The English Game

The English Game, released by Netflix in 2020, is a captivating six-part drama series that transcends the ordinary sports narrative, skillfully unifying historical events, cultural discourses, and competitive sports into a fascinating blend of storytelling. Set in the late 19th century during the inception of football, commonly known as soccer in North America, the series delves into the sport’s profound impact on English society, endorsing it as a monumental symbol that stood for far more than mere competition.

The series is the brainchild of Julian Fellowes, best known for his work on award-winning series, Downton Abbey, and promises to carry a captivating storyline infused with strong character development and period detail. It masterfully brings to life an intriguing phase of football’s growth and evolution by focusing on how the sport transitioned from a leisure activity reserved for England's upper classes into a widely-popular professional sport.

The show highlights the universal appeal of football, drawing viewers into the tale of two teams - The "Old Etonians," an affluent team consisting of privileged gentlemen, and the "Darwen FC," a group of mill workers in Lancashire. This juxtaposition of characters vividly exhibits the wide and complex social gulf that existed in 19th century English society, with football as the thread binding these contrasting worlds. It also explores how sport, particularly football, served as a catalyst in bridging the chasm of social inequality and class struggle prevalent during those times.

The English Game primarily lays emphasis on two central real-life characters - Fergus Suter, a Scottish stonemason who was one of the first recognized professional footballers, and Arthur Kinnaird, a notable figure in early English football. Although both were driven by the same love for the game, their differing backgrounds fed into their contrasting perspectives of the sport. Fergus Suter, hailing from the working class, saw it as a route towards better livelihood and societal transformation, while Arthur Kinnaird considered the game as a testament to gentlemanly conduct and fair play, an ethos bred into the upper classes.

Over the course of the series, these protagonists and other characters exhibit a wide array of intriguing subplots and complexities, making the series more than just a tale of the birth of modern football. It intertwines personal dramas, political tensions, and societal discourses within its storytelling, significantly contributing to its gripping narrative. Marital issues, financial troubles, class prejudices, and the societal pressure to adhere to class norms are brilliantly depicted, providing a vivid snapshot of Victorian England with football as the backdrop. The series also skillfully infuses romantic and familial subplots, with due screen time given to the female characters, narrating tales of courage, resilience, and love.

The English Game marries the essence of 19th century England's thematic nuances with a visually-aided portrayal of the epoch's charm and grandeur. With meticulous attention to detail, the costumes, set design, and backdrop echo the essence of Victorian England, enhancing the authenticity of the series. The high-stakes football matches, parallel to the emotional narratives, add to the drama and excitement, engaging viewers at every turn.

However, the series is not confined to football enthusiasts or history buffs. While adding detailed authentic football sequences that resonate with sports fans, the series also presents a compelling, emotive narrative, making it enjoyable for a diverse viewership. It takes viewers on a journey that transcends a mere historical account, shedding light on how football is intricately woven into the socio-cultural fabric of English society and was key in eroding the rigid class divides of the time.

In summation, The English Game is more than just a sports drama. It is a well-crafted narrative about the origins of football and its profound influence on English society. The show offers an insightful view into the dynamics of historical England, interwoven with compelling real-life characters, engrossing storylines, and the early years of football. Analogous to its title, the series reflects on the game not just as a sport but as an element of the English cultural identity, a catalyst for change and a beacon of hope and unity during a period of rigorous social divide. Whether you're a lover of football, history, or engaging drama, The English Game is certain to captivate your interest, making it a worthwhile addition to your watchlist.