The Alien Years

Ultimately well-made series that deals with the imprisonment of German nationals unfortunate enough to have been living in Australia at the outbreak of World War 1. Embroiled in a period when politically, the Australian Labor Party was coming of age, the wine industry of South Australia was finding its feet and European unrest was the main talking point on the home front, THE ALIEN YEARS focuses principally on the interactions of one family during a time of international unrest.

Elizabeth Patterson is the headstrong daughter of a powerful political figure within the Australian Government. When she falls in love with and ultimately marries Stefan Mueller, a German national, eyebrows are raised and whispers can be heard. The pair move to the Barossa Valley in South Australia, to grow grapes and live an unpressured existence. However, the outbreak of WW1 seals their fate and gives rise to bitter hatred which sees Stefan due for incarceration.

Victoria Longley is excellent as Elizabeth, handing the role the dignity it calls for. Direction by Crombie is hands-on and the script at the level required. You could do worse!