Watch Winston Churchill's War

Winston Churchill's War is a documentary series that sheds light on the life and times of the iconic British statesman Winston Churchill during World War II. Produced by BBC Select in 2021, the show delves into the personal and political struggles that Churchill faced during his tenure as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, from 1940 to 1945.

The series comprises four 50-minute episodes, each exploring a different aspect of Churchill's wartime leadership. The first episode, entitled "The Gathering Storm," examines Churchill's rise to power amid the backdrop of the Nazi threat. It chronicles his early career as a politician, his warnings about the dangers of appeasement, and his decisive actions as Prime Minister following Britain's declaration of war in 1939.

The second episode, "Blood, Toil, Tears, and Sweat," focuses on the early days of Churchill's premiership, when he rallied the British people with his famous speeches and determined leadership. The episode covers the Dunkirk evacuation, the Battle of Britain, and Churchill's fraught relationship with his military advisers.

The third episode, "The Darkest Hour," explores the period of the war when Britain was facing its most serious setbacks. Churchill's stirring speeches, such as his "We shall fight them on the beaches" address, were crucial in galvanizing the nation's resolve. However, the episode also highlights Churchill's inner struggles, including his battles with depression and his doubts about the chances of victory.

The final episode, "Triumph and Tragedy," covers the end of the war in Europe and Churchill's own political downfall. The episode traces Churchill's shifting relations with his wartime allies, including Franklin D. Roosevelt and Joseph Stalin, and his controversial decisions in the aftermath of victory. It also explores Churchill's re-election defeat in 1945 and his eventual return to power in the 1950s.

Throughout the series, viewers are treated to never-before-seen footage, captivating interviews with historians and Churchill experts, and reenactments of key events in Churchill's life. The show also features a dynamic narrator, whose compelling voiceover adds drama and depth to the storytelling.

In addition to its gripping narrative, Winston Churchill's War also sheds light on the complexities of leadership during times of crisis. Viewers will gain a deeper understanding of the political and military challenges that Churchill faced, as well as his personal struggles and triumphs.

Overall, Winston Churchill's War is an insightful and engaging documentary series that will appeal to history buffs, political junkies, and anyone interested in the fascinating life and legacy of one of the great leaders of the 20th century.

Winston Churchill's War is a series that ran for 1 seasons (4 episodes) between and on BBC Select