The Survivors: Der Sturm

This is a hard series to review. I actually really liked it, however, I kept forgetting about watching it, so clearly it wasn't as entertaining as other shows. From episode 4 (out of 6 episodes) I got really into it though and finished it all in one go. My guess is that most low reviews are from people who didn't bother to finish the show.

I think if you're in the right mindset you'd probably enjoy it from start, I was a bit distracted and I find it hard to get into shows unless they are really intense. This is more of a slow burn, with an amazing atmosphere, I really felt like these people are really living there at the beach in Australia, like I could go and visit them. It's not a feel good show, it's dark and gritty and people in it are messed up, there isn't really any likeable characters except from the lead played by Charlie Vickers. However, the series felt different and interesting and I will look for other series produced by Tony Ayres.

Nothing about the plot, the set of characters, the picturesque setting, the whodunnit element etc is particularly inventive or different from a hundred things you've seen before.

BUT the difference here is that the script is intelligent and fresh, the character development unexpectedly deep and affecting and the whole thing is carried off quite expertly without the usual 'groan moments' we so often get. The performances of main characters Kieran, Verity and Mia are particularly strong.

You need to stay with it through a couple of episodes for these qualities to blosssom. You could do a lot worse for entertainment.

I enjoyed the show quite a lot, the backdrop of a small tight knit town, managed to watch the episodes as soon as they dropped, currently on episode 4, it may become a sleeper hit, it might also cure your insomnia, in a good way though not a bad way, it's clear to see that the bay and a murder mystery can put people at arms length or make you question what you did wrong all those years ago.

Put aside some time over the weekend or during your week and give the show a chance, there may be too many characters but in a small town everyones a suspect.

Several characters could've and probably should've dropped off after episode three but it'll peek a viewing experience.

Give it a go, you may just like it.

The Survivors is a hauntingly atmospheric drama set against the breathtaking Tasmanian coastline. The natural beauty of the setting contrasts sharply with the emotional scars and long-buried secrets of the characters. It's not just a murder mystery - it's a slow-burn exploration of grief, guilt, and the complexity of human relationships. The characters feel like people you might know: flawed, familiar, and deeply affected by their past. If you're drawn to stories with beautiful scenery, nuanced performances, and where every conversation seems to hide another layer of truth, this is a must-watch.

Initially I thought there were too many characters, but they were fleshed out really well and all had a part to play. At the end I wouldn't have taken anyone out. The chemistry between Mia and Kieran was a bit off, it wasn't until Liv came into the picture I understood that was intentional.

It's not really a whodunnit, so don't expect a great deal of mystery. It's a story of loss and how a small town deals with its grief. The family dynamics, the old friendships, the aesthetic made this an enjoyable watch. It was real, vulnerable and relatable. If you have a spare afternoon, give this show a try.