Doomsday - World War I

Watch Doomsday - World War I

  • 2012
  • 1 Season

Doomsday - World War I is a gripping historical documentary series produced by ZDF, that takes us on a journey through one of the most devastating conflicts in human history - World War I. This six-part series gives us a vivid portrayal of the war, with archive footage and the use of CGI graphics to create realistic battle scenes, providing viewers with a unique inside look at one of the darkest periods of human history.

The show begins with an introduction to the world in the early 20th century which was on the brink of change. The world was full of new inventions and ideas, and the political landscape was changing rapidly. This was the time when colonial powers like England, France, and Germany were eager to expand their territories and exercise their dominance over the world.

The first episode talks about the problems that led to the outbreak of World War I. The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary in Sarajevo in 1914 by a Serbian nationalist was the spark that led to the beginning of the war. From here the series takes us through the bloody years of the war and the brutality that ensued. The filmmakers have done an excellent job of presenting the historical facts in an engaging manner, and the narration is precise and informative, making it easy for the audience to follow.

The series explores the stories of the soldiers on the front lines, the strategies of the generals and political leaders, and the impact of the war on civilians. The portrayal of the war atrocities like trench warfare, the horrific use of chemical gases, and the widespread death toll will leave viewers with a haunting impression of World War I. Doomsday - World War I further describes the mobilization of soldiers, the evolution of weapons and tactics, and the battles that shaped the outcome of the war.

One interesting episode of the series focuses on the role of women during the war. Women came forward to take on jobs that were traditionally for men, and they also provided emotional support to the soldiers. The series describes the social changes that were shaping up during the war and how it opened up opportunities for many women to become part of the workforce and contribute towards the war effort.

The production value of Doomsday - World War I is impressive, with historical footage and interviews with experts providing a wealth of information. The use of CGI graphics melds seamlessly with the archival footage, creating a realistic depiction of the war. The show's background score enhances the emotional depth of the narrative, making it an immersive viewing experience.

The last episode of the series provides an essential overview of the aftermath of the war. The Treaty of Versailles, which was signed in 1919, exacted harsh penalties on Germany and is widely believed to have acted as a catalyst for World War II. The show's narration provides an insight into the political and economic landscape of post-war Europe and how they led to the formation of the League of Nations and the United Nations.

In conclusion, Doomsday - World War I is a comprehensive documentary that provides an immersive experience of one of the most devastating periods in human history. The narrative is well-structured, with engaging visuals, and the historical facts are presented in a manner that is easy to follow. This series is a must-watch for history enthusiasts, as it provides unique insights into the causes, events, and consequences of World War I.

Doomsday - World War I
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Seasons
Battle of Nations
3. Battle of Nations
October 2, 2012
In August and September 1918 the German Army suffers defeat after defeat, overwhelmed by Allied superiority in supplies, men and machinery - a crushing experience for a devout nationalist like the young Walter Model. The emerging American tank troops have been trained by Lieutenant Colonel George S. Patton. At the end of September 1918, he leads some tanks into battle and is wounded. Recovering from his wounds he witnesses the end of World War One. Germany has been brought to its knees. But could the bitter pill of defeat have created a generation of young Germans, ready to avenge the humiliation of WWI?
Purgatory
2. Purgatory
September 25, 2012
In March 1916 at the battle of Verdun, Captain Charles De Gaulle is wounded by a bayonet and forced to surrender to German forces. It's a bitter moment for the battle-hardened officer. His time as a German POW shapes his impressions of Germany, and will have a profound impact on his stance during World War II and right into the post-war era. Meanwhile, Herman Goering makes reconnaissance flights over the battlefield of Verdun and downs a number of enemy aircraft. He's fighting the 'chivalrous war' in the air. Would their later actions have been different, had their WWI experiences have taken an alternative shape?
The Fall of Man
1. The Fall of Man
September 18, 2012
Montgomery and Hitler: two WWII leaders who participated in the start of the conflict that would define the first half of the 20th century - WWI. Like so many others, they go into the battles of the "Great War" in high spirits - still oblivious to the real meaning of the advance of modern military technology: random and merciless killing on a scale previously unheard of and hitherto technically impossible. It is a turning point in the history of the world. Eventually, Hitler will use his wartime experiences to bait the German people with the promise to make amends for the results of the First World War.
Description
  • Premiere Date
    September 18, 2012