Spatz S1E8 (1990) - FULL EPISODE

Greenpieces. An environmental group protesting against the destruction of the rainforests are outside the restaurant urging everyone to boycott Spatz, and when a rogue leaflet finds its way into someone's burger box, the finger of suspicion begins being pointed amongst the staff. Are there sympathisers within? Meanwhile, TJ is excited to receive a particularly yummy package in the post from his native Canada. This episode was originally broadcast on Wednesday, 11th April, 1990. While ecological issues remain high on the agenda these days, the topicality of this storyline may be slightly lost in the mists of time. Back then, McDonald's were regularly being criticised for certain policies, and some very controversial leaflets were handed out by various groups, leading to the infamously interminable 'McLibel' trial. I'm pretty sure that case was brought within a few months of this episode airing, and it's interesting how both sides of the argument are presented here, and even though the Spatz crew are the 'goodies', they don't mind basically saying that they agree with PlanetWatch that things could and should be done a bit differently. Lily in particular comes across as very socially concerned, much to her detriment. Anyway, although the episode threatens to get swamped with issues, there are some very funny moments. There's the running joke about the leaky radiator, the "What's cooking, Stan?" reply, some nice background acting from Vas Blackwood around 22:32, Karen's reaction to thinking Debby's trying to tell her "something", and I like the way the 'yummy bars' sub-plot is all tied in at the end. Also good is the whodunnit element, with Jo's jumping to conclusions contrasted by TJ's unwavering loyalty to his staff, and another warning about the dangers of suspicion, accusations, and gossip in the workplace. Jeremy Gilley guest stars as Sebastian, and to be honest it doesn't seem like much acting was required on his part: http://www.peaceoneday.org/welcome Okay, so that's not about green matters, but he's obviously a tireless campaigner, and I think most would agree that world peace is no less a good cause. He would go on to make one further appearance in Spatz. (Incidentally, speaking of guest actors, who's the girl around 4:36 who insists she wants to go in? I'm sure I recognise her from something else, but maybe it's my imagination...) Keep an eye out at the beginning and end for some Children's ITV continuity with Jeanne Downs, Scally, and special guest Rusty Lee. Many thanks to Joe for lending me this tape. (To the best of my knowledge, the contents of this video have never been available commercially anywhere in the world. Please also note that I don't monetise any of my uploads. Nevertheless, if you are a copyright holder and have an objection, please don't hesitate to contact me.)