Rake: Season 1 (2010)

The series opens with Cleaver Greene, a disheveled and charismatic barrister in Sydney, Australia, who is known for his unorthodox methods and reckless lifestyle. He is introduced in a courtroom, where he is defending a client accused of murder. Cleaver's approach is chaotic, and he often relies on his charm and quick wit rather than solid legal strategy. His client, however, is ultimately found guilty, showcasing Cleaver's questionable effectiveness as a lawyer.

Following the trial, Cleaver's personal life is in disarray. He is estranged from his wife, Wendy, who is trying to move on with her life. Cleaver's relationship with his son, Charlie, is strained, as Charlie is embarrassed by his father's antics. Cleaver's reckless behavior is further highlighted when he attends a party, where he indulges in excessive drinking and drug use, showcasing his self-destructive tendencies.

Cleaver's life takes a turn when he is approached by a new client, a woman named Missy, who is accused of killing her husband. Cleaver is drawn to her, and despite the evidence against her, he decides to take on her case. He believes in her innocence and is determined to prove it, which reignites his passion for law. As he investigates, he discovers that Missy's husband was involved in shady dealings, which complicates the case.

As Cleaver delves deeper into the investigation, he faces numerous obstacles, including pressure from the police and the media. He also has to navigate his own personal issues, including his ongoing struggles with addiction and his tumultuous relationship with Wendy. Cleaver's determination to win the case leads him to make questionable decisions, including bending the rules and engaging in unethical behavior.

In a pivotal courtroom scene, Cleaver presents his defense for Missy, using a mix of emotional appeal and legal strategy. He manages to sway the jury, but the case takes a dramatic turn when new evidence emerges that could implicate Missy. Cleaver's confidence begins to waver as he realizes the gravity of the situation and the potential consequences for his client.

As the trial progresses, Cleaver's personal life continues to unravel. He faces confrontations with Wendy, who is frustrated with his inability to change. Cleaver's relationship with Charlie also deteriorates, as Charlie struggles to understand his father's choices. Cleaver's emotional state becomes increasingly unstable, leading him to make reckless decisions that jeopardize both his career and personal relationships.

In the climax of the season, Cleaver uncovers a crucial piece of evidence that could exonerate Missy. He confronts the real perpetrator, leading to a tense showdown. Cleaver's determination to seek justice for Missy pushes him to the brink, and he risks everything to ensure she is not wrongfully convicted. The confrontation is fraught with tension, and Cleaver's emotional turmoil is palpable as he fights for what he believes is right.

The season concludes with the trial's verdict, which leaves Cleaver and Missy in a precarious position. Cleaver's personal life remains in chaos, and he is left to grapple with the consequences of his actions. The season ends on an ambiguous note, with Cleaver's future uncertain, setting the stage for further developments in his life and career.

In the final episode of "Rake" Season 1, the protagonist, Cleaver Greene, faces the consequences of his reckless lifestyle and legal battles. He finds himself in a precarious situation as he tries to navigate his personal and professional life, ultimately leading to a dramatic courtroom showdown. The episode culminates in Cleaver's realization of the impact of his choices on those around him, particularly his relationships with his friends and family.

As the episode unfolds, Cleaver Greene is seen grappling with the fallout from his chaotic life. He is embroiled in a high-stakes case that tests his legal skills and moral compass. The courtroom scenes are tense, filled with sharp dialogue and emotional confrontations. Cleaver's charm and wit are on full display, but they are juxtaposed with moments of vulnerability as he confronts the reality of his situation.

In the courtroom, Cleaver's client is facing serious charges, and the pressure mounts as the trial progresses. Cleaver's unorthodox methods and disregard for convention are both his strengths and weaknesses. He navigates through the legal intricacies with a mix of bravado and desperation, showcasing his deep-seated need for validation and success.

Meanwhile, Cleaver's relationships with his friends, particularly his assistant and love interest, are strained. Their interactions reveal the emotional toll of Cleaver's choices, as they oscillate between support and frustration. The tension builds as Cleaver's personal life begins to unravel, leading to confrontations that force him to confront his own demons.

As the trial reaches its climax, Cleaver delivers a passionate defense, drawing on his own experiences and the humanity of his client. The courtroom is charged with emotion as he fights not just for his client's freedom but also for his own redemption. The outcome of the trial hangs in the balance, and the stakes are higher than ever.

In the end, Cleaver's client is acquitted, but the victory is bittersweet. Cleaver is left to reflect on the choices he has made and the relationships he has jeopardized. The episode closes with a sense of uncertainty about Cleaver's future, leaving viewers to ponder the consequences of his reckless behavior and the possibility of change.

The fates of the main characters are intertwined with Cleaver's journey. His assistant, who has been a steadfast presence, is left questioning her loyalty and future with him. Cleaver's estranged relationships with his family and friends remain unresolved, highlighting the personal cost of his legal battles. The finale encapsulates the themes of ambition, redemption, and the complexities of human relationships, leaving a lasting impression of Cleaver Greene's tumultuous life.

In the first season of "Rake," there are no post-credit scenes. The episodes conclude without any additional scenes after the credits roll. The focus remains on the narrative and character development throughout the episodes, particularly highlighting the chaotic life of the protagonist, Cleaver Greene, a brilliant but self-destructive barrister. Each episode wraps up its storylines without extending into a post-credit sequence.

In the first episode of Rake, Cleaver Greene takes on the case of a man named 'The Reverend' who is accused of murdering a prostitute. The case is complicated by the fact that the Reverend is a well-known figure, and Cleaver's unconventional methods and personal issues create tension as he navigates the legal system.

Cleaver Greene's personal life is tumultuous and chaotic, which directly impacts his professional life. His relationships with his ex-wife, Wendy, and his son, Charlie, are strained. Cleaver's reckless behavior, including his gambling and womanizing, often leads to conflicts that spill over into his legal practice, affecting his ability to focus on his cases.

Barney is Cleaver Greene's best friend and serves as a grounding force in his life. Their relationship is significant as it highlights Cleaver's flaws and vulnerabilities. Barney often tries to keep Cleaver in check, providing a contrast to Cleaver's reckless nature. Their dynamic showcases the theme of loyalty and the challenges of friendship amidst personal chaos.

Cleaver Greene often finds himself at the center of media attention due to the sensational nature of his cases. He has a complicated relationship with the press; while he sometimes uses it to his advantage, he also struggles with the invasive scrutiny that comes with his high-profile cases. This media spotlight adds pressure to his already chaotic life and influences public perception of him.

Cleaver's mother, who is portrayed as a strong and somewhat overbearing figure, plays a significant role in his life throughout Season 1. She often expresses her disappointment in Cleaver's choices and lifestyle, which adds to his internal conflict. Her presence serves as a reminder of Cleaver's failures and the expectations placed upon him, further complicating his emotional state.

"Rake," season 1, produced in 2010, is not considered family-friendly due to its mature themes and content. Here are some potentially objectionable or upsetting aspects that may occur:

1. Strong Language: The show features frequent use of profanity, which may not be suitable for children or sensitive viewers.

2. Sexual Content: There are scenes that depict sexual situations and innuendos, including nudity and discussions about sexual relationships.

3. Substance Abuse: The protagonist, Cleaver Greene, often engages in heavy drinking and drug use, which may be concerning for younger audiences.

4. Violence and Legal Drama: The show includes intense courtroom scenes and discussions of crime, which may be distressing for some viewers.

5. Moral Ambiguity: The characters often navigate morally questionable situations, which could be confusing or upsetting for younger viewers.

6. Emotional Turmoil: The protagonist experiences significant personal and professional struggles, including relationship issues and existential crises, which may resonate deeply and evoke strong emotions.

These elements contribute to the show's adult-oriented nature, making it more suitable for mature audiences.