Masterpiece Season 35 Episode 12 My Family and Other Animals

In Season 35, Episode 12 of Masterpiece, viewers are treated to a delightful and heartwarming journey to the Greek island of Corfu. Titled 'My Family and Other Animals', this episode is based on the memoirs of British naturalist and author Gerald Durrell, who spent his childhood exploring the flora and fauna of the island.

The episode opens with Gerald (played by Callum Woodhouse) and his mother Louisa (played by Keeley Hawes) arriving in Corfu with his siblings, Larry (Josh O'Connor), Leslie (Callum Scott Howells), and Margo (Daisy Waterstone). The family is relocating from England to Greece, in hopes of finding a more affordable and peaceful place to live. The setting is idyllic, with lush green countryside, sun-drenched beaches, and sparkling blue waters.

The Durrells land at a rambling pink villa, where they will be living under the watchful eye of Spiros (Alexis Georgoulis), a jovial and resourceful local. The villa is certainly not without its quirks, with leaky roofs, broken pipes, and unreliable electricity. But the family is determined to make the best of their new life, and they soon set about exploring their surroundings.

Gerald, in particular, is fascinated by the diverse wildlife that surrounds him, from snakes and scorpions to tortoises and butterflies. He spends his days scouring the countryside for new specimens, much to the chagrin of his older brothers, who are more interested in drinking and chasing girls. Louisa, meanwhile, struggles to make ends meet, baking cakes and selling eggs to make a bit of money.

As the episode progresses, we see the family facing various challenges, from a nest of angry wasps to a run-in with a local band of boys. But through it all, their love and affection for each other shines through, and the beauty of the island works its magic on them.

The pacing of the episode is leisurely, allowing viewers to soak in the richness of the setting and the characters. The acting is superb, with each actor bringing depth and personality to their roles. Hawes, in particular, is a standout as Louisa, radiating warmth, intelligence, and determination in equal measure.

One of the highlights of 'My Family and Other Animals' is the stunning cinematography. The colors are vivid and lush, capturing the beauty of the Greek landscape in all its glory. The camera work is also creative, with swooping shots of the villa and intimate close-ups of the wildlife.

Overall, this episode of Masterpiece is a charming and engaging look at a bygone era and a unique family. It celebrates the power of nature, the importance of family, and the joy of discovery. Whether you are a fan of memoirs, coming-of-age stories, or simply beautiful vistas, 'My Family and Other Animals' is not to be missed.