description Apocalypse: The Second World War (2009) Overview
This French-produced series is renowned for its high-quality restoration of archival footage, much of which was previously unseen. It provides a sweeping, global narrative of World War II, focusing on the experiences of both leaders and ordinary people.
The series is particularly effective at showing the human cost of the war through restored, colorized footage that feels remarkably modern. Its narrative is fast-paced and engaging, making it a great choice for viewers who want a comprehensive yet visually stunning overview of the conflict.
info Apocalypse: The Second World War (2009) Specifications
| Title | Apocalypse: The Second World War |
| Awards | International Emmy Award, Peabody Award |
| Episodes | 6 |
| Language | French (original), English (dubbed) |
| Narrator | Mathieu Kassovitz |
| Release Year | 2009 |
| Us Broadcast | PBS, 2010 |
| Total Runtime | Approx. 5 hours |
| Original Title | Apocalypse - La 2e Guerre mondiale |
| Production Budget | 7 million |
| Original Broadcast | Canal+ (France), 2009 |
| Production Companies | CC&C, Ideo Audiovisuel |
balance Apocalypse: The Second World War (2009) Pros & Cons
- Unprecedented restoration quality of WWII archival footage, including 90% colorized sequences never before released to the public
- Comprehensive global scope covering all major theaters including Eastern Front, Pacific, and European fronts often overlooked in Western documentaries
- Dual perspective storytelling effectively balances high-level military/political decisions with intimate civilian experiences
- Award-winning production by French filmmakers with 7 million budget enabling museum-quality archival research
- Mathieu Kassovitz narration adds cinematic gravitas while maintaining educational clarity
- Structured 6-episode chronology from 1939-1945 provides coherent historical framework without oversimplifying complex events
- Eurocentric production origins may underrepresent Asian and African theater contributions to the war effort
- Narrative relies heavily on archival compilation rather than original scholarship or interviews with survivors
- Colorization process, while impressive, occasionally alters viewer perception of historical authenticity
- PBS broadcast versions may be edited for time compared to original 6-part French cut
- Limited supplementary educational materials compared to academic documentary releases
- Streaming availability inconsistent across regions requiring PBS access or physical media purchase
help Apocalypse: The Second World War (2009) FAQ
Where can I stream Apocalypse: The Second World War online?
Apocalypse: The Second World War is available for streaming on PBS's website and app. It may also be available through PBS passport on affiliated streaming platforms or for purchase/rental on Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.
How many episodes does the series contain and what is the total runtime?
The documentary series consists of 6 episodes spanning from the rise of Nazi Germany through the end of WWII. Each episode runs approximately 50 minutes, totaling around 5 hours of runtime.
Is the series available with subtitles for non-English speakers?
Yes, the PBS release includes English subtitles and closed captions. The original French version on Canal+ includes French audio with English subtitle options available on streaming platforms.
What makes this WWII documentary different from others like Ken Burns' series?
Apocalypse distinguishes itself through unprecedented archival restoration including 90% colorized footage, previously unseen Soviet archives, and a 7 million production budget dedicated to footage acquisition and enhancement.
Is the documentary historically accurate and suitable for educational use?
The series is widely regarded as highly accurate by historians and has been used in academic settings. It draws from declassified archives and consults with WWII historians, though some scholars note slight Western perspective biases.
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What are the key specifications of Apocalypse: The Second World War (2009)?
- Title: Apocalypse: The Second World War
- Awards: International Emmy Award, Peabody Award
- Episodes: 6
- Language: French (original), English (dubbed)
- Narrator: Mathieu Kassovitz
- Release Year: 2009
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