OK. So its not a film. Just one of the best sitcoms ever, years later it still stands fresh and incredibly funny. The writing is just superb, it’s as if every line has been crafted to be a memorable and funny one, the plots are typical farce and the characters well … who hasn’t wanted to do a Basil rant at some time?

In a way I wonder if that isn’t one of its secrets. A bit like Victor Meldrew in One Foot in the Grave, Basil gets to say and do things we wouldn’t dare, if only for the consequences. While some lament that only 12 episodes were made, I think thats a brave thing to have done. How often does a series drag on with the truely memorable moments spread thin? Perhaps more TV should aim for quality rather than quantity.

Having watched the episodes again you do wonder if in today’s politically correct environment it could have been made - some bits can be uncomfortable. But it is still a very funny sitcom that brings a smile at odd moments when I remember a scene. Just don’t mention the war.