Ghetto Justice

Ghetto Justice is a Hong Kong legal drama series produced by Terry Tong Kei-ming that aired in 2011 on TVB (Television Broadcasts Limited). Featuring a stellar ensemble cast that includes Kevin Cheng, Myolie Wu, Sam Lee, and Sharon Chan, the series shines a spotlight on Hong Kong's diverse network of legal professionals. It's unique narrative approach sets it apart from traditional courtroom dramas and crime procedurals, painting a vivid picture of justice as it unfolds in the bustling lanes, old-school law offices, and gritty streets of the city.

The essence of Ghetto Justice is embodied within its title. Where legal dramas frequently focus on high-powered attorneys, glamorous courtrooms, and high-stakes corporate law, Ghetto Justice is about the often-overlooked solicitors who work within the often harsh parameters of the city's busy grassroots legal system. It's also about those who, despite the odds, strive to dispense justice even amidst challenging conditions.

The series centres on Law Ba (Kevin Cheng), a former successful barrister who falls from grace due to a failed case. Law Ba's radical approach challenges the elitist status quo of the legal system. He operates on the streets, in the heart of the city. He is deeply connected with the community he serves and is seen more often amidst the crowd than in courtrooms.

Law Ba is a truly unconventional character. He isn't driven by money or fame. Instead, he uses unconventional—if not outright unorthodox—means to solve cases. His approach consists of an odd mixture of street smarts, instinct, and in-depth knowledge of the legal system. Despite his eccentricities, his cause is noble: to serve justice where it's often denied or delayed. He's contrasted with an array of characters, each of who adds a unique flavour to the dynamic narrative.

Alongside Law Ba is barrister Wong Si-fu (Myolie Wu), a recent returnee from Britain who prefers to resolve cases outside of court through meditation and reconciliation, a contrast to Law Ba's assertive, confrontational style. They frequently clash hut also complement each other, each character influencing and learning from the other. Their evolving dynamic forms a key thread of the series narrative.

Adding to the mix, we have Teng Yuen (Sam Lee), a former criminal turned paralegal, and Kris Wong (Sharon Chan), a high-powered attorney from a prestigious law firm. Both characters add depth to the ensemble and bring extra layers of complexity to the legal scenarios that unfold.

Throughout the show, Ghetto Justice provides thought-provoking perspectives on the legal profession and the justice system. It powerfully depicts the struggle against the often-predominant perception that justice is the privilege of the wealthy, the educated, or the powerful. Amidst a fair share of successful, humorous, and heartfelt moments, the message is clear: justice should be accessible to all.

Visually, Ghetto Justice does more than use the city of Hong Kong as a backdrop; it makes it a vibrant character. The grungy streets, local food stalls, bustling markets, and tiny, cluttered law offices are all tactfully used to uphold the theme of 'ghetto justice'. The city locale and inhabitants are very much a part of the storyline, imbuing the narrative with a sense of realism and grounding the series in its locale.

Terry Tong Kei-ming skilfully weaves in social issues within the city through the intricacies of the plot. The characters grapple with everything from social inequality, human rights, immigration, and cultural struggles to personal battles of addiction, pride, and much more. The show thus becomes a smart commentary on the socio-political life within Hong Kong rather than merely revolving around criminal cases and legal complexities.

Despite the hard-hitting truths, Ghetto Justice is well-known for its lighter moments, wit, and humor. The rapport and banter between characters light up the screen, making the series truly engaging.

Ghetto Justice is not just a sophisticated character study but a heartfelt portrayal of the city of Hong Kong's legal system and the unconventionally heroic individuals who foster justice despite challenging circumstances. Deftly blending drama, humor, and poignant social commentary, it offers viewers a journey into the heart of how justice—and sometimes the lack thereof—shapes our communities. And above all, it is a tribute to the unsung heroes in the legal profession who strive to ensure that justice rings out, even in the unforgiving ghetto alleaways.