You won't be surprised to learn that I bought 'Mind Your Language' on an impulse. I do that a lot, as you may have gathered.
And I can't stay that I expected much of it, thinking it would be a typically rubbish seventies sitcom.
Instead what I saw was a joyous show that fully embraced the different cultures involved.
Of course there are stereotypes portrayed; the sexy Frenchwoman, the stern German frau, the randy Italian and equally randy Greek. Along with someone from China who constantly quotes Chairman Mao and the Japanase gentleman with his camera round his neck who bows before he speaks and says "Ah so!".
Then you get Ali and Ranjeet (from Pakistan and India), who do not get on at first but become if not friends, then at least allies by the end of the series.
My absolute favourite character though, is Juan, whose approach to life is laid back in the extreme and whose catchphrase is the title of this blog.
My favourite scene involving Juan shows him telling a joke in Spanish after the class has accidentally become locked into the classroom. The reason the scene works so well, is that even though you cannnot understand the joke (unless you speak Spanish) Juan is so obviously enjoying himself and finding the joke so hilarious, that you do too.
The lead character in the series is Jeremy Brown, the hapless teacher played by Barry Evans, who also starred in the first few 'Doctor...' series. Also featured is Zara Nutley as Miss Courtney, the headmistress who is a bit of a dragon.
One thing that really stands out about the series is the theme tune (which was composed by Max Harris), another really happy element.
Go and look it up I guarantee you'll be humming it for the rest of the day.
In fact, do yourself a favour and watch some 'Mind Your Language'. Hopefully, you'll find it a happy and indeed a funny experience.
(By Lisa Parker)
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