In this companion feature to HBO’s The Gathering Storm, Britain’s headstrong Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, guides his nation to victory in World War II.

CRITIQUE

Winston Churchill was, arguably, the greatest political figure of the 20th century.  Indeed, had it not been for his determination to thwart the Nazi terror, our world would be very different from what it is today.

Writer Hugh Whitemore uses a flashback approach for this excellent drama that views Churchill at both his finest and lowest moments.  It is not so much a chronicle of World War II, but rather a look at how Churchill came to make the critical decisions that changed the course of the war.

Bookending the war years, we see him, his wife and staff vacationing in France after the conflict has ended, waiting to learn if he will be re-elected to his lofty post.  [He wasn’t.]

Brendan Gleeson delivers an uncanny performance as Churchill.  When he delivers his notable speeches, it is as if we are listening to the man himself.  Playing his wife and lifelong supporter, Clementine, Janet McTeer is also magnificent, as is Len Cariou in the role of FDR.

Director Thaddeus O’Sullivan does a fine job of recreating the time and place.

THE VIDEO

The widescreen picture is sharp and without any significant issues.

THE AUDIO

The 5.1 Sound is clear and without problems.

THE EXTRAS

Audio Commentary with producer Frank Doelger and writer Hugh Whitemore.

The Making of Into the Storm contains interviews with the cast and the behind-the scenes talent.

FINAL THOUGHT

Into The Storm is a fine historical drama that gives insight into one of the greatest men of the 20th century.