When the Boat Comes In

Created by Callan creator James Mitchell, When the Boat Comes In takes place in the fictional town of Gallowshield, Tyneside, a once-thriving industrial hub in the northeast of England. The series follows Jack Ford, a discharged soldier who returns from the First World War with a burning ambition to rise above his humble origins. A bit of a Jack-the-Lad himself, Ford navigates a world filled with poverty, corruption, and class divisions, determined to carve out a better life for himself and those around him.

Central to the success of the series is the brilliant writing by Mitchell. The scripts are richly textured, capturing the struggles and triumphs of the working-class heroes with emotional depth and authenticity. Expertly tackling social and political issues of the time, such as the disparities between the ruling class and the workers in a land rife with injustice, political unrest, and the impact of war on individuals and society as a whole, the series also captures the indomitable spirit of its people.

Leading the charge in When the Boat Comes In is James Bolam, the former Likely Lad who brings Jack Ford to life with mesmerizing charisma and versatility. Bolam's portrayal of a rugged and resilient Ford who struggles against poverty whilst events are conspiring against his well-meaning ambitions makes him an unforgettable protagonist who resonates with viewers.

Jack does find a kindred spirit in the form of kind-hearted local schoolteacher Jessie Seaton (Susan Jameson – New Tricks) and becomes friendly with her brother Tom (John Nightingale – Crown Court) and their parents Bill (James Garbutt – The Onedin Line) and Bella (Jean Heywood – A Touch of Frost). Tom gets a young maid, Dolly (Madelaine Newton – Grange Hill) pregnant and marries her and as the series progresses, he becomes involved with the union at the local shipyard. Also appearing in the series is Bryan Pringle (The Dustbinmen) and William Squire (Callan). All of the cast are equally outstanding, delivering performances that add an extra layer of complexity to the narrative.

After three series, the programme ends with Jack heading for a new life in America. But in 1981 When the Boat Comes In returned for one more season in which Jack, having spent six years abroad, during which time he had become involved with dubious activities, made a fortune from bootlegging during Prohibition and then lost it all in the Wall Street Crash, tries to put his life back together again. He gets involved in the Jarrow Marches and finally turns to weapon smuggling during the Spanish Civil War, which, for him ends in tragedy.

The series' stunning attention to detail in recreating the post-war era is awe-inspiring. The production design, costume choices, and set decorations precisely capture the look and feel of 1920s England, with scenes of crumbling slums, succeeding in portraying the hard times endured by the urban poor. This meticulous craftsmanship ensures an immersive viewing experience, allowing audiences to transport themselves to a different time and place. The authenticity extends to the dialect and accents used by the characters, adding further depth to the storytelling.

When the Boat Comes In, with its powerful storytelling and beautifully realised characters leaves a lasting impact on viewers. The series does not shy away from exploring the harsh realities of its time, shining a light on issues that still resonate today. Its examination of social inequality, political corruption, and the human cost of war serve as a stark reminder of the struggles faced by working-class communities in the past and present.

Beyond its historical context, When the Boat Comes In is a gripping tale of determination, resilience, and the power of the human spirit. It reminds us that no matter the obstacles in our path, with unwavering determination and a belief in something greater, we can overcome adversity.

When the Boat Comes In is not merely a TV series; it is a powerful reflection on the past and a reminder of the importance of understanding and learning from our shared history.