The Korean War in Color; World War II in Color: The British Story

Why should the addition of color photography make the tragic events of war seem more real, intense, and personal than the usual grainy black and white footage we're used to seeing? I suspect the main reason is that since we see the world in color, we therefore tend to associate reality with color. Two new titles capture the miserable, frightening, debilitating, and bloody mess that is war from start to finish in living color. The two-volume The Korean War in Color presents the history of the Korean "police action," from its origins in the early days following the devastation of WWII right through its inconclusive conclusion in 1953. Korea was hell on American fighting forces, with the constant string of defeats eventually eroding the sense of supremacy Americans felt after the decisive victories of the previous decade. A well-made and honestly presented historical documentary of what is often called the "Forgotten War," The Korean War in Color, featuring footage previously unavailable to the public (with scenes that may be too intense for some viewers), is recommended. Aud: H, C, P. In "Darkest Hour," the first volume in the three-tape set World War II in Color: The British Story, viewers will be introduced to the war as experienced by the British, with color footage enhanced by readings from letters and diaries, a selection of popular songs of the day, and excerpts from speeches by Chamberlain, Churchill, King Edward, and others. Anglophiles and war buffs will thrill to hearing old Winston growling out his "finest hour," "we shall fight them on the beaches," and other speeches, while corresponding scenes are presented in vivid color. The other two volumes in the set are: Beginning of the End and Unknown Warriors. Featuring scenes filmed over fifty years ago that appear as clear, crisp, and colorful as if they were produced only a few months ago, this set is recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (J. Carlson)