The World at War 2 -- Distant War, September 1939 - May 1940, Part 1

This segment of "The World at War" series, specifically titled "Distant War," covers the initial phase of World War II from September 1939 to May 1940. It begins with the Soviet invasion of Finland, highlighting the Finns' unexpected resilience against the Soviet forces through guerrilla tactics and the harsh winter conditions. The narrative then shifts to Britain, where despite the war, life continued with a semblance of normalcy marred by the challenges of the blackout, coal shortages, and the harsh winter of 1939-1940.
The film delves into the naval aspect of the war, particularly the British victory against the German supply ship, the Altmark, which was a significant morale booster for Britain but also led to Hitler's accelerated plans for Norway. Winston Churchill's strategic considerations regarding Norway and Sweden's iron ore supply, crucial for Germany, are explored, showcasing the political and military strategizing behind the scenes.
The documentary also captures the British public's and government's hopes that economic warfare might lead to Germany's collapse without a major military confrontation, an illusion shattered by the realities of the Norwegian campaign. This campaign, marked by logistical and strategic failures, contributed to the political upheaval in Britain, leading to Neville Chamberlain's resignation and Churchill's ascent to Prime Minister.
The portrayal includes personal accounts, historical reenactments, and archival footage, providing an in-depth look at the early stages of WWII, emphasizing the "phoney war" period's deceptive calm, the strategic missteps, and the human elements of this global conflict.