For those who recall 1970s British TV as primarily featuring the upper crust (most notably Upstairs, Downstairs), this grim series centered on the troubles of the working classes in post–World War I Britain will come as a surprise. Set in an economically depressed northern England mining village, When the Boat Comes In focuses on former Royal Army sergeant Jack Ford (James Bolam), who marries into the volatile Seaton family and becomes the center of their many dramatic turns of fortune. Wartime victory did not lead to prosperity, and the ossified class structure feeds an “us-versus-them” atmosphere that undercuts any hope for upward mobility. With storylines involving a disastrous labor strike, engaging in crime to make ends meet, illnesses, intense romantic interludes, and corruption, there is no shortage of drama. Fortunately, the narratives avoid lapsing into soap opera clichés thanks to sharp direction by Ronald Wilson and deeply textured scripts that also offer rich insight into the grittier elements of 1920s British history. Character actor Bolam shines in the starring role, anchoring a large ensemble of capable supporting actors. Compiling all 13 episodes from the 1976 first season, this is highly recommended. (P. Hall)
When the Boat Comes In
BFS, 4 discs, 672 min., not rated, DVD: $39.98 Volume 30, Issue 1
When the Boat Comes In
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