DVD Review: Lilies

From the creator of the hit BBC drama Call the Midwife and co-starring Stephen Moyer (True Blood), this captivating 2007 miniseries depicts the often bleak realities of life in 1920s Britain through humor, heartbreak, and the irrepressible spirit of hope. The Moss sisters—“my lilies,” as their father calls them—live in working-class Liverpool right after World War I. Iris (Catherine Tyldesley, Coronation Street), the eldest of the three, dutifully runs the household in the wake of their mother’s death; wayward May (Leanne Rowe, Oliver Twist) works as a maid but longs to perform onstage; and youngest daughter Ruby (Kerrie Hayes, The Mill) sells corsets and trains to swim at the Olympics. These young women struggle through poverty, passions, and disappointments—sustained by the fortifying power of family. (DVD 3-Disc Set, 8 episodes). Available on Acorn TV.


My Thoughts 
 
My Lilies is the inspiring story of three sisters, who are affectionately called "My Lilies" by their father. It's set in the 1920's, shortly after the end of WWI and times are hard for everyone. Their brother has returned from war scared and broken, their father is very hard on them, and they are constantly faced with the fear of poverty. Through it all, they each cling to their own personal dreams, even when their mother's death forces Iris, the oldest of the three to take over the duties of the household. The younger sisters, May and Ruby, work odd jobs but still pursue their goals of becoming and actor and Olympic swimmer respectively. These lilies aren't as fragile as they appear.

If you love period dramas, or tales of strong women, this a great show to watch. The costumes and settings are realistic, and the storyline is both moving and inspiring, proving the power that families have when they stick together. There's even a little romance along the way. The entire cast gave a stellar performance. This is the type of show you can watch again and again without it ever getting boring. 

If you like to grab a copy of his amazing mini series, it available on Acorn Media for only $49.99. You can also find it online at Amazon.