The Darling Buds of May

The Darling Buds of May is an enchanting British television drama-comedy series that aired between 1991 and 1993. The show lays claim to the golden era of the 1950s in rural England, using the charm of the country landscape alongside the simultaneous intricacies and simple delights of family life to form the setting for an idyllic and heartwarming storytelling experience.

The series is based on the iconic novels of H.E. Bates – indeed, The Darling Buds of May is the title of the first book in the author's collection. Bates' sentimental yet fundamentally realistic portrayals of rural life in the Larkin family have been faithfully translated into the television version, which has garnered a large following of viewers who admire its themes of love, laughter, and shared experiences.

The Darling Buds of May introduces viewers to the captivating world of the Larkin family, led by their cherub-like and astoundingly tax-avoiding patriarch, Pop Larkin, portrayed by the legendary David Jason of "Only Fools and Horses" fame. In this idyllic setting, we delve into the world of the endearing, ever-expanding Larkin family as they go about their daily rural escapades with an unwavering spring in their step, a laugh on their lips, and, invariably, a glass of homemade fruit wine in their hands.

The series explains the family's motto 'perfick!' through their simple, joyous approach to life – 'make the most and worry the least.' Pop’s wife, Ma, superbly played by Pam Ferris, is an unparalleled example of warmth and maternal instinct. Consequently, their home is a veritable Eden filled with children, animals, and the most delightful chaos. The storyline begins to unfurl when a naive yet well-intentioned tax inspector, Mr. Charlton, portrayed by Philip Franks, enters the propertied but distinctly ‘un-income tax paid’ world of the Larkins. Amid the ensuing laughter, chaos, romance, and charming countryside frolics, viewers begin to discover that the most unconventional lives can sometimes hold the most profound of joys.

In the meantime, we witness the eldest daughter, Mariette, wonderfully played by a young Catherine Zeta-Jones, as she comes into her own. A mature young woman, Mariette inevitably catches the eye of many a suitor. Her beauty, combined with a sweet, peevish streak from her father, is showcased throughout the series as the Larkin clan goes about its daily, eventful business.

The series successfully captures the lushness and vivacity of the British countryside, drawing viewers into a world of rural homeliness and family-centered warmth, untouched by the cynicism of the outside world. The Darling Buds of May, provides a nostalgic look into yesteryear, presenting a whimsical tale of family unity, love, unpretentious happiness, and the simplicity and beauty of country life.

By masterfully encapsulating the essence of 1950s rural England, the series has gained a distinct charm and continues to be a beloved classic within the British TV landscape. The show's enchanting simplicity, picturesque landscapes, and heartfelt characters make it a timeless series cherished by many, allowing it to retain its allure and fanbase several decades after its original airing.

The Darling Buds of May is a breathtaking blend of comedy, nostalgia, warmth, and timeless themes that echo through the laughter of the Larkin family, illuminating the idyllic countryside in which they reside. Each episode is a glimpse into the family's sharing, eating, laughing, and living – creating memories and relishing in their shared love and respect for one another.

Whether or not you're a fan of British classic television, The Darling Buds of May is a series that effortlessly embodies the simplicity and warmth of family life in a serene country setting. The show's authenticity, humour, and timeless charm make it a truly delightful watching experience, a 'perfick' choice as offered by BritBox.