🪶 Story & Synopsis
“Call the Midwife” is a British period drama television series based on the best-selling memoirs of former nurse Jennifer Worth, set in the 1950s and 1960s. The show focuses on the nurses, midwives, and nuns from Nonnatus House as they provide care to expectant mothers in the impoverished Poplar district of east London. The series captures the essence of sisterhood, faith, love, and courage through the lens of these dedicated women.
The main character, Jenny Lee, portrayed by Jessica Raine in the initial seasons, joins the nursing convent in 1957, marking the beginning of her journey as a midwife. The ensemble cast includes talented actors like Jenny Agutter, Pam Ferris, Judy Parfitt, and Miranda Hart, who bring depth to their characters and the challenging yet heartwarming narratives they navigate.
Vanessa Redgrave’s poignant voiceovers as “mature Jenny” add an extra layer of emotional resonance to the series, bridging the past with the present as she reflects on her experiences. The show beautifully captures the struggles and triumphs of women in a time marked by social and economic disparities, offering a compelling commentary on poverty, women’s roles, and class distinctions.
Throughout its 13 series and 113 episodes, “Call the Midwife” has garnered acclaim for its authenticity and emotional storytelling. The series not only honors the legacy of Jennifer Worth but also delves into the evolving landscape of the ’60s, showcasing the societal shifts that impacted the lives of the characters.
From the camaraderie among the midwives to the touching moments of birth and loss, the show strikes a delicate balance between drama and humor, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in a world where compassion and dedication reign supreme. “Call the Midwife” is a testament to the resilience of women and the power of community, making it a must-watch for those who appreciate tales of compassion, strength, and the enduring bonds of sisterhood.
🧑 Cast & Crew
Vanessa Redgrave, Bryony Hannah, Helen George, Jenny Agutter, Pam Ferris, Laura Main, Judy Parfitt, Cliff Parisi, Stephen McGann, Ben Caplan, Miranda Hart, Jessica Raine, Max Macmillan, Victoria Yeates, Jack Ashton, Emerald Fennell, Linda Bassett
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Jessica Raine | Unknown |
| Miranda Hart | Unknown |
| Helen George | Unknown |
| Bryony Hannah | Unknown |
| Laura Main | Unknown |
| Jenny Agutter | Unknown |
| Pam Ferris | Unknown |
| Judy Parfitt | Unknown |
| Cliff Parisi | Unknown |
| Stephen McGann | Unknown |
| Ben Caplan | Unknown |
| Daniel Laurie | Unknown |
| Emerald Fennell | Unknown |
| Victoria Yeates | Unknown |
| Jack Ashton | Unknown |
| Linda Bassett | Unknown |
| Charlotte Ritchie | Unknown |
| Kate Lamb | Unknown |
| Jennifer Kirby | Unknown |
| Annabelle Apsion | Unknown |
| Leonie Elliott | Unknown |
💬 Reviews and feedback
Picture this: you’re cozied up on the couch, wrapped in a blanket, sipping on your favorite hot beverage. The TV screen illuminates the room with heartwarming tales of sisterhood, resilience, and the miracle of childbirth. Welcome to the world of Call the Midwife, a show that’s like a warm hug on a chilly evening, offering a perfect blend of drama and comedy that will tug at your heartstrings.
What sets Call the Midwife apart is its gentle optimism that flows through each episode, making it a delightful escape from the daily grind. Just like how Downton Abbey fans found solace in its mix of warm drama and character comedy, this show offers a similar charm that draws you in and keeps you hooked.
The performances in Call the Midwife are nothing short of brilliant. The characters are not just well-written but also incredibly lovable, making you feel like part of their extended family. From the bustling streets of London’s East End to the cozy confines of Nonnatus House, every scene is meticulously crafted to transport you back in time and immerse you in the world of midwifery.
Now, let’s talk about those real babies on set. Yes, you read that right! Call the Midwife goes all out by using real newborns to play the adorable bundles of joy born during each episode. With around 60 to 70 babies featured per series, it’s no wonder that authenticity shines through every coo and gurgle on screen.
One thing that might leave fans teary-eyed is Jenny Lee’s departure from the series. Jessica Raine’s decision to pursue a Hollywood film career left a void in many viewers’ hearts. However, despite this setback, Call the Midwife continues to soldier on with its thirteenth season currently airing, proving that the show’s spirit is as resilient as its characters.
- Binge-watching Tip: Prepare some tissues because you’ll need them for both tears of joy and sadness while watching Call the Midwife.
“Why don’t millennials watch?”
This question might linger for some when it comes to this gem of a period drama. However, those who do tune in are rewarded with stories that transcend generations—a testament to human resilience and solidarity during challenging times.
In essence, Call the Midwife isn’t just a TV show; it’s an emotional journey filled with heartwarming moments and touching narratives that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
“Pure Christmas comfort and joy.”
If I were to sum up my experience watching Call The Midwife, these words would encapsulate it perfectly. It’s like unwrapping a present filled with warmth, compassion, and timeless storytelling—a true gift for anyone seeking solace amidst life’s chaos.
Rounding up my review with a rating:
Rating: 9/10
| Pros |
|---|
| 1. Gentle optimism and charm |
| 2. Warm drama with character comedy |
| 3. Real newborns used in birth scenes |
| 4. Brilliant performances |
| 5. Moving and funny portrayal of midwifery |
Feedback
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Call the Midwife - Wikipedia
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Call the Midwifeis a British period drama television series about a group of nurse midwives working in the East End of London in the late 1950s and 1960s. The principal cast of the show has included Jessica Raine, Miranda Hart, Helen George, Bryony Hannah, Laura Main, Jenny Agutter, Pam Ferris, Judy Parfitt, Cliff Parisi, Stephen McGann, Ben Caplan, Daniel Laurie, Emerald Fennell, Victoria Yeates, Jack Ashton, Linda Bassett, Charlotte Ritchie, Kate Lamb, Jennifer Kirby, Annabelle Apsion and Leonie Elliott.
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All You Need to Know About Season 13 | Call the Midwife | PBS
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Season 13 Premieres March 17, 2024It is now 1969, and Call the Midwife returns with Poplar coping with the popularity of home births under the auspices of the Sisters. Season 13 will also see stories of poor housing challenges and health issues for the nurses, midwives, and nuns of the Nonnatus House.Episode 1Nonnatus House kicks off a new pupil midwife training.READ MOREEpisode 2Shelagh and Joyce assist a heavily pregnant woman whose new flat is infested with mold.READ MOREEpisode 3
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Call the Midwife (TV Series 2012- ) - IMDb
I have to say I am a bit of a BBC miniseries junkie. So, I am always looking for a new world to jump into. I have to say that “Call the Midwife” is one of the best series I have seen. I am enchanted by the young girls and their commitment to caring for their community. And what makes it even more perfect is that they work alongside nuns and can see the world through their eyes. I watch this show over and over again hoping to be dazzled once again (and I always am). I don’t know how accurate it is (I have not studied the time), but I do think it is a fantastic commentary on poverty, the role of women, and social class differences. If this were only a drama I wouldn’t watch it again and again. But the humor (CHUMMY!!) and the light hearted moments among the business of birth is perfect! Truly, I would love to drop myself into that time and live simply where my only goal was to help women and love people well. You will thoroughly enjoy this show it sisterhood, faith, love, and courage interest you.
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Call the Midwife (TV Series 2012- ) - Episode list - IMDb
Nurse Jenny Lee arrives at Nonnatus House in London’s East End to begin her work as a midwife. Naive and unused to the harsh conditions of the borough, she must rise above her misgivings if she is to succeed in her new role.A new midwife, Chummy Browne, arrives at Nonnatus House, and finds it difficult to prove herself. Meanwhile, Jenny befriends a young Irish prostitute who is expecting a baby, and is shocked by the Church’s treatment of the girl.Jenny befriends an old soldier named Joe, and is disturbed by his living conditions. She is also visited by a man from her past, while Trixie and Cynthia have a sensitive case to deal with, and Chummy is asked on a date.
⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)
In the finale of Call the Midwife season 13, Trixie finds herself at a crucial turning point in her life. The episode delves into the lives of the characters, unveiling unexpected twists and emotional revelations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
The episode kicks off with Trixie grappling with the aftermath of Matthew’s departure to New York. She is seen struggling with her medication, particularly sleeping tablets prescribed by Dr. Turner. This leads to Trixie oversleeping and missing the start of her work shift, indicating a growing dependency on the medication.
On the other hand, Miss Higgins receives a life-altering surprise when a stranger, Mariam Chopra, shows up at her doorstep claiming to be the wife of Victor Chopra. Miss Higgins is stunned to discover that Victor is actually her son, John, whom she was forced to give up for adoption when he was a baby. Mariam reveals that Victor, now known as John, is in London and wishes to meet his birth mother.
The emotional reunion between Miss Higgins and John is heartwarming as they embrace each other and catch up on the lost years. Miss Higgins learns that she not only has a son but also a grandson named Harry, who is studying to become a dentist. However, the reunion takes a somber turn when Phyllis notices that John’s ankles are swollen, indicating a serious health issue.
As the storyline unfolds, it is revealed that John is suffering from kidney disease and urgently requires dialysis. Miss Higgins steps up to care for her son, providing him with the maternal love she was unable to give him in his earlier years. The Turners also play a crucial role in John’s medical care, highlighting the interconnectedness of the characters’ lives and the support they provide each other in times of need.
The episode beautifully captures the themes of family, love, and resilience as the characters navigate through unexpected challenges and rediscover lost connections. The poignant moments shared between Miss Higgins and John tug at the heartstrings, showcasing the power of forgiveness and the healing that comes with reuniting with loved ones.
Overall, the season 13 finale of Call the Midwife delivers a compelling narrative filled with emotional depth, character development, and heartfelt moments that leave a lasting impact on both the characters and the audience. It’s a poignant reminder of the importance of family bonds and the strength found in facing life’s trials together.
👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating
TV-MA
Age Rating:
Call the Midwife TV show is rated TV-14 for its content.
Parental Guide:
Parents should be aware that Call the Midwife contains mild violence, including fights, blood, injury detail, surgical scenes, and domestic abuse depicted throughout the series. There are scenes where a woman falls and hits her head resulting in a concussion, and a pregnant woman experiences a seizure. Additionally, there are instances of two women fighting in the street.
Regarding sex, romance, and nudity, there is no nudity shown in the series. Patients are depicted wearing shirts during childbirth scenes. While there is a lack of modesty due to the nature of the show focusing on midwifery and childbirth, the process is portrayed realistically. Midwives are shown performing exams and deliveries, which may be intense for younger viewers.
Overall, Call the Midwife is recommended for viewers aged 12 and above due to its thematic elements and depiction of childbirth-related scenarios.
📺 Streaming and where to watch
| streaming service | extra information |
|---|---|
| PBS | Season 13 of Call the Midwife will premiere on PBS on March 17, 2024. New episodes will be available for free streaming from the day they broadcast. PBS Passport members can stream each episode 30 days before the scheduled broadcast date. |
| YouTube TV | Start a Free Trial to watch Call the Midwife on YouTube TV (and cancel anytime). Stream live TV from ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN & popular cable networks. Cloud DVR with no storage limits. 6 accounts per household included. |
| Netflix | Watch Call the Midwife on Netflix. In impoverished East London in the ’50s and ’60s, a group of midwives — some of whom are also nuns — find joy and heartbreak in and outside their work. |
❝ Quotes and Cult
That's the trouble, I can't forget him.
Now and then in life, love catches you unawares, illuminating the dark corners of your mind, and filling them with radiance. Once in awhile you are faced with a beauty and ...
Birth is messy and chaotic, but in that chaos, there is incredible beauty.
Dogs look up to us, cats look down on us ...
She may be my sister in Christ but I swear, she would drive a Methodist to drink!
You have to be brave to be in love, don’t you? I mean, knowing that your heart may get broken, some point along the way.
I do not believe in weeds. A weed is simply a flower that someone decides is in the wrong place.
I must have been mad. I could have been an air hostess. I could have been a model. I could have moved to Paris or been a concert pianist. I could have seen the world, been brave, followed my heart. But I didn’t. I side-stepped love and set off for the East End of London, because I thought it would be easier. Madness was the only explanation.
Home is not simply a mark upon a map any more than a river’s just water. It is the place at the centre of the compass from which every arrow radiates and where the heart is fixed. It is a force that forever drawsus back or lures us on. For where the home is, there lies hope.And a future waits. And everything is possible.
My books have been in boxes for far too long. If they’re not set straight, their contents will jumble and become deranged.
This is the dark before the dawn. But there is always a dawn.
Sometimes in life, one has to take a chance. Without risk, there’s no possibility. Without potential loss, no prize. The Roberts’ baby defied all odds...and thrived, and was cherished...always. Jane, too, found acceptance in Nonnatus House. And she found more – she found love. The name of the goldfish she won at the fair provided proof of that.
Sometimes the heart desires very simple things. The heart holds within it all that is most precious, all that we must protect. But it is also braver and bolder, more resilient than we realize. If we wound it, it will heal. And if it breaks, it learns to beat again.
If you’re suggesting that a few deep breaths and not thinking about what’s for dinner is all there is to labour, you’re leading your patients up the fairy way
Every woman alive is the sum of all she ever did and felt and was.
If you were to go any slower you’d grow moss.
Love cannot ease every anguish in the world but tenderly applied, it can transfigure fortunes, light up faces. Turn the tide. Molly’s children went to live with their grandmother, who bought an immaculate pram on hire purchase, investing in the future, whilst turning back the clock. Her spotless house became a happy home again, centred on a baby boy and a little girl. There was pain, but she could bear it. For her journey had come full circle.They were her second chance at love. And she was theirs.
The world is full of love that goes unspoken. It doesn’t mean that it is felt less deeply or that separation leaves a cleaner wound. Its beauty... and its pain are in its silence.
Is that the fastest you can move or is there a switch for emergency mode?
I have come to the conclusion that there are only two reasons for ever doing anything. One is love, the other is fear.
🤖Call the Midwife Reddit Talks
Call the Midwife is a beloved TV show that has been airing for over a decade. The show follows the lives of a group of midwives working in the East End of London in the 1950s and 1960s. The show has been praised for its accurate portrayal of the time period, its strong female characters, and its heartwarming stories.
One of the most popular characters on the show is Dr. Turner. Dr. Turner is a kind and compassionate doctor who is dedicated to helping his patients. However, fans of the show have been wondering if Dr. Turner’s son, Timothy, is actually his biological son.
According to the show’s creator, Heidi Thomas, Timothy is Dr. Turner’s biological son from his first marriage. However, some fans have speculated that Timothy may actually be the son of another character on the show, Sister Julienne.
There is no definitive answer to this question, but it is one that has been debated by fans of the show for years. Regardless of who Timothy’s biological father is, there is no doubt that Dr. Turner loves him very much.
Another popular topic of discussion among fans of the show is the departure of Jenny Lee. Jenny was one of the original midwives on the show, and she was a fan favorite. However, actress Jessica Raine decided to leave the show after three seasons to pursue a film career.
Jenny’s departure was a major loss for the show, but the writers have done a good job of keeping the show going strong without her. The show has introduced several new characters in recent seasons, and they have all been well-received by fans.
One of the things that makes Call the Midwife so special is its realistic portrayal of childbirth. The show does not shy away from the difficult and sometimes dangerous aspects of childbirth. However, the show also celebrates the beauty and joy of childbirth.
The show has been praised for its accurate portrayal of the time period. The costumes, sets, and props are all authentic, and the show’s writers have done a great job of capturing the social and cultural climate of the 1950s and 1960s.
Overall, Call the Midwife is a well-written and well-acted show that is both entertaining and informative. The show has a strong following of fans, and it is sure to continue to be popular for many years to come.
Top discussions
- https://www.reddit.com/r/CallTheMidwife/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/TwoXChromosomes/comments/2yqfzk/has_anyone_here_watched_call_the_midwife/
- https://www.reddit.com/t/call_the_midwife/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/television/comments/111e8qj/call_the_midwife_renewed_for_seasons_14_15_by_bbc/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/BabyBumps/comments/40oawc/anybody_else_been_watching_call_the_midwife/
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is Call the Midwife worth watching?
Call the Midwife is definitely worth watching for fans of warm drama with moments of character comedy. The show offers a gentle optimism that is charming and perfect for unwinding.
Why is Call the Midwife so popular?
Call the Midwife’s popularity stems from its heartwarming stories of sisterly bonds and the miracle of childbirth. The show resonates with audiences in the States and abroad due to its themes of friendship and new beginnings.
Does Call the Midwife use real babies?
Yes, Call the Midwife uses real newborns (up to around 8 weeks old) to play the babies born on the show. The production ensures the babies’ comfort by limiting their on-set time and maintaining a quiet environment.
Why did Jenny quit Call the Midwife?
Actress Jessica Raine, who portrayed Jenny Lee, left Call the Midwife to pursue a film career in Hollywood. Despite her departure, the show has continued successfully with its thirteenth season currently airing.
How can I get my baby on call with the midwife?
Getting a baby on Call the Midwife may not be feasible as the production has specific filming schedules that need to be followed. The show’s team requires newborns at very specific times for shooting, which can make it challenging for outside participation.
🔀 Recommended Movie and TV Show
- Midwife Calling : A BBC period drama series about a group of nurse midwives and nuns working in the East End of London in the 1920s, serving as a spin-off of Call the Midwife.
- Downton Abbey : A period drama series set in early 20th century England, focusing on the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants.
- The Crown : A historical drama series depicting the reign of Queen Elizabeth II and the events that shaped the second half of the 20th century.
- Land Girls : A drama series following the lives of women working on the Home Front during World War II in an English farming community.
- Anne with an E : A coming-of-age drama series based on the novel “Anne of Green Gables” about an orphan girl adapting to rural life in the late 19th century.
- Outlander : A romantic drama series with elements of time travel, following a World War II nurse who finds herself in 18th century Scotland.
- Sanditon : A period drama adapted from Jane Austen’s unfinished novel, exploring society and relationships in a seaside town.
- Virgin River : A romantic drama series following a nurse practitioner who moves to a remote California town for a fresh start.
- All Creatures Great and Small : A series based on the books of James Herriot, following a veterinary practice in 1930s Yorkshire Dales.
- Upstairs Downstairs : A drama series portraying the lives of the aristocratic Bellamy family and their servants in early 20th century London.
