Shanghai 1937: Where World War II Began is an evocative documentary film that delves into the tumultuous historical period that many historians argue marked the real beginning of World War II. This gripping and historically illuminating film renders a deep look into the events leading to the Battle of Shanghai – one of the earliest yet most significant conflicts of the war.

Directed by Peter Herford, a seasoned journalist and watched academic, the movie efficiently utilizes the filmmaker's craft to narratively encapsulate one of the most important events in world history. It is narrated by Liev Schreiber, lending a resonant depth as it takes the audience through the maze of conflict and chaos that unfolded in 1937.

Shanghai 1937: Where World War II Began focuses on the Battle of Shanghai, a major confrontation between Republic of China and Empire of Japan, regaling the audience with accounts of unprecedented courage, brutality, sacrifice, and the combustible international politics of the time. The movie also includes numerous interviews with veterans from both sides of the conflict, history scholars and survivors of the battle offering an intimate and detailed view of the events as they unfolded.

The film is a veritable trove of historical data and archival footage blended with modern cinematic techniques to reconstruct the terrifying reality of war-time Shanghai. Herford also introduces a dynamic cast of historical figures whose roles -- both big and small -- in the conflict helped shape the years that followed. These real-life characters include diplomats, soldiers, journalists, and civilians all drawn into the whirlwind of global conflict.

One of the unique strengths of Shanghai 1937: Where World War II Began is the carefully balanced narrative that refuses to take sides, instead it presents a stark, neutral portrayal of the battle and its significant falloff. The commentary makes a profound point, asserting the battle as the actual commencement of World War II, rather than the conventional notion which marks Germany's invasion of Poland in 1939 as the war's genesis.

The documentary does not shy away from portraying the extreme violence of the conflict. With a liberal use of archival photographs and film clips, along with documented testimonials from survivors, it vividly depicts the horror of the battle and the tragic cost of human life. Nevertheless, the film maintains an educational tone, ensuring that the audiences understand the detailed political, cultural, and strategic components that led to the outbreak of the large-scale battle in such a cosmopolitan city.

Featuring expert commentary from an array of historians, the film takes great care to contextualize the events so that even those unfamiliar with this period can have a clear understanding of the situation. They describe the social climate and political dilemmas with clarity and precision, offering an accessible gateway to one of history’s most complex and pivotal events.

The film's high production value and painstaking attention to detail provide a realistic, immersive experience to the audience, transporting them back to the turbulent times of 1937 Shanghai. Transitioning seamlessly from the grand strategic overview to the gritty detail on the ground, the film underscores the enormity of the event, whether it's about troop maneuvers or the geopolitical implications. It poses questions about the world leaders' decision-making processes, international alliances, and the broader consequences of the decisions made during this period.

In its essence, Shanghai 1937: Where World War II Began is a dramatic exploration of a less-discussed, but no less consequential part of World War II history. It's a must-watch for history enthusiasts and documentary lovers, offering a unique look at this significant event with a fresh perspective. It vividly emphasizes a crucial takeaway - the interconnectedness of global events and how the undercurrents created by one conflict often lead to repercussions and larger wars in the future.

Shanghai 1937: Where World War II Began is a potent reminder of the devastating impact of war, the human capacity for resilience, and the undeniable importance of understanding our past to navigate our future.