"The Good Life" I Talk to the Trees (1976)

User Rating:

7.2/10   

Writers:

John Esmonde (writer)
Bob Larbey (writer)

TV Series:

"The Good Life" (1975)

Original Air Date:

1 October 1976 (Season 3, Episode 4)

Genre:

Comedy

Plot:

Plot Keywords:

Farm | Neighbor | Conservative | Housewife | Innuendo

Cast

Richard Briers	...	Tom Good
Felicity Kendal	...	Barbara Good
Penelope Keith	...	Margo Leadbetter
Paul Eddington	...	Jerry Leadbetter
rest of cast listed alphabetically:
Noel Howlett	...	Mr. Wakeley
Raymond Mason	...	Mr. Chipchase
Joyce Windsor	...	Madame Acting Chairwoman

Douglas bean creates an impression.

*** This comment may contain spoilers ***

Mr Wakeley is an old man who owns the allotment next to Tom and Barbara's.

Although he seems quite dotty in his manner he is an expert gardener and confesses to his gardening neighbours that in order for his plants and crops to grow to their full potential, he often talks to them and plays them music on the radio. He even has names for them...and can tell Tom and Barbara a certain plants favourite tune and program.

At first the Goods write this off as being the demented talk of a senile but harmless old Joe, but on reflection, decide to try an experiment of plant talking themselves.

They plant three beans in three separate trays, one is left as a 'control' bean to grow on its own accord and merits. Another is derided, insulted and humiliated by Tom whereas the other is subjected to love, kindness and devotion from the increasingly maternal Barbara.

With the aid of a few old Peter Dawson gramophone records the experiment begins in earnest. Which bean will win? 'Control' bean, 'Useless' bean or Barbara's precious 'Douglas' bean?