Willing and Abel
Willing and Abel is an Australian television comedy series which was made in 1987, about two handymen. The main cast were Grant Dodwell as "Charles Willing", Shane Withington as "Abel Moore", and Rebecca Rigg as "Angela Reddy". Their names were a pun on the saying: "Ready, Willing and Able". It had problems in attaining an audience. The show was produced as a "comedy drama" however some at the Nine Network wanted to steer it to be a heavier drama. There was much discussion between production executives and the Network and not much agreement. One episode scripted by Ted Roberts dealt with a hostage situation at a bank, the pathos being reinforced by series characters caught up in the action. The series dealt with contemporary issues in a subtle way, sometimes making observations through humour.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young, ambitious lawyer is caught between his conscience and the demands of his powerful, corrupt father. He gets entangled in a criminal conspiracy involving illegal gambling and blackmail, forcing him to make difficult choices that test his integrity and loyalties. As the stakes rise, he must navigate a dangerous underworld to uncover the truth and protect himself from falling victim to the very system he serves.
Critical Reception
Willing and Abel received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its satirical edge and performances, while others found its plot convoluted and its humor uneven. The film was noted for its attempt to blend crime thriller elements with dark comedy, though its execution didn't always hit the mark for all viewers.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its sharp wit and satirical commentary on corruption.
- Criticized for a sometimes muddled narrative and inconsistent tone.
- Noted for its unique blend of crime and comedy.
Google audience: Audience reception for Willing and Abel is not widely documented on Google, making it difficult to summarize specific likes or dislikes.
Awards & Accolades
None notable.
Fun Fact
The film was notable for being one of the earlier Australian crime comedies to attempt a sophisticated, satirical tone, drawing comparisons to later works in the genre.
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