Broadcast BBC One, the mini-series The Crimson Field immerses viewers in the behind-the-scenes reality of the First World War through the eyes of courageous women. Rediscover this hidden gem, which strongly recalls the world of Downton Abbey.
Among the many historical dramas that have graced British television screens in recent years, The Crimson Field deserves a place of its own. Understated, powerful and deeply human, this 2014 BBC One production never received the recognition it truly deserved. Yet for viewers moved by Downton Abbey, the series is an absolute television treasure.
A deeply moving human drama
Created by screenwriter Sarah Phelps, The Crimson Field is set during the First World War, between 1914 and 1918. The series follows the daily lives of British nurses and doctors working at a field hospital stationed on the French coast. Made up of just six hour-long episodes, it boasts an impressive cast including Oona Chaplin, Hermione Norris, Suranne Jones, Kerry Fox and Kevin Doyle.
From the opening moments, comparisons with Downton Abbey naturally spring to mind — particularly as the latter’s second season unfolds against the backdrop of the same war. However, The Crimson Field adopts a far more direct approach. Rather than placing viewers amid the fighting itself, the series confronts them with the immediate and devastating consequences of war, both physical and psychological.
Richly developed characters
One of Sarah Phelps’ greatest strengths lies in the quality of her writing. The story unfolds through the perspectives of three female protagonists, giving women a central role rarely afforded in war dramas.
Each character is carefully crafted, complete with flaws and vulnerabilities. The Crimson Field also avoids simplistic clichés and overly polished archetypes. As the episodes progress, the relationships between the characters grow increasingly nuanced, making the series all the more believable and emotionally affecting.
The performances are equally compelling. Kevin Doyle — well known to Downton Abbey fans for his role as Joseph Molesley — delivers a restrained and moving performance here. The same can be said for Oona Chaplin, who first rose to prominence through the iconic series Game of Thrones.
When war gives way to matters of the heart
Beyond depicting the horrors of the First World War, Sarah Phelps was keen to infuse the series with a romantic dimension. The British creator wanted to explore the lives these women had before the chaos, uncovering their secrets, emotional wounds and the worlds they left behind in order to serve on the front line. In doing so, she humanises them even further.
And even amid such turmoil, feelings continue to blossom. Although relationships between men and women were officially forbidden at the time, the intimacy and fragility of everyday life inevitably drew certain kindred spirits together. The Crimson Field is also about this — about the hearts torn apart during one of the most tragic periods in history.
A premature cancellation
Despite a strong launch that attracted nearly six million viewers, ratings gradually declined as the series progressed. BBC One ultimately decided not to renew The Crimson Field for a second season, citing a desire to make room for new programmes. The decision deeply affected Sarah Phelps, who had originally envisioned four additional seasons.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JsdB3zFOnWE
Are you looking for a new series to obsess over? Find your next watch in these articles:
- The historical drama series The Crown may be getting a sequel, and the topic looks fascinating
- This historical American series, which tells the life of Catherine de’ Medici, is adapted from a novel (and it will captivate you within seconds!)
- In the USA, you will devour this series starring Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren which expands the Yellowstone universe
