The Flame Trees of Thika

The Flame Trees of Thika (1981)

EndedScripted showDrama, Action, Adventure

When a young Edwardian family leaves the shores of England to build a home in the wilderness of East Africa, what they encounter is beyond their imagination, but forever remembered through the eyes of their 11-year-old daughter. Based on the beloved memoir by Elspeth Huxley, The Flame Trees of Thika brings to life the colour and adventure of turn-of-the-century Kenya. In 1913, Robin (David Robb) and Tilly Grant (Hayley Mills) arrive in Kenya with the dream of transforming a barren plot of land into a thriving coffee plantation. But torrential rains, relentless insects and murderous animals, as well as relations with natives and other settlers, challenge their ambitions. Will England call them back? Or will the wide-eyed wonder of young Elspeth (Holly Aird) help unlock the mysteries of a foreign land and open the doors into the pleasures and rewards of a new home?

Network
Scheduleevery Friday at 20:30 (50 min)

Last Episode

The Drums of War
Season 1Episode 750 min

The Drums of War

With Robin away, Tilly decides to go to Nairobi to do what she can for he war effort. As a result, Elspeth must go lives with the Robinsons, a wealthy merchant family who have a resident governess for their children. Elspeth doesn't adapt very well however and decides to run away. Hereward is in the army in France while Robin and Ian Crawford have joined the local forces but Tilly gets some bad news after a battle in the south. When Robin gets orders to join his old regiment in France, Tilley make plans to return to England, at least temporarily.

Oct 13, 1981

Recent Episodes

EpisodeNameAirdate
S01E07The Drums of WarOct 13, 1981
S01E06SafariOct 6, 1981
S01E05A Real SportsmanSep 29, 1981
S01E04Friends in High PlacesSep 22, 1981
S01E03Happy New YearSep 15, 1981
View all episodesView all seasons

Frequently Asked Questions  Warning: Spoilers

When did 'The Flame Trees of Thika' premiere?

'The Flame Trees of Thika' premiered on September 7, 1981.

What is the setting of 'The Flame Trees of Thika'?

The show is set in 1913 in British East Africa, which is now known as Kenya.

Who are the main characters in 'The Flame Trees of Thika'?

The main characters are Robin Grant, Tilly Grant, Elspeth Huxley, and Hereward Huxley.

What is the show 'The Flame Trees of Thika' based on?

The show is based on the book of the same name by Elspeth Huxley, which is a memoir of her childhood in East Africa.

What is the genre of 'The Flame Trees of Thika'?

The show falls into the genre of drama and adventure.

Who directed 'The Flame Trees of Thika'?

The show was directed by Roy Ward Baker.

How many episodes does 'The Flame Trees of Thika' have?

'The Flame Trees of Thika' consists of 7 episodes.

What is the premise of 'The Flame Trees of Thika'?

The show follows a young girl named Elspeth who moves to East Africa with her family and experiences the challenges and adventures of life in the African wilderness.

What is the significance of the flame trees in 'The Flame Trees of Thika'?

The flame trees symbolize the beauty and harshness of the African landscape, serving as a powerful motif throughout the series.

How was the reception of 'The Flame Trees of Thika'?

The show was well-received for its captivating portrayal of life in East Africa during the early 20th century.

What challenges do the characters face in 'The Flame Trees of Thika'?

The characters face challenges such as adapting to a new environment, encountering wildlife, and navigating the complexities of colonial life.

What cultural themes are explored in 'The Flame Trees of Thika'?

The show delves into themes of belonging, identity, and the clash of cultures in the context of British colonialism in East Africa.

How does 'The Flame Trees of Thika' depict the African landscape?

The show vividly portrays the awe-inspiring beauty and untamed nature of the African landscape, capturing the essence of the setting.

What makes 'The Flame Trees of Thika' a unique television series?

The show stands out for its rich historical context, compelling characters, and its portrayal of the unspoiled African wilderness.

How does 'The Flame Trees of Thika' resonate with viewers?

The series resonates with viewers by offering a captivating and immersive journey into the untamed beauty and challenges of life in early 20th century East Africa.

Cast

Hayley Mills

Hayley Mills

plays Tilly
View all cast

Characters

Tilly

Tilly

played by Hayley Mills
View all characters

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