Robert Caswell’s TV drama, ‘Scales of Justice’ has been composed to entertain, involve and challenge its audience.
These aspects of drama have been fulfilled by Caswell’s use of techniques such as language, characterisation, theme and scene structure. The first act of ‘Scales of Justice’ – The Job, follows the life of Len Webber – A probational constable in the Australian Police Force. Throughout his time as a policeman, he is faced with strong internal conflict. He is constantly questioning his morals and integrity, as he becomes further involved in the informal processes of the police force. We are also introduced to Sergeant O’Rourke and constables Borland and Callahan, who are used by Caswell to present the key themes in Scales of Justice. Through these techniques, he has successfully achieved the three key components of a good drama.
The TV series ‘Scales of Justice’ succeeds in entertaining its responder. Entertainment is presented through scene and narrative structure, as well as humorous language.
Caswell has structured ‘Scales of Justice’ to be fast paced and dramatic. Many scenes are brief, to keep the plot moving, retaining the responder’s attention throughout the text. Several scenes are focused solely on Len Webber, when he is indecision wether to report O’Rourke for the stolen clothing, or staying loyal to the ‘brotherhood’ of the police force. These short scenes of Len contribute to the suspense of his decision, preventing boredom in the audience, and the drama creates entertainment.
Caswell has also integrated humour into ‘Scales of Justice’ to entertain the responder. Humour is prominent in Scene 26, where Len and Borland are escorting an intoxicated elderly woman home. The woman soon urinates on Borland, who reacts by screaming “She’s pissed on me, you dirty bitch!” Naturally, we find Borland’s language and the idea of urinating on other people humorous, and the audience is entertained by this technique.
Carefully executed narrative...