The Camomile Lawn

 Based on Mary Wesley’s novel of the same name and directed by Sir Peter Hall, The Camomile Lawn is a compelling blend of romance, drama, and war, set against the backdrop of World War II. It aired on Channel 4 and consists of five episodes, each weaving a rich tapestry of love, loss, and resilience.

The narrative unfolds in two timelines: the late 1930s and the early 1980s. The story begins in 1939, just before the outbreak of the Second World War, with five cousins—Oliver, Calypso, Polly, Walter, and Sophy—spending a last idyllic summer together at their aunt Helena’s house in Cornwall where a camomile lawn lies between the house and the sea cliffs. The Spanish Civil War has ended, and the looming threat of World War II casts a shadow over their lives.

As the war begins, the cousins’ lives take different paths. Calypso (Jennifer Ehle) marries Hector, a wealthy older man, primarily for his money. Despite her lack of love for him, she is determined to secure a comfortable future. Calypso’s relationship with Hector is pragmatic, and she often finds herself yearning for a more passionate connection. Oliver (Richard Johnson) harbours deep feelings for Calypso. Polly (Tara Fitzgerald) moves to London and finds herself entangled in a complex love life, unable to choose between twin brothers. Helena (Felicity Kendal) and Richard (Paul Eddington) are the older generation in the story. Helena is a free-spirited woman who has an affair with Max, a Jewish refugee and concert performer. Richard, her husband, is more reserved and becomes entangled with Max’s wife, Monika (Trudy Weiss). Their relationship is marked by a quiet understanding and acceptance of each other’s flaws and desires.

The series also explores the impact of the war on the younger generation, particularly Sophy (Rebecca Hall) who is sent to boarding school where her experiences and relationships are shaped by the absence of her family and the broader impact it has on her. The narrative is interspersed with scenes from the early 1980s, where the surviving characters gather for a funeral and reflect on their past, providing a poignant contrast between their youthful exuberance and the sobering realities of their later years.

Felicity Kendal shines as Helena, capturing the character’s strength and vulnerability. Jennifer Ehle’s portrayal of Calypso is equally compelling, showcasing her character’s determination and inner conflict. Tara Fitzgerald as Polly and Rebecca Hall as Sophy deliver strong performances, adding layers to their characters’ emotional journeys. Paul Eddington and Oliver Cotton, who plays Max, also stand out with their convincing portrayals.

Upon its release, The Camomile Lawn received a mix of praise and criticism. The series was noted for its bold and unconventional portrayal of relationships during wartime, which included a handful of nude scenes and a frank depiction of the characters’ sexual lives. This aspect of the series was considered quite racy at the time, though it seems less shocking by today’s standards.

Critics lauded the series for its strong performances and faithful adaptation of Wesley’s novel. The series’ ability to balance the personal and the historical, capturing the impact of the war on individual lives, was also praised.

However, some critics felt that the series’ portrayal of the characters’ conduct during the war was at odds with the traditional image of the British during that era. The assertion that their behaviour was a direct result of the war was not entirely convincing to all viewers. Additionally, some felt that the nudity and graphic language were gratuitous and detracted from the overall impact of the story.

Despite these criticisms, The Camomile Lawn has maintained a loyal following and is considered a classic example of British television drama. Its exploration of love, loss, and the passage of time resonates with audiences, making it a memorable and thought-provoking series.

While its bold portrayal of wartime relationships may have been controversial at the time, it adds a layer of realism and emotional intensity to the narrative. The relationships are a rich tapestry of love, desire, and conflict. The series masterfully explores these, offering an emotionally resonant portrayal of human connections during a time of great upheaval. For fans of historical dramas and character-driven stories, The Camomile Lawn is a must-watch.