Watch Good Neighbors

Good Neighbors is a British sitcom that aired on BBC television from 1975 to 1978. The show focuses on the lives of Tom and Barbara Good, a middle-class couple who decide to turn their suburban home into a self-sufficient farm. The show starred Richard Briers as Tom and Felicity Kendal as Barbara, with Penelope Keith as their snobbish neighbor Margo Leadbetter.

The show starts with Tom and Barbara deciding to quit their jobs and pursue a life of self-sufficiency. They begin by converting their backyard into a vegetable garden and keeping livestock. As they try to be more self-sufficient, they face various challenges like dealing with their uncooperative soil, weather-related setbacks, and keeping their livestock healthy. Their efforts at self-sufficiency are often met with disdain by their neighbors, Margo and her husband Jerry Leadbetter, who view Tom and Barbara's unconventional lifestyle choices as a nuisance.

Throughout the series, viewers get to witness the Good's struggles to become self-sufficient and how their journey affects their relationships with their neighbors. Tom is an amiable and good-natured person who is committed to the idea of self-sufficiency; he is willing to try new things, is passionate about his pursuits, and is always enthusiastic about his progress. On the other hand, Barbara is pragmatic and supportive; she encourages Tom's efforts but keeps him grounded and realistic. Together, they make an endearing couple whose love for each other is evident in their teamwork and mutual support.

Their social interactions with Margo and Jerry create opportunities for misunderstandings and comedic situations, as the Leadbetters are the complete opposite of the Goods. Margo is materialistic, conservative and conservative, with a penchant for social climbing, while Jerry is a pushover who is meek and timid. Margo and Jerry often look down on Tom and Barbara, thinking their lifestyle choices are just a temporary phase that is bound to fail. However, throughout the show, viewers see the Goods making tangible progress towards their goal, which increases the comedic friction between them and their neighbors.

Good Neighbors is a show that beautifully portrays the theme of self-sufficiency and eco-friendliness, which was ahead of its time in the 70s when the show was created. The show's creators purposely set it against the backdrop of the oil crisis and the decline of self-sufficiency in the British farming industry. The show's message was to encourage people to re-engage with traditional farming practices and live a more sustainable life.

The show's casting was superb, with Richard Briers, Felicity Kendal, and Penelope Keith giving unforgettable performances throughout the series. Richard Briers brings his bubbly and infectious energy to the role of Tom, making him a lovable and charismatic character. Felicity Kendal, on the other hand, is Tom's rock and the voice of reason, always delivering her lines with a sense of practicality and warmth. Penelope Keith is perfectly cast as the Leadbetter's snobbish and haughty neighbor, bringing a sense of sophistication and sophistication to her portrayal of Margo.

In summary, Good Neighbors is an excellent British sitcom that is both funny and informative. The show's focus on self-sufficiency and eco-friendliness is charmingly nostalgic and timeless, while the chemistry between the characters is a joy to behold. The show's mix of humor and heart serves as an inspiration for viewers who want to live a more sustainable life, making Good Neighbors a classic show that deserves a place among the all-time greats of British television.

Good Neighbors is a series that is currently running and has 5 seasons (30 episodes). The series first aired on April 3, 1975.