Okay, let's talk Call the Midwife. Series 1, Episode 1. Ground zero for babies, bicycles, and emotional turmoil. Ready to dive in?
The Innocent Abroad
First up: Jenny Lee, fresh out of training. Wide-eyed and ready to conquer the East End. Bless her heart.
She arrives at Nonnatus House. It's a convent…but not really? More like a very busy commune for midwives.
My unpopular opinion? Jenny’s initial cluelessness is hilarious. She thought she'd be in a fancy private practice. Oh, honey, buckle up.
Bikes, Babies, and Bodily Fluids
The iconic bicycles! They’re practically characters themselves. Jenny learning to navigate those cobblestone streets is comedy gold.
And then, the babies arrive. Lots of them. Very quickly.
The sheer volume of childbirth is…astonishing. Did Poplar have a secret baby-making factory back then? It seems like it.
The whole show is filled with bodily fluids. So much amniotic fluid.
The Case of Mrs. Jenkins
Then there's Mrs. Jenkins. Poor woman. Living in squalor.
Jenny's first real case, and it’s a heartbreaker. This is where the show gets real.
My unpopular opinion? While tragic, it's a tad…melodramatic? I mean, it does set the tone for the entire series, but still.
The show is not shy about showcasing the harsh realities of poverty. It’s a punch to the gut.
The Nuns: More Than Just Habits
Let's not forget the nuns. Sister Evangelina is a total badass. No nonsense. She’s fantastic.
Sister Monica Joan is eccentric. Obsessed with cake. We love her.
They're not just pious figures. They're real women, with quirks and flaws. A welcome change, I think.
They provide a wonderful sense of community and support. It is a good environment for all to learn from.
Chummy's Arrival (Sort Of)
We get a glimpse of Chummy! Not quite the full Chummy experience yet.
She’s awkward and delightful. Her introduction is brief but memorable. I can't wait to see her fully bloom.
My unpopular opinion? Her initial shyness is a bit overplayed. I know, I know, character development. But still!
The Verdict
Overall, the first episode is a strong start. It sets the stage for everything to come.
It's heartwarming, heartbreaking, and occasionally hilarious. You might want to grab tissues.
It is a great show that is well worth your time. Enjoy it.
Call the Midwife, Series 1, Episode 1: a classic for a reason. But maybe, just maybe, a little over-the-top sometimes. What do you think?
