Dates

Series one, episode two
Sometimes opposites attract. But realistically, more often than not, they absolutely don’t. This object lesson in dating misery is played out by Sheridan Smith and Neil Maskell (both excellent) as teacher Jenny and city boy Nick. Nick goes way too early with the suggestive comments and it’s a sign of things to come. It turns out he’s pushy, needy, sleazy and self-pitying and the temptation is to feel sorry for Jenny.

But she’s a long way from perfect too and her flaw – and it’s a biggie – ends up having explosive consequences. After two episodes, the signs are good for this series of short two-handers: a fine cast, good writing (this time from Nancy Harris) and scenarios so piquant and universal it’s a wonder no one’s done something like this before. Look out for the third episode tomorrow night, which sees the return of Oona Chaplin’s Mia and a potential new beau in the form of Ben Chaplin.