Hello Prefect....Yes, I'd say the British are culturally ahead of us, probably b/c of the close proximity to European Countries. Is it for the best? One wonders at times, as we tend to follow the same trends.
No, there isn't the same age disparity as you see on American TV. Now whether that has to do with Europe's influence or is a genuine UK trend, I couldn't tell you. I've been going there rather regularly for over 50 ++ yrs., OK, not the last 18 or so, but then we have friends who travel from the UK and their children, and we see the same general trends toward us. It's rapidly changing, but looks aren't as important to them as they are here. I see the Hollywood look creeping into some of the characters now, and feel that's a great shame. The country's really losing something if it begins to look like Hollywood. I love the look of real people playing real characters. With period shows it simply doesn't matter unless remakes are made and the glitz somehow follows in. That would be a great shame. I've noticed, for e.g. that a lot of their teeth are now capped, and other cosmetic work has been done.
Try some of the Australian and New Zealand shows, also, you may see more honesty in their characters.
As far as the l. handed business goes, I hadn't noticed. I assume you're probably a leftie, and I have two grandchildren who are ambidextrous, but I've never noticed the l. handed business. I'll have to pay closer attention and will ask Rod to, also.
Yes, by travelling and watching other shows we begin to learn a lot about the world. You're very perceptive and it's been nice "chatting" to you. Yours, Lenora.