Fans of Call the Midwife have discovered another period drama that celebrates women's lives, and they are demanding more episodes. Home Fires, which first aired in 2015, is being praised as a "masterpiece" by viewers and is currently available to stream for free on Channel 4 and UKTV.
What Is Home Fires About?
Based on Julie Summers' book Jambusters, the series is set in the rural Cheshire village of Great Paxford between September 1932 and early 1940. It follows members of the Women's Institute on the Home Front during World War II. The show was written by Simon Block and co-directed by Robert Quinn and Bruce Goodinson, produced by ITV.
Cast and Critical Acclaim
The cast includes Francesca Annis, Daisy Badger, Leanne Best, Samantha Bond, Clare Calbraith, Mark Bonnar, Mark Bazeley, Chris Coghill, and Ruth Gemmell. The series holds a 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. One reviewer noted: "Home Fires offers British drama that's as satisfying as a warm cup of tea." Another said: "This series is spoonful after spoonful of splendid jahm."
Fan Reactions
Fans have been vocal in their praise. One viewer said: "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." Another fan added: "A real tear jerker. I don't think there was one episode I didn't tear up. I'd give 20 stars if I could!"
Why Was It Cancelled?
In May 2016, ITV axed the programme after just two series, a decision that has left fans devastated. One viewer expressed: "It's been 4 years since this series was cancelled and I still think about the characters and their lives." Another said: "This series should never have been cancelled - one of the best series of the last 10 years!" Creator Simon Block later continued the story through a novelisation to resolve the cliffhangers.
Where to Watch
Home Fires is now streaming for free on Channel 4 and UKTV. Fans are hoping the renewed interest might lead to a revival.
