Through a Lens:
Dieppe in Photographs and Film

German Newsreels

Understanding the value of propaganda through film, the German government began to control the production of newsreels even prior to the Second World War. By the outset of the war, two types of newsreels were being produced: one for German audiences and the other for foreign audiences in occupied German territories. Since the intended audience for each version of these newsreels was different, the content and tone could vary significantly.

Library and Archives Canada holds three newsreels produced by the Nazi Regime that depict the raid at Dieppe. Presented here are two of these newsreels, one that was shown in Germany and one that was distributed in occupied Holland. Although the footage used in these films is very similar, the films present two very different perspectives on the raid at Dieppe.

Content Warning: The following films contain graphic scenes of war which some viewers may find disturbing.

Downloadable Formats

German narration

The first newsreel is narrated in German and emphasizes the power of the German forces. The film highlights the German soldiers' quick reactions and well-executed defensive battle manoeuvres, both on land and in the air.

View English transcript of film.

Segment 1 of 2 [RM 7,859 KB]
Without subtitles [RM 8,346 KB]

Segment 2 of 2 [RM 8,169 KB]
Without subtitles [RM 8,521 KB]

Source

Dutch narration

The second newsreel is narrated in Dutch and emphasizes the aftermath of the battle. The film highlights the dead Allied personnel, their destroyed equipment littering the beach of Dieppe, as well as prisoners of war being marched through the town.

View English transcript of film.

Segment 1 of 2 [RM 8,863 KB]
Without subtitles [RM 8,701 KB]

Segment 2 of 2 [RM 7,932 KB]
Without subtitles [RM 8,027 KB]

Source

 

Copyright/Sources