most significant events in modern history. The show's use of primary sources, modern technology, and expert analysis provides viewers with a comprehensive understanding of World War I, its consequences, and its legacies. Together, Neidell, Alexander, and McCarthy bring history to life in a way that both educates and entertains.