All Creatures Great & Small (TV Series 2020– )

All Creatures Great & Small (2020–present) is a British television series based on the beloved books by James Herriot, which are based on the real-life experiences of a Scottish veterinarian working in the Yorkshire Dales in the 1930s and 1940s. The series is produced by Channel 5 and stars Nicholas Ralph as James Herriot, the kind-hearted vet who embarks on a journey through life and its many challenges in a rural English community. The show is a reboot of the 1978–1990 series of the same name, with a fresh take on the classic stories.

The series follows James Herriot, a young, eager veterinarian who moves to the Yorkshire Dales to work with the seasoned, somewhat curmudgeonly vet Siegfried Farnon (Samuel West) and his charming brother Tristan (Callum Woodhouse). As James navigates the ups and downs of rural veterinary practice, he finds himself developing relationships with local farmers, their animals, and the strong-willed community. Over time, James forms close bonds with the Farnon family and gets entangled in the personal lives of those around him, including a blossoming romance with local schoolteacher Helen Alderson (Rachel Shenton).

The show is a heartfelt exploration of compassion, community, and the bond between humans and animals. It delves into the joys and challenges of veterinary work, particularly in an era when modern medicine and technology were not available. The tone of the series blends drama with light-hearted moments and humor, making it accessible for a wide range of viewers. It highlights themes of perseverance, loyalty, and the deep connection people have to the land and animals that sustain them.

James Herriot’s character undergoes significant growth as he adjusts to life in the countryside, learning not just about veterinary medicine, but also about empathy, life, and love. His relationship with Siegfried evolves from one of professional mentorship to a deeper, almost familial connection. Meanwhile, Tristan’s youthful exuberance and often humorous antics bring levity to the otherwise serious undertones of the show. The relationship between James and Helen gradually develops over the seasons, providing a tender, romantic subplot that balances the series’ focus on veterinary medicine and rural life.

The series is set in the 1930s and 1940s, a time when veterinary practices were rudimentary compared to today’s standards. The show depicts the hardships faced by farmers and rural families during this period, including the economic struggles brought on by the Great Depression and World War II. It also explores the evolving role of women, like Helen Alderson, who is intelligent and independent, yet constrained by the traditional gender roles of the time.

The Yorkshire Dales serve as a stunning backdrop for the series, with picturesque landscapes that bring the rural setting to life. The series has been praised for its cinematography, which showcases the beauty of the countryside and the simplicity of rural life. The charming villages, rolling hills, and sprawling farms add to the authenticity and atmosphere of the show, making it not just a narrative experience but a visual one as well.

The cast of All Creatures Great & Small delivers strong performances, with Nicholas Ralph bringing warmth and charm to the role of James Herriot. Samuel West’s portrayal of Siegfried Farnon provides depth to the character, showing both his gruff exterior and the care he has for those around him. Rachel Shenton’s portrayal of Helen is both strong and compassionate, adding layers to her character as a woman balancing personal ambitions with societal expectations. The supporting cast, including Callum Woodhouse and Anna Madeley, also shine in their respective roles.

The series received widespread acclaim upon its release, especially for its faithful adaptation of Herriot’s novels and its ability to balance nostalgia with fresh storytelling. Critics have praised the performances, particularly Ralph’s portrayal of James Herriot, and the series’ ability to maintain the charm and heart of the original books while introducing new generations of viewers to the timeless tales. The series has garnered a loyal fanbase and is considered a major success for Channel 5, contributing to a renewed interest in the works of James Herriot.

All Creatures Great & Small continues to resonate with viewers, both old and new, due to its universal themes of kindness, compassion, and the simple joys of life. It is a feel-good series that appeals to families, animal lovers, and anyone seeking a heartwarming escape. The series has brought renewed attention to James Herriot’s books, which continue to inspire generations of readers, and it has solidified its place as one of the most beloved British period dramas on television today.