Oscar-winning actor Tom Hanks is set to narrate a groundbreaking 20-part documentary series on World War II, titled WWII With Tom Hanks, premiering on Sky History on 26th May. The series promises never-before-seen archival footage, state-of-the-art restorations, and insights from leading historians.
A Lifelong Fascination with History
Hanks, 69, known for his roles in Saving Private Ryan (1998) and Greyhound (2020), as well as producing the miniseries Band of Brothers (2001), says his interest in the conflict dates back to childhood. He recalls, "When I was a kid, every adult I knew shared one thing in common: a gap in their lives when time itself seemed to stand still. For six dark years, the world was on fire, cities were demolished, and whole populations were threatened."
Unprecedented Footage and Storytelling
Hanks explains that the series offers a fresh perspective, stating, "First of all, there is a ton of footage that we have never seen. Not only are there new scenes, literally new celluloid, new imagery; they are also wrapped more in the context of the immediate time." He emphasizes that this visual storytelling reveals what happened before and after iconic moments, providing a deeper understanding of history.
The Importance of Remembering WWII
Hanks reflects on the war's enduring lessons, saying, "The only yardstick for who we are—are we villains or are we heroes? It's in our behaviour, and that's where the example comes in of why World War II is worthy to study." He contrasts the ideologies of Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan with Western democracies, which fought to preserve basic freedoms.
Personal Connections and Cultural Impact
The actor shares personal anecdotes, including a story from his trigonometry teacher, a WWII veteran who survived a harrowing flight. He also recalls classic war films and documentaries like The World at War and The Great Escape that shaped his understanding. Hanks hopes the series will educate new generations about the dangers of tyranny and the courage of those who fought.
A Cautionary Tale for Today
The documentary also draws parallels between the rise of Nazism and current global tensions, highlighting how economic hardship and desperation allowed Hitler to rise to power. Hanks concludes, "What I hope anybody of any generation gets from watching is, 'I didn't know it was this dangerous. How in the world did people do that? What prompted them to go off and even attempt to save the world in the first place?'"
WWII With Tom Hanks premieres on Sky History on 26th May.
