William and Mary

William and Mary is a charming British television drama that captivated audiences on ITV between 2003 and 2005. This unassuming yet deeply engrossing series delves into the complexities and nuances of everyday life, as seen through the unconventional romance between the show's central characters, William Shawcross and Mary Gilcrest, brought to life by versatile actors Martin Clunes and Julie Graham respectively.

Martin Clunes portrays William Shawcross, a recently widowed undertaker who lives in England's picturesque south coast. William is a down-to-earth, humble man who carries the weight of his profession and the loss of his wife with a blend of British stoicism and subtle vulnerability. He battles with the delicate balance of handling grief and loss in his professional life while managing his own personal bereavement.

Julie Graham plays Mary Gilcrest, a sharp, vivacious, and independent midwife who also happens to be a single mother of two struggling with the demanding nature of her job and the complexities of her personal life. Graham's portrayal of Mary brings a refreshing vibrancy to the character. Through her agile acting, she captures the tenacity and warmth essential to her character's profession and personal life, revealing a woman who is compassionate and caring, yet flawed and human.

What connects these two seemingly disparate people is a dating agency, which sets the stage for their serendipitous encounter. It is this unexpected connection that sets in motion the exploration of their developing relationship throughout the series, making the name William and Mary as much a symbol of their union as it is a label for their personal identities.

The underlying plot of William and Mary focuses on the developing relationship between the two main characters. However, it is set against the backdrop of their complex day to day professional lives which frequently intersect themes of life, death, and the human capacity to love and heal amidst despair. Their unanticipated romance offers a touching study of middle-aged love, the challenges of single parenthood, loss, grief, and the eventual healing and acceptance that can emerge from these experiences.

Filmed in the beautiful seaside towns of Deal, Margate and Broadstairs in Kent, the show offers a breath of fresh air and a stark contrast from other dreamy idealisations of British countryside life. The location becomes a silent character of its own, providing a visual commentary on the dichotomy of life and death represented through the personas of William and Mary.

The supporting cast of the series effectively adds depth and layers to the narrative. From William's sprightly mother, played with verve by Cheryl Campbell, who injects warmth and humour into the show, to Mary's animated children, played by Holly Aird and Charlotte Salt, the series is studded with perceptive and grounded portrayals which contribute to its down-to-earth appeal.

One of the key strengths of William and Mary is its unique approach to balancing humour and drama. It tells a tale that oscillates seamlessly between melancholy and light-heartedness, addressing grave and profound themes with equal parts gravity and levity. This is paired with highly relatable characterisations, well-crafted dialogue, and a realistic representation of everyday life.

Another commendable aspect of the series is its authentic portrayal of the less-often-seen professions of an undertaker and a midwife. It offers viewers rare glimpses into William and Mary's worlds, handling both the stark reality of death and the joy of birth with remarkable sensitivity and respect. It's a refreshing departure from the typical careers often portrayed on mainstream television.

While William and Mary is, at its heart, a love story, the narrative transcends the usual trappings of romantic drama. It is a tale about life itself; its wonder, its imperfection, and its inevitable end. The series deftly uses the backdrop of birth and death to emphasize the simple joys and sorrows of existence, making it a profoundly moving and endlessly relatable show.

In conclusion, William and Mary is a delightful blend of poignant drama and affectionate humour. Its engaging storyline, sincere performances, especially by Martin Clunes and Julie Graham, and the portrayed lives and professions of its main characters, make it a highly captivating watch. As viewers follow along with the tribulations and triumphs of William and Mary, they are offered a mirror into their own lives, making every episode a meaningful and personal journey.