Watch Big Women

Big Women is a compelling mini-series on Channel 4 that was aired in 1998. The four-part series is a cutting-edge drama that navigates the complex world of feminism, publishing, and personal relationships in the '90s. Renowned novelist, Fay Weldon, woven this complex storyline based on her personal experiences working in the advertising world and her activism in the feminist movement. The series stays rooted and authentic to the late 20th-century feminist movement, between 1970 and 1991.

At the epicentre of the series is Layla, the ingenious and forceful protagonist, who sets the course to create a haven for the feminist literature. Disappointed by the lack of feminist representation in the commercial publishing world, she decided to establish her own feminist publishing house named Medusa, named after the Gorgon from Greek mythology. Her unwavering conviction to make a difference in the world, and her fierce determination to stimulate a feminist revolution through literature, fuels the plot of the series. Medusa, which starts as an ambitious idea, later on transforms to became a symbol of revolution and testament to woman power.

While the series delineates the rise and fall of Medusa, it also nails the profound exploration of a myriad of characters connected to the publishing house. The character line-up includes an eccentric author, a timid sales rep, an ambitious designer, and a pragmatic businesswoman. Their life-stories, passionate drive, personal struggles, and their stance towards feminism form the subplots. It beautifully aligns their individual narratives with the broader story, revolving around growing persistence towards gender equality and feminist literature.

Big Women captures the essence of the '70s and '80s feminist movement, beautifully transposing it into a contemporary narrative that stays relatable even in the present times. It encompasses the essence of publishing, the realities of running a business, and the challenges these women face in a male-dominated society. The series does not refrain from showcasing the harsh realities and stages of the feminist movement, including the infighting and disagreements that naturally arise within any revolution.

The diversity of characters and their individual ideologies add layers to the series. Together, they exhibit a broad spectrum of feminist thoughts, contrasting beautifully with their unique personalities. While some are radical, choosing to challenge the status quo fiercely, others employ a more socio-political approach, seeking a dialogue with the establishment for equitable rights, reflecting the vibrant diversity in the feminist movement.

The relentless spirit of these 'big women' in overcoming hurdles, both in their professional and personal life, forms the crux of the series, living up to its title. As the years pass and the publishing house grows, their relationship with one another evolves, reflecting the real shifts in feminist thought over the decades.

Big Women is a series that ran for 1 seasons (4 episodes) between and on Channel 4