The Flame Trees of Thika

Watch The Flame Trees of Thika

  • Not Rated
  • 1981
  • 1 Season
  • 7.9  (461)

The Flame Trees of Thika is an exciting and captivating drama series set in colonial Kenya in the early 20th century. The show was produced in 1981 and stars Hollywood legend Hayley Mills, David Robb, and Holly Aird. The show is based on the novel of the same name by Elspeth Huxley.

The story of The Flame Trees of Thika follows a young British family, Robin and Tilly Grant, who decide to move from England to Kenya to start a coffee plantation. The couple is fascinated by the beauty and mysticism of Africa and is determined to succeed in their new venture with their young daughter, Elspeth, in tow.

The family's journey takes them to Thika, a remote and untamed corner of Kenya where they purchase a vast plot of land with the help of their old friend, Njombo. However, their new life in Africa is far from easy, and they must face a host of challenges, from drought and locust invasions to African tribal customs and traditional British attitudes.

As the family tries to adapt to their new environment, they become increasingly drawn into the traditions and customs of the people around them. They befriend Mama Tilly, a wise African woman who becomes a surrogate mother to Elspeth, and embarks on an adventure to meet the elusive Masai warriors of the region.

With its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and historical significance, The Flame Trees of Thika is a captivating drama that captures the imagination of viewers. The show highlights the beauty of Africa and its people, while also providing a glimpse into the challenges of colonial life in a foreign and untamed land.

Hayley Mills gives an outstanding performance as Tilly, portraying a strong and determined woman who is willing to risk everything for her family's success. David Robb also gives a convincing portrayal of Robin, a man who is torn between his loyalty to Britain and his growing love for Africa and its people.

Holly Aird plays the young Elspeth with a charming innocence that perfectly captures the wonder and excitement of a child discovering a new world. Her journey in Africa is fascinating to watch, as she learns to navigate the customs and traditions of her new home with the help of her parents and African friends.

Overall, The Flame Trees of Thika is a beautifully crafted series that entertains and inspires viewers. The show is full of adventure, romance, and drama, and provides an intimate portrait of life in colonial Kenya. Fans of historical dramas and African culture will definitely enjoy this timeless classic.

The Flame Trees of Thika
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Seasons
The Drums of War
7. The Drums of War
October 13, 1981
With Robin away, Tilly decides to go to Nairobi to help with the war effort. Elspeth must go live with the Robinsons, a wealthy merchant family who need a resident governess for their children.
Safari
6. Safari
October 6, 1981
With Robin and Elspeth staying behind at the farm, Tilly joins the Palmers and Ian on safari. Lettice finally admits to Ian that she loves him. Things come to a boil between Ian and Hereward but Crawford's bearer Ahmed intervenes.
A Real Sportsman
5. A Real Sportsman
September 29, 1981
Hereward is worried about Lettice and whether she has the stamina to bear living in Africa. As their marriage begins to disintegrate, it is apparent to almost everyone that Ian and Lettice are in love.
Friends in High Places
4. Friends in High Places
September 22, 1981
Elspeth and Sammy are in put in danger when they face a herd of rampaging elephants. Mrs. Nimmo attends to Sammy's wife after a miscarriage. When Nimmo recommends that the woman be transported to the hospital in Nairobi, the family brings in the local medicine man instead.
Happy New Year
3. Happy New Year
September 15, 1981
At the end of 1913, Tilly and Robin travel to Nairobi with the Palmers to ring in the new year. They leave Eslpeth in the care of Mrs. Nimmo, whose husband is still away.
Hyenas Will Eat Anything
2. Hyenas Will Eat Anything
September 8, 1981
The Grants get new neighbors when Hereward and Lettice Palmer arrive, but neither seem prepared for the hardship they must face.
The Promised Land
1. The Promised Land
September 1, 1981
Young Elspeth arrives in Thika, Kenya, with her optimistic parents who have purchased an unpromising plot of land in hopes of establishing a coffee farm.
Description
  • Premiere Date
    September 1, 1981
  • IMDB Rating
    7.9  (461)