This is an Upstairs Downstairs style series, to some extent. The upstairs family are very noble, but not very rich. There are only four servants who are not quite treated as family, but more integrated into daily life. Well acted and scripted, in my opinion. There are three daughters emerging into adulthood, other relations come and go, including an excellent grandfather character played by Cyril Luckham.
The early episodes feel like watching a stage play (but quite a good one). Very long scenes with lots of dialogue. Some good acting but the odd fluffed line. No edits for re-takes. Philip Latham as the father is riveting to watch. Very upper class speech and mannerisms delivered absolutely naturally, but the character has lots of depth and humanity. Susan Engel as his wife Helen is warm and believable, but written out disappointingly soon along with one daughter.
The three daughters have various romances and careers ideas, allowing for some good 1970s exploration of morals and women's issues which never goes that deep. Set in the late 1930s, there is also the build up of tension pre WWII.
The show was aired daily, at first, and like a soap, things don't move very fast. An issue may simmer for many episodes before it comes to a head.
I was quite content binging this on YouTube, where all the episodes (70+ !) are available, until quite without warning Philip Latham left the series in the 4th season. That was probably the point where I realised that I had primarily been watching it for his performances . . .
The first season, in particular, is very good, although it's definitely an old-fashioned way of making television. That season, at least, is worth watching.
