Watched this show on Canada's Vision network this past week. Missed the first episode but got quickly caught up. I was a teen in the 80s in Newcastle so could relate. Brief Encounters reminded me of other group cast shows like The Syndicate and also the movie The Full Monty. Bunch of plucky down and outers find something new and exciting in their lives that brings them out of their working class misery. They hit many bad spots along the way but there's the usual climax leading to a happy ending. Altho' this series ended strangely so I'm hoping there's a second series on the horizon.The acting was decent and they kept true to the fashions and hairstyles of the period. The plot lines were a little formulaic and you could tell what was going to happen a mile off but it was a nice ride along the way.

I really love this show. It's dramatic, it's hopeful, provocative, and filled with warmth. Some of the side characters (like the terrible, cheating girlfriend) are a bit flat, but the main characters shine so well. If you're a fan of Downton Abbey's Penelope Wilton, My Mad Fat Diary's Sharon Rooney, or Waterloo Road's Angela Griffin, I would definitely recommend that you watch this show It's amazing the amount of chemistry the actresses have with each other. This show reminds me a little bit of the Full Monty in terms of sheer awkwardness and humor. If you want something to watch that doesn't make you think a whole lot, give it a go. Anyway, check it out and see if it's for you. I'm hoping for a second season!