Review of The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society (2018) by Dawdlingpoet — 22 Nov 2021

This is a good escapist, feel good watch. I've read the book this film is adapted from, so I was aware of the story and the film didn't disappoint. I suppose some may feel it too 'fluffy' and perhaps even boring but I enjoyed it as a pleasant and inoffensive film to watch for a couple of hours. As I say, I have read the book but that was at least a year ago, so I had forgotten some of the more finer plot details and I enjoyed revisiting it via the film. I felt that Katherine Parkinson being present reminded me of her role in Doc Martin - its a bit like that, in terms of it protraying a close knit community of different people with their own quirks and so on. The main difference, I suppose, is that this film and the book is set with the backdrop of World War II. I feel comforted somehow by the way the community come together to get themselves through such a clearly tough and somewhat bleak time. There are definitely hardships conveyed but most of the film has a more gentle feel to it, although most of the characters are quite warm and likeable.

Overall I'd say this is a good watch, a bit slow for some perhaps with little action or exciting plot twists but in terms of a character focussed historical drama about a close knit community dealing with the aftermath of WWII, its by no means bad. I would recommend it, if it sounds of interest, yes.