If you're a fan of the heartwarming and poignant drama 'Call the Midwife' (2012), you're likely drawn to its blend of historical storytelling, strong female characters, and emotional depth. This article is for you! We've curated a list of 10 movies and TV shows that share similar themes—whether it's the post-war setting, medical drama, or uplifting tales of resilience and community. Dive in to discover your next favorite watch that will tug at your heartstrings just like 'Call the Midwife.'
Downton Abbey (2010)
Description: Like 'Call the Midwife', 'Downton Abbey' is a British period drama that explores the lives of people from different social classes. Both shows are set in the early 20th century and focus on the personal and professional lives of their characters, with a strong emphasis on community and social change. The emotional tone is similarly warm and engaging, with moments of drama and humor.
Fact: 'Downton Abbey' was created by Julian Fellowes, who also wrote the screenplay for 'Gosford Park'. The show was filmed at Highclere Castle in Hampshire. It won numerous awards, including three Golden Globes and 15 Primetime Emmy Awards.
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The Paradise (2012)
Description: Like 'Call the Midwife', 'The Paradise' is a British period drama that focuses on the lives of women in a changing society. Both shows are set in the late 19th/early 20th century and explore themes of love, ambition, and community. The visual aesthetics are similarly rich and detailed.
Fact: The series is based on the novel 'Au Bonheur des Dames' by Émile Zola. It stars Joanna Vanderham and Emun Elliott. The show was praised for its costumes and set design.
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The Village (2013)
Description: Like 'Call the Midwife', 'The Village' is a British period drama that focuses on the lives of people in a rural community. Both shows are set in the early 20th century and explore themes of social change, hardship, and resilience. The emotional tone is similarly gritty and heartfelt.
Fact: The series is set in a Derbyshire village and spans several decades. It stars Maxine Peake and John Simm. The show was praised for its realistic portrayal of rural life.
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When Calls the Heart (2014)
Description: This series shares with 'Call the Midwife' a focus on the lives of women in a small, close-knit community. Both shows are heartwarming dramas with a strong emotional core and a mix of romance and drama. The storytelling is similarly uplifting and character-driven.
Fact: The series is based on the book by Janette Oke. It is produced by Michael Landon Jr. The show has a dedicated fan base known as 'Hearties'.
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The Crimson Field (2014)
Description: This series shares with 'Call the Midwife' a focus on the lives of women in a medical setting during a time of war. Both shows are set in the early 20th century and explore themes of sacrifice, resilience, and the impact of war on individuals. The storytelling is similarly poignant and character-driven.
Fact: The series is set in a field hospital during World War I. It stars Oona Chaplin and Hermione Norris. The show was cancelled after one season.
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Home Fires (2015)
Description: Like 'Call the Midwife', 'Home Fires' is a British period drama that focuses on the lives of women during a time of social change. Both shows are set in the mid-20th century and explore themes of community, resilience, and the impact of war on everyday life. The emotional tone is similarly uplifting and heartfelt.
Fact: The series is based on the book 'Jambusters' by Julie Summers. It was cancelled after two seasons, much to the disappointment of fans. The show is set during World War II and focuses on the Women's Institute.
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The Durrells (2016)
Description: Similar to 'Call the Midwife', 'The Durrells' is a heartwarming British drama that combines humor with poignant moments. Both shows are set in the mid-20th century and focus on the lives of a close-knit group of people, with a strong sense of place and community. The visual aesthetics are also similarly lush and inviting.
Fact: The series is based on Gerald Durrell's autobiographical books. It was filmed on the Greek island of Corfu. Keeley Hawes stars as the matriarch of the Durrell family.
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The Halcyon (2017)
Description: Like 'Call the Midwife', 'The Halcyon' is a British period drama that explores the lives of people from different social classes during a time of war. Both shows are set in the mid-20th century and feature strong ensemble casts. The emotional tone is similarly dramatic and engaging.
Fact: The series is set in a luxury London hotel during World War II. It stars Steven Mackintosh and Olivia Williams. The show was cancelled after one season.
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Lark Rise to Candleford (2008)
Description: This series shares with 'Call the Midwife' a focus on rural English life and the close-knit communities that define it. Both shows are based on literary works and feature strong female leads navigating the challenges of their times. The storytelling is gentle yet insightful, with a mix of drama and light-hearted moments.
Fact: The series is based on a trilogy of semi-autobiographical novels by Flora Thompson. It stars Olivia Hallinan and Julia Sawalha in lead roles. The show was praised for its authentic depiction of 19th-century English countryside life.
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Land Girls (2009)
Description: This series shares with 'Call the Midwife' a focus on the lives of women during a time of social upheaval. Both shows are set in the mid-20th century and explore themes of community, resilience, and the changing roles of women. The storytelling is similarly engaging and character-driven.
Fact: The series is about the Women's Land Army during World War II. It was produced by the BBC. The show ran for three seasons.
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