Rafferty's Rules

If you are after a comedy that actually makes you laugh out loud, Rafferty's Rules is available on streaming right now. 4 seasons in, and the quality has not slipped. An 8/10 rating says what the writing already makes obvious: this one works. John Wood's performance alone is worth the time investment. Available now — press play and find out why people keep recommending it.

Part of the current wave of titles people are actually watching, Rafferty's Rules earns its spot. Sharp writing and a well-matched ensemble are what separate Rafferty's Rules from the crowd. Rafferty's Rules was an Australian television drama series which ran from 1987 to 1990 on the Seven Network. Rafferty's Rules was one of the first programs undertaken by the Seven Network's then new in-house drama unit, going into production in May 1985 as "a 15-part courtroom drama". The program had started out as a pilot episode, recorded in early 1984 with the actor Chris Haywood in the lead role. John Wood and Arky Michael lead a cast with the timing to make it work. The series ran for 4 seasons (1987–1990), building a story that gave its audience time to invest properly. Rafferty's Rules earns its laughs from character rather than situation, which is why it does not wear thin the way pure farce tends to. It rarely drops the ball, and when it does, it recovers fast.

For viewers who want something light without wanting something stupid, Rafferty's Rules respects your intelligence. The tonal similarities to All Rise are real, though Rafferty's Rules carves out its own identity quickly. The complete run is available and best experienced without too much prior knowledge of where it goes. John Wood is funny in a way that holds up on rewatch. Put it on when you need something guaranteed to land.

Rafferty's Rules wrapped up in 1990, created by Ben Lewin — and 4 seasons are available to watch from start to finish. Find exactly where it's streaming below, and TV Butler Pro makes it effortless to track your progress as you go. Just search the name, and Butler finds it instantly, tells you which service has it, and remembers exactly where you left off.