The Hardacres director didn’t want to “play fast and loose” with historical accuracy

The Hardacres director didn’t want to “play fast and loose” with historical accuracy

As a movie critic who has spent countless hours immersed in the bygone eras of cinema, I approach period dramas with a discerning eye and an appreciation for historical authenticity. The Hardacres, premiering tonight on Channel 5, has piqued my interest not just for its commitment to accuracy but also for its daring to delve into less explored aspects of the Victorian era.


Ahead of tonight’s (October 7th) premiere, the director of the Channel 5 period drama “The Hardacres” emphasized their dedication to maintaining historical authenticity in the series.

The show, derived from the books by CL Skelton, narrates the tale of the main family set in 1890s Yorkshire. It follows their journey as they transition from poverty to wealth.

Director Rachel Carey emphasized that maintaining historical authenticity was crucial, yet she also aimed to present viewers with an unfamiliar perspective.

She explained: “I wanted the series to resonate with the present while honouring the past. It was a mantra for us. I didn’t want to play fast and loose with historical accuracy.

Rather than following a conventional approach, I aimed to reveal lesser-known historical aspects, doing so truthfully and dramatically for an engaging viewing experience.

This story is a depiction of someone rising from poverty to wealth, a theme not commonly explored in period pieces featuring the working class.

Carey went on to explain, “I strove to create a cinematic authenticity, portraying the charm, fun, and vitality of our characters.

One aspect of the Victorian era that audiences may not have seriously considered before is the experience of disabled people, with so many dramas depicting the era omitting what would have been a large proportion of the population.

Zak Ford-Williams, a fellow actor in the show “Hardacres,” who lives with cerebral palsy, shared his thoughts: “It’s all too easy – injuries from war, lack of healthcare, hunger… I believe it’s crucial to avoid distorting history and eliminating individuals by making everything look pristine and perfect.

The Hardacres director didn’t want to “play fast and loose” with historical accuracy

It’s crucial to provide an authentic glimpse into the experiences of various individuals during those times.

According to Carey, the inspiration for the series didn’t come from any current TV shows or movies as they didn’t quite fit what we aimed to achieve. Instead, our inspiration came from a completely different source altogether.

As a cinephile immersed in the art of filmmaking, I find myself deeply inspired by the vivid imagery of Victorian paintings and early photography. These timeless works offer a unique blend of raw authenticity and dramatic flair, providing an unparalleled cinematic glimpse into that captivating era.

During that era, there emerged a significant artistic style known as Victorian social realism. This movement focused on portraying the living conditions of the impoverished in a very authentic way. The imagery was quite somber at times, but it also beautifully captured the vibrancy and truth of everyday life. It offered a three-dimensional glimpse into a world that we seldom get to witness.

The Hardacres premieres tonight at 9pm on Channel 5.

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2024-10-07 19:34