French Fields

Watch French Fields

  • 1989
  • 3 Seasons
  • 6.4  (221)

French Fields is a British television series that aired from 1989 to 1991. The series follows the lives of William and Hester Fields, a British couple who move to the fictional village of Saint-Véran in the south of France to start their retired life. The show has a lighthearted tone with comedic elements throughout the series.

William Fields, played by Anton Rodgers, is a retired British businessman who initially has a difficult time adjusting to life in France. He is an orderly and disciplined man who struggles with the laid-back French way of life. Hester Fields, played by Julia McKenzie, is the more laid-back of the couple and is excited about their new adventure. She often makes light of William’s struggles and tries to enjoy all the new experiences France has to offer. Throughout the series, they navigate their new life in France and try to maintain a balance between their British and French cultures.

The couple is often visited by their friends, Sonia and Brian, played by Karen Ascoe and Philip Bird respectively. Sonia is Hester’s best friend from their time in Britain and is always up for an adventure, while Brian is William’s friend and often finds himself in comedic situations.

One of the recurring themes throughout the series is the tension between the British and French cultures. William often finds himself at odds with the locals and their way of life, while Hester adjusts to the new customs with ease. However, the couple learns to appreciate the French way of life and starts to assimilate into their new community.

The show also has a romantic subplot between Hester and a Frenchman named Alain, played by Philippe Nicoli. Alain is a widower who owns a local vineyard, and he and Hester strike up a friendship that eventually turns into a romance. Their relationship is often complicated by the cultural differences between them.

Overall, the series has a light-hearted and whimsical tone. The comedy often stems from the cultural misunderstandings between the British and French characters. The show is also notable for its picturesque and idyllic setting in Saint-Véran. The French countryside provides a beautiful backdrop for the comedic misadventures of the characters.

French Fields has been praised for its portrayal of the British expat experience in France. The series explores the joys and challenges of adapting to a new culture, and the characters are relatable in their struggles. The show is a charming and entertaining watch for anyone who enjoys lighthearted comedies and stories of cross-cultural relationships.

In conclusion, French Fields is a light-hearted television series that explores the ups and downs of British expats adjusting to life in France. The show has a charming, whimsical tone with plenty of comedic moments. The characters are relatable and endearing, and the picturesque French countryside provides a beautiful backdrop for the story. The show is a delightful watch for anyone who enjoys light-hearted comedies and cross-cultural exploration.

French Fields
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Seasons
Hail & Farewell
6. Hail & Farewell
October 8, 1991
William learns that getting fired in French sounds just the same as it does in English. The Fields know they can always go back to England if the worst comes to the worst. When they learn who's renting the farmhouse next door, it soon does.
Darling Daughters
5. Darling Daughters
October 1, 1991
Hester runs afoul of the mayor when she tries to discipline his daughter, while William has problems with his own daughter, Emma. Hester tries to explain the concept of fair play to the French by explaining the rules of cricket.
Surprise, Surprise
4. Surprise, Surprise
September 24, 1991
The Fields are approaching their 25th wedding anniversary, and William is determined to throw Hester a surprise party. They go on a camping trip and somehow end up in Paris. Once there, William and Hester realize they shouldn't have bothered.
Make for the Hills!
3. Make for the Hills!
September 17, 1991
Emma's in-laws arrive unexpectedly for a visit, and the Fields look for any excuse to get out of town. They go on a camping trip and somehow end up in Paris. Once there, William and Hester realize they shouldn't have bothered.
The Merry, Merry Pipes
2. The Merry, Merry Pipes
September 10, 1991
Hester agrees to show a group of British house-hunters some local properties, while William struggles with a plumbing problem at his own house. William's difficulties mount when Hester's tour party shows up to use the bathroom.
French with Tears
1. French with Tears
September 3, 1991
Misunderstanding French ways lands Hester in a French jail. Misjudging the local speed limit as he drives to her aid gets William arrested, too. Hester's only hope is Emma's husband, who has been taking night courses on French law.
Description
  • Premiere Date
    September 5, 1989
  • IMDB Rating
    6.4  (221)
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