Eternal Law

Eternal Law is a captivating British television series commissioned by ITV and first aired in 2012. Fusing elements of drama, fantasy, and legal thriller, this show offers a novel and thought-provoking take on traditional courtroom dramas. The brainchild of Ashley Pharoah and Matthew Graham, creators of the critically acclaimed series Life on Mars and Ashes to Ashes, Eternal Law pulls us into a fantastical universe prized for its intriguing plot and outstanding performances.

The universe of Eternal Law is tainted with magic realism, making it equally awe-inspiring and relatable. At the heart of the narrative is York- a city characterized by its enchanting cobblestones, dramatic architecture, and celestial beings masquerading as lawyers. This intricately crafted setting serves as a beautiful backdrop against which our celestial litigation drama unfolds.

The story follows Zak Gist played by the dynamic Samuel West and his emotionally compassionate companion warrior angel Tom Greening, portrayed by Ukweli Roach. Zak and Tom are not just any ordinary lawyers; they are angels sent from Heaven. Their celestial mission? To guide humans in understanding and implementing the concept of moral and legal equity, while wrestling with their own dilemmas, attachments to the mortal world, and grappling with the reality of being divine entities embedded in a very human world.

Each episode brings a new case, and with it, a Pandora's box of ethical dilemmas and moral debates. Zak and Tom use their divine wisdom and reverberating compassion amid the rigid framework of human law. Throughout this series, viewers navigate a labyrinth of numerous complex legal cases while being subtly reminded of the timeless questions of morality, justice, and the eternal battle between good and evil.

On the dramatic side, entering their old-fashioned yet otherworldly legal office is Mrs. Sheringham, the eccentrically brilliant, played by veteran actress Orla Brady. A mysteriously aged, chain-smoking angel in her own right, Mrs. Sheringham serves as Zak and Tom's earthly assistance, guiding them through their challenging earthly mission with her no-nonsense sensibility and sharp wit.

As an adversary to our divine heroes, there's the devilish Richard Pembroke. Again played with a sterling performance by Tobias Menzies, Pembroke adds dark charm and intrigue to the ongoing narrative. An angel turned rogue, Pembroke seduces the viewer into understanding his perspective, even when it stands in stark contrast with Zak and Tom's heavenly virtues.

A key driving force in Eternal Law is the potent dynamic between Zak and Hannah, a spirited woman who oscillates between Zak's divine calling and the very human emotions he carries for her. Hannah's character, brilliantly portrayed by Hattie Morahan, adds a strong emotional dimension to the series, making the celestial narrative more than just a bit human.

As for Samuel West, his performance as Zak Gist is nothing short of exemplary. He brings a unique blend of stoicism and vulnerability to his divine character, breathing life into the conceptual sketch of an angel laboring for human justice. His interactions with Tom, played by Ukweli Roach establish a heartfelt camaraderie onscreen, making viewers addicted to their celestial journey.

Eternal Law employs rich cinematography, which serves to deepen the narrative's impact. The panoramic views of York and the chilling but beautiful effects employed to depict the divine spectacle of angels, particularly their massive, glowing wings, make it a visual treat.

Simultaneously, the soundtrack of this show is delicately chosen to amplify the emotional undercurrent of the storytelling. It perfectly matches and enhances the mood, be it during moments of intense courtroom debates or while exploring the deep-seated feelings of these angels-in-disguise.

Eternal Law is a magnet for viewers who enjoy engaging, intelligent drama with a fantastical twist. It combines elements of life, law, and the divine in a captivating way, encouraging its viewers to question and explore the boundaries of their own perceptions about eternal moral debates. For those receptive to a novel twist on old courtroom dramas, this series promises a sublime journey, evoking both philosophical questions and profound emotions. This concatenation of human drama and divine charges makes Eternal Law an otherworldly legal drama that manages to remain intensely, touchingly human.