Review of Perry Mason

I wasn't expecting to love Perry Mason, but the thing I do love it. While an example of a formula show, it is a formula show that works wonders. The stories may have some odd predictabilities here and there, but they are always done and written in a most intelligent and intelligent way.The photography and production values are also striking and hold up very well, the direction is consistently on the money and the music is atmospheric, tense and seductive somewhat. But where Perry Mason really scores is in its writing and lead performance. There is very rare an episode where the writing is bad, it is at best outstanding good at worst, with some intelligent, thought-provoking, humorous, poignant and intense(in the atmosphere) moments throughout. Raymond Burr is simply brilliant as the titular character, who is clever and likable at the same time, and the guests are equally impressive. All in all, a fine show that makes for compulsive viewing whenever it is on. 10/10 Bethany Cox