Tom Hanks returns to WWII with new documentary series

Tom Hanks, already known for his deep engagement with World War II through films like "Saving Private Ryan" and "Band of Brothers," returns to the pivotal 20th-century conflict with a new 20-episode documentary series. Titled "The Second World War with Tom Hanks," the series positions the war as the most significant event in human history.

Hanks serves as both narrator and an executive producer on the ambitious project, which seeks to offer a comprehensive overview. The series traces the war's trajectory from the rise of Nazism and Hitler's ascent to power through critical military and political milestones. The Guardian notes Hanks's long-standing dedication to WWII themes in his filmmaking.

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World War II changed everything. For all of us.

Incorporating restored color footage, archival materials, and insights from historians and eyewitnesses, the documentary aims to illuminate the human dimension of the war. It begins with Germany's 1939 invasion of Poland and chronicles the conflict's rapid expansion across Europe. Beyond military operations, the series delves into the psychological and social impact on ordinary people.

Hanks himself emphasizes the war's transformative power, stating, "There is no life that World War II did not touch. There is no life that did not change." He personally connects to the project, noting its influence on his own family. The series progresses through key events, including Operation Barbarossa and the attack on Pearl Harbor, with upcoming episodes focusing on naval warfare.

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There is no life that World War II did not touch. There is no life that did not change.