Netflix WWII documentary blasted as ‘worst ever’ after subscribers promised ‘archival footage and voices’
Netflix has released two new World War II documentaries, each drawing mixed reactions from viewers for different reasons.
The streaming giant’s six-part series “World War II From the Frontlines” promises to show the conflict “through vividly enhanced archival footage and voices from all sides of the conflict”.
Meanwhile, “Churchill at War”, a four-part documentary series produced by Imagine Entertainment, has employed innovative AI technology to bring Winston Churchill’s voice back to life.
Both series showcase technological advances in documentary filmmaking, with “From the Frontlines” featuring colourised wartime footage, while “Churchill at War” uses AI to transform written speeches into audio recordings.
The documentaries, released within hours of each other, have sparked debate among viewers about their respective approaches to historical storytelling.
Viewers have criticised “World War II From the Frontlines” for lacking crucial historical context despite its impressive visual restoration.
One Reddit user branded it “the worst WII documentary ever made”, demanding more historical background and expert analysis.
“While it is fine to show the pictures from the past and people’s narratives, it is still a documentary of history. So give me the context, give me the important information, give me historians’ views”, the viewer wrote.
Another viewer described it as “an entry level doc”, noting it “jumps from D-Day to Battle of Bulge” while missing significant events.
However, the series’ visual elements received praise, with one viewer commenting: “The new footage and restoration was amazing though. The bombing of Monte Casino is incredible to see in that much detail.”
Some appreciated its unique perspective, with one fan rating it “8/10” for its focus on first-hand accounts and previously unseen footage.
“Churchill at War” has taken an innovative approach by using AI to bring Churchill’s voice to life from written speeches.
Justin Wilkes, president of Imagine Entertainment, explained their vision: “What we started to dabble with is could we essentially have Churchill narrate his own story?”
The series combines this AI-generated narration with actor Christian McKay portraying Churchill in reconstructed scenes.
The documentary was produced with the cooperation of Churchill’s estate and lists Oscar-winning filmmaker Ron Howard as a producer.
AI technology was used to transform hundreds of paper-only speeches into audio recordings and colourise historical photos and videos.
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This technological approach aims to enhance storytelling rather than replicate reality, distinguishing itself from other AI applications in documentary filmmaking.
The inclusion of certain political figures as talking heads in “Churchill at War” has also sparked controversy among viewers.
