SeanFletcher

All Rise was a very pleasant surprise and a great watch. This show had it all: good storylines, good young actors complimented by very experienced older actors and a premise that was refreshing in its execution.

One aspect I liked immensely was the human aspect was allowed to shine through for a change. Although the young lawyers were all driven, with some more than others, even the most driven embraced their private lives ie willing to consider a relationship and develop friendships.

Another aspect for me was the younger generation learning the cold hard realities of the workplace. We saw our young characters wanting to be independent, willing to correct their errors or take on advice provided by their seniors promptly.

Interestingly, we see the juxtaposition between the Gen Z need to collaborate up against getting the job done ie being pitted against one another. This mechanism was used to show our characters how to transition from being creative to the importance of innovation ie how to deliver results.

Were there annoying characters? Yes. Two to be exact. However, the story is bigger than them.

Showing the work ethic and challenges and relationships amongst the senior lawyers was well done too. I enjoyed their storylines as much as the younger cohort’s and there was a cross over as well regarding relationships in the workplace.

The legal cases undertaken were interesting and the solutions often simple, based on exhaustive research - as it actually is in the real world. At 24 episodes, the Chinese tv producers are starting to show they can make very good shorter dramas.

All in all, All Rise was a great watch and it would seem another season is on the way. This is probably my pick for best show of 2025.