Watch The Story of British Pathé

The Story of British Pathé is a fascinating documentary series that explores the history of the world-renowned newsreel company. Consisting of four episodes, the show takes a closer look at the iconic footage that has captured some of the most significant moments in modern history. This series is produced by BBC Scotland and features two host, renowned historian Charles Allen and motorcycle adventurer Charlie Boorman.

Viewers are taken on a journey through time, exploring the archives of British Pathé and the significant moments immortalized by the company. From the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II to the fall of the Berlin Wall, the program provides a unique insight into how some of the defining moments of the 20th century were documented for posterity.

The first episode of the show takes viewers back to the birth of British Pathé in the early 1900s. We learn about the founders of the company and how they revolutionized the way news was disseminated. The goal was to bring news events and dramatic content to the masses in a way that had never been seen before. The team at British Pathé succeeded in this, amassing an archive that still captivates audiences today. During the episode, we learn about the early obstacles the company had to overcome, including censorship laws and political pressures.

The second episode of the series focuses on the impact of British Pathé's coverage of the Second World War. Charles Allen and Charlie Boorman dive into the archives to explore the storytelling techniques used by the company during wartime. From the infamous blitzkrieg footage to the liberation of concentration camps, the episode demonstrates the vital role that British Pathé played in keeping the public informed and engaged with wartime events.

In episode three, viewers are treated to a glimpse into the celebrity world of the mid-20th century. Unforgettable moments captured in the archives include Elvis Presley's arrival at Prestwick Airport in Scotland, and the UK premiere of the Beatles' A Hard Day's Night. Celebrity politics are also covered, and the rise of figures like Margaret Thatcher and Winston Churchill is explored.

The final episode of the series showcases how British Pathé's content has had a significant impact on social movements throughout history. From the civil rights movement to the fight for LGBT rights, the episode demonstrates how British Pathé's content has influenced and illuminated societal matters. The episode also showcases prophetic warnings of global warming and other contemporary issues that took place decades ago.

Throughout the series, viewers are treated to rare and exclusive footage from British Pathé's archives. Along with exploring historical moments, we learn about the production methods used by British Pathé, including the invention of the first television news broadcast, and the progression to full-color filming. The show is an engrossing combination of history and storytelling, with Charles Allen and Charlie Boorman providing entertaining and informative narration.

In summary, The Story of British Pathé is an engrossing and captivating documentary series perfect for history lovers, movie enthusiasts, and anyone who loves a great story. The series is an excellent tribute to the groundbreaking work of British Pathé, whose influence can still be felt today in the world of news media.