Watch Margaret Thatcher: The Long Walk to Finchley

Margaret Thatcher: The Long Walk to Finchley is a 2008 BBC television movie that portrays the early political career of the former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. The movie stars Andrea Riseborough as Thatcher, and chronicles her journey from a young woman, newly graduated from Oxford and working as a chemist, finding her way into British politics. The film is set in the late 1940s and early 1950s, a time when British politics was largely dominated by men, and provides a unique look into the challenges and obstacles that Thatcher faced as a woman trying to make a name for herself in a male-dominated field.

The movie begins with Thatcher joining the Conservative Party in 1949, and follows her as she runs for a seat in parliament in the safe Labour seat of Dartford. Despite being up against an experienced Labour candidate, Thatcher works tirelessly, knocking on doors and meeting voters, hoping to sway them to her side.

Throughout the movie, we see Thatcher facing numerous challenges, including gender discrimination, criticism for being too ambitious, and opposition from her own party. But despite these obstacles, Thatcher remains determined to succeed, aided by her intelligence, her determination, and her refusal to give up on her political ambitions.

One of the most interesting aspects of the movie is its portrayal of Thatcher's relationship with Denis Thatcher, whom she would later marry. Denis is played by Rory Kinnear, and the film depicts their early meeting, their courtship, and their marriage. Their relationship is shown as one based on mutual respect, with Denis supporting his wife's political aspirations even as he struggles to understand her drive.

Margaret Thatcher: The Long Walk to Finchley is not only an engrossing portrait of a powerful figure, but it is also a fascinating look into the world of British politics in the mid-20th century. The movie shows us the inner workings of political parties, the process of selecting candidates, and the cutthroat world of election campaigns.

Throughout the movie, we see Thatcher develop into a force to be reckoned with, proving herself as a brilliant and fierce campaigner. The movie is full of memorable moments, including a scene where Thatcher confronts a group of male politicians who are discussing her behind her back, and another where she delivers an impressive speech at a party conference.

Andrea Riseborough's performance as Thatcher is astounding, capturing both the steeliness and vulnerability that made Thatcher such a complex figure. Riseborough imbues Thatcher with a fierce determination and intelligence that is thrilling to watch, and her chemistry with Kinnear is wonderful to behold.

Overall, Margaret Thatcher: The Long Walk to Finchley is a must-watch for anyone interested in British politics or 20th-century history. The movie is engaging, funny, and moving, and Riseborough's performance is nothing short of phenomenal. Whether you love or hate Thatcher, you cannot help but be captivated by this portrait of a young woman on her way to becoming a political titan.

Margaret Thatcher: The Long Walk to Finchley is a series that ran for 1 seasons (1 episodes) between June 12, 2008 and on BBC