A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Apple TV+’s World War II Series
“Masters of the Air” has taken the streaming world by storm, quickly becoming Apple TV+’s highest-watched series launch ever. With the talented team behind the iconic series “Band of Brothers” and “The Pacific,” including Steven Spielberg, Tom Hanks, Gary Goetzman, and John Orloff, it’s no surprise that this World War II drama has struck a chord with audiences. However, the road to success was not without its challenges, as COVID-19 caused numerous delays in production. Despite this, the show has captivated viewers, and its low-key publicity strategy has only fueled curiosity.
In an exclusive interview with Variety, showrunner John Orloff sat down to discuss the final episode and shed light on the production process. He revealed that the last episode holds a special place in his heart, as it allowed him to explore the destruction of Germany, a subject rarely depicted in cinema. Orloff’s fascination with the history of World War II, particularly the last days of the Reich, inspired him to bring this pivotal moment to life. The late winter and early spring of 1945 saw Europe in a state of chaos, with countless refugees and soldiers on the move. Orloff delved into this tumultuous period, weaving a narrative that highlights the impact of war on both the victors and the vanquished.
One poignant scene in the series showcases the forced prisoner-of-war march through Germany, where Buck, played by Callum Turner, witnesses a German woman sobbing amidst the ruins of her home. This moment parallels a similar scene in London, highlighting the shared experiences of civilians caught in the crossfire. Orloff wanted to confront the audience with these difficult realities while still allowing them to draw their own conclusions about the moral complexities of war.
The narrative of “Masters of the Air” is vast, with a myriad of characters introduced throughout the series. To streamline the story, Orloff focused on four main characters: John Egan, Gale Cleven, Rosie, and an additional character named Harry Crosby. By centering the plot around these individuals, he creates a cohesive thread that guides the audience through the trials and triumphs of the Hundredth Bomber group.
Austin Butler’s character, Buck Cleven, temporarily disappears from the screen for two and a half episodes, raising questions about his fate. This intentional gap allows viewers to empathize with the characters who, much like the airmen, grappled with uncertainty and the loss of comrades. As the series unfolds, the audience gains a deeper understanding of the realities of war and the sacrifices made by those involved.
Orloff’s decision to make Crosby the narrator stems from his crucial role as the only character remaining at the base. Crosby bridges the gap between the older generation of pilots, like Buck and Bucky, and the newcomer, Rosie. While Buck and Bucky embody the Hollywood image of war, full of adventure and bravado, Rosie represents a more sobering perspective. His focus is on getting the job done and winning the war, devoid of romanticism.
Although the concentration camp scenes in “Masters of the Air” are limited, they serve as a powerful reminder of the atrocities committed during the war. Orloff acknowledges that Steven Spielberg has previously tackled this subject in films like “Schindler’s List” and “Band of Brothers.” However, he includes these scenes to remind the audience of the stakes involved and to shed light on what Europe was like under Nazi occupation.
As the final episode of “Masters of the Air” concludes, audiences will be left with a deeper understanding of the complexities and horrors of war. Orloff’s dedication to historical accuracy and storytelling shines through, delivering a compelling and thought-provoking series that captures the essence of this pivotal time in history.