Julie Walters delivers a strong performance in this narrative concerning a woman who progresses from working in a café to facing arrest for profiting from an illegal brothel catering to the upper classes. The story is inspired by the trajectory of the famous madam Cynthia Payne, who provided input on the production, and delves into the hidden aspects of the sex industry, revealing numerous secrets and unusual desires that entertain and provide livelihoods across different social groups. "Christine" demonstrates a keen business sense, supported by her loyal companions “Dolly” (Danny Schiller), “Shirley” (Shirley Stelfox) and Wing Commander "Morten" – an RAF veteran appearing in underwear – Alec McCowen, as they build a successful illicit operation. The police make occasional appearances, but ultimately Terry Jones left me feeling that this is genuinely a drama with an uplifting quality. While some of the women involved participate due to circumstance—a point which feels somewhat understated—the story also highlights the diversity of human beings and underscores that Victorian-era restrictions on sexuality, particularly between consenting adults, are outdated and shouldn’t be a concern for government or its institutions. David Leland's script incorporates elements of realism and satire, perfectly suited for Walters' current form and her precise portrayal. It does occasionally stray into unnecessary family conflicts, but the final scenes powerfully expose the hypocrisy and conflicting standards within a society that should embrace sexuality responsibly. The program is enjoyable and prompts reflection, making it a worthwhile viewing experience.

Source on TMDB