Plot
"37 Days" is a compelling historical docudrama that chronicles the riveting sequence of events that catapulted the world into the throes of the First World War. From the shocking assassination of Austro-Hungarian Archduke Franz Ferdinand on June 28, 1914, to the global tremor of war declarations that ensued until August 4, 1914, the series acts as a ticking time bomb, counting down the 37 fateful days that forever altered the course of history.
The narrative unfolds in the corridors of power, primarily the British Foreign Office, the German Chancellery in Berlin, and the British Ministry of Foreign Affairs, offering viewers a front-row seat to the diplomatic chess game that preceded the outbreak of war. The series is narrated from the perspective of two young clerks, who, after the passage of 37 days, find themselves trading their pens for rifles on the battlefield.
This captivating miniseries is an intricate blend of drama and documentary, presenting a tableau of historical figures, both revered and reviled. It faithfully portrays the internal struggle within the British Cabinet, the clash between pacifists and warmongers, and the growing discord between military leaders, spearheaded by Helmuth von Moltke, and civilian politicians.
"37 Days" doesn't shy away from examining the roles of notable personalities such as Winston Churchill and David Lloyd George, nor does it caricature figures like Kaiser Wilhelm II, Tsar Nicholas II, and Franz Joseph I. Instead, it provides a balanced portrayal, making it a gripping exploration of how a period of relative peace escalated into a worldwide conflict in just over a month.
Through its nuanced narrative and detailed dramatizations, "37 Days" compels the viewer to grapple with the haunting question: how did peace slip through our fingers so quickly, plunging us into the abyss of war? This series is more than a history lesson; it's a vivid and thought-provoking journey into the heart of one of the world's most tumultuous times.
Where to watch 37 Days?
37 Days is a drama movie featuring Oliver Ford Davies and directed by Justin Hardy.