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After making my short documentary “A Kinder World” in 2008 about the pervasiveness and effects of media violence on children, I stopped watching television for 12 years. It took the COVID shut down to get me back in front of the screen.
As I flipped from one trailer to another, I became disturbingly aware of how much more violent television programming and films had become in the last 12 years. Needless to say, I was deliberately trying to find programming that was uplifting, inspiring and life-affirming in an attempt to limit the amount of disturbing images and interactions that would affect my psyche. I just didn’t want that kind of assault on my senses.
Enter “All Creatures Great and Small” – the greatest find ever, and I mean ever! It is a BBC Masterpiece Theater production about the true “adventures of a veterinarian, James Herriot, in the 1930’s Yorkshire Dales. It is a new and glorious adaptation of an earlier TV series that is based on his internationally celebrated books. Nicholas Ralph makes his television debut as the iconic vet who became renowned for his inspiring humor, compassion for his animal patients, and love of life. With plenty of heart, a picturesque setting, and a cast that utterly charms, the show delivers drama both comforting and entertaining.” – Masterpiece Theater
There is so much that moves me about this series from the value placed on kindness and human connection, the preciousness of all life and the growth and development of the real-life characters through their experiences with each other and the animals to the gorgeous cinematography. It is both heart-warming and hilarious at the same time. The humanity that it emulates unfurls my heart and breathes hope into my entire being, leaving me feeling elevated and inspired. It speaks powerfully to what is desperately needed throughout the world today: more kindness and compassion …for all creatures great and small, which includes ourselves and each other.
The first couple of episodes may seem a bit slow and the supporting character a bit cranky at first, but hang in there. It picks up speed and will be worth the wait. The authenticity and simplicity of all that matters will draw you in and tug at your heart strings.
