And a Nightingale Sang

Romance set in Newcastle, England, during World War II depicts a cheerful if slightly daffy working class family. Helen (Phyllis Logan) is the sensible one, 31 years old and slightly lame. She keeps the family centered. The mother (Joan Plowright) is a devout Catholic, the father (John Woodvine) spends his spare time pounding on a piano, Joyce (Pippa Hinchley) is slightly tarty, and grandpa (Des Young) is nutty for pets.

Into their lives come two young soldiers. Eric (Stephen Tompkinson) is hot for Joyce, and Norman (Tom Watt) is taken with Helen. As the war drags on, Eric and Joyce marry, while Norman and Helen set up housekeeping together in a flat. Each couple will eventually face some surprising facts.

Logan, best known as Mrs. Hughes on DOWNTON ABBEY, gives a radiant performance as the woman on the verge of spinsterhood who finds unexpected love. Plowright is also wonderful as the dotty mother who lives for church. Worth looking for.