Close and True (ITV 2000, Robson Green, James Bolam)

Close and True is a strong six parter with Robson Green playing mergers and aquisitions solicitor John Close, who for the last few years has been working in London but dashs back home to Newcastle on a mission of mercy when his one time best friend, Steve Sheedy, is accused of attempted murder.

Determined to help Sheedy any way he can, Close ends up also involved with the run down legal firm representing him, Simons and True. There is a clever build up as John gets to the bottom of the mystery and ends up becoming convinced that his future lies back on his home turf and maybe becoming a partner in Simons and True – something he gets the chance to do when Simons does a runner to Australia (the firm is in quite a bit of financial trouble) at the start of episode two.

This second episode also heralds the arrival of the brilliant James Bolam as fellow partner in the firm Graham True (Graham is actually in a home for people with mental problems when we first meet him). The remaining five episodes see Close tackling cases ranging from assault to further machinations in the Steve Sheedy case. All the while Close is trying to get the firm back on its feet, revitalising the curmudgeonly True and rebuilding relationships with his family and friends, also finding time for a spot of romance too.

production details
UK / ITV – Meridian – United / 6×50 minute episodes / Broadcast 23 November – 28 December 2000

Creators: Tony Etchells, Rebecca Keane / Music: Paul Pritchard / Executive Producers: Michele Buck, Sandra Jobling, Damien Timmer / Producer: Rebecca Keane

cast
Robson Green as John Close
James Bolam as Graham True
Richard Sands as Gordon
Louise Delamere as Jessica Laing
Nicola Grier as Ibi Badgioni
Kerry Rolfe as Paula Farrent
Susan Jameson as Sally Anne Mae

THE EPISODES
ONE SEASON 23 November – 28 December 2000
1. MISS NEWCASTLE
2. TOWN AND GOWN
3. A LIE FOR A LIE
4. HURRY UP AND WAIT
5. WIDE AWAKE
6. GOTCHA