Episode #12.1

Most shows by their twelfth series are running out of stories. Not so 'Call the Midwife' it seems, which probably actually goes too far the other way here, with at least five attempting to be told over the course of an hour.

It manages to do a decent enough job, but I did find myself wanting more of some of them, and thinking that they had been resolved a bit too suddenly/easily.

It's still the best drama the BBC has on its books, and the fact they are able to breeze through so many storylines I suppose bodes well because it means they've got more in the bank to come.

It's another reliable episode.

I agree with the other reviewers who complained of too many plots, heavy-handed preaching, and inconsistent characterizations. This show does usually have multiple threads going on in each episode, but for a regular episode to have this many threads going on at once it was overwhelming. These were all also issues which have been very well covered in previous episodes, and dealt with much better, might I add. It isn't uncommon for a woman to be more emotional and more easily upset after a miscarriage, but for Lucille's character to change so much and so suddenly just seems like inconsistent writing, especially with no indication of change for her character in the Christmas episode. Racism was definitely an issue in this time and place, but this was a very heavy-handed and sloppy way to handle the issue. If they are going to readdress an issue previously covered, it can't feel like it was tacked on as an afterthought and that is how the whole protest thing felt. I also agree with the comment that if racism is going to ne the overarching theme of this season, I'm not sure if I will remain interested. After getting beaten over the head with "racists everywhere" for the past 3 years, getting preached at by my favorite show is just a bit too much.

Unconscious bias differs from racism in that it often operates without a person's awareness. While racism is a deliberate choice, unconscious biases are ingrained stereotypes about certain groups that everyone may carry. These biases are more common than overt prejudice and can conflict with an individual's expressed values.

For example, consider Lucille's journey from facing explicit prejudice to her current reactions. Constant exposure to bullying or intolerance can severely impact anyone's emotional state, regardless of whether the negativity is race-related. Expecting individuals to simply brush off such experiences overlooks the psychological toll it takes.

When engaging with period dramas, it's vital to research the historical context and societal norms to understand their portrayals. These shows aim to educate rather than preach, presenting historical events authentically.

In today's world, the entertainment industry can no longer exclude people of color from narratives as it did in the past, especially from the 1930s through the 1970s, where they were often overlooked or presented in negative light. This omission created a distorted view of history, and those who resist the inclusion of diverse identities today may struggle to accept a fuller, more accurate narrative.

While it's important not to label someone outright as racist, it is clear that biases-whether conscious or unconscious-can influence perspectives on those who differ from us. Embracing a more inclusive representation in media can help challenge these biases and encourage broader understanding.

I have purchased and watched all 13 Series of Call the Midwife and am awaiting series 14 tomorrow.

I have to say that in my opinion Auntie Beeb has show how courageous they are filming this series.

They have faced up to virtually every medical and psychological problems there are.

Spina Bifida ADHD Young birth Parents forcing their daughter to give up their babies.

Squalor in the East End Lack of safety in the workplace.

Racism Sexism Homosexuality and lesbianism' Thalidomide FGM (Female Genital Mutilation And probably more than I can't recall

Each and every episode regarding the above medical conditions were dealt with in the most tactful and heartrending way. The actors portraying their roles was exemplary and I cannot single out one nurse, Sister or doctor as the best of all because they were all totally perfect.

This is why the BBC and Call the Midwife has won so many rewards and every one thoroughly deserved.

All the issues dealt within this episode really happened during this time. If anyone has an issue with the characters or writing that's one thing but the issues dealt with in this episode are historically accurate; so it's not the show you have an issue with its Londons personal history. We could stop talking about racism if it didn't exist but it does. To be sick of it is and not be affected daily by it is a privilege not everyone has. Racism, xenophobia, immigration, and homophobia were all issues during this time as well as now. Which makes it's even more relevant that history is repeating itself 55 years later, sadly. Lucille did change she is a different person. Not only could that be related to experiencing a miscarriage, but also being in a strenuous career, and surrounded by increasing racial/xenophobic tensions. Its easy to have a "stiff upper lip" thr first time you're discriminated against, but not so much years later. She said it accurately if you're talking about immigrants, you're talking about me. Mrs Wallace said it. They are home they work and pay taxes and many were invited to help the country rebuild after ww2 and then shunned once they made some progress. None of these people were even true immigrants from places other than the Commonwealth. I think if you feel this episode is preaching or pushy you're misguided by your own feelings that should consider. This was a great episode and based on real event that affected the character of the time. Lucille is a wonderfully written character imo. Also this show has been on for over 10 years now. To not revisit themes from earlier seasons 4 is very unlikely. Is it my favorite episode, no. Could "Call the Midwife" do no harm imo, yes. Was this a bad episode, also no.