The Encyclopedia Of Science Fiction:

This pseudo-documentary about a nuclear attack on England and its aftermath in a small town in Kent was refused a showing by BBC TV, though made for them, on the grounds that it was too realistic and might disturbb audiences - as it was designed to do. Since then it has had a wide theatrical release and won an Oscar. Though clumsily made, it is full of shattering images: the glare and concussion of the bomb; the raging firestorms; the hideously disfugured casualties; torment and slow death from radiation poisoning; mass cremations; buckets of wedding ring gathered from the dead; and execution squads composed uniformed constables, shooting looters. Its first UK TV showing was in 1987.

MS Cinemania 1994 - Leonard Maltin Review:

Fascinating, frightening simulated documentary, which vividly projects the aftermath of a nuclear holocaust. Originally produced for television by the BBC and British Film Institute, but deemed to be too incendiary for home audiences. It did open theatrically, and earned a Best Documentary Academy Award.