Quite simply, this is a stunning example of how good writing for television can be. Or writing, period, for that matter. It doesn't hurt that the cast, led by the indomitable Albert Finney, give uniformly great performances, but as with all of Dennis Potter's work, it's the virtuosity of the writing that reels you in, making you laugh hysterically in between (or sometimes during) scenes of unbelieveable sadness or poignancy. He was a true gem. I taped this miniseries when it was on Bravo five or six years ago and just watched it again for only the second time, and once again, it took my breath away. Viva Potter!
