Ethel & Ernest

Ethel & Ernest is a poignant and heartwarming animated film that beautifully recounts the life of the titular characters, Ethel and Ernest, through the skilled hands of renowned author and illustrator, Raymond Briggs. The film, based on Briggs' graphic novel of the same name, delves into the quiet joys and struggles of a London couple living through a tumultuous period in history. From the Great Depression to two World Wars, Ethel and Ernest's story is a tender portrayal of a bygone era, where ordinary people found love, resilience, and hope amidst the backdrop of extraordinary events. The film begins in the late 1920s, where we meet Ethel, a kind-hearted and spirited young woman, and Ernest, a gentle and hardworking bus driver. Their paths cross at a dance hall in London, and the sparks fly as they share a romantic waltz. As their relationship blossoms, the film showcases the modest lives of Ethel and Ernest, who live with Ethel's family in a small London council flat. We see glimpses of their early years together, with Ernest struggling to find work during the Great Depression and Ethel supporting him through her sewing skills. As World War II breaks out in 1939, Ethel and Ernest's lives are upended. Ernest is called to serve in the war effort, and the couple faces the daunting prospect of being separated for an extended period. Despite the difficulties, their love remains a steadfast beacon, and they find comfort in each other's letters and occasional visits. The film masterfully captures the mood of the nation during this time, as families are torn apart, and the once-familiar streets of London become a battleground. Through the film's intimate narrative, we witness the quiet sacrifices and resilience of ordinary people during wartime. Ethel, with her sharp wit and resourcefulness, holds the family together, while Ernest, with his unwavering commitment, serves his country with dignity. As the war drags on, the couple faces additional challenges, including the Blitz and the evacuation of children to the countryside. Despite these hardships, their love remains a constant source of strength, a testament to the enduring power of human connection. The hand-drawn animation in Ethel & Ernest is a stunning achievement, transporting viewers to a bygone era with breathtaking realism. Briggs' characteristic style, which blends humor and pathos, brings the characters to life, imbuing them with a warmth and vulnerability that is impossible to resist. The animation is meticulously detailed, recreating the intricate textures and colors of the 1930s and 1940s. As the film hurtles towards its poignant conclusion, Ethel and Ernest's story is one of quiet triumph. They face each new challenge with courage and hope, their love a beacon of light in the darkest of times. When Ernest returns from the war, scarred but unbroken, and Ethel and Ernest welcome two daughters into their lives, the film offers a heartwarming portrayal of a family's love and resilience. Ethel & Ernest is a timeless and universal tale of love, sacrifice, and hope. Through the skilled hands of Raymond Briggs and the beautiful animation, we are reminded that even in the most turbulent of times, human connection can provide a sense of stability and comfort. This poignant animated film is a tribute to the ordinary people who lived through extraordinary events, a testament to the power of love and the human spirit.