Only Fools And Horses - If They Could See Us Now - Region 2 DVD

Although this extended episode contains some funny business, particularly involving Rodney and Cassandra's efforts to reinvigorate their love life, it feels like a series extended too far beyond its natural life. Much of the fluency and chemistry between the ageing cast has evaporated in their lay-off. Writer John Sullivan's forte had been belly jokes which whooped up from nowhere in the plot, but here the humour is contrived and implausible. The business over the mix-up regarding Uncle Albert's funeral also strains credence, while the final scenario involving a TV quiz show is flatly predictable. Still, 20.3 million watched this show, a tribute to the enduring affection for the series. --David Stubbs