'Victory At Sea'
(DVD / NR / 2015 / Film Chest)
Overview: 'Victory At Sea' is a well-produced feature-length version of the TV documentary series with actual footage from the battles described, it s emotional and provides a good look at what our men and those of our allies, and even enemies, faced in WWII.
DVD Verdict: Originally a 26-episode series produced in 1952-53 by NBC with full co-operation from the United States Navy, 'Victory At Sea' was then adapted into this full-length feature film version narrated by Alexander Scourby ('The Big Heat'). Ergo, 'Victory At Sea' is a wonderful overview of World War II. The film is fast-paced with excellent narration from the aforementioned Scourby along with legendary music by Richard Rodgers.
In truth, anyone seeing this film today will not feel the impact that it had back in 1954 when it was first released. In those days much of the newsreel content was being shown for the first time. Here in the US I can remember some film critics of the day saying how they were moved to tears by some of the scenes. Indeed, the part where the Pardre is giving the last rites to the dying sailor on the deck of an aircraft carrier comes to mind. It's truly as powerful a moment as anything you will ever see when it comes to the war that rampaged back then.
As stated, much of the film stock has been shown repeatedly in later war documentaries so losing much of it's impact. Including historical wartime footage captured by the U.S., British, German and Japanese navies, this gripping documentary provides a first-hand look at what our soldiers, allies and even the enemies faced during World War II.
I've not seen this film for many years, but it will always remain in my memory. And so getting to review it here today was a pleasure and a remembrance curse; so to speak. Also it should be known that upon rewatching this, that whilst 'Victory At Sea' does contain a large amount of footage, the footage is badly edited, without label, and without source. This is a Full Screen Presentation with a 4x3 Aspect Ratio.
www.FilmChestMediaGroup.com