Call the Midwife (2012 – Present)

Lead actors: Jessica Raine, Jenny Agutter, Helen George, Judy Parfitt, Laura Main, Stephen McGann
Review:
Call the Midwife (2012 – present) is a British period drama series created by Heidi Thomas, based on the memoirs of Jennifer Worth. The show follows a group of midwives and nuns working at Nonnatus House, a nursing convent in the impoverished East End of London during the late 1950s and beyond. It offers a heartfelt and realistic portrayal of midwifery, childbirth, and social changes that shaped the mid-20th century.
The series is widely praised for its historical accuracy, emotional depth, and strong character development. Jessica Raine initially led the cast as Jenny Lee, a young midwife experiencing the harsh realities of post-war London. Over the years, new characters have joined, with Jenny Agutter’s Sister Julienne, Helen George’s Trixie Franklin, and Judy Parfitt’s Sister Monica Joan being standout figures in the show’s emotional storytelling.
Each episode tackles significant medical and social issues, including poverty, women’s rights, racism, domestic abuse, and public health concerns. The series is known for its ability to balance heartwarming moments with deeply emotional and sometimes heartbreaking storylines.
Visually, Call the Midwife beautifully recreates the period with authentic costumes, set designs, and historical details. The cinematography and direction bring an immersive feel to the show, capturing both the struggles and joys of life in London’s East End. The show’s compassionate and hopeful tone, combined with excellent writing and performances, has made it a long-running success on BBC.
As one of the most beloved British dramas, Call the Midwife continues to captivate audiences with its touching stories, strong female-led cast, and historical significance. It is a must-watch for those interested in period dramas, medical history, and deeply human storytelling.