The NFB is committed to respecting your privacy

We use cookies to ensure that our site works efficiently, as well as for advertising purposes.

If you do not wish to have your information used in this way, you can modify your browser settings before continuing your visit.

Learn more
Skip to content Accessibility
New release
Coming 
None

In Desperate Battle: Normandy 1944

1992 1 h 43 min
Leaving soon

This documentary looks at the events of June 6, 1944, when a combined force of American, British and Canadian troops landed on the beaches of Normandy. The Allied invasion of occupied France was a turning point in the war against Hitler's Germany. From a tactical view, Canada's role was limited; strategically, it was pivotal. Part of the 3-part series The Valour and the Horror.

This content is not available for free viewing in your location.
Your rental expires on
None
You've already purchased this film.
Download it from My purchases.
Not available
Share
This work contains scenes of violence. Viewer discretion is advised.
In Desperate Battle: Normandy 1944
  • The Valour and the Horror
    The Valour and the Horror
    1991 3 films
    This three-part series critically examines some aspects of Canada's contribution during the Second World War. Many of the events described are not familiar to most Canadians, and all share the theme of the bravery of Canadian soldiers and the tragedies of war.

Suggestions

Details

This documentary looks at the events of June 6, 1944, when a combined force of American, British and Canadian troops landed on the beaches of Normandy. The Allied invasion of occupied France was a turning point in the war against Hitler's Germany. From a tactical view, Canada's role was limited; strategically, it was pivotal. Part of the 3-part series The Valour and the Horror.

This work contains scenes of violence. Viewer discretion is advised.
History - Canada - 1920-1945 Foreign Countries War, Conflict and Peace All subjects
  • director
    Brian McKenna
  • producer
    Arnie Gelbart
    André Lamy
    Adam Symansky
    Darce Fardy
  • associate producer
    Roman Jarymowycz
  • script
    Brian McKenna
    Terence McKenna
    Roman Jarymowycz
  • cinematography
    Neville Ottey
  • sound
    Ian Challis
  • line production
    Mary Armstrong
    Camelia Freiberg
  • editing
    Alfonso Peccia
  • sound editing
    Les Halman
    Don Ayer
  • re-recording
    Adrian Croll
  • narrator
    Terence McKenna
  • cast
    Simon Bradbury
    Gerry Quigley
    Julian Richings
    Stephen Russell
    Colin O'Meara
    Stewart Arnott
    Neil Munro
    Nigel Bennett
    Wayne Robson
    Adrian Hough

Enjoy the NFB experience on your favourite device

Roku Apple TV Fire TV Android TV Apple App Store Google Play Store

Education

Ages 12 to 17
School subjects
History - World War II History and Citizenship Education - Modernization of Quebec Society (1929-1980)
Supplement to the study of World War II in France on the beaches of Normandy in June, 1944. Topics to research further, as an extension to this film, should include: the development of the Hitler Youth movement, the contrast in manpower and artillery between the Allied forces and Germany, the military leaders of both the Allied forces and Germany and their roles in the fighting. Have students comment on the ill preparedness of the Canadian troops. Discuss the role of the conscription crisis in Canada as it affected the preparedness of the soldiers. Have students comment on the importance of faith in God that sustained many of the soldiers.
In Desperate Battle: Normandy 1944
Purchase options
Also available
DVD

Explore