The World at War

Editor Reviews

• Hollis Crane

  Rating: 5

  5

  July 8, 2025

  A landmark documentary series, The World at War remains one of the most comprehensive and authoritative accounts of World War II ever produced for television. Narrated by the legendary Laurence Olivier, the 26-episode series utilizes a vast archive of film footage, photographs, and, crucially, interviews with key figures and ordinary people who lived through the conflict. Produced by Thames Television, it covers the war from its origins in the interwar period through its devastating conclusion. What makes The World at War so powerful is its global scope and its inclusion of perspectives from all sides of the conflict – soldiers, civilians, politicians, and resistance fighters. It goes beyond the battles to explore the political machinations, the home fronts, the Holocaust, and the long-lasting consequences of the war. The interviews are particularly impactful, featuring testimonies from figures like Albert Speer, Karl Dönitz, and numerous Allied commanders, alongside the poignant recollections of everyday individuals who endured bombing raids, occupation, and immense loss. These personal accounts bring a deeply human dimension to the grand historical narrative. While the production values reflect its 1970s origin, the sheer depth of research and the breadth of material presented ensure its continued relevance. It's an invaluable historical resource and a compelling, often moving, viewing experience that provides a panoramic view of the 20th century's most devastating conflict.