Toen was geluk heel gewoon

I started watching this series at the end of 1998. I immediately loved it, its down to earth approach on fundamental problems or pleasures of society in particular. There isn't a well known subject of society that hasn't been discussed. I also like the characters of this series: they are normal, hardworking people, with a heart of gold. The addition of some whealthy personalities in this series is one of the finest ingrediënts.

There are only four clear characters included in every episode: Jaap Kooiman, a very grumpy, hardworking, pigheaded and impulsive bus-driver. He's also, arguably, the biggest hypocrite that ever lived, but that's what makes him so funny. His wife, Nellie Kooiman, has to put up with his impulsive and hilarious actions, but loves him very much. Jaap Kooiman's neighbour, Simon Stokvis, is another hardworking soul. He earns his money in the sewer and is the editor of 'De Bruine Rotterdammer' (The Brown Rotterdammer), a paper in order to clean the bad reputation of the Rotterdam sewer workers. Simon is married with Zus Mollema, a peasant girl who has moved from Drenthe to the big city of Rotterdam. She is not so smart, which results in hilarious moments.

Characters with not such a big role in this series, but who do make a fine addition to the show, are Meneer Harmsen (Jaap Kooiman's boss at the busstation) Meneer Hopjes (Harmsen's butler) and fellow bowlers and bussdrivers of Jaap and Simon.

Although this series is completely in dutch, I would reccommend everyone to take a look at this series. Especially the people who are dutch and who haven't seen it until now. Too bad the series only take about twenty minutes an episode, but its oldfashion charm, hilarious moments and characters and its wonderful cast wipe away any less succesful aspects.

If I had to compare this series with another one, I would say 'Toen Was Geluk Heel Gewoon' is an equivalent of 'The Flintstones': Jaap Kooiman is Fred, Nellie Kooiman is Wilma, Simon Stokvis is Barney and of course Zus Stokvis is Betty. Japp's boss Meneer Harmsen is Mr. Slates. A clear, but on the other hand very different comparison.

Just a note for the above review, the reason this program resembles "the Flintstones" is that both are based on the 1950's sitcom "The Honeymooners".

In fact, I've read that some of the original scripts were translated and rewritten.

It's really interesting to me that a technically short- lived (39 original episodes, though lots of sketches and specials later on) show spawned two incredibly long running programs. (As well as various other cartoons and movies of course.) I suppose the characters must be nearly universal.

The series intends to follow the history of the 50s/60s and 70s, and does so closely. The characters however don't evolve at all, which is partly why it remains funny. Jaap Kooyman will always remain a conservative man who doesn't understand a bit of 'modern times'. He will also always do anything to get a promotion at the RET (Rotterdam Public Transport), and always fail. The funny thing also is, when Gerard Cox, the actor in this role, is interviewed for a magazine, or a television, it looks like in this series he is playing himself. Jaap Kooyman is not so much different from Gerard Cox. If Jaap Kooyman would really start to be friendly to homosexuals, or to immigrant workers, the series would be over. Let's hope he doesn't do so, and the series will continue until they hit 1993, when it all started.

Toen was geluk heel gewoon, airing from 1994 to 2009, is a series that truly deserves a top rating of 10/10. This Dutch classic is more than just a TV show; it's a cultural phenomenon, featuring characters who have become nothing short of cult heroes. Jaap, Simon, Bas, and De Baas are not just characters; they are iconic figures whose witty and memorable lines have etched a permanent place in the hearts of viewers.

The brilliance of Toen was geluk heel gewoon lies in its relatable humor and the exceptional portrayal of everyday life. The series excels in creating moments that are both hilariously funny and strikingly familiar. The characters, with their unique quirks and expressions, bring a level of authenticity and charm that is rare in television.

Jaap and Simon, in particular, stand out with their impeccable comedic timing and natural chemistry. Their interactions and the situations they find themselves in are the heart of the show, making each episode a delightful experience. Bas and De Baas add their own flavor to the series, contributing to the rich tapestry of its storytelling.

Having watched the series at least 100 times, I can attest to its rewatchability. It's a show that never grows old, no matter how many times you revisit it. The humor remains fresh, and the characters continue to bring joy.