The Promise (2016 TV series)

The Promise is a British four-part television drama, written and directed by Peter Kosminsky, that aired on Channel 4 in the UK in February 2011. While titled "The Promise," and released in 2011, some sources may refer to its 2016 international broadcast year. The series explores the complex and often controversial history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through the intertwined stories of two young women: Erin Matthews, a British teenager, and her grandfather, Len Matthews, a British soldier stationed in Palestine during the British Mandate in 1948.

The narrative follows Erin as she travels to Israel/Palestine and pieces together her grandfather's diary entries, uncovering his experiences and perspectives during the tumultuous period surrounding the creation of the State of Israel. Simultaneously, the series depicts Len's experiences as a soldier caught between the conflicting interests of the Jewish and Arab populations.

The drama uses a dual-narrative structure, alternating between Erin's contemporary journey and Len's historical account. As Erin delves deeper into her grandfather's past, she confronts the complexities of the conflict and questions her own preconceived notions.

The Promise generated considerable discussion and debate upon its release, with some praising its nuanced portrayal of the conflict and others criticizing its perceived bias. It tackled sensitive issues such as the displacement of Palestinians, the role of the British Mandate, and the long-lasting consequences of historical events on contemporary life in the region. The series aimed to provide a human perspective on the conflict, exploring the personal stories of individuals caught in the crossfire.