Watch Rake

Rake is an immensely popular Australian comedy-drama television series that premiered on ABC1 in 2010. Created by Peter Duncan, it stars Richard Roxburgh in the lead as criminal defense barrister Cleaver Greene. The show has been lauded for its brilliant cast and witty script, striking a balance between legal drama and satirical comedy.

Set in Sydney, Rake revolves around the unconventional life and professional exploits of the charming, morally ambiguous Cleaver Greene. He is known for taking on seemingly impossible cases and defending clients who are often guilty of heinous crimes. Cleaver's own life is a mess - he is divorced, has numerous vices, and lives with a prostitute, Nicole (played by Kate Box).

Throughout the series, Cleaver navigates through the Australian legal system, defending cases that bring him in contact with corrupt politicians, drug lords, sexual predators, and other unsavory characters. The show features Cleaver's complex personal and professional relationships with various characters, including his best friend and colleague, barrister Barney (played by Russell Dykstra), his ex-wife Wendy (played by Caroline Brazier), and his former lover, solicitor Scarlet (played by Danielle Cormack).

The show's humor is heavily derived from Cleaver's non-conformist personality and his interactions with other characters. His sharp wit and cadence are hallmarks of the show, and even in his darkest moments, he finds humor in the most unlikely of situations. The series draws much of its humor from Cleaver's self-destructive tendencies and the chaos that follows him everywhere.

One of the show's most prominent themes is corruption in Australian politics and the legal system. Rake features many storylines that showcase the murky ethical lines that criminal lawyers often have to walk. Despite his questionable morals and breaking of ethical codes, Cleaver still manages to maintain his moral compass, making the audience root for him, even as he defends criminals.

The show has been noted for its sharp dialogue and excellent performances by the cast. Richard Roxburgh, in particular, stands out for his portrayal of Cleaver Greene. His performance has been described by critics as "Electric," "brilliant," and "superb." His character is multi-faceted, and his portrayal captures Cleaver's many contradictions beautifully. The supporting cast, including Matt Day, Kate Box, Russell Dykstra, and Caroline Brazier, all give strong performances, adding to the overall appeal of the show.

Over the course of its five seasons, Rake has won numerous accolades, including the Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts (AACTA) awards for Best Drama Series (2013) and Best Performance in a Television Drama (Richard Roxburgh, 2012, 2014). The show has become a cultural phenomenon in Australia, with fans drawn to its clever writing, biting sarcasm, and unique style.

In conclusion, Rake is a must-watch television series that is both darkly funny and thought-provoking. Its depiction of the Australian legal system is a fascinating commentary on the complexities of the criminal justice system. The show's excellent writing, combined with its talented cast, makes it a standout in the world of television. Fans of legal dramas, comedies, or great storytelling are sure to be entertained by Rake.

Rake is a series that ran for 5 seasons (45 episodes) between November 4, 2010 and on ABC1