'Silk' (BBC1), portraying life at a fictional criminal chambers, presents 'thetvreviewguy' with a slight conundrum. Should he enjoy the plot twists and characterisations, even though both of which veer on, and on many occasions, teeter over the ludicrous? Should he switch off and appreciate the fine acting from the likes of Maxine Peake (formerly 'Shameless' and cornering the market in brassy and sassy Northern Lasses), Neil Stuke as the Chief Clerk Billy, who wields an amount of power most Senior Partners could only dream of and the ever-appealing Frances Barber? Does it behove 'thetvreviewguy' be critical of the bonkers glamourisation of the legal world (it really isn't THAT interesting)? In answer to these rhetorical questions, M'Lud, the answer is 'Yes' and 'No'. While undoubtedly, 'Silk' features some fine pacing and enjoyable plot twists, there just wasn't enough to to make it any better than what it is; a passable effort at Barrister drama (written by a former lawyer, Peter Moffatt). Indeed, the series author has some fine writing credits, including Kavanagh QC, but this particular series struggles to reach the standard of proof required by this reviewer. However, in interests the impartial administration of justice, and the public need for greater escapist programming during a recession, he is prepared to suspend his judgment pending the viewing of further episodes; he accordingly orders that the matter be sent for re-trial and a repeated viewing is called for. The court will rise.
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