Plot
In 1928 London, Ernest Briggs, a cheerful milkman, notices Ethel, a reserved lady's maid, as she cleans windows. Their mutual glances lead to a courtship, culminating in marriage. They purchase a modest home in Wimbledon Park, striving to furnish it despite financial constraints. Ethel, desiring a child, gives birth to their only son, Raymond, in 1934.
As World War II erupts, the couple faces numerous challenges. Ernest serves as a volunteer fireman, witnessing the horrors of the Blitz, while Ethel manages the home front. To ensure Raymond's safety, they evacuate him to relatives in Dorset, a decision that deeply affects Ethel. Their home is damaged during the war, but their resilience keeps the family united.
Post-war Britain brings both hope and tension. Ernest embraces the Labour government's initiatives, including the establishment of the National Health Service, while Ethel remains sceptical of rapid social changes. Raymond excels academically, earning a place at grammar school, much to his parents' pride. However, his decision to attend art college and his bohemian lifestyle cause concern, especially for Ethel, who had envisioned a more conventional path for him.
As the years progress, Ethel and Ernest witness monumental events: the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, the rise of television, and the cultural shifts of the 1960s. They grapple with personal challenges, including Ethel's declining health and eventual dementia. Her condition deteriorates, leading to poignant moments where she no longer recognises Ernest. Ethel passes away in 1971, followed shortly by Ernest.
The film concludes with Raymond reflecting on his parents' lives, honouring their enduring love and the ordinary yet profound legacy they left behind.
Production
The film was originally to be produced by John Coates, notable for producing The Snowman . When Coates died in 2012, Camilla Deakin and Ruth Fielding (Lupus Films) were then hired to help complete the film. [4] The voice cast for the film was revealed on 3 August 2015. [5] The film was made of 67,680 hand-drawn individual frames. [6]
The film's soundtrack has a score by Carl Davis, but also uses songs of the period featured relevant to scenes of the film by Bert Lown, Al Bowlly, Ambrose and his Orchestra, Joe Daniels and his Hotshots, Florence Desmond, Jack Hylton, Gracie Fields, Charles Penrose, Juliette Greco, The Shadows and Dave Berry, and closes with an original song "In The Blink Of An Eye" written and performed by Paul McCartney. [7]
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