Ethel & Ernest Poster

Ethel & Ernest 2016

★ 7.5124 votes94 min📅 2016-10-15

"Forty years of change. One enduring love."

Roger Mainwood's *Ethel & Ernest (2016)* is a tenderly hand-drawn animated drama that chronicles four decades in the life of two unassuming Londoners whose love story unfolds against the sweeping backdrop of 20th-century history.

Director: Roger Mainwood

Cast

Jim Broadbent
Jim Broadbent
Ernest Briggs (voice)
Brenda Blethyn
Brenda Blethyn
Ethel Briggs (voice)
Luke Treadaway
Luke Treadaway
Raymond Briggs (voice)
Roger Allam
Roger Allam
Middle Aged Doctor (voice)
Virginia McKenna
Virginia McKenna
Lady of the House (voice)
Peter Wight
Peter Wight
Detective Sergeant Burnley (voice)
Pam Ferris
Pam Ferris
Mrs Bennett / Aunty Betty (voice)
Simon Day
Simon Day
Alf (voice)
Raymond Briggs
Raymond Briggs
Raymond Briggs (voice)
June Brown
June Brown
Ernest's Step Mother (voice)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ethel & Ernest (2016) about?

This animated drama follows the life of Raymond Briggs' parents, Ethel and Ernest, as they navigate forty years of marriage amid the turbulence of 20th-century London. From the chaos of wartime to the shifting social landscapes of the postwar era, their story paints a vivid portrait of love, resilience, and the quiet triumphs of ordinary people.

Who directed Ethel & Ernest?

The film was directed by Roger Mainwood, known for his work in animation and his ability to blend personal storytelling with historical context.

Who stars in Ethel & Ernest?

The film features the voices of acclaimed actors Jim Broadbent and Brenda Blethyn as the titular couple, alongside Luke Treadaway, Roger Allam, and Virginia McKenna.

Is Ethel & Ernest (2016) worth watching?

With its heartfelt narrative and beautifully crafted animation, *Ethel & Ernest* offers a rare blend of intimacy and historical resonance. While it may not appeal to those seeking high-octane action, its emotional depth and authenticity make it a deeply rewarding experience for fans of character-driven dramas.

How long is Ethel & Ernest?

The film runs for 94 minutes, a perfect length for its focused exploration of its characters' lives.

🎥 Trailer

About Ethel & Ernest (2016) — A Hand-Drawn Love Story Through Decades of History

Roger Mainwood's *Ethel & Ernest (2016)* is a tenderly hand-drawn animated drama that chronicles four decades in the life of two unassuming Londoners whose love story unfolds against the sweeping backdrop of 20th-century history. Based on Raymond Briggs' acclaimed graphic novel, this intimate film transforms the ordinary—weekly shopping trips, whispered arguments, and quiet moments of affection—into something extraordinary, capturing the resilience of a relationship tested by war, social change, and the relentless march of time. With its warm visuals and deeply human storytelling, the movie invites viewers to reflect on how personal milestones mirror the larger currents of history.

Jim Broadbent and Brenda Blethyn bring the titular couple to life with nuanced performances that balance humor, warmth, and quiet heartache. The film's evocative animation style enhances its nostalgic tone, immersing audiences in the couple's world as they navigate everything from the Blitz to the swinging sixties. A celebration of enduring love and quiet heroism, *Ethel & Ernest* is both a poignant tribute to a bygone era and a timeless reminder of the small, everyday moments that define a lifetime together.