Watch Crown Court

Crown Court is a British television series that aired from 1972 to 1984, focused on dramatizing realistic courtroom trials. The show follows the cases of the fictional Crown Court, where a judge presides over a number of trials, ranging from murder to theft. These trials are often complex, examining the motives and actions of the defendants, as well as the evidence presented by the prosecution and defense.

Each episode of the show typically features several different trials, with each trial spanning several episodes. The initial episodes of each trial focus on presenting the evidence and the testimonies of the witnesses, while the later episodes feature the closing arguments of the prosecution and defense, and the judge's final verdict.

One of the unique aspects of Crown Court is that, in addition to a regular cast of actors, the show employed real-life barristers and judges to portray their fictional counterparts in the courtroom. This helps to give the show an air of authenticity, as the actors are able to bring their real-life experiences and expertise to the proceedings.

The show also features a narrator who gives context and background information at the beginning of each episode. This adds an extra layer of depth to the show, as the audience is given more insight into the characters and their motivations.

Crown Court often tackles controversial issues, such as abortion, homosexuality, and racial discrimination. The show does not shy away from presenting multiple points of view on these issues, often leading to heated debates between the characters and the audience alike.

The acting on the show is generally strong, with standout performances from Peter Wheeler, Joseph Berry, and Richard Colson. The actors bring a sense of gravitas and authority to their roles, portraying judges and barristers with the right mix of intelligence, wit and skepticism which enhances the show's realism.

The show's production values are also impressive for its time, with detailed sets and costumes that accurately reflect the time period in which the show is set. The cinematography of the courtroom scenes is particularly noteworthy, as the camera angles and lighting capture the drama and tension of the trials.

In conclusion, Crown Court is a well-crafted legal drama that showcases the intricacies and challenges of the English legal system. Its strong acting, authentic courtroom scenes, and challenging subject matter make it an enduring classic of British television. Fans of legal dramas and courtroom procedurals will undoubtedly be drawn to the show's realistic portrayals of judges, barristers, and defendants alike.