Rake -

Premise:
“Rake” centers around Cleaver Greene, a Sydney-based criminal defense barrister who is as notorious for his flamboyant lifestyle as he is for his courtroom prowess. A charmer and a rogue, Cleaver takes on morally ambiguous and often seemingly unwinnable cases, all while wrestling with his own personal demons, which include gambling debts, a chaotic love life, and a knack for upsetting just about everyone around him.

Main Characters:

Cleaver Greene (Richard Roxburgh) – The charming but flawed defense barrister whose life is as messy as the cases he takes.
Barney Meagher (Russell Dykstra) – Cleaver’s best friend and a solicitor who often collaborates with him on cases.
Wendy Greene (Caroline Brazier) – Cleaver’s ex-wife who still shares a complex relationship with him.
Scarlet Meagher (Danielle Cormack) – Barney’s wife and Cleaver’s secret lover, complicating an already complicated friendship.
David Potter (Matt Day) – A public prosecutor who often finds himself in opposition to Cleaver in the courtroom.

Themes:
“Rake” is a character-driven dramedy that examines the blurry lines between morality and legality. It delves into the complexities and contradictions of the legal system, highlighting its often Kafkaesque nature. The show also takes a deep dive into the human condition, exploring themes of redemption, self-destruction, and the eternal struggle to find balance in a world filled with temptations.

Critical Consensus & Rating:
4.5/5. Critics have largely praised “Rake” for its wit, dark humor, and complex characters, especially lauding Richard Roxburgh’s performance. The series’ irreverent take on legal and social issues also received commendation. Some critics have, however, found fault with its sometimes erratic pacing.

TV Parental Guidelines Rating:
The series has been rated MA 15+ for strong language, sexual content, and some violence.

Broadcast Details:
The show originally aired on the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) from 2010 to 2018.

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