“The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society”, 2018
Director: Mike Newell
Although primarily set in Guernsey, this romantic drama briefly features Jersey as part of its backdrop. The story unfolds in the aftermath of World War II, where a London-based writer forms an unexpected bond with the residents of Guernsey Island and learns about their experiences during the German occupation. The film touches on the shared history of the Channel Islands during this era.
Starring: Lily James, Michiel Huisman, Glen Powell, Jessica Brown-Findlay, Katherine Parkinson, Matthew Goode, Tom Courtenay, Penelope Wilton, Bronagh Gallagher, Kit Connor;
Production year: 2018;
Genre: drama, melodrama, history, war;
Age: 12+;
Duration: 124 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
“Another Mother's Son”, 2017
Director: Christopher Menaul
This war drama is based on the true story of Louisa Gould, a resident of Jersey during the Second World War, who took in an escaped Russian POW and hid him from the German forces. The film poignantly captures the spirit of resistance among the Jersey inhabitants under Nazi occupation and showcases the island's historical significance.
Starring: Sophie Skelton, John Hannah, Amanda Abbington, Jenny Seagrove, Christian Hillborg, Nicholas Farrell, Susan Hampshire, Joanna David, Peter Wight, Basil Eidenbenz, Brenock O'Connor, Julian Kostov, Elizabeth Carling, Izzy Meikle-Small, Gwen Taylor, Rupert Holliday-Evans, Andrew Byron, Michael Epp, Christopher Ravenscroft, Gavin Lee Lewis, Jonathan Harden, Ronan Keating, Aleksandar Aleksiev, Félicité Du Jeu, Andy Gathergood, Annabelle Dowler, Robert Dukes, Jenny Ogilvie, Haraldur Stefansson, Oliver Monaghan, Ryan Wichert, Nadine Hanwell, William Ludwig, Niall D O'Loughlin, Edward Firth, Simon Werner, Robert Basta, Tom Raven, Steve Apelt, Roxanne Ebrahimi, Daniel Collard, Paula Cowling, Niall O'Loughlin, Josef Pitura-Riley, Daniel Lander, Will Lucas, Steven Lathwell, James Dean, David Cromarty, Stuart Davidson;
Production year: 2017;
Genre: drama, war, biography;
Duration: 103 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,8;
More information about the film “Another Mother's Son” on the website imdb.com
“Jersey Boys”, 2014
Director: Clint Eastwood
While not about the island of Jersey, this musical biographical film tells the story of the formation, success, and eventual breakup of the 1960s rock 'n roll group The Four Seasons. The title refers to the origins of the band members who were from New Jersey, USA, and not directly related to the Channel Island. However, it's included here due to the potential confusion arising from its title.
Starring: Vincent Piazza, John Lloyd Young, Steve Schirripa, Christopher Walken, Kathrine Narducci, Lou Volpe, Johnny Cannizzaro, Michael Patrick McGill, Jacqueline Mazarella, Michael Lomenda;
Production year: 2014;
Genre: drama, biography, music;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 134 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,8;
More information about the film “Jersey Boys” on the website imdb.com
These films, each in their unique way, explore different facets of life and history in and around Jersey, offering audiences compelling narratives set against the backdrop of the island's distinctive landscapes and historical context.
Concluding our journey through the vibrant tapestry of films about Jersey, it's clear that this picturesque island has been more than just a backdrop; it has been a character in its own right, embodying resilience, beauty, and complexity. From the raw, emotional landscapes of wartime narratives to the heartwarming tales of community and identity, Jersey's rich history and stunning scenery have provided an evocative canvas for filmmakers. These films, varying in genre and era, collectively celebrate Jersey's unique spirit, etching its legacy into the hearts of audiences around the world. As we reflect on the cinematic homage paid to this enchanting island, it becomes evident that Jersey is not just a locale for storytelling but a source of inspiration, demonstrating the power of place in shaping narrative and emotion in film.
