Matlock

Much like Perry Mason, Ben Matlock was a lawyer that never lost and that's where the similarities end. The thing I love about the character of Ben Matlock is that unlike the cool and suave Perry Mason, Ben was hot-headed and cursed like a sailor, but beneath that gruff exterior was a heart of gold. Ben pretty much was just like an average guy, while Perry Mason was the cool, suave and sophisticated barrister. Also, this show pretty much had a sense of humor about it that "Perry Mason" didn't have and this gives "Matlock" an edge.

This show is one of the best shows that ever aired on national television. Andy Griffith is superb and Clearence Gilyard also did a wonderful job. With great casting, guest stars (such as Milton Berle) this show is somewhat of a treasure. It was on for almost a decade and I wish it was on now. I hope another movie will air so I get to see my favorite actor, Andy Griffith in my favorite charecter, Ben Matlock. (Watch it on TBS and WGN both airing at noon, it will be worth it).

I am a huge fan of Andy Griffith and Matlock! I even find myself watching it more now then I do The Andy Griffith Show. The stories are superbly written and its just really fun to watch Ben Matlock (Andy Griffith) outwit the "real" killers on the stand. My favorite episodes have to be the ones with Michelle, Conrad, and Charlene his daughter. I just wish you could buy Matlock episodes on tape and another movie would air.

Ben Matlock (Andy Griffith) is a respected, renowned, hotdog-loving, defense lawyer in Atlanta. He uses his southern charms and sense of justice to set his innocent clients free. Initially, he is assisted by his daughter Charlene Matlock and his investigator Tyler Hudson. Before the end of the first season, Charlene disappears from the show. Over the years, Matlock has various assistants, usually blonde pretty lawyers and black investigators. He has a connection with prosecutor Julie March during a few seasons. He is also joined by TV friend Don Knotts in some episodes as his character's friend.

The show reopens the daughter-as-assistant door with Leanne McIntyre and adds a childhood rival in Billy Lewis. Those are probably the best seasons. Matlock becomes more childish while Leanne turns into the parental figure. He and Billy have a combative relationship. It's a more fun show as Matlock gets frustrated with Billy. I never really liked the courtroom which feels very static. The investigations are more fun. In the last season, the show drops Leanne and adds a different girl. It loses something without the father daughter chemistry. Nine season is more than enough of a run anyways. The charms of Andy Griffith is the fuel for the show's success and nostalgia for his earlier show is the reason. He is the embodiment of southern charm.

Good idea and for awhile good execution. But the later seasons turned Andy Griffith into a mumbling, stuttering idiot. This is one series where less is more. Watch the 1st 4-5 seasons then walk away..