Watch Z Cars

Z Cars is a gripping British police procedural series that originally aired on BBC One from 1962 to 1978. The show was created by Troy Kennedy Martin and starred James Ellis and John Slater in the lead roles. In 1972, RLJ Entertainment started releasing DVD box sets of the show, bringing it to a whole new generation of fans.

The series is set in the fictional town of Newtown, somewhere in the north of England. The show follows the daily lives of the police officers who work at the local station, as they deal with a wide range of crimes and incidents, from petty theft to murder. The show is known for its realistic and gritty portrayal of police work, and for its use of actual slang and jargon used on the streets.

James Ellis plays the role of Sergeant Lynch, a wise and experienced police officer who is respected by his colleagues and feared by criminals. John Slater portrays Detective Inspector Barlow, a tough and straight-talking investigator who is not afraid to bend the rules to get results. The relationship between these two characters is the backbone of the show, and viewers are drawn in by their banter, camaraderie, and occasional clashes.

One of the things that sets Z Cars apart from other police dramas is its focus on the human side of policing. The show delves into the personal lives of the officers, exploring their relationships, their struggles with addiction or mental health issues, and their reactions to the traumatic events they witness on the job. The show also touches on social and political issues of the time, such as the rise of youth subcultures, the decline of traditional industries, and the tensions between police and the public.

Each episode is a self-contained story, with a beginning, middle, and end. However, there are also ongoing story arcs that play out over the course of the series. For example, one season-long arc follows the investigation into a serial killer who is targeting women in the area. Another arc focuses on the fallout from a riot in a local prison, which has repercussions for both the prisoners and the officers.

One of the strengths of the show is its use of location shooting. Rather than relying on studio sets, Z Cars was filmed on location in real towns and cities, giving the show a sense of authenticity that was rare for the time. The show also features a diverse cast of supporting actors, with guest stars ranging from up-and-coming actors to established stars like Judi Dench and David Bowie.

Overall, Z Cars is a landmark television series that paved the way for many of the police dramas that followed. It is a gripping and powerful show that is as relevant today as it was when it first aired. With its realistic portrayal of police work, its compelling characters, and its social commentary, Z Cars stands as one of the most important and enduring British TV shows of all time.