Whilst watching re-runs of the whole nine series of this iconic drama, it was easy to see why the decision was made to end TOTE. The early episodes had charm, flair and originality. After ten years, which spanned the eighties, the stories were becoming populated by thoroughly dislikable characters. They typically perpetrated multifarious crimes, usually a callous murder. The twist at the end became all too predictable and any feel good factor had long since disappeared. Even the big name stars of stage and screen, which the series was renowned for, began to disappear from the cast list.
However, for the final series, the winning formula returned. Celebrated veterans of the acting profession returned for tales which more subtle and agreeable.
My personal favourite is 'The Verger'. It is based on a short story by a master of the art, William Somerset Maugham. The anatogonists are not killers, but merely a modernising vicar and a hard hearted Health and Safety Inspector.
The greatest joy is seeing two wonderful exponents of character acting, Richard Briers and Patricia Routledge, produce a masterclass. What a delight to see Briers reproduce many of the facets of his marvellous Martin Bryce role from the sit-com 'Ever Decreasing Circles'. 'The Verger's' denouement wrong footed me, and although not startling, felt rather satisfying. A great way to spend 25 minutes.
TOTE episodes had highs and lows, but undeniably it records for prosperity a host of episodes showcasing leading actors of the time, many of whom are no longer with us. For that reason, if nothing else, they are well worth watching.
Review of The Verger
