‘The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society’
Reading Time: 2 minutes
This charming 2018 British comedy/drama, set during and but largely immediately after World War II, is based on a 2008 novel of the same name, written by Mary Anne Shaffer and Annie Barrows.
This is not a demanding film – not unlike British historical dramas that many of us will remember watching on TV. Consequently, most of the actors in this film are also familiar, attractive and or quirky. The main character is a young successful writer, Juliette Ashton, played by Lily James. This is yet another WW2 era role as not so long ago she played Churchill’s secretary in ‘Darkest Hour’.
The story sees Juliette travel from very early post war London to the picturesque island of Guernsey. She does so to write a story for the London Times about The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. Her fascination with the society is sparked when she discovers that it was formed during the German occupation of the island as a cover for the meetings of a clandestine book reading group. The visit turns into a life changing experience for her and for our other main characters. Flashbacks to the island’s invasion and occupation are interesting in that they focus on unusual or personal issues rather than on the more predictable aspects of war and occupation.
Juliette’s gay publisher Sidney Stark, played by the suave Matthew Goode, is charming as her most caring friend. Her American military boyfriend Mark Reynolds, played by Glen Powell, is slick if somewhat stereotyped. The Guernsey characters are delightful. They include Isola Pribby played by Katherine Parkinson (familiar to many of us due to the similar character she plays as Pauline Lamb the receptionist in Series 2 – 4 of ‘Doc Martin’). Perhaps the most impressive acting is by Penelope Wilton who plays Amelia Margery, a bitter and grieving mother. The remaining cast all contribute additional aspects of drama and comedy to complete this feel good movie.
Finally, I must mention the film’s backdrop – the stunning views of the scenery and structures on the island of Guernsey.
If you’re in the market for an old fashioned, enjoyable matinee movie, this film will not disappoint.
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