Watch The Likely Lads

The Likely Lads, released in 1976, is a British film directed by Michael Tuchner, and is based on the popular television series of the same name, which aired from 1964 to 1966. The movie features Rodney Bewes as Bob Ferris and James Bolam as Terry Collier, two working-class friends from Newcastle upon Tyne. Brigit Forsyth plays Bob's girlfriend, Thelma Chambers.

The story follows the lives of Bob and Terry as they navigate the challenges of adulthood. The film starts with the two friends, who shared a lot in their teenage years, still trying to find their place in society. Bob has a steady job and a girlfriend, Thelma, but feels stifled in his daily routine. Terry, on the other hand, lives a life of uncertainty, constantly struggling to find employment, and seeming to be always in one scrape or another. Despite their differing circumstances, however, the two remain firm friends, and throughout the film, they both strive to stay true to their beliefs and each other.

As they try to cope with the changing world around them, Bob and Terry find that they do not always agree on the best way forward. Bob wants to settle down, marry Thelma, and live a safe and stable life, while Terry is more interested in living life to the fullest, seizing every opportunity and experiencing all that the world has to offer. Their differing viewpoints lead to several conflicts and misunderstandings between them.

But despite their disagreements, Bob and Terry remain the best of friends, and their witty rapport and sarcastic banter provide much of the film's humor. The two walk and talk throughout the gritty northern landscape, sharing their thoughts and feelings with each other about life, love, and growing older, while also trying to avoid the police and other obstacles in their way.

Throughout the film, the relationship between Bob and Terry is tested by the smaller differences that divide them. They both want more out of life than their working-class roots offer, but they approach that goal in different ways. As their friendship is pushed to its limits, Bob and Terry struggle to reconcile their differences and find a way to move forward together.

The Likely Lads is ultimately a poignant and insightful portrayal of two friends growing up and facing the challenges of adulthood in a rapidly changing world. The film deals with themes of friendship, loyalty, and the struggles of growing older with humor and honesty, and the performances of the lead actors are both authentic and heartfelt. The movie also captures the feel of the 1970s with its fashion, music, and attitudes, which all add an extra layer of nostalgia to the story.

In summary, The Likely Lads is a classic British film that captures the essence of friendship and growing up with an authenticity that continues to resonate with audiences today. Fans of the television series will appreciate the continuation of Bob and Terry's story, while newcomers to the world of the Likely Lads will be charmed by the witty banter, humor, and poignant drama of the film's portrait of friendship.