Netflix has recently added a new WW2 documentary to its catalogue. Britain and the Blitz is an “immersive” documentary feature film with “vividly restored” archive footage detailing the experiences of civilians in Britain during the Blitz. Viewers are promised multiple emotional first-hand accounts from those who lived through the devastating period of history.
The documentary’s synopsis reads: “This immersive documentary brings history to life through vividly restored archival footage and firsthand accounts of WWII Britain during the Blitz.”
Critics have praised the documentary with one stating: “What makes Ella Wright’s film so fresh and powerful lies in how images are married to sound effects and snatches of speech.”
Another critic said: “Director Ella Wright does a nice job of blending archival footage and applying all the digital tricks perfected by Peter Jackson and others in bringing the past to life.”
A fan on Letterboxd awarded the war documentary four stars, stating: “Netflix finally does good – an excellent documentary about the Blitz of Britain from September 1940 to May 1941.”
“Amazing documentary, the powerful human stories is what makes the film shine,” wrote a fan on Rotten Tomatoes.
However, not all reactions to the documentary have been positive with some complaining about the use of AI throughout the documentary.
One fan wrote: “While Britain and the Blitz offers some compelling personal stories, it misses the mark when it comes to delivering substantial information about how Britain defended itself during the conflict. The focus on relationships overshadows the strategic and military aspects, leaving the documentary feeling somewhat shallow. It’s a watchable film, but it ultimately lacks the depth and substance expected from such a pivotal historical topic.”
Another gave a mixed review, writing: “Although it lacks a thematic polestar, Britain and the Blitz is nevertheless a refreshing account of familiar historical events.”
Britain and the Blitz is available to stream on Netflix right now.