Blu-ray Review “WWII From Space”

Studio: History Channel
Distributed by: Lionsgate Films
Rating: Not Rated
Release Date: May 7, 2013
Run Time: 94 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

There has been countless programs about WWII over the years and thanks to The History Channel they have been behind most of these. I am a sucker for these programs and a downright History buff. When I heard about viewing the events of “WWII from Space”, I have to admit I was extremely interested. I mean who isn’t curious about anything to do with space. Of course, there is nothing new here in terms of content but this special does feature some really stunning CGI mixed with historical facts, which gives us a interest look into America’s part in World War II from a new angle. A must for all History buffs.

Official Premise: WWII FROM SPACE delivers World War II in a way you’ve never experienced it before. This two-hour HISTORY special uses an all-seeing CGI eye that offers a satellite view of the conflict, allowing you to experience it in a way that places key events and tipping points in a global perspective. By re-creating groundbreaking moments that could never have been captured on camera and by illustrating the importance of simultaneity and the hidden effects of crucial incidents, HISTORY presents the war’s monumental moments in never- before-seen context. And with new information brought to the forefront, you’ll better understand how a nation ranked 19th in the world’s militaries in 1939 emerged six years later as the planet’s only atomic superpower.

History Channel delivers nothing but a stunning Blu-ray release. The 1080p transfer with an aspect ratio of 1.78:1 is very sharp. This works very well with the CGI effects, I would have loved to seen them release them in 3D as they have done with some specials. I have a feeling that this could have made this even cooler. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is also very impressive. It features a stronger narrative and a powerful score. There are no additional special features included with this release, but that is typical with specials like this.

 

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3D Blu-Ray Review “WWII in 3D”

Channel: The History Channel
Running Time: 46 minutes
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: A&E Entertainment

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Firstly, I am a sucker for History Channel programs…especially ones that are in 3D. Like said in the opening scene of the show, most of the photos and video from WWII have already been seen over the years. This show though provided new moments of WWII that has been hidden and buried until now. The coolest part about this is that they were captured in 3D with stereographs.

The man behind these 3D photos taken for the Nazi’s back during the war was Heinrich Hoffmann, the German photographer. This amazing collection includes Allied reconnaissance photos and images that documents the rise and fall of the Third Reich. The photos look absolutely amazing in 3D and its amazing that they have held up so well over these years. It is also interesting to be able to analysis the third dimension on some of these images.

If you thought that was enough this program also features an 3D film shot by the Nazis in 1943. The footage is a rare look behind the scenes into the Nazi during the war.  Overall, the video on the Blu-ray is presented perfectly and the sound is really sharp. My only complaint on this release is that I hoped that this could have been longer.  Maybe The History Channel & A&E will plan on releasing more 3D products in the near future.