Anytime new period dramas pop up in my online perusals, I become a little excited. Some may even say overexcited. But then I admit, a period drama aficionado I am through and through, a badge I wear proudly.
RELATED | SILVER PETTICOAT’S WINTER 2018 BOX OFFICE PREVIEW
The period drama currently inspiring this reaction is The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society or as it is sometimes simplified and known as Guernsey. A film that’s been a long time coming, there are articles citing this one as having been in production since 2010. Not only that, but various names over the years have been attached to star before the following names were cast.
Playing primary characters are rising British stars and seasoned familiar faces. Among these cast members are:
Lily James (Cinderella, Downton Abbey); Penelope Wilton (Belle, Pride and Prejudice, Downton Abbey); Matthew Goode (Downton Abbey); Michiel Huisman (The Age of Adaline); and Jessica Brown Findlay (Winter’s Tale, Downton Abbey). The film is also directed by veteran period drama visionary, Mike Newell. A name you might know from the likes of Mona Lisa Smile, Great Expectations, and Enchanted April.
With its bright and brilliant cast, this is one film that promises to be amazing. Based on the novel by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows, it’s a story I have not yet read, but think sounds like a compelling story. From Blue Print Pictures, here’s how the official synopsis reads:
A correspondence begins between Juliet Ashton and members of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, who share their experiences of Nazi Occupied Guernsey. When an idea for a book catches Juliet she goes to visit the island, making lifelong friends and taking life changing steps along the way.
Guernsey Trailer
In February, the first full length, official trailer released. Here’s a look at it.
Closing Thoughts
Though the story is set in the immediate aftermath of WWII (arguably, still a very raw and emotional time for the world), my impression of this film is one of the generally light-hearted emotions. Something I know will speak to my viewer sensibilities.
This is one of those films that seems to have the maturity and balance of all genres. Is it going to require a tissue or two? Of this I am sure. But there also looks to be many sweet, lighthearted moments and some sense of wit which helps endear a story. Of course, as any good period drama should, this one looks like it has a romance worthy of all the swoons. (The longing though! Even knowing nothing, it breaks my heart a little to think this is a goodbye scene.) Whether or not it’ll end happy, I do not know.
The lasting impression I am left with is one that tells me this is a story I cannot wait to be swept up in.
‘Guernsey’ opens in the U.K. April 20th. Thus far, there is no U.S. release date, but bookmark this page! We’ll update when a date arrives. Update: You can stream ‘Guernsey’ August 10th on Netflix!
Tell me about your impressions of the trailer for Guernsey? Are you excited? Does it look to represent the book well or have you read the book? (Should I read the book?) Sound off below with all of your impressions!
Photos: Studio Canal / Blue Print Pictures
ARE YOU A ROMANCE FAN? FOLLOW THE SILVER PETTICOAT REVIEW:
Our romance-themed entertainment site is on a mission to help you find the best period dramas, romance movies, TV shows, and books. Other topics include Jane Austen, Classic Hollywood, TV Couples, Fairy Tales, Romantic Living, Romanticism, and more. We’re damsels not in distress fighting for the all-new optimistic Romantic Revolution. Join us and subscribe. For more information, see our About, Old-Fashioned Romance 101, Modern Romanticism 101, and Romantic Living 101.
Great preview! I have not read the book yet, but after seeing this, I will be 🙂 And I have to say, I LOVE the Downton Abbey cast reunion in this movie! Lily James (Rose), Penelope Wilton (Mrs. Hughes), Jessica Brown Findlay (who looks like she plays a character with passion and ideas similar to her brave and beloved Sybil) and Matthew Goode (Henry Talbot!) Definitely looking forward to this one!
I’m excited about the slew of familiar faces as well, Natalya. It promises a film that’ll be all the better just because of this. Plus, of course, I think the story sounds amazing too. 🙂
I have heard great things about this book for years. So, with the film coming out, I finally decided to read it. It is a great story and an easy read. This is one that will easily go on my favorites list. And now that I’ve read the book, I’m looking even more forward to the film.
Aw, yay! I’m so glad to know this, Brittaney; thanks for sharing. Makes me determined to read the book before the US release of this one (I hear Netflix has the US distribution rights).
The book is excellent and the trailer looks really promising, like they’ve kept decent characterizations and the spirit of the novel, so I’m very excited to see the movie!
So glad to hear this, Amy. Hopefully the film will retain the spirit of the novel, which I know is generally very well-loved and received. Like you, I cannot wait to discover the film – and the novel. 🙂