Wish Me Luck

Wish Me Luck, an iconic British television drama, ran from 1987 to 1990 and was produced by Acorn Media. The show, set against the backdrop of World War II, explores the challenging and chaotic lives of the women employed in the Special Operations Executive (SOE), a British intelligence entity. The series showcases the enormous courage, audacity, and resilience of these women whose extraordinary work often placed them in dire consequences way beyond the ordinary British citizen's imagination.

Leading the stellar cast is Kate Buffery portraying Liz Grainger, a young Englishwoman who enrolls in the SOE as a wireless operator after encountering a personal tragedy. Buffery's portrayal of Liz is laudably realistic and praiseworthy – she imparts life to her character, conveying the grit and determination needed to brave the adversities she faces. Buffery masterfully captivates the audience, making us root for her character while revealing the hardships that these wartime heroines had to endure.

Suzanna Hamilton's character, Matty Firman, complements Liz perfectly. Matty, an experienced and enigmatic operative, is sent on a mission with Liz. Hamilton's nuanced rendering of Matty manifests her prowess in effortlessly transitioning between a tenacious spy and a compassionate companion. It is delightful to watch the unusual bond between the two women evolve, balancing the tension-filled atmosphere with their camaraderie.

Lynn Farleigh, Jane Asher, Julian Glover, Michael J. Jackson, and Jane Snowden offer remarkable performances as the supporting cast. Their skills bring an additional depth to the tale, effortlessly navigating the complex web of relationships, intrigue, betrayal, and the magnitude of emotions that the wartime scenario brings forth. Julian Glover, for instance, gives a commanding performance as Colonel James 'Cad' Cadogan, a stern yet supportive leader, fierce but fair.

Jane Asher brings mystery and sophistication to the character of Faith Ashley, a recruiter for the SOE and the woman who convinces Liz to join the service. Her intelligent and enigmatic personality provides a fascinating dimension to the plot while offering engaging insights into the workings of a war-torn world.

Wish Me Luck is sharply written and includes a rich tapestry of historical detail. The touch of authenticity to the screenplay makes it incredibly immersive. Spectacular production design, accurate costumes, and engrossing cinematography contribute significantly towards creating the war-torn atmosphere. Notably, the series is inspired by real-life stories of women employed in the SOE, which makes it even more compelling.

While the show is predominantly about war, it intertwines personal dramas to reveal the raw and intense emotions that stir beneath the surface of these brave women. Their patriotism, courage, and dedication not only propel the story but also provide a profound human element to the narrative, ensuring viewers become invested in their journey.

Wish Me Luck is as much a historical piece as it is a gripping thriller, and it does justice to both realms by offering viewers an enthralling journey through one of the most critical periods globally. It brings forth the lesser-known yet riveting tales of heroism and sacrifice that women exhibited during WWII, revealing an often overlooked part of history.

The show certainly stands amongst the best in WWII TV dramas, showcasing compelling storytelling, fleshed-out characters, exemplary performances, and a suspense-filled narrative that keeps you on the edge of your seat. It does well in portraying the struggles and triumphs of the women in the SOE - women whose bravery, resilience, and commitment impacted the outcome of the war. These women had to forego the safety of the home front to serve their nation and this series honors their sacrifice. For individuals who appreciate war dramas, historical pieces, or simply brilliant performances, Wish Me Luck is a must-watch!