I Bet You Didn't See... The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society

The Second World War is over. Life is slowly returning to normal. Juliet Ashton (Lily James) is a writer of a series of books. However, she has lost her spark for the series. Her publisher, Sydney (Matthew Goode) is keeping her busy as she navigates the realities of post-war London life. Her life is then changed upon receipt of an unexpected letter.

A gentleman, Dawsey Adams (Michiel Huisman), has an old copy of a book that Juliet had as a child which has made its way to Guernsey. His letter asks if she can help him get a copy of Charles Lamb's Tales of Shakespeare, and he touches on why he is asking. He also mentions he is part of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society.

Powell and James

Dawsey's letter leads Juliet on her adventure to Guernsey. She discovers the realities of life during the occupation, and investigates the truth behind the arrest of one of the Society's members, Elizabeth. Through the film, each character teaches her just that bit more for her to build the story and discover the truth. Ultimately, it helps her rekindle her love of writing.

Juliet and Dawsey

Now, for those of you that may not be aware, Guernsey sits within the Channel Island archipelago in the English Channel. They islands were invaded and occupied by the Germans during the war, and pretty much abandoned to their own fate by both sides, despite the numbers of people there. Residents considered to be "resisting" the Germans - from actual rebellion right through to looking at the wrong solider in the wrong way - were arrested and sent to camps throughout the German territory.

The film is beautifully shot, showcasing the rural beauty of Guernsey and contrasting the rustic nature of life at the time to post-war London.

Matthew Goode as Sydney

Lily James plays the slightly naïve Juliet, growing in her understanding and compassion, as well as reflecting on her luxurious life in London to the grounded island life. Michiel Huisman is Dawsey, Juliet's initial contact with the group and main source of information throughout. The cast from there just builds. Matthew Goode (a favourite of mine) stars as Sydney, the publisher, who is Juliet's only real family and support figure in the picture. The Society members include Jessica Brown Findlay, Katherine Parkinson, Tom Courtenay and Penelope Wilton. Glen Powell also appears as Juliet's American and demanding fiancé.

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is a very well made film and a great watch. Interesting to note that the book is written entire as letters between the characters, so the interpretation is very well translated to the screen.

Guernsey is also a beautiful island to visit. A rich, diverse history, but a chapter of the war frequently ignored.

Juliet tries a piece of actual Potato Peel Pie

Directed by: Mike Newell

Based on: The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows

Starring: Lily James. Michiel Huisman, Matthew Goode, Jessica Brown Findlay, Katherine Parkinson, Tom Courtenay, Penelope Wilton, Glen Powell

Release Date: 9 April 2018

Rating: 7/10