The Good Companions

A wonderful series from the early eighties. I videotaped it at the time, but my ancient videos are wearing out from constant playing. When will this be released on a DVD? I can't believe some of the rubbish that comes out on DVD, and this never has. Great songs, a brilliant plot (it was a good book), and the way they just break into dancing and singing! It also had some sad and serious moments, which were never overplayed and a very good cast,too. This series never got the exposure it deserved, being relegated to the daytime schedule after just one showing in prime-time. It was probably too "different" to catch on back in 1980, but I'm sure there must be others like me who loved it. One of my all time favourites. Bring out the DVD! Please!

A lovely adaptation of J.B. Priestley's novel of the same name. In keeping with the show biz theme it contains musical interludes but I wouldn't go as far as calling it a musical.

If you're a fan of quality light entertainment from the UK you'll enjoy this.

There are, as usual in British drama, some fine cameo performances. It was delightful to see Judith Cornwall as the prim-and-proper Miss Trant. What a contrast to her later performance as Daisy in 'Keeping Up Appearances'.

I note US viewers have rated it much lower than UK/Commonwealth viewers making the overall rating quite low. This is understandable as this is not the type of show that would have any appeal for Americans. The humour is too subtle and most of the characters are elderly. When originally broadcast it rated highly in the UK and Australia.

Available on DVD (3 CD set) from Amazon UK at an excellent price.