Rake

Rake is a highly engaging and complex legal drama that aired on FOX from 2010 to 2018. Set in Sydney, Australia, the show captures the darker side of the legal world, focusing on the life of its central character, Cleaver Greene, a notorious and controversial criminal defense lawyer played excellently by renowned Australian actor, Richard Roxburgh.

Roxburgh's charismatic and captivating portrayal of Greene is perhaps one of the defining features of the show. Greene is a man notorious for his unethical methods, unorthodox courtroom antics, and troubled personal life. Despite his professional success, he is a profoundly flawed character, combating various personal issues including gambling addiction, troubled relationships, and a constant onslaught of enemies he has acquired over his professional life.

Despite the dire situations and morally ambiguous scenarios that form the premise of the show, Rake is infused with a strong sense of humor. Roxburgh's penchant for delivering dry wit and charm within Greene's chaotic life is an unusual yet effective juxtaposition that sets Rake apart from traditional legal dramas. The show's expert blend of drama and humor creates a peculiarly enjoyable cocktail that is as addictive as it is intriguing.

The series is composed of a robust cast of supporting characters: a number of Greene's ex-wives, girlfriends, children, and a handful of patiently irate judges who he has angered in the court are interwoven into the narrative to further amplify the drama. His clients, typically those on the far fringes of society, engage Greene in a wide range of cases from controversial political scandals to absurd criminal charges. Each episode weaves a different tale, neatly threading together episodic story arcs with an overarching narrative that keeps audiences consistently on their toes throughout each season.

Rake masterfully plays around with the conventional tropes of the courtroom drama genre. Rather than being purely focused on the cases being presented, the series delves deep into how Greene's personal life is entangled with his professional one. It subtly addresses thought-provoking themes about ethics in law, corruption, addiction, and self-destruction.

The brilliant writing of the show deserves commendation, maintaining a precarious balance between comedy and drama that never deflates the gravity of Greene's dire situations nor dims the humor that persistently shines through. Punctuated by occasional monologues from Greene that border on the philosophical, the excellently crafted dialogue creates an impactful narrative that is full of surprises, drawing in viewers and facilitating a deeper understanding of the law and the machinations of the courtroom.

As for the aesthetic of the show, the crisp, moody cinematography vividly captures the grimy underbelly of Sydney's criminal world as well as its polished courtrooms. Its depiction of Sydney is realistic and gritty, each scene brimming with energy and intensity that immerses viewers in Greene's tumultuous world.

The performances all around are commendable. Richard Roxburgh's expression of Greene's flawed charm and perpetual optimism make his character compelling and memorable. Despite his moral ambiguity, audiences often find themselves rooting for Greene, thanks to the humanity Roxburgh infuses into his character. The supporting cast also breathe life into their roles, each character more fascinating and eccentric than the next.

In summary, Rake is a masterful blend of drama, comedy, and law, peppered with a strong ensemble cast, engaging storylines, and the brilliant Richard Roxburgh at the centre of it all. The show paints a picture of truth and intrigue as it creatively dares to go beyond the conventional frameworks usually associated with courtroom dramas. Its unique blend of humor and darkness, its insightful take on law and life, plus the commendable performances of its cast, make Rake a standout show that not only entertains, but also leaves a lasting impact.