Shine on Harvey Moon (1982–1995) User Reviews

The lighter side of the moon!

[Aroura64 · 9/10 · 1 September 2014]

Like one of the previous reviewers, I am amazed at the lack of contributions for this splendid programme. It was one of the finest comedy/dramas made in the 1980's. Shine on Harvey Moon balances comedy and drama in equal measure, it is not a laugh out loud show, it has more depth than that. To begin with, there are some terrific performances from some of our finest character actors and actresses. Kenneth Cranham is wonderful as the charismatic Harvey Moon, he brings a mixture of warmth, humour and sex appeal to the role. He makes you wish we all had a friend and Father like Harvey Moon. Elizabeth Spriggs is equally as warm and loving as Harvey's mum Violet. She gives a spirited and often touching performance. Maggie Steed plays Harvey's estranged wife Rita, on the surface she is "as tough as old boots", but scratch the surface and you find a surprisingly vulnerable woman. It is because of their wonderful acting that you care about these characters. Another appealing characteristic about Shine on Harvey Moon, is the obvious love and affection the characters have for one another. The programme also promotes tolerance and compassion, towards those who were considered to be in a minority, in the post Second World War era. Shine on Harvey Moon remains one of my all time favourite shows, it is a classic.

January, February, June & July...

[sweetiedarling · 22 October 2003]

An extremely interesting period drama set in post-world war II England. Although comedy plays a large role in the series, deeper and more prominent social issues such as divorce, love affairs, and racism are important factors within the story lines. To an extent it is a black comedy which follows the lives of the members of the Moon family, but there is enough light hearted humour to make the show highly enjoyable! I believe it was created by the same people who created 'Goodnight Sweetheart' if that is any indication as to it's style!

A great period piece

[wrs10 · 9 December 2012]

I am surprised that there are so few contributions for this show! Well written and acted but I guess that it was set in such a depressing period it failed to really catch on as light entertainment. Regard it as a dramatised documentary it is hard to fault. I suppose it had a special pull for me as it was set in the period when my parents were setting up home and it had echoes of their stories. I have yet to see the final series although I guess it was not as good (no follow on from that series ) so perhaps it is just as well that the first impressions are my last. I saw most of the reruns when shown on the Yesterday channel last year and for me it held up very well. I am sure that the author was being semi-autobiographical as he captures the aspirations, dreams and perspectives of the period so well.