I watched the show after reading the books, and I enjoyed it. I wish the filming had been better, but this is not a new show, and cannot be expected to have the technology. The acting is top notch, and poor portrayals ruin a film much easier than a bad camera. Funny, but slightly infuriating the way Rumpole views life. Good plots, and very faithful.

I really liked the Rumpole series and I miss watching them. I'll have to get some DVDs.

Rumpole drank Chateau Thames Embankment or Chateau Fleet Street at Pomeroy's Wine Bar. I suppose these were rather bargain vintages.

Rumpole's nemesis was Judge Bullington, "Bull."

The Timsons were a large family of thieves and other assorted felons who provided Rumpole with lots of employment.

Rumpole's big case was the Penge Bungalow Murders of a long time ago, and Rumpole often reflected on the glory days.

Humorous and intense. Although not a classic "who dunit", Rumpole always has a mystery to solve to successfully defend his client... and he HATES to lose! Rumpole refers to himself an "old Bailey hack"... he is in constant conflict with self-righteous judges, his wife ("she who must be obeyed") and his Head of Chambers... authority figures he deems worthy of his elegant defiance. It is his dry wit and sarcastic repartee that get him into trouble during his vigorous defence (he NEVER prosecutes) of less savoury criminals. He loves a drink with his small cigars, always preferring the cheapest plonk available. Each episode runs about 1 hour.