Bomb Girls: A TV Show

Bomb Girls
2012 - 2013
Created by: Michael MacLennan & Adrienne Mitchell



Netflix recently suggested that I start watching a show called Bomb Girls. Though I'd never heard of it, the description was enough to pique my interest.

The Canadian show takes place in the 1940s, right in the middle of WWII. The men are off at war so the women start working in the factories (in this show a bomb factory) to support their families and the war effort.

Besides the fact that I've never seen a Canadian-made show before, I was interested in seeing all the cute clothes and hair the actresses would undoubtedly wear.

They have that, in spades, but the show also brings up some interesting viewpoints.

The topic of sexism and double standards come up in just about every episode. The women get blamed for busted bombs, they are expected to support the war but are also expected to be ready, willing, and happy to go back home once the men come back. The men have no problems sleeping around before they're shipped off and some of the women will give it, but if they get caught their good names are dead.

The show highlights the men issues as well. One of the main character's husband was injured in a previous war and has a hard time coming to terms with that fact. Then there is a character who though was born in Italy, has lived in Canada since he was 2 and is yet unable to enlist, because he is seen as an enemy alien.

It's weird to think that back then so many people, men and women alike, were so patriotic and supportive of the war effort. Even though the women are working all day long in dangerous conditions they still find time to visit and volunteer at the hospitals, raise funds for the Red Cross, and do a little spy action.

In the latter part of Season 2 the women are starting to realize that they aren't seen as equal to men and they start to question why. Due to a reporter's story, the women are aware that they make only $1100 for every $2000 the men make. One of the women is denied a loan for a house because the bank doesn't think she'll be able to make her payments once the boys return home. But the banker does flash her ring at her and tell her to be patient, because one day her dream might just come true.

Gross.

It's interesting, as a woman, to see a TV show that shows women becoming empowered, especially in such a drastic way. They are starting to realize that they are valuable - more than just baby and sandwich makers. They are starting to see that they are valuable not only to the war but to daily life. They are slowly realizing that they deserve to be happy, that they can buy their own house, that they can have their own money.


Doesn't this show sound awesome?

Well, apparently Canadian TV doesn't think so. The show has been cancelled despite it's strong following.


You can watch the only two seasons on Netflix.

I give it 4 out of 5 popcorn.