Period BBC drama Small Island takes us from Jamaica to post world war two London with a story of two very different women whose lives cross paths and change things for both of them forever.
In 1947 Hortense Joseph (Naomie Harris) follows her marriage of convenience husband Gilbert (David Oyelowo) to rainy London from Jaimica believing that he is making enough money to support them and build a new life for them; Gilbert though is lodging with Queenie Bligh (Ruth Wilson) who is married to the staid Bernard (the war has taken a heavy toll on him it seems and he spends long periods away from home).
Based on the book by Andrea Levy Small Island is excellent. Another high quality performance from the dazzling Ruth Wilson as Queenie who seeks solace in the arms of the Jamaican Michael despite knowing there can be no future for them. Naomie Harris also sparkles proving she is one of the best young actresses around. Benedict Cumberbatch is all uptight, straight jacketed Englishman whilst Ashley Walters as Michael shows Queenie real love for the first time in her life.
The drama also tackles some serious real life issues too as many Jamaican immigrants suffered racism despite being needed to help rebuild post war Britain.
Cast: Naomie Harris as Hortense; Ruth Wilson as Queenie; David Oyelowo as Gilbert; Hugh Quarshie as Narrator; Ashley Walters as Michael; Roger Sloman as Mr Todd; Shaun Parkes as Winston; Benedict Cumberbatch as Bernard
Writers: Paula Milne, Sarah Williams / Book: Andrea Levy / Script Supervisor: Lynda Marshall / Script Editor: Mona Qureshi / Music: Martin Phipps / Cinematography: Tony Miller / Titles: Peter Anderson / Production Design: Will Hughes-Jones / Executive Producers: Alison Owen, Paula Milne, Paul Trijbits, Rebecca Eaton, Lucy Richer / Producers: Joanna Anderson, Vicky Licorish, Grainne Marmion / Director: John Alexander
UK / BBC One – A L Films – Northern Ireland Screen – WGBH Boston / 2×90 minute episodes / Broadcast 6-13 December 2009
