Watch A Fine Romance

A Fine Romance is a British television series that aired on BBC Two from 1981 to 1984. The show revolves around the romantic and comedic adventures of a middle-aged couple named Laura and Mike, played by real-life couple Judi Dench and Michael Williams, as they navigate their newly-formed relationship and individual personal and professional lives.

The first season of A Fine Romance sees Laura, a successful book illustrator and recent divorcee, move into a cottage in the country with her best friend and fellow illustrator, Helen, played by Susan Penhaligon. While settling into her new life, Laura meets Mike, a clumsy and charming antique dealer who often clashes with her no-nonsense personality. Despite their differences, the two soon find themselves drawn to each other and begin a tentative courtship, while also coming to terms with their past relationships and respective career aspirations.

The show's subsequent seasons follow Laura and Mike as they navigate the ups and downs of their relationship, including disagreements over money and living arrangements, as well as unexpected visits from Mike's ex-wife and Laura's ex-husband. Along the way, they receive advice and support from their friends and family, including Helen, Mike's sister Liz, played by Richard Warwick, and Laura's domineering mother, played by Geraldine Fitzgerald.

At its core, A Fine Romance is a charming and cozy romantic comedy that delights in the everyday minutiae of domestic life. Dench and Williams' real-life chemistry shines through in their on-screen performances, making their characters' love story all the more endearing. The show's picturesque English countryside setting and quaint cottage interiors also add to its cozy charm, as do its witty and relatable dialogue and gentle humor.

Beyond its romantic storyline, A Fine Romance also touches on themes of friendship, family, and personal growth, as its characters grapple with issues like aging, career stagnation, and the difficulties of finding love later in life. The show's warm and optimistic outlook, however, assures viewers that even the most challenging situations can be overcome with a little humor, kindness, and perseverance.

While A Fine Romance may lack the high-stakes drama and elaborate plot twists of some more modern shows, its commitment to character-driven storytelling and relatable themes make it a timeless classic. Its popularity during its initial run and continued availability on streaming platforms like Amazon Prime and BritBox speak to its enduring appeal, as does the fond memories of fans who have watched and rewatched its heartfelt and humorous episodes for decades.

A Fine Romance is a series that ran for 4 seasons (26 episodes) between November 1, 1981 and on BBC Two