Rake
A young accountant from a provincial settlement suffers from the tyranny of his mother and is looking for an answer to the reasons for his father's suicide. The desire to change the direction of his life pushes him to flee to Moscow, where by the will of fate he finds himself in the life of an underground casino.
Insights
Plot Summary
Rake is an Australian comedy-drama series that follows the chaotic life of Cleaver Greene, a brilliant but self-destructive criminal barrister. He takes on impossible cases, often representing the worst of society, while juggling a complex personal life. The series explores themes of justice, morality, and the messy realities of the legal system through Cleaver's often questionable choices.
Critical Reception
Rake received widespread critical acclaim in Australia for its sharp writing, dark humor, and Richard Roxburgh's compelling performance as Cleaver Greene. It was lauded for its ability to balance serious legal drama with laugh-out-loud comedy, though some international viewers found its specific cultural nuances less accessible.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its witty and intelligent writing, particularly the dialogue.
- Richard Roxburgh's performance as the flawed protagonist is a standout.
- Successfully blends dark humor with compelling legal drama elements.
Google audience: Information not available.
Awards & Accolades
Won numerous Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts (AACTA) Awards and nominations, including for Best Television Series and Best Lead Actor for Richard Roxburgh.
Fun Fact
The character of Cleaver Greene was originally conceived by Richard Roxburgh and his writing partner, Andrew Knight, based on a desire to explore a morally ambiguous legal hero in an Australian context.
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