The 20-minute format works well for these low-budget mini-documentaries that do not differ greatly from each other, and cannot support highly creative effects. All but one are narrated by Gary Sweet, an accomplished Australian actor, who can carry equal conviction as lawmaker or lawbreaker, able to convey both states of mind - a major strength for this series. Because not every Australian is going to side instinctively with the law.
Another strength is the use of confidential material from the New South Wales police archives - a rare privilege. These clips inject special drama and authenticity into the action, much reducing the need for lookalikes. The officers themselves also figure prominently as interviewees, and I shall have no trouble recognising the black, green & blue pattern of their tie from here on.
Some have questioned the use of the term 'druglord' when applied to these moderately successful pushers, since the real barons are obviously celebrating their untouchability a long way from these pavements. But this mixed bag of characters are still able to exert power and instil fear, which is what makes their stories watchable.
I'm not sure why a 20-minute video should need three or four breaks with a reminder of 'the story so far', generally an irritating intrusion, though there were a couple of cases where it compensated usefully for some confused editing. If I had a favourite, it would be Episode 5 (Shane Hatfield) for its compelling theme of honour among thieves, but all of them will hold your attention up to their climax, well before your tea has got cold.