Fans of female-led period dramas have discovered a hidden gem streaming for free on Channel 4, with many expressing disbelief they had overlooked it. 'Home Fires,' a series set during World War II, has been described as a 'masterpiece' by viewers and currently holds a 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
What is 'Home Fires' About?
Based on Julie Summers' book 'Jambusters,' the drama first aired on ITV in 2015. It follows the lives of women in the fictional rural Cheshire village of Great Paxford from September 1932 to early 1940. The series focuses on the Women's Institute members on the Home Front during the Second World War. Written by Simon Block and directed by Robert Quinn and Bruce Goodinson, the show features an ensemble cast including Francesca Annis, Daisy Badger, Leanne Best, Samantha Bond, Clare Calbraith, Mark Bonnar, Mark Bazeley, Chris Coghill, and Ruth Gemmell.
The official synopsis states: 'The story follows a group of women living in a rural Cheshire village during World War II. With the war occupying their husbands, fathers, sons and brothers, the women are forced to cope with the pressures of living with limited resources in a nation of disarray. Through their difficulties the ladies find strength by forming the Great Paxford Women's Institute, which helps them maintain hope and order in their community as Britain crumbles around them.'
Critical and Audience Acclaim
Critics have praised the series, with one reviewer noting: 'Home Fires offers British drama that's as satisfying as a warm cup of tea.' Another critic said: 'This series is spoonful after spoonful of splendid jahm.' A third added: 'It's more uplifting and affirming than challenging or surprising, and it is handsomely made with convincing period detail and a fine cast delivering top notch performances.'
Audiences have been equally enthusiastic. One viewer commented: 'The name being Home Fires on Masterpiece, it doesn't lie about the Masterpiece part.' An IMDB user wrote: 'I absolutely cannot believe that this absolutely incredible series has been cancelled by ITV. It is a major favorite in our household and we miss it terribly. For anyone who has not seen it, go find it and watch. It's the best TV has to offer so it needs to continue.'
Another viewer gave the programme '20 stars' and added: 'A real tear jerker. I don't thing there was one episode I didn't tear up. This is a touching heartwarming series. I fell in love with the characters who no matter the status or gender each had their own humanistic qualities that we all share. I love period pieces and this one did not disappoint! I'd give 20 stars if I could!'
Why Was It Cancelled?
Despite its popularity, ITV cancelled 'Home Fires' after just two series in May 2016, a decision that has angered fans. Creator Simon Block later wrote a novelisation to resolve the cliffhangers from series 2. Fans remain devastated, with one viewer saying: 'It's been 4 years since this series was cancelled and I still think about the characters and their lives. I was devastated when I found out, so much so, I signed a petition to get it back on, to no avail. I only have the books to console me now.' Another frustrated viewer stated: 'This series should never have been cancelled - one of best series of the last 10yrs!'
Where to Watch
'Home Fires' is currently streaming for free on Channel 4 and UKTV. With its compelling story and strong performances, it continues to attract new fans years after its initial release.
