Amazon.com
When Father Peter Clifford (Peter Tompkinson) comes from Manchester to the small Irish village of Ballykissangel, he knows he will be facing some opposition. After all, what is an English priest doing in Ireland, of all places? He soon finds out that the town of Ballykissangel poses many more challenges than just accepting the unfamiliar priest. The delightfully mischievous cast of characters include Brian Quigley, the local businessman and entrepreneur, Donal and Liam, his faithful sidekicks, Siobhan, the frequently prescient veterinarian, and the tough owner of Fitzgerald's Bar, Assumpta. As the characters become more familiar throughout the series, their tribulations and triumphs are all the more realistic. The intricate characterizations, beautiful scenery, and delightfully dry humor ensure that fans of the English series All Creatures Great and Small will also enjoy Ballykissangel, and savor its distinctly Irish twist. In the first episode of the series, "Trying to Connect You," before Father Clifford has a chance to arrive in the town of Ballykissangel, the bus he is riding is almost smashed to bits by a huge wooden box. He soon finds out that this box contains welcome gift from Brian Quigley, Ballykissangel's occasionally misguided preeminent businessman. The second episode, The Things We Do for Love, finds a blast from Father Clifford's past arriving in town. The local football match is gearing up and takes on more importance than ever as Father Clifford and Assumpta team up to save a family from being evicted. --Amanda Powter