Up the Women

Up the Women is a British sitcom that aired on BBC Two from 2013 to 2015. The show, which spans two seasons with nine episodes in total, is a refreshing narrative set against the backdrop of the early 20th century, a pivotal time in history marked by the significant struggle for women's suffrage.

The show is written by and stars Jessica Hynes, an esteemed actress and writer renowned for her work on Spaced and W1A. Hynes’ unique comedic style gives the show a charming and humorous slant that both entertains and informs. She plays the role of Margaret Unwin, a mild-mannered member of the Banbury Intricate Craft Circle. Margaret is inspired by the women's suffrage movement and embarks on the mission of spurring her fellow circle members to also demand the right to vote.

Up the Women provides an amusing perspective on the suffrage movement in England, giving it a novel twist by incorporating it into the lives of seemingly ordinary women from a craft group in a small rural town. The Banbury Intricate Craft Circle, composed of endearing characters each with their own quirks and eccentricities, finds itself increasingly embroiled in the political upheaval of the time.

Margaret's earnest but often misguided attempts towards political activism provide plenty of humor as she tries to navigate the complexities of the suffragette cause, often cluelessly. She continually attempts to cajole the other members into turning their craft group into a suffrage society that could galvanize the movement in their small town.

Alongside Margaret's character, the show features an ensemble of intriguing characters, all members of the Banbury Intricate Craft Circle. This includes Helen, a dour and pessimistic woman, played by Rebecca Front; Gwen, a naive and sexually repressed spinster, played by Vicki Pepperdine; and Myrtle, a no-nonsense farm woman played by Judy Parfitt. Each of these characters adds to the charm, hilarity, and dynamism that defines the show.

The show cleverly juxtaposes the serious theme of women's rights with humour and satire, providing a light-hearted and often farcical window into the suffragette movement. Up the Women, is not just a comedy series: it also captures an important period in British history that changed the trajectory of women’s rights.

The sitcom is woven with cleverly crafted dialogue and outlandish situations that make it a truly enjoyable watch. Up the Women brilliantly replicates the era visually, with costumes, set design, and attention to period-specific details contributing greatly to the audience's immersion in the early 1900s.

The infusion of the show’s historical context, colourful characters, and provocative humor presents a unique comedy experience. It presents the struggle for women's rights in a way that is memorable and engaging, without losing sight of the historical significance of the movement.

Combining wit, humor, and historical depth, Up the Women is a delightful and insightful sitcom. With its unique premise, well-rounded characters, and smart comedy, it offers a novel portrayal of the suffrage movement, making it a must-watch for those fond of British sitcoms with a historical twist.

Hynes skilfully manages to balance the humor, entertainment, and historical gravity in Up the Women. Packed with witty dialogue, hilarious confrontations, and a lovable cast, it presents a delightful viewing experience while shedding light on a significant period in history. Its fresh and imaginative take on a momentous era adds to its appeal, making Up the Women a must-watch for any lover of sitcoms.