Mike and Angelo S9E4 (1997) - FULL EPISODE

Skin Deep. Angelo discovers the world of video dating, and decides that this is the perfect way to improve the tragic state of Katy's love life. But can a "Scots thistle" ever pass for an "English rose"? Meanwhile, an enterprising Mike has set up a dog-walking service in order to supplement his pocket money. This episode was originally broadcast on Thursday, 30th January, 1997.

Without spoiling too much, amongst the standard fun and silliness, there's actually quite a deep message to this, which I hope didn't fly over the heads of the young viewers back then. I suppose what may fly over the heads of young people these days is the concept of pre-internet dating agencies, but there you go. I've obviously got Rik Mayall in my mind somehow, as all that viewing and making of the vids reminds me of a certain episode of Bottom, while Katy as Petronella is for some reason reminiscent of Alan B'Stard's wife. Well, her and Debbie McGee. I don't know what all that says about me and my subconscious.

Anyway, I really like how they present the relatively controversial subject (by kids' TV standards) and give all conflicting opinions - Is it just a bit of fun? Is it the solution to love? Is it tacky and thus should be avoided at all costs? - before doing what they do without really passing any sort of judgement. There are some very funny moments, but none more than Katy having to bear increasingly worse opinions of herself through gritted teeth. Also, keep watching after the main plot is resolved, as something relatively minor happens which actually causes a fundamental shift in the entire show's story arc and character development.

Guest starring as Jean-Pierre is James Vaughan, who has an extensive IMDB listing that includes the likes of Great Expectations, Dalziel and Pascoe, Spooks, The Grimleys, and Chucklevision. He's also done plenty of stage and radio work, and is excellent as the French "hunk-and-a-half" here.

Many thanks to Grant for providing this recording.

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