A must for students and others interested in the 2nd World War, especially the behind-the-scenes machinations of the Nazi's. Sam Waterston was tremendous in the leading role and well supported by Marthe Keller as his wife, while Ronald Pickup deserves a mention as 'putzi' Hanfstaengl, an old acquaintance of Hitlers in the early days. Although it was somewhat embellished here and there, it is a faithful enough depiction that keeps all viewers engrossed at the absurdities of Herr Goebbels' propaganda machine.

While the length of the movie at almost 6 hours may seem over-long for some, it is just about enough given the content, which spans Shirer's first visit to Berlin (1934) since he left 10 years earlier; and there is more than enough action and suspense to keep the movie from flagging; gradually pulling one into the 'nightmare' that was the 3rd Reich.

Sam Waterston gives one of his greatest performances as William Shirer in this magnificent mini series. The rise of the third reich is seen through the eyes of foreign journos based in pre war Germany, the pressures that they work under and the threats they face if they fail to toe the line form the basis for a work that is essential viewing for everyone. Waterston is brilliant and is ably assisted by Marthe Keller, Kurtwood Smith, Ronald Pickup and a host of guest cameos. John Steiner should be singled out for his stunning turn in episode one, as a Lutheran priest hunted by the nazis.

This was overlong but it was a fine production,well written and well acted. It is based on a very old book but I think the history stands up to modern knowledge.

It is a cliche that they don't make them like this anymore but they really don't make them like this anymore.

I am trying to recall any similar period dramas since the 1990s,there were a couple of things about the Nuremberg trials,there was the Hitler/Evil thing but it is all sci fi and fantasy nowadays?

William Shirer, American Correspondent and last remaining foreign journalist/reporter in Berlin WW2. An exciting drama based on the real life experiences of William Shirer and his wife in Berlin WW2.

Outstanding cinematography and brilliant acting. Deserves to be better known.