George & Mildred

John ChardApr 2014

2.5

Maybe they have a punk version by the Sock Pistols? By 1980 the British cinematic trend of converting filmic spin-offs from situation comedies had already run out of steam. Margaret Thatcher had entered Downing Street as PM and the British climate changed considerably. British comedy in the coming decade would see alternative comedy blast through the walls to make a mark, whilst situation comedy shows moved to a different plane to that of their heavily sexed 70s brethren. George & Mildred was a wonderful show, itself a spin-off from the equally adorable Man About the House, the film suffers, not just as the death knell of a once proud British tradition, but also as a victim of climate change. That it bares little resemblance to what made the show popular in the first place is something used to pound down on the film with, but the production team were trying to keep up, sensing the wind of change they took two much loved characters out of the comfort zone and attempted to keep them viable. Oh it didn't work, not at all, but the will is still admirable. It's not a great film, it's passable at best because fans of Yootha Joyce and Brian Murphy can at least enjoy their stoic performances. While there are some very good gags in the script. But ultimately it's a tired picture, the set-pieces lack zip, the plot ill advised and underwriting the Roper neighbours, the Fourmiles, is a big mistake. Joyce would die soon after the film's release, a victim to alcoholism aged 53. Sadly this film is no way to remember her, anyone interested in her work are advised to see her 1970s TV output to view a wonderful actress at work. 5/10