Quick Summary
In this gritty fifties‑set series, a sleuthing priest (Mark Williams) races against time to rescue Bunty (Emer Kenny) from the hangman’s noose after she’s charged with murder. A standout episode of British TV drama that feels like a documentary of post‑war justice, the programme offers classic UK television intrigue and entertainment at a glance for UK viewers, making it a programme highlight in the RTE One programming and any television guide.
About This Program
The Scales of Justice is a five‑part series set in the gritty world of 1950s Britain, where a priest with a talent for sleuthing races against time to save a young woman named Bunty from the hangman’s noose after she is charged with murder. Starring Mark Williams as Father Michael O’Connor and Emer Kenny as the determined Bunty, the drama blends period intrigue with moral dilemmas, offering a fresh twist on classic British TV crime storytelling. This comprehensive guide provides full details of each episode, giving UK viewers a clear picture of the series’ tone, style and narrative arc. Each episode unfolds like a tightly written detective novel, with the priest‑detective balancing his pastoral duties against a relentless pursuit of truth. Viewers can anticipate smoky back‑streets, courtroom drama, and the ever‑present tension of post‑war social change. The series mixes suspenseful investigation scenes with moments of quiet reflection, allowing the audience to feel both the urgency of the chase and the weight of ethical choices. The writing is sharp, the pacing deliberate, and the period‑accurate production design immerses the viewer in a world where justice is as fragile as the scales that weigh it. Mark Williams delivers a nuanced performance, portraying a man of faith who is unafraid to confront corruption within the church and the police. Emer Kenny’s portrayal of Bunty brings a fierce, sympathetic energy that keeps the audience rooting for her innocence. The series boasts authentic 1950s costumes, meticulous set pieces, and a soundtrack that echoes the era’s jazz and early rock influences. Each episode ends with a cliff‑hanger that encourages binge‑watching, while the courtroom sequences provide a documentary‑style glimpse into historical legal procedures, enriching the drama with educational value. The Scales of Justice taps into a long‑standing love for British TV crime dramas, offering a fresh protagonist in a priest‑detective that differentiates it from more conventional detectives. Its exploration of class tension, post‑war reconstruction, and the moral complexities of justice resonates strongly with UK viewers who appreciate layered storytelling. The series also celebrates British cultural heritage, from the vernacular of the time to the iconic London settings, making it a compelling addition to any television guide for those seeking quality entertainment that feels both familiar and innovative. Although primarily a British production, The Scales of Justice is featured in RTE One’s curated slate of high‑quality drama, aligning with the channel’s commitment to showcase compelling storytelling from across the British Isles. Its inclusion broadens the range of UK television on the network, complementing existing documentaries and drama series while providing UK viewers with a well‑rounded entertainment experience. For fans of period crime series, this programme adds depth to the RTE One programming schedule, reinforcing the channel’s reputation as a destination for in‑depth review and premium British TV content.
Father Brown broadcasts on RTE One at 8:30am, Sunday, 21 September 2025. (Subtitles, repeat)