Big Women

Big Women is a compelling mini-series drama that aired on Channel 4 in 1998. Created and written by the acclaimed feminist writer Fay Weldon, the show provides an insightful and provocative examination of the publishing business, feminism, political correctness, and interpersonal relationships. This intriguing and honest portrayal of life, love, and ambition offers a variety of complex characters and engaging storylines that are firmly grounded in the socio-political climate of the late 20th century.

The series is centred around Layla (Daniela Nardini),an ambitious and effervescent young woman who ambitiously establishes a publishing house, Layla and Partners, dedicated to promoting feminist literature and nurturing female writing talent. Layla's uncompromising vision and determination to challenge and change the status quo forms the backbone of the show's narrative trajectory. As the title suggests, Big Women explores the lives, loves, and struggles of women who are literally and metaphorically big - larger-than-life personalities, influential in their fields, and with sometimes uncontainable appetites for love, power, sex, and success.

In a dramatic portrayal of second-wave feminism, the story spans two decades in the lives of the characters, from the heady days of 1970s radicalism to the more cynical and disillusioned 1990s. Other characters include Stephanie (Catherine Russell), a progressive and outspoken feminist author; Zoe (Rosalind Bennett), a timid and gullible young woman whose personal transformation is a central theme of the series; and Saffron (Susan Wooldridge), Layla's old friend and business associate whose loyalties are severely tested. These characters are rounded and multifaceted, each carrying their own strengths, vulnerabilties, dreams and ambitions.

The drama delves into the publishing business's intricate landscape, providing a sweeping understanding of its challenges, its highs and lows, and its capacity to affect societal change. Layla and Partners’ journey from a hopeful start-up to a major publishing contender encapsulates the changing dynamics of the publishing industry and the rise of feminism within literary culture. Weldon uses the publishing house as a microcosm to explore larger societal issues, including sexual politics, business ethics, and the sometimes disillusioning reality of dreams realized.

“Big Women” also delves into the personal lives of its characters, exploring their respective relationships, their battles against the constraints of their respective societies, and the varying degrees of feminist idealism among them. This offers the audience a varied and deep portrayal of the feminist movement and its implications for women's personal and professional lives. The series skillfully navigates the changing cultural and political climate as it moves from decade to decade, reflecting the ways in which the feminist movement has evolved and matured.

Fay Weldon's signature sharp wit and keen understanding of human behaviour are abundant in the series's script. The dialogue is both thought-provoking and audacious, highlighting the complexities of feminism and its impact on women's everyday lives. The characters, while undeniably flawed, are deeply endearing, each carrying a complexity that makes them relatable and real. Despite the often heavier topics, the series includes engaging episodes of humour, wit, and downright comedic calamity, providing a well-rounded and genuine viewing experience.

“Big Women” is a striking combination of drama, satire, and social commentary, dressed up in relatable characters and a fast-paced narrative. The series's strong female-centric narrative provides a refreshing and empowering perspective on the women's movement's history and development. With its engaging storyline, strong performances, and distinctive perspective on feminism, “Big Women” makes for an enlightening and emotionally rewarding viewing experience.

In conclusion, “Big Women” is an underrated gem in Channel 4's catalogue, offering a rich and thought-provoking insight into the world of feminism and publishing. Whether you're looking for a series with depth that explores societal norms and questions tradition, or keen on a riveting piece of drama with well-etched characters and piquant dialogue, “Big Women” ticks all the right boxes. Watch it for its acute portrayal of women in society, the complexities of their personal lives interwoven with their professional ambitions, and for a nuanced view of the publishing industry.