Review

  • The series concept seems derived from 1949's "Passport to Pimlico", starring classic comedians Stanley Holloway and Margaret Rutherford. In that film, documents unearthed by the Blitz reveal the London borough to be part of a French duchy and hence, exempt from post-war rationing. "Passport" was a first-rate social/political commentary which this series hinted at emulating (EEC-related) but never successfully achieved. The writers missed their opportunity. While the series leads (Gwen Taylor, Richard Hope) were solid, the supporting characters (Rudolph Walker, the notable exception) were usually unbelievable and often less than funny. Series cancellation, short of the sea reclaiming Flatby, was merciful for all concerned.