Search - Panzer - Germany's Ultimate War Machine on DVD

Excellent Profile of Armor Training

R. Meyer | USA | 11/06/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This DVD consists mainly of 2 different reels of authentic German Panzer training. Both are absolutely fascinating and far removed from the typical stock footage found in most WWII documentaries. War: The Archive Collection has proven to be a valuable set of documentaries for this reason alone, these DVDs have been produced using alot of footage most people have never seen.

After a general overview of Panzer combat that lasts about 10 minutes, you'll view the first of the 2 training reels. This consists of some open field combat tactics using a Panther Tank to root out Soviet soldiers hiding in fox holes scattered about the field. You are literally shown, using a Panther Tank, the proper way to collapse a fox hole with a soldier inside.

The 2nd training reel is a little different. It mixes some cartoon diagrams in with actual real combat training to show some rather complicated frontline combat utilizing a nearby forest treeline, while being numerically outnumbered. Mostly includes halftracks, including a detachment of Flame-throwing Halftracks. Absolutely fantastic.

I would give this 5 stars, except most of this documentary has the original German narration, but there are no added English Subtitles, so I have no idea what he's saying throughout probably 35 minutes of this 50 minute Documentary. Otherwise this particular DVD documentary is very strong and recommended."

Very interesting...

R. Murray | Toronto | 01/10/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Very good dvd. It contains 2 training films with previously unreleased footage. The first film was designed to train crews who were converting to the new Panther medium tank in late 1943. Some really good action shots of the turret interior: it looks like you could stick a couch in there!! The second film takes place in mid 1944 and was made to train small unit commanders how to plan & execute a combined arms (infantry & armor) attack. Again, some really interesting footage that I'd never seen before. The dvd also has some frequently reproduced Kursk footage, fortunately this only takes up a small portion of it.

Anyone thinking of picking this dvd should keep in mind that the film footage is well over 60 years old & isn't up to today's standards so don't expect crystal clear images (even on dvd). Some of it is grainy. With that in mind I think that you'll be pleased with your purchase."