Ep 1. Christmas Special 2019, Pt. 1

In this heartwarming Christmas special of Call the Midwife, viewers are transported back to the 1960s in the East End of London. The episode begins with the anticipation and excitement of the upcoming festive season. The residents of Poplar are busy decorating the streets with bright lights, and children are seen caroling with their families. However, despite the joyous festivities, some characters are dealing with unresolved issues.

The main focus of this episode revolves around Sister Julienne, the head of Nonnatus House. Sister Julienne is struggling to help a young mother, pregnant with her third child, as she is threatened with eviction from her house by her landlord. Sister Julienne is determined to help, but her attempts to persuade the landlord only make matters worse. As the situation escalates, the young mother goes into labor, leaving the midwives scrambling to make the best of an unfortunate situation.

As usual, the midwives must contend with several cases of poverty, illness, and social issues that have plagued the people of Poplar. One such case involves a young woman who must live in isolation due to a highly contagious disease. Her only contact with the outside world is through her window, where she can see her family celebrate Christmas. The midwives must ensure that her child is delivered safely, even if it means putting themselves at risk.

Throughout the episode, viewers get glimpses into the personal lives of the midwives. Barbara, now a married woman, is dealing with infertility, which she feels is preventing her from starting a family. Trixie, on the other hand, is struggling with alcoholism, which is putting her life and work in jeopardy. The Christmas special also sees the return of the beloved character, Chummy, who left the show several seasons ago. Chummy’s return injects a sense of nostalgia into the episode, giving fans a sense of what they have been missing.

As the episode comes to a close, the residents of Poplar come together to celebrate Christmas. The midwives gather with their families and with one another to exchange gifts and share a meal. Despite the hardships faced by some characters throughout the episode, the message of hope and love shines through, reminding viewers of the true meaning of the holiday season.

In summary, Call the Midwife season 9 episode 1, the Christmas special of 2019, Pt. 1, is a heartwarming portrayal of the challenges faced by people living in poverty during the festive season. The episode does well to remind viewers that even in the midst of hardships, there is always hope, love, and the indefatigable human spirit.