兄弟情 Close & True

A well meaning but inexperienced solicitor takes over a run down Newcastle legal practice.

Featuring Robson Green, James Bolam, Jamie Bell, Susan Jameson,

Robson Green has for a good while now been one of the most popular of UK TV actors, rightly so, charming and charismatic, Green＇s presence in a drama means we are usually in for a treat. Step forward Close and True, one of a few series Green made inbetween his star making stint on Soldier Soldier and his current major hit Wire in the Blood. It＇s a strong six parter (with an opening feature length episode) with Robson playing mergers and aquisitions solicitor John Close, who for the last few years has been working in London but dashs back home to Newcastle on a mission of mercy when his one time best friend, Steve Sheedy, is accused of attempted murder.

Determined to help Sheedy any way he can, Close ends up also involved with the run down legal firm representing him, Simons and True. There is a clever build up as John gets to the bottom of the mystery and ends up becoming convinced that his future lies back on his home turf and maybe becoming a partner in Simons and True - something he gets the chance to do when Simons does a runner to Australia (the firm is in quite a bit of financial trouble) at the start of episode two. This second episode also heralds the arrival of the brilliant James Bolam as fellow partner in the firm Graham True (Graham is actually in a home for people with mental problems when we first meet him). The remaining five episodes see Close tackling cases ranging from assault to further machinations in the Steve Sheedy case. All the while Close is trying to get the firm back on its feet, revitalising the curmudgeonly True and rebuilding relationships with his family and friends, also finding time for a spot of romance too.

It＇s a shame that Green didn＇t end up making further series of this entertaining show. Watch out too for young Billy Elliot himself, Jamie Bell as the son of Steve Sheedy.

No extras but both Robson Green fans and fans of classy crime drama will certianly want to spend some time with this.