Escape From The Pupillage Applications With The Pupillage Blog!

Worthy entertainment to keep you going whilst you await the pupillage news!

Worthy entertainment to keep you going whilst you await the pupillage news!

Currently on a number of blogs, there seems to be a theme that relates to a variety of relevant literature either academic or otherwise for ‘the would be pupil’.  However, in true tradition I have decided to buck the trend and to focus upon the TV antics of the Bar.  So here is the Pupillage Blog critique guide to recommended DVD watching for any would be barrister!!! 

As we wait for the news of pupillage interviews to divert to our mobile phone in this new techno world of the ‘Pupillage Portal’, I feel that it is only fitting that this review starts at the legal TV heaven entry to the Bar, as we certainly cannot forget the talent of the late John Mortimer and his wonderfully penned ‘Rumpole of the Bailey’.  Indeed, the immortal phrase of “..She who must be obeyed…” still stays with me after all those years. The inimitable Leo McKern as Rumpole defines the British courtroom barrister in a truly delightful comedy and drama which should be certainly recommended to any individual who is seeking an apprenticeship at the Bar. So, uncork the red plonk and sit back and enjoy and be entertained.

Next I turn to ‘New Street Law’.  Having sought solace in a drama serial which often I believe can draw some clear comparisons to practice, this upbeat snappy legal series focuses upon both the good and bad fortunes of a set of chambers headed by John Hannah who plays Jack Roper. The episodes are intelligently written and often provide thought provoking and gritty storylines both in and out of the courtroom, whilst keeping you glued to the edge of your seat. As either a pupil or barrister, I firmly believe that the penned content of this programme is readily identifiable to all.

And so to Kavanagh Q.C. and the late but ever talented John Thaw. Created by Ted Childs this series is crafted around the successful charismatic northern barrister James Kavanagh, who has risen to the top of his profession from a working-class background and yet strikes his courtroom battles with a passion with an affinity for the underdog. This series is true escapism with the classic adversarial Thaw applying and demonstrating masterclass sessions for any would be barrister. Every episode makes for 90 minute classic TV watching.  Now interestingly, it would appear that ITV.com will let you watch the series online.  So, fire up a warm glass of red wine and move your mouse over the hyperlink, sit back and relax and put all of those pupillage applications firmly out of your mind and enjoy!!!

Finally I turn to Judge John Deed.  Why I hear you cry?  Well, for just pure entertainment value and escapism. Its not every day a Judge is faced with the moral dilemma of having two opposing advocates within the very same courtroom, one being his wife and the other his mistress. Not to mention, bringing in the daughter too….perhaps this is the way to guarantee a pupillage!!! However you must not forget to bring the dogs and polish up the Porsche. Anyway, not too be taken too seriously and in small doses.  Important: read the label before administering the DVD.

Now as we are on a roll here, it would seem that every blog upon the Net is giving a critique upon the book, ‘Bewigged and Bewildered. A Guide to Becoming a Barrister in England and Wales’. So with this in mind, I have come upon an entertaining video  find upon ‘YouTube’.

Phillip Taylor, a barrister, provides a video review of Adam Kramer’s book, which on first appearances would seem to have been filmed within the broom cupboard. This video lacks I feel the personal touch, but nevertheless I found to be good entertainment and provides an excellent critique of Kramer’s book.   Also, if you have a minute, you should have a look at the other reviews that Phillip Taylor has produced. Happy watching and enjoy!

As always,
Justin Time

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