Ep 1. The Gathering Storm

In "The Gathering Storm," the first episode of Season One of "World War II In Colour," viewers are transported back in time to the early days of the Second World War. The episode opens with footage of Neville Chamberlain's now-famous "peace for our time" speech, in which the British Prime Minister announced that he had secured a deal with Adolf Hitler that he believed would prevent war.

But as viewers soon discover, this was not to be. Hitler's aggression continued, and within months the world was plunged into the deadliest conflict in human history. "The Gathering Storm" charts the events leading up to the outbreak of war in 1939, as tensions mounted and diplomatic negotiations failed.

Through a combination of rare archival footage and expert analysis from historians, the episode paints a vivid picture of a world in turmoil. We see Hitler's rise to power in Germany, his military campaigns in Europe, and the complex web of alliances and rivalries between the major powers of the time.

One of the most striking aspects of "The Gathering Storm" is the use of colour footage to bring the era to life. While most people are familiar with the grainy, black-and-white images that define our collective memory of the war, this series uses cutting-edge technology to restore and colourize these historic films. The results are breathtaking, giving viewers a new sense of immediacy and connection to the events of the past.

In addition to the military and political events of the time, "The Gathering Storm" also delves into the human stories that shaped the war. We hear from those who lived through the Blitz in London, and from American soldiers who joined the fight as the war spread to the Pacific. By highlighting the experiences of individuals from different countries and backgrounds, the episode reminds us that this was a truly global conflict, with far-reaching consequences for millions of people.

Overall, "The Gathering Storm" is a gripping and insightful glimpse into the early days of World War II. By combining cutting-edge technology with expert analysis and compelling storytelling, this episode sets the stage for the rest of the series, which promises to explore the full breadth of this complex and fascinating period in history. Whether you're a history buff or simply interested in learning more about one of the defining events of the 20th century, "World War II In Colour" is a must-see.