Paradise Found… but don’t forget to read the small print.

Why, you may be asking, is such a bright and sunny programme set on a mysterious but idyllic island being reviewed on SFB? Magic, plain and simple.

With a nod to the original Fantasy Island that began in 1977, Mr Roarke’s descendent, Ms Roarke, is the custodian of an island that can cater to your every need. Would you like to be able to eat everything in sight for a whole weekend and not gain a pound? How about feeling young again for a couple of days before you lose your battle against cancer?

As lovely as those things may sound (I’ll take option A please), will they lead to true enlightenment? Doubtful if you have lingering step-daddy issues and a lifelong secret to unpack with your nearest and dearest before you breathe your last. Ms Roarke explains that while the island gives, it also demands sacrifice… looks like there’s always a catch.

The journey to enlightenment that the eponymous peckish Chrissie takes is a little predictable – surprise, it’s not really food she’s hungry for, she needs to deal with her past – but there is a slightly dark twist involved in how this actually pans out that added a welcome touch of spice.

The magical aspect doesn’t really get centre stage in this first instalment, but there is a hint of folklore involved, and ‘rules’ that govern the way the island works that I hope are explored more fully. It feels like a wholesome show that might be just the tonic we all need right now, especially if you’ve been forced to holiday in Wales instead of Ibiza and you’re missing your seasonal dose of vitamin D.

Verdict: Our deepest desires may be what we want, but are they what we need? 7/10

Claire Smith