Watch The Long Song

The Long Song is a historical drama series which premiered on PBS Masterpiece in December 2018. This three-part miniseries is based on the critically acclaimed novel of the same name by Andrea Levy, who is also known for writing Small Island. Set in the 19th century on a sugar plantation in Jamaica, the show explores the lives of the enslaved black population, the white plantation owners, and the indentured Indian workers.

The lead character of the show is July, played by Tamara Lawrance. She was born a slave but is fiercely independent and won't let anyone tell her what she can or cannot do. She is smart, witty, and always looking for a way to improve her own life and the lives of those around her. She catches the eye of Caroline Mortimer, played by Hayley Atwell, a white woman who is married to the plantation owner.

The relationship between July and Caroline is complex and nuanced. Even though they come from very different backgrounds, they connect on a human level and become friends. However, their friendship is also deeply flawed due to the inherent power imbalance between them. While Caroline is keen to help July, she is still a slave owner's wife and ultimately benefits from the system that has oppressed July her entire life.

The Long Song is a visually stunning show that does not shy away from portraying the violence and brutality of slavery. It also portrays the resilience and strength of the black characters, who are shown to have complex lives and personalities beyond their status as slaves. The show is not just about slavery, but also about love, family, and finding freedom in the face of adversity.

The Long Song is an important and timely show that sheds light on a dark period of history that has been overlooked for far too long. It is a powerful reminder that the legacy of slavery still affects us today and that we must continue to confront and reckon with this past in order to move forward.

In conclusion, The Long Song is an excellent historical drama that is both educational and entertaining. The strong performances, beautiful cinematography, and powerful storytelling make this a must-watch show for anyone interested in history or social justice issues.

The Long Song is a series that ran for 1 seasons (3 episodes) between January 31, 2021 and on PBS Masterpiece