CS Weekly Archive > DVD of the Day > 9/23/05

The Fundamental Things Apply

by jason davis

Bob Larby
Based on an original idea by Colin Bostock-Smith

Thirty-eight years after her boyfriend, Lionel Hardcastle (Geoffrey Palmer), was posted to Korea and never wrote, Jean Pargetter (Dame Judi Dench) rediscovers him when he asks her daughter (Moira Booker) out on a date. Discovering that his letter never arrived, Lionel and Jean rekindle their romance despite the lunacy of the world that pulled them apart. Running nine seasons and concluding with a one-hour retrospective, As Time Goes By examines romance from a geriatric perspective with charm, humor, and an emphasis on well-drawn characters. Lionel and Jean, their quirks accentuated by age, carry most of the comedic and dramatic weight as they attempt to account for what they've missed as a result of their separation while sharing a peculiar brand of companionship that comes with age and experience. Larby's writing is consistent in its quality and offers the kind of humor that you could appreciate in any company. Interviews with some of the cast shed light on the show's appeal, but a featurette on Larby and his career would have been much appreciated.

As Time Goes By: The Complete Original Series
Warner Home Video
Not rated; 1939 min.
$179.98

Buy it now for only $134.99 (save 25%)

At the age of 21, Jason Davis was hit in the face with a car. He has since devoted his life to writing. His words have appeared on TBS, MSN.com, and CS Weekly, where he serves as DVD Coordinator. He lives in Burbank.

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