The Third Reich

Originally broadcast on the History Channel, The Third Reich takes its source material from William Shirer's The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich (previously adapted as a groundbreaking 1968 made-for-television nonfiction production that is among the finest World War II documentaries ever made). Despite claims of uncovering “unfamiliar anecdotes and fascinating details about the Nazi Party” and using “rarely seen German newsreel recordings along with other unique footage carried home by Russian troops,” little in this new offering will come as a surprise to WWII buffs, as the three-hour series runs the historical gamut of Nazi activity, from the over-the-top rallies to the miserable anti-Semitic campaigns to the brutal military invasions that plunged the European continent into war. While it doesn't offer much fresh insight or scholarship, The Third Reich would nevertheless serve as a fine introduction for general viewers or students Recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (P. Hall)