Review It Yourself

The forgotten liner that outshone Titanic in real life.What if the most dramatic story of the Olympic-class liners isn’t the one you’ve seen on film?In this fascinating episode of Review It Yourself, we uncover the extraordinary true story of RMS Olympic — the ship often overshadowed by her ill-fated sister, Titanic — but whose career was packed with mutiny, collisions, U-boats, innovation, and wartime heroics.Sean and maritime historian guest Mark Chirnside dive deep into the remarkable history behind his definitive book, RMS Olympic: Titanic's Sister. First published in 2004 and expanded in its 2015 second edition, this meticulously researched volume restores Olympic to her rightful place in maritime history.Far from being the “boring older sister,” Olympic earned the nickname “Old Reliable” for good reason. She survived a major collision with HMS Hawke, served with distinction during the First World War, transported thousands of troops, and even rammed and sank a German U-boat. While Titanic’s story has dominated popular culture, Olympic’s 24-year career tells a powerful story of resilience, adaptation, and maritime safety reform in the early 20th century.In this episode, we explore:Why Olympic has been historically overlookedThe myths and misconceptions surrounding the Olympic-class linersThe ship’s vital wartime service and technical innovationsHow historical narratives are shaped — and sometimes distortedThe research process behind writing a definitive maritime historyMark shares insights into archival research, the challenges of correcting the historical record, and why Olympic deserves far greater recognition among historians and enthusiasts alike.About the GuestMark Chirnside is a respected maritime historian specialising in White Star Line and Cunard liners of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His work is known for its depth, accuracy, and myth-busting clarity.Find Mark's Website 'Mark Chirnside's Reception Room' (including blog) Here: https://markchirnside.co.uk/Listen & SubscribeIf you enjoy deep dives into film, history, and cultural storytelling without the faff, make sure you’re subscribed to Review It Yourself on Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts.New episodes explore films, historical subjects, and fascinating guests — always with sharp insight and honest analysis.Support the PodcastLove the show? Here’s how you can help:Follow and subscribe on your podcast platformLeave a 5-star rating and written reviewShare the episode with fellow Titanic and maritime history enthusiastsFollow Review It Yourself on social media for updates and bonus contentYour support helps the podcast grow, attract expert guests, and continue producing in-depth conversations like this one.If you thought you knew the full story of the Olympic-class liners, this episode might just change your perspective.Follow & Contact Review It YourselfStay connected with Review It Yourself for more intelligent reviews, interviews, and deep dives into books and films:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.comFor guest enquiries, collaborations, or listener feedback, email directly — the show welcomes thoughtful discussion and future topic suggestions.

A bold retelling of Titanic’s final hours — but does it sink or swim?In this explosive deep-dive, we tackle Titanic Sinks Tonight, the BBC’s ambitious 2025 dramatised documentary charting the final hours of the world’s most infamous liner, RMS Titanic.Did the series finally get the facts right? Or did it fall into the same old traps that have haunted Titanic storytelling for over a century?Joined by returning guests Clifford Ismay and Jamie Borsato, we unpack the performances, the politics, the AI reconstructions, and the controversial portrayal of J. Bruce Ismay — descendant in the hot seat included.What We Cover in This EpisodeThe unusual “interview testimony” format — innovative or immersion-breaking?Historical accuracy vs dramatic licenceThe portrayal of Captain Smith and the chain of commandLifeboat myths and Board of Trade regulationsThe modern political framing — necessary context or misplaced commentary?AI ship models and visual inconsistenciesThe handling (or mishandling) of J. Bruce IsmayWhy some creative decisions felt oddly judgmentalWhether this ranks among the better modern Titanic documentariesIf you care about Titanic history, maritime storytelling, or documentary ethics — this conversation is essential listening.Special Guest: Clifford IsmayClifford Ismay is the author of:📘 Understanding J. Bruce Ismay: The Man They Called The Coward of TitanicA detailed historical reassessment of one of Titanic’s most controversial figures, separating myth from documented fact.Clifford offers rare insight as a relative of J. Bruce Ismay and challenges long-standing misconceptions repeated yet again in this BBC production.Find Cliff on:X/Twitter: @CliffIsmayInstagram: @ismay_titanicSpecial Guest: Jamie BorsatoJamie Borsato is the creator and host of the Old Shipping Lines YouTube channel.His channel features:Detailed Titanic animationsMaritime history breakdownsShip reconstructionsDeep dives into Olympic-class liners📺 Subscribe to Old Shipping Lines on YouTube to see some of the most passionate independent maritime content online.Find Jamie on:Twitter/X: @oldshippinglineInstagram: old_shipping_linesYouTube: @OldShippingLinesKey Themes ExploredAccuracy vs AgendaWe examine how Titanic Sinks Tonight blends inquiry testimony with dramatisation — but does this approach flatten complex historical nuance?The Ismay QuestionOnce again, J. Bruce Ismay is placed centre stage. But did the series fairly reflect:His role aboard Titanic?The reality of his retirement from the IMM?The long-standing myths about lifeboats and ownership?Clifford Ismay provides context rarely heard in mainstream productions.AI and Visual ReconstructionThe BBC leaned into AI modelling for parts of the sinking. We discuss:Visual inconsistenciesHull damage depiction errorsWhether AI enhances or undermines historical storytellingWhy This Episode MattersTitanic documentaries shape public understanding. When inaccuracies are repeated, they become accepted “truth.”This episode challenges viewers to think critically about:Historical storytellingDocumentary responsibilityThe fine line between drama and distortionWhether you loved or hated the series — you’ll never see it the same way again.Follow & Contact Review It YourselfStay connected with Review It Yourself for more intelligent reviews, interviews, and deep dives into books and films:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.comListen If You’re Interested In:Titanic historyMaritime disastersHistorical accuracy debatesFilm & TV criticismJ. Bruce Ismay reassessmentGrab a cup of tea, settle in, and join us as we ask:Did Titanic Sinks Tonight honour history — or repeat it poorly?Let us know your thoughts — and as always enjoy: Film reviews without the faff.

A bold retelling of Titanic’s final hours — but does it sink or swim?In this explosive deep-dive, we tackle Titanic Sinks Tonight, the BBC’s ambitious 2025 dramatised documentary charting the final hours of the world’s most infamous liner, RMS Titanic.Did the series finally get the facts right? Or did it fall into the same old traps that have haunted Titanic storytelling for over a century?Joined by returning guests Clifford Ismay and Jamie Borsato, we unpack the performances, the politics, the AI reconstructions, and the controversial portrayal of J. Bruce Ismay — descendant in the hot seat included.What We Cover in This EpisodeThe unusual “interview testimony” format — innovative or immersion-breaking?Historical accuracy vs dramatic licenceThe portrayal of Captain Smith and the chain of commandLifeboat myths and Board of Trade regulationsThe modern political framing — necessary context or misplaced commentary?AI ship models and visual inconsistenciesThe handling (or mishandling) of J. Bruce IsmayWhy some creative decisions felt oddly judgmentalWhether this ranks among the better modern Titanic documentariesIf you care about Titanic history, maritime storytelling, or documentary ethics — this conversation is essential listening.Special Guest: Clifford IsmayClifford Ismay is the author of:📘 Understanding J. Bruce Ismay: The Man They Called The Coward of TitanicA detailed historical reassessment of one of Titanic’s most controversial figures, separating myth from documented fact.Clifford offers rare insight as a relative of J. Bruce Ismay and challenges long-standing misconceptions repeated yet again in this BBC production.Find Cliff on:X/Twitter: @CliffIsmayInstagram: @ismay_titanicSpecial Guest: Jamie BorsatoJamie Borsato is the creator and host of the Old Shipping Lines YouTube channel.His channel features:Detailed Titanic animationsMaritime history breakdownsShip reconstructionsDeep dives into Olympic-class liners📺 Subscribe to Old Shipping Lines on YouTube to see some of the most passionate independent maritime content online.Find Jamie on:Twitter/X: @oldshippinglineInstagram: old_shipping_linesYouTube: @OldShippingLinesKey Themes ExploredAccuracy vs AgendaWe examine how Titanic Sinks Tonight blends inquiry testimony with dramatisation — but does this approach flatten complex historical nuance?The Ismay QuestionOnce again, J. Bruce Ismay is placed centre stage. But did the series fairly reflect:His role aboard Titanic?The reality of his retirement from the IMM?The long-standing myths about lifeboats and ownership?Clifford Ismay provides context rarely heard in mainstream productions.AI and Visual ReconstructionThe BBC leaned into AI modelling for parts of the sinking. We discuss:Visual inconsistenciesHull damage depiction errorsWhether AI enhances or undermines historical storytellingWhy This Episode MattersTitanic documentaries shape public understanding. When inaccuracies are repeated, they become accepted “truth.”This episode challenges viewers to think critically about:Historical storytellingDocumentary responsibilityThe fine line between drama and distortionWhether you loved or hated the series — you’ll never see it the same way again.Follow & Contact Review It YourselfStay connected with Review It Yourself for more intelligent reviews, interviews, and deep dives into books and films:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.comListen If You’re Interested In:Titanic historyMaritime disastersHistorical accuracy debatesFilm & TV criticismJ. Bruce Ismay reassessmentGrab a cup of tea, settle in, and join us as we ask:Did Titanic Sinks Tonight honour history — or repeat it poorly?Let us know your thoughts — and as always enjoy: Film reviews without the faff.

Richard M. Jones joins Sean to discuss his 2025 book 'Titanic The Movie Ships'.The book explores the four ships which stood in for the Titanic during films over the years, the Asturias, Athinai, Cap Arcona and Queen Mary. Chapters: 0:05 Welcome to Maritime Month2:07 The Inspiration Behind Titanic Books4:45 The Impact of Disasters on Memory8:49 The Stories of Iconic Ships12:16 The Fascinating World of Hovercraft14:31 Uncovering Tragic Maritime Histories20:55 Rich's Honeymoon onboard the Queen Mary35:33 Ghost Tours and Marital Adventures42:18 The Legacy of Maritime Museums47:06 Discovering Titanic Connections52:57 Future Projects and Upcoming WorksThanks for Listening!Find us here: X: @YourselfReviewInstagram: reviewityourselfpodcast2021

Author and Historian Richard M. Jones returns to discuss his favourite Titanic film: Raise the Titanic (1980). Sean was disappointed.Rich and Sean then talk about Julian Fellowes Titanic (2012), modern-day 'sensationalist' Titanic documentaries and the identity of 'Jack the Ripper', Hunting Hitler and more.The second hour of the podcast delves into Richard's writing process and how he sometimes gets mistaken for a tour guide.Chapters:0:08 Introduction to Raise the Titanic9:30 The Music and Visuals22:08 Adaptations and Differences36:46 The Ethics of Raising the Titanic47:57 Inconsistencies and Trivia53:45 Missed Opportunities in Titanic Films54:42 Documentaries on the Titanic58:53 The Impact of Titanic Films1:01:25 Critique of Titanic 2012 Series1:04:39 Sensationalism in Modern Titanic Documentaries1:07:16 Writing and Researching Books1:17:30 Starting the Writing Journey1:43:29 The Role of Passion in Writing1:46:32 Promoting Your Work and EngagementThanks for Listening!Find us here: X: @YourselfReviewInstagram: reviewityourselfpodcast2021

Richard M. Jones joins Sean to discuss his 2025 book 'The Titanic Fleet'; in which he explores all the ships involved in the Titanic disaster. Rich also talks about the other four books he has published this year alone and his older books.A book detailing all the ships connected with the Titanic disaster seems an obvious book to write, yet no-one had written it! Rich and Sean also discuss Titanic souvenirs, conspiracy theories about the ship, and the emergence of Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) Titanic content.Chapters:1:51 The Titanic Fleet4:03 Richard's Writing and Publishing Process6:38 Titanic Research and Discoveries7:51 Richard's Personal Connections to Titanic History12:50 The Impact of Conspiracy Theories14:23 The Role of Media in Titanic's Legacy18:57 The Amount of Ships involved on 14th & 15th April 1912.22:47 The Aftermath of the Titanic Disaster29:48 The Forgotten Tragedies of the Sea35:46 Discussion of Titanic Films42:19 Exploring Historical Narratives48:06 The Role of History in Modern Context58:46 Upcoming Projects and Book Releases1:10:59 Closing Remarks and Future TalksThanks for Listening!Find us here: X: @YourselfReviewInstagram: reviewityourselfpodcast2021

Sean and Dr Steph Lay discuss the 1994 film 'The Crow', whilst Sarah is distracted by Steph's gothy-little cat Jade.Our Guest:Doctor Steph Lay is a parapsychologist, photographer and writer. She is also a cognitive psychologist and wrote her PhD on the 'Uncanny Valley'.Check Out City of Secrets here: https://cityofsecrets.blogChapters0:57 New Introductions and Guests2:49 The Crow: A 1994 Classic3:48 Unearthing The Crow's Atmosphere6:27 Personal Connections to The Crow9:38 Exploring the Film's Themes19:06 The Story Unfolds26:57 The Crow's Unique Visuals34:13 The Emotional Core of The Crow43:49 Character Dynamics and Development1:02:14 The Climax and Character Resolutions1:07:02 Reflecting on Loss and Redemption1:09:03 Final Thoughts on The Crow1:19:28 Plugging Projects and Ghost Stories1:23:45 Feedback and Future EpisodesThanks for Listening!Find us here: X: @YourselfReviewInstagram: reviewityourselfpodcast2021

Will the trailer for Scream 7 (2026) sucker Sean and Sarah back into the Scream Franchise?Will they rekindle their love of horror films with the trailer for Primate (2026)?Listen in to find out!Chapters: 0:29 Scream 7 Trailer Reactions and Expectations7:58 Exploring Dark Tourism in Horror12:19 Primate and The Potential of Modern Horror16:47 The Search for Solid Films21:37 The Purge and Its Untapped Potential23:07 Closing Thoughts and FarewellThanks for Listening!Find us here: X: @YourselfReviewInstagram: reviewityourselfpodcast2021

Military Historian, Author, and Battlefield Guide Paul Reed join Sean to discuss a BBC documentary that he took part in, Meet The Ancestors Series 5, Episode 3: The Forgotten Battlefield. The documentary details a group of amateur archaeologists called The Diggers, who discovered a complex trench system over 200 fallen soldiers, in the Ieper (Ypres) and Boesinghe (now Boezinge).In an act of what Paul describes as "rescue archaeology" the diggers and historians-including Paul himself, race against time to uncover as much as they can before the area is completely covered by the building of an industrial estate. Paul also talks about what happened after the cameras stopped rolling.From the educational remit of British television in the early 2000's, to the emergence of amateur archaeology, and World War One remembrance and myths, this episode has it all.Raised Questions:-Did you know the BBC made a rival programme to Channel Four's Time Team?-Why weren't professional archaeologists interested in World War One battlefields back in the early 2000's?-Why wouldn't The Diggers be allowed to do their work today?-Why does wood survive in Flanders Field?-Why is it important to show the reality of war in documentaries?Chapters:0:06 Welcome to Review It Yourself1:14 Revisiting The Forgotten Battlefield2:55 The Evolution of BBC Documentaries7:31 The Role of 'The Diggers'9:19 Post-War Reconstruction Challenges10:48 Discoveries Beneath the Surface13:53 Amateurs vs. Professionals in Archaeology15:28 The Significance of Archaeological Finds21:02 Understanding the Reality of War23:28 The Human Cost of Conflict30:15 The Reality of Identification34:59 Forgotten Events of the Past38:54 The Fog of War40:47 Officer Casualties and Leadership45:44 Findings from the Battlefield Trench47:45 Unearthing History56:34 The Weight of Remembrance1:01:20 Reflections on Loss1:06:21 The Reality of War1:08:09 Commemoration vs. Reality1:16:56 Modern Discoveries1:23:05 The Role of DNA1:28:58 The Future of Historical Narratives1:33:57 Sharing Knowledge and PassionThe Programme on BBC iPlayer (UK Only): https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b0074n0m/meet-the-ancestors-series-5-3-the-forgotten-battlefieldPaul's Podcast: Further Information can be found in Paul's podcast: The Old Front Line:-Battlefield Archaeology & Essex Farm Episode (3rd April 2020).-Forgotten Battlefield: The Reunion Episode (1st April 2023).The Old Front Line Website: https://oldfrontline.co.uk/Thanks for Listening!Find us here: X: @YourselfReviewInstagram: reviewityourselfpodcast2021