Prelude to War

Prelude to War is a 1942 wartime documentary with a film score by Alfred Newman and narration by Walter Huston, and appearances by Victor Bulwer-Lytton and Kai-Shek Chiang. The first in the series of seven documentaries called "Why We Fight" produced by the United States Army during World War II, the film is a strong example of wartime propaganda that shaped public opinion towards support of the war.

The gripping narrative of Prelude to War paints a picture of world history leading up to the start of World War II, by comparing the democratic Nations of Freedom or the Allied powers (the United States and its allies) and the dictatorial Axis powers (primarily Germany, Italy, and Japan).

Directed by Frank Capra, this vivid and compelling piece of cine-history seeks to draw a clear line distinguishing the forces of peace and aggression. Given the times it was produced, the film leaned heavily on a rather simplified "black-and-white" morality principle. It were these very principles however, that prompted the nation to rally and wholeheartedly support the war effort.

The movie is loaded with historical footages, graphics, and animations, all meticulously collected and arranged to drive home the message it carries. The Academy Award-winning film provides an overview of the World War II situation before Pearl Harbor. It offers an educational insight into the political climate of the world in the late 1930s and early 1940s.

Walter Huston, a towering icon known for his masterful delivery, known for films like "The Treasure of the Sierra Madre" and "Dodsworth", provides powerful narration to the film. Victor Bulwer-Lytton, a British statesman and colonial administrator, lends legitimacy to the story with his political stature and knowledge. Kai-Shek Chiang, then-leader of Nationalist China, also makes an appearance, supplying his perspective to the global event.

Through reinterpretations of historical events, the film points out how totalitarian regimes rose to power by suppressing their own people's rights and sparking aggression and expansion. These observations are carefully contrasted against the ideals of democracy. Frank Capra uses these contrasts to galvanize public sentiment and frame the necessity of the Allied involvement in the second World War.

The film also delves into the ideologies and tactics of the so-called Axis Powers. For instance, their manipulation of the media, their military aggression, and their strategies to systematically subvert democracies and replace them with totalitarian regimes.

Alfred Newman, a renowned composer with several Academy Awards under his belt, provides an emotionally charged score that heightens the impact of the visual narratives. His work lends gravitas and emotive power to the film, amplifying the sense of urgency and danger of the wartime era.

Prelude to War, although initially intended as a military indoctrination film, has since gained historical significance as a rare glimpse into the mindset and strategies of a nation at war. It serves both as a stark portrayal of stark global realities of its time and a rallying call to its audience.

Prelude to War is not only a film but also a significant document of World War II history. It still appeals to modern audiences as a classic educational tool, a priceless peek into one of humanity's most trying and transformative chapters. The resonating narration by Walter Huston, along with the appearances of Victor Bulwer-Lytton and Kai-Shek Chiang, make this watch both informative and engaging.

In summary, Prelude to War is a powerful documentary providing an educational and engaging insight into World War II's claimed 'forces of peace' and 'forces of aggression.' Aided by the commanding voice of Walter Huston, key political figures, Newman's compelling music, and Frank Capra's stellar direction, the film serves as a valuable historical and cinematic experience.