Last Tango in Halifax

This series is one of the best television shows I have ever seen. It hits a lot of hot buttons with its fantasy romance between the two stars, and a variety of sub-plots involving failed marriages, same sex love, alcohol, rivalry, lust, anger, etc. We see bonding that bridges the generations, and distrusts that become solid friendships. Ordinary people from across the social spectrum interact in the two families of Celia (Anne Reid) and Alan (Derek Jacobi). The characters (other than Alan and Celia) can find themselves alternately partying or warring with each other, sometimes in humorous ways. It is the perfect soap opera but beyond that, the first two seasons of this outstanding series show the viewer the range of human behaviour, even within the same characters. The two leads, played by Anne Reid and Derek Jacobi, find one another sixty years after adolescence. Their embryonic relationship never reached fruition in their youth. Six decades later, it suddenly blossomed, much to their total surprise and delight. What followed is a complicated story that draws us into the lives of their family and extended relationships. I found the series very rewarding and addictive as I looked forward to each episode.

After the first four episodes and I am gob-smacked. It has been a long time since I have been so excited by a BBC drama & so refreshing to have it set in the present. No costumes, and no history lessons needed to be able to appreciate the emotions coursing through the characters as they cope with the manic plot twists. I say manic, but they remain believable nonetheless as plausible drama's we could all have happen in our lives. More surprising is that the rate of storytelling. Every second and every facial expression is made to count, but this never intrudes on the - real life time feel of the piece. If I have made Last Tango in Halifax sound mundane- it is not it is bonkers. For me the 'what on earth is going to happen next' factor is the biggest draw. But each scene on its own is already a mini stand alone story. If that is down to the quality of the acting the scene play or the production I cannot say. Last Tango is utterly absorbing and I cannot wait for more. (vote 9 in stead of 10 because of the spoiling spoilers at the end of the episode)

Stellar cast including the almost incomparable Sarah Lancashire. Beautiful rugged setting that makes you yearn for the English countryside. Storylines become a little far fetched as the series goes on and it should have maybe been wrapped up in two seasons.

I didn't watch the first series on TV, but happened across it on DVD rentals, and became enthralled and enslaved. I really enjoy the leading couple, and their 'daughters' , my how Raquel has grown up! Some of the story lines are a bit far-fetched, and I can't help thinking that perhaps Gillian would have benefited from a stronger chastisement occasionally when she was younger and hormonal, but they are what they are. I love that she is always up to her armpits in dung when she gets company or a phone call - I hope they pay her enough. I hope it doesn't get too silly, but some families do lurch from crisis to disaster, so if they can balance the humour, then it will be realistic. The production team have done a grand job, the acting is splendid. Love it.

Thank you Netflix, for introducing us to the work of Sally Wainwright (and to actors like Sarah Lancashire!). This has to be one of the sweetest, nicest, most absorbing series I have seen in years - so much better than the usual run of the mill North American stuff. It takes its time to introduce you to the lives and thoughts of its cast, and in doing so, it captures you completely. You fall in love with haughty Caroline and mixed up, do anything for love Gillian. Even the less sympathetic characters - John and Judith - are fun to be with as you wait to see them plunge into their next disaster. As for the two lovebirds, Alan and Celia, they are just so believable and such a delight to spend time with. After watching this, I've discovered Scott & Bailey, also by Sally Wainwright and can't believe the same person wrote such two very different series. I've also watched Happy Valley with Sarah Lancashire and she is incredible. The contrast with her character in Last Tango is stunning. So once again, thank you Netflix. Thank you Sally Wainwright!