War Stories

The War Stories project was based around the 70th anniversary of the end of the Second World War that took place in 2015 and focused on recording and sharing video testimony of people whose lives were shaped by the war. As the number of people who experienced this important period of history decreases becomes ever more important to capture the first hand experiences of this remarkable generation.

The South West Heritage Trust appointed Aspect to undertake a programme of work leading to the creation of audio visual recordings used for an exhibition at the Museum of Somerset in 2015.

The War Stories project needed to sensitively explore the impact of the Second World War on Somerset and its residents. Our team delivered an empathetic and considerate approach to the subject matter and the interviewees who were contributing their stories. The resulting emotionally charged film explores the impact of the Second World War, drawing on interviews recorded seventy years after the war ended. It revealed how the events of 1939-1945 shaped lives forever.

The film was showcased at a dynamic temporary exhibition and reached many people across all age groups and regions. The footage was also made available through digital resources to provide audiences in the county and beyond with the opportunity to explore the impact and legacy of the Second World War on the lives of Somerset people.

The film won the Audience award at the 2016 Imperial War Museum’s short film festival and stands as a testimony to the impact of one of the key events in the 20th Century.