Archive of World War Two - Victory at Sea - Parts 17 to 20 is a significant collection from the ambitious project of restoring and assembling all the surviving footage from World War II in the Pacific, Atlantic, and the Mediterranean theaters. The series was termed the first "docudrama" by NBC, who produced it in 1952, and remains one of the most influential historical compilations in the genre of war documentaries. The four segments compiled in this collection represent a mix of military strategies, personal tales of valor, and the sacrifices made during one of the most devastating periods in human history.

Part 17, "The Turkey Shoot", delves into the lesser-known aspects of warfare in the Pacific, focussing on the battle for Leyte Gulf. Often eclipsed by more widely recognized battles such as Pearl Harbor or Iwo Jima, the Battle of Leyte Gulf was nonetheless a pivotal point of the conflict. Through this episode, viewers are immersed in the remarkably raw and unfiltered wartime experiences, presented through exceptional narration backed by an earnest score.

In Part 18, "Two if by Sea", the narrative shifts towards the vital island-hopping campaigns, predominantly those fought in the South and Central Pacific regions. With an added emphasis on the role of the amphibious invasion forces, it’s also a tribute to the hundreds of nameless heroes who ensured the success of these covert operations. The intertwining narrative casts light on the collective effort necessary for these campaigns to succeed.

"Return of the Allies", Part 19 of the series, showcases how the victory of the Allies started to take shape. Covering one of the war's largest amphibious invasions, it delves deeper into the composition, implementation, and impact of the coordinated Allied assault on the Philippines. Through unvarnished footage and riveting narration, this section continues to honor the commitment, bravery, and sacrifice of those who fought around the clock to secure victory.

The concluding Part 20, titled "Full Fathom Five", shifts focus back to the Atlantic front, primarily depicting the vital role of submarines in the war. As much a tribute to the technological advances of the era as it is to the brave individuals who operated within it, this segment hammers home the importance of endurance and adaptation in any war effort. A dive into the murky, claustrophobic world of submarine warfare, it highlights a largely underrepresented facet of the conflict and the men who turned the tide in the Allies' favor from beneath the waves.

These collective sequences are visually riveting and will resonate with both history enthusiasts and casual viewers alike. The array of footage, some formerly classified, provides an unfiltered look at the full scope of the global conflict. The soundtrack, composed by legendary composer Richard Rodgers, of Rodgers and Hammerstein fame, gracefully enhances the content, lending a unique emotional depth to the narrative.

The overarching theme of Archive of World War Two - Victory at Sea - Parts 17 to 20 is one of relentless human spirit facing unbelievable odds. Each episode, while standing independently in its content, weaves elements of courage, sacrifice, and resilience into a broader narrative that presents the war from a uniquely personal perspective.

This compilation appeals to anyone fueled with a curiosity for history, a passion for military strategy, or those simply seeking an understanding of the human ability to persevere in the face of adversity. Immersive and riveting, this collection is a tribute to a generation who laid everything on the line to ensure victory at sea during World War Two.