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Last updated on the 29 March 2024 by Maeve
The Channel Islands have stunning natural beauty, rich history, diverse culture, and the opportunity to experience a unique blend of British and French influences.
Another Mother’s Son (2017)
Based on the remarkable true story, this film portrays Louisa Gould, a brave widow who shelters an escaped Russian prisoner of war during the Nazi occupation of Jersey in World War II. As she risks everything to protect young Russian POW Bill, Louisa must face challenges of feeding her family and facing suspicion from neighbours while defying the authorities to preserve their lives and freedom.
Top cast: Jenny Seagrove, John Hannah, Amanda Abbington, Ronan Keating, Julian Kostov, Peter Wight, Susan Hampshire, Brenock O’Connor.
Enemy at the Door (1978)
This compelling drama series unfolds amidst the German occupation of the Channel Islands during World War II. It delves into the passionate battles against restraint, pragmatic struggles with principle, and internal conflicts that rage as fiercely as those on the battlefield. As both sides face compromises from within, they realise that their own compatriots can be just as challenging as the enemy on their doorstep.
Top cast: Alfred Burke, Bernard Horsfall, Antonia Pemberton, Simon Lack, Simon Cadell, John Malcolm, Richard Heffer, Emily Richard, Helen Shingler.
Mr Pye (1986)
Mr. Pye, a peculiar man with an unconventional mission, arrives on Sark in the the Channel Islands. Determined to spread joy and transform the lives of its inhabitants, he encounters resistance from a skeptical community. Through his eccentric actions and unwavering optimism, Mr. Pye inspires change and brings unexpected transformations to the islanders’ lives.
Top cast: Derek Jacobi, Judy Parfitt, Richard O’Callaghan, Robin McCaffrey, Ralph Nossek, Amanda Reiss, Howard Lew Lewis, Sarah Dawson, Michael Turner.
Bergerac (1981)
DS Jim Bergerac, a divorced father and recovering alcoholic, is an unconventional detective known for his independence in the idyllic island of Jersey in the Channel Islands. With a penchant for bending rules and pursuing cases on his own terms, he clashes with his superiors while uncovering the truth in ways that challenge conventional police procedures.
Top cast: John Nettles, Terence Alexander, Sean Arnold, Annette Badland, Louise Jameson, Celia Imrie, David Kershaw, Deborah Grant.
The Guernsey Literary and
Potato Peel Pie Society (2018)
In post-World War II Guernsey, a writer receives a letter from an intriguing group called The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. Intrigued by their stories of resilience and friendship during the occupation, she journeys to the island, unearthing hidden secrets and forging unexpected connections that change her life forever.
Top cast: Lily James, Jessica Brown Findlay, Matthew Goode, Michiel Huisman, Katherine Parkinson, Glen Powell, Tom Courtenay, Kit Connor, Penelope Wilton.
Island at War (2004)
“Island at War” is a gripping British TV series about the German Occupation of the Channel Islands. It follows three local families, the Dorrs, Mahys, Jonases, and four German officers. Set on St. Gregory Island (representing Jersey and Guernsey), it vividly portrays life under occupation by weaving real-life events from both islands into its compelling narrative.
Top cast: James Wilby, Clare Holman, Philip Glenister, Saskia Reeves, Owen Teale, Hermione Norris, Joanne Froggatt.
The Channel Islands Wikipedia page
