As any period drama lover knows, a little entity called Masterpiece Theatre (ITV/PBS) airs most of the dramas when they cross the pond to the USA. Currently, they’re airing a little WWII series called Home Fires. I saw it back when it released to region 2 DVD and then reviewed it over on my favorite, Silver Petticoat. Much to my surprise, I wound up really liking this little series – a lot. It starts out with a so-so reaction, but each episode grows and becomes better. Anyone who likes Land Girls may enjoy this one, too!
It’s the kind of series that isn’t afraid of being “tragic,” yet still finds ways to be uplifting. The ending is dim with its grim image, but since it aired it has indeed had another series episode order which means we get more time with this little village.
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You can find Home Fires, season one digitally on Amazon Video
Review snippet with direct link is down below.
Home Fires TV Review – The WWII Battles of Women on the Home Front
On a whim, I bought a copy of this recent ITV series and in spite of the sluggish establishment of facts, I’m glad I did. Based on a novel by the name of Jambusters, the story follows the five principal women who make up the local Women’s Institute bordering in the shadows of a second world war in a small rural Cheshire village. Frances Barden (Samantha Bond) is making it her mission to oppose current president Joyce Cameron (Francesca Annis). Mrs. Cameron believes closing the Institute during war benefits everyone. Unexpectedly, Frances manages to sway the vote (by one) in favor of her. This doesn’t come without consequences. Joyce walks out the door of the institute and steps down as president with her loyal board members leaving with her. This lessens the group’s numbers and forces Frances, along with her sister, Sarah (Ruth Gemmall) to rebuild their numbers. Continue Reading →
Are you watching this one? Let me know what you think!
4 Comments
Ooh, I hadn't heard of this one –WWII is a historical era I've always liked, but haven't really delved into fiction/film-wise. I think this summer, I want to just go through a ton of BBC period dramas. =) Great review as always!
That sounds like an amazing plan – going through BBC period dramas. I've been revisiting old "classic" period dramas (i.e., Austen adaptations, etc.) in pursuit of helping Silver Petticoat sure up their archives and it's been such fun. Thank YOU for reading, as always. :)
Oh, oh! I saw this book…now I must read it AND watch it. Sounds like it would be right up my alley. :D
I was finally granted the opportunity to watch this series that I'd had my eye on for awhile now recently, and it captivated me from the first episode (though I wish their theme song was a little less…spooky?)
I loved all the women and their stories. They are all so delightfully multi-dimensional, especially Joyce, who gains much more depth in Season 2. Getting a glimpse at the both bad and good effects of war on so many different areas of life was inspiring, and brilliantly done.
When it comes to the romances, there were three that stood out to me the most: Claire and Spencer, Sarah and Adam, and Stan and Steph, though Will and Erica took me by surprise as well with how much I came to love them. Examples of strong marriages are always fantastic to see on TV shows, and these were some of the best I've come across, particularly with Sarah and Adam.
Have you had a chance to watch Season 2? I loved where they took Pat, and Laura's stories in it.
God Bless
Eleanor Rose