Surviving the horrors of trench warfare in the First World War, Siegfried Sassoon (played by Jack Lowden and Peter Capaldi) was decorated for his bravery but became a vocal critic of the British government’s continuation of the war when he returned from service. One of the most celebrated poets of his era, his writing was inspired by his horrific experiences on the western front. Adored by members of the aristocracy as well as stars of London’s literary and stage world, Sassoon embarked upon affairs with several men as he attempted to come to terms with his homosexuality. Increasingly traumatised by the war however, he ultimately sought refuge within the conformity of traditional marriage and religious devotion. Sassoon’s story is one of a troubled man in a fractured world searching for peace and self-acceptance.

Notes by David O’Mahony