Northern Lights

Northern Lights is a captivating British television comedy-drama produced by Granada Television and broadcast on ITV from 2006. The series is vibrant, full of character, and loaded with a hearty mix of comedy and emotion that is sure to draw viewers in right away.

The setting of the series is the town of Pontyberry in the valleys of South Wales. Pivotally set in a tight-knit, close community, Northern Lights offers a glimpse into the humorous yet complex lives of its ordinary, everyday citizens. It's this small-town charm - the interplay of vibrant personalities, family ties, and deep-rooted local traditions that give the series its alluring appeal and relatability.

The series is centered around two brothers-in-law, Colin and Howard, who are endearingly played by Robson Green and Mark Benton. The heartening relationship and comical rapport between these two lead characters is one of the show's many highlights. Their fierce rivalry, despite being joined by marriage, forms the backbone of the series, and their comedic antics as they constantly strive to outdo each other make for highly enjoyable television.

Robson Green enchants as Colin, a lovable local hero with a whimsical approach towards life. He leaves a lasting impression with his likable persona. His life seems blissful with a loving wife, three children, and a secure job. However, his happiness is only marred by the presence of Howard, his competitive and overly ambitious brother-in-law.

Mark Benton, with his perfect comic timing, steps into the shoes of Howard quite effectively. As a part of the town's search-and-rescue team with Robson, he is often found embroiled in amusing rivalries and never-ending debates with Colin – all over mundane issues.

Despite their rivalry, what’s exciting to watch is how Colin and Howard manage to coexist, keeping their personal disagreements aside when the need arises in their life-saving search and rescue operations. Through this, Northern Lights does not skimp on heartwarming tales of courage, fostering a sense of community, and the significance of family.

The series boasts a strong supporting cast that helps amplify the show's charm and humor. Siwan Morris' portrayal of Colin's wife, Jackie, is notable. She effortlessly embodies a loving, supportive partner while mediating between the bickering duo. Pauline Quirke's portrayal of Howard's wife, Pauline, adds another engaging dimension to the series’ excellent character play. The lovable antics of these secondary characters add warmth, depth, and the right amount of comedic moments to the story, further enhancing its appeal.

The craftsmanship of Northern Lights is also evident in how the series beautifully encapsulates the delightful landscape of the Welsh valleys, painting a postcard-perfect picture brimming with serene beauty. The cinematographic excellence not only aesthetically enriches the overall viewing experience but also complements the series' narrative by reflecting the tight-knit community’s mood and emotions.

Furthermore, the series stands out for its nuanced storytelling. It cleverly weaves in social issues and explores themes of companionship, rivalry, ego, and community spirit. Amidst the comedy, there are genuine moments of emotional depth and drama, providing a well-rounded viewing experience for the audience.

With its charming blend of comedy, endearing characters, and a touch of drama, Northern Lights is a warm-hearted celebration of community life that is both entertaining and heart-touching. The superb performances, the compelling script, the highly effective comic riffing, wrapped up in the serenity of the Welsh countryside, all work together to make the series a delightful watch.

In conclusion, Northern Lights strikes a perfect balance between hilarity and poignancy, making it an uplifting, feel-good comedy-drama that effectively tugs at your heartstrings while keeping you amused. Whether you're someone who appreciates sharp wit, relatable characters, captivating storytelling, or are merely a fan of British comedy, Northern Lights definitely warrants a watch. The show is presented by Acorn Media, known for bringing the best of British TV to the global audience, further ensuring its high-quality production value and entertainment quotient.