Masterpiece: The Long Song DVD

Set during the final days of slavery in 19th century Jamaica, follow the trials, tribulations and survival of a plantation slave, July, and her odious mistress, Caroline. Told from July's perspective as she reflects upon her life, The Long Song is a tale of love, hope and defiance in the face of injustice.

Based on the award-winning novel by Andrea Levy, The Long Song is a poignant and inspiring story set during the final days of slavery in 19th century Jamaica. From executive producer David Heyman, this poignant miniseries follows the indomitable young slave, July (Tamara Lawrance, The Gurney), who works on a sugarcane plantation owned by her detestable mistress, Caroline Mortimer (Hayley Atwell, Howards End, Agent Carter). Their lives change with the arrival of the charming new overseer, Robert Goodwin (Jack Lowden, War & Peace), who sets out to improve the plantation for both the slaves and the mistress.

My Thoughts

The Long Song is a riveting historical miniseries set in Jamaica before slavery had been abolished. It centers around a woman named July and her memories of a time when she was a slave. She worked on a sugar planation for a horrible woman who mistreats her and every day of her life was a challenge. Things change for the better when a new man is hired to oversee the planation. He brings hope for a better future and the end of slavery which is just on the horizon.

This was a really powerful series that gives you an in-depth look at what life was like for slaves in the 19th century. You will witness firsthand the abuse they suffered at the hands of  their masters. But the miniseries also shows you hope, and one woman's glimpse at a better future. I would recommend this series for anyone who enjoys realistic historical films. You can grab a copy of this DVD set from Amazon or PBS.org.