Chickens

Chickens is a British sitcom that aired on Sky 1 from 2011 to 2013. This show highlights the atmosphere of World War I through a unique lens, depicting not the trenches or battlefields, but the quiet village homesteads left behind by the men who went off to fight for their country. More precisely, the series focuses on the lives of three young men who couldn't or didn't opt for the path of wartime heroism and instead were left to navigate the social dimensions of a predominantly feminine society.

Set in Rittle-On-Sea, a tiny rural hamlet in England, the plot of Chickens is hinged on the daily plights and comedic misadventures of its three main characters: George, Cecil, and Bert. All three have chosen, or were compelled, for various reasons to stay behind while their peers were dispatched to the front lines, and their circumstance marks them as outsiders in their own community.

George, played by Joe Thomas, is a steadfast but perniciously anxious schoolteacher. Attempting to incorporate high morals and education into every conversation, George has a genuine and absolute abhorrence for violence, which has led him to conscientiously object to partaking in the war. His bravery manifests not in physical combat, but in standing by his convictions amidst scathing critique and scorn.

Cecil, portrayed by Simon Bird, couldn’t pass up the opportunity to join the war due to flat feet. He’s a timorous, self-loathing, and slightly neurotic individual who is head-over-heels in love with Agnes, George's sister. Cecil's unreturned affections for her seem to be his driving motivation, as he compulsively seeks to better himself but often falls victim to his own clumsiness and lack of self-confidence.

Bert, played by Jonny Sweet, is perhaps the most polarizing character among the trio. A randy charmer, Bert has capitalised on the war's depleting effect on the male population by becoming the village's resident lothario. Regarded as a carefree character who adroitly escapes any serious responsibility, Bert never intended to join the armed forces and considers the war as a chance to enjoy a carefree life with less competition.

Throughout its two seasons and twelve-episode run, Chickens successfully uses the conflict-ridden backdrop of the First World War to explore the societal pressures, sexist attitudes of the era, and the difficulties faced by these young men as they try to navigate their changed world. The trio's status as 'Chickens' - a derogatory term indicating cowardice within the village - leads to a series of hilarious and, at times, heartwrenching scenarios, as they grapple with their fears, insecurities, and self-doubt in a world that offers them little sympathy. Apart from its humorous approach, the series also provides an insightful look at the struggles of being a pacifist in a war-ravaged society, the stigma of mental health, and the ever-changing dynamics of relationships and gender roles.

Adding depth to their chaotic lives is the roster of strong-willed female characters who aren't shy of voicing their opinions about the menfolk left behind. The repartee between these women who are running the home-front and the trio navigating through the scorn and ridicule often results in a humourous yet thought-provoking narrative.

The creators of Chickens weave in comedic elements with real-life historical situations to present a show that is both entertaining and incisive. The constant banter between George, Cecil, and Bert, their futile attempts at proving their manhood, and their innocent encounters with the opposite sex makes this series a delightful watch.

Despite its historical setting, Chickens resonates with a certain timeless theme - one that explores the struggles against societal expectations, especially in challenging times. This light-hearted comedy showcases not just the heroic side of war, but the flip side of those thousands of little homesteads far removed from the ruthless trenches. It is an intimate, humorous portrayal of life, duty, and dignity amidst the chaos of an otherwise unforgiving era. With elements of comedy, drama, and profoundness, Chickens offers an exciting nostalgic trip back to a different time.