A Perfect State (1997– ) User Reviews

Not so Perfect!

[Sylviastel · 8/10 · 12 May 2007]

Okay, the premise is that Deputy Mayor Laura Fitzgerald played by the wonderful Gwen Taylor (who should be honored by the Queen) and the town mayor played by the wonderful Rudolph Walker OBE decide that Flatby should secede from the United Kingdom and form their own country. The plot sounds a ludicrous and silly but the show's writers and cast make the show worthwhile to watch. It's filmed on location in Essex, England and casting Taylor and Walker in key roles like Laura and Winston help enhance the show's appeal. There is no such thing as a perfect state and all governments (big or small) learn that in the deadly game of politics. There are absurdities like the Flatby tours and souvenirs of the city who wants to be different from other cities. It's still fun to watch pros like Taylor and Walker.

Wonderful series

[mlamar-3 · 10/10 · 17 May 2008]

I love this series! It actually inspires me, although it is primarily intended to be a comedy and entertainment. What a wonderful premise! Just try to imagine yourself as a Flatbyan, and think how you would love your new country to be run! The characters are realistic, I think, with some allowance for comedic expression and laughable situations. The producers chose perfect actors to portray the various residents, especially members of the town council (or whatever the ruling board members choose to call themselves). I think "A Perfect State" is an exceptionally witty satire about local and international politics, such as I have rarely seen portrayed elsewhere. I hope I can find out how to purchase a copy of this wonderful series! Please write more episodes!

Misfired promise

[fstamour · 3/10 · 9 February 2007]

The series concept seems derived from 1949's "Passport to Pimlico", starring classic comedians Stanley Holloway and Margaret Rutherford. In that film, documents unearthed by the Blitz reveal the London borough to be part of a French duchy and hence, exempt from post-war rationing. "Passport" was a first-rate social/political commentary which this series hinted at emulating (EEC-related) but never successfully achieved. The writers missed their opportunity. While the series leads (Gwen Taylor, Richard Hope) were solid, the supporting characters (Rudolph Walker, the notable exception) were usually unbelievable and often less than funny. Series cancellation, short of the sea reclaiming Flatby, was merciful for all concerned.