Call the Midwife Star’s Inspiring Second World War Drama Is Streaming Now

Call the Midwife viewers awaiting the BBC drama’s Second World War prequel can watch Jenny Agutter in another moving period story, now available to stream in the UK.

Long before Agutter became known to BBC One audiences as Sister Julienne, she earned recognition through roles including Bobbie Waterbury in The Railway Children.

More than 55 years have passed since the memorable scene in which Bobbie waved her red petticoat to prevent a steam train disaster in the much-loved film adaptation.

Jenny Agutter’s history with The Railway Children

Based on Edith Nesbit’s novel, the original story follows three siblings who are sent to live in the countryside near a railway after their father is arrested on mysterious spying charges.

Agutter first portrayed eldest sibling Bobbie Waterbury in a 1968 television adaptation. She returned to the role for the 1970 film before playing the children’s mother in an ITV remake released in 2000.

In 2022, Agutter once again stepped into Bobbie’s shoes for the sequel, The Railway Children Return.

A new story set during the Second World War

Set in the village of Oakworth in 1944, the sequel follows three children evacuated from a major city after wartime conditions make their home unsafe. They arrive in the countryside hoping to begin a new life.

There they meet Bobbie, who settled in Oakworth three decades earlier, and her grown-up daughter Annie, portrayed by Sheridan Smith.

The children’s new surroundings soon lead them into an unexpected situation when they discover an injured American soldier at a nearby railway yard. Determined to help, they begin trying to find a way for him to return home.

Sir Tom Courtenay appears as Uncle Walter, while the supporting cast includes John Bradley as Richard, KJ Aikens as Abe, Beau Gadsdon as Lily Watts, Eden Hamilton as Pattie Watts, Zac Cudby as Ted Watts and Austin Haynes as Thomas Waterbury.

Viewers praise the film’s message

Morgan Matthews directed the period drama from a screenplay written by Danny Brocklehurst. The film is currently streaming in the UK on Amazon Prime Video and has received enthusiastic responses from viewers.

One Rotten Tomatoes user described it as the “perfect sequel to the original,” praising its cast, screenplay and cinematography, as well as its exploration of social and ethical issues that remain relevant today.

Another viewer highlighted the performances and engaging storyline, while a third praised the film for presenting a lesser-known Second World War story.

Others called it wholesome, exciting, suspenseful and inspirational. One viewer said its story carried a meaningful message about resilience, courage, strength and creating a family during difficult times.

Call the Midwife is available on BBC iPlayer, while The Railway Children Return is streaming on Amazon Prime Video.