Invisible Boys

This show was absolutely amazing, and I highly recommend it to anyone. The storyline and the journeys of the four main characters felt incredibly real and relatable. While some of the dialogue leans into familiar LGBTQ+ TV tropes-occasionally making certain moments feel a bit cliché or cringey-it also rings true to real experiences I've had, which made it deeply personal and impactful.

The core four actors delivered outstanding performances, bringing real depth and complexity to their characters. The writers and cast deserve recognition for portraying queer characters with nuance, something often lacking in similar shows within the genre. They also had a real chemistry with each other that I sometimes find lacking in many gay couples portrayed in TV.

At times, the sex scenes felt somewhat over-the-top and gratuitous, but they also reflected the authentic young gay experience in a way that many viewers, myself included, can relate to. I particularly appreciate the writers' approach to the endings of the two main couples-they avoided pandering to fan service and instead stayed true to the show's raw and authentic tone.

Going into this series, I didn't expect it to evoke such intense emotions, but there was a moment where I genuinely felt my heart break for two of the main characters. The entire cast was impressive, but Joe Klocek (who plays Matt) stood out the most-his phenomenal performance left a lasting impact on me, and I can't stop thinking about it (especially episode 9).

Although some fans are hoping for a second season, I believe the show ended perfectly. Everything wrapped up in a way that felt complete, even if the ending was heartbreaking. I'm still reeling from the emotional impact, but I'd absolutely recommend this series to anyone.

This is a raw and real look at what life is like for young, gay Australians.

This is a story of four boys who are fighting against the prejudice, assumptions and societal pressure that can make any one of us invisible.

The humour is outstanding, and you'll find yourself quoting so many of the lines from the show, and the music is phenomenonal. I'm so happy that a new generation is going to be introduced to Nick Cave and Dragonette!

There are some absolutely beautiful and heart-warming moments, as well as some cry-your-eyes-out tragedy, but it's part of a journey that is all too familiar to so many of us.

As well as sexuality, the show deals with themes of First Nations Australians, loneliness, country life and the power our parents can have over our lives.

Make sure the young people in your life get to watch this show, especially if they are asking questions - they need to know the world is not going to end when they start living life as the person they truly are!

Holden Sheppard's novel Invisible Boys is likely the most moving and relatable book for many Aussie gay guys (especially if you grew up in a regional town).

Whether or not you have read the book - do yourself a favour and watch this TV show.

The adaptation is brilliant. It stays true to the overall narrative of the book, but has some fantastic additions too - such as the unintended impact of the same sex marriage vote on LGBTIQ+ kids, intersecting with the continued struggles of the aboriginal community, and delving deeper into isolation and mental health for men in the bush.

This adaptation is incredibly brave, highlighting the highs and lows of queer teenage life, without shying away from the awkwardness and messiness - something that we haven't seen in mainstream TV, both in Aus or abroad. Real life isn't Hollywood!

This is for all ages (MA15+ of course) - whether you're going through it now, have been through it in the past, or you're just human. There is so much to relate to with this show.

Thank you to Nicholas Verso for brining this to life so beautifully, and of course, to Holden! Joseph, Aydan, Zach and Joe, you really embodied Charlie, Zeke, Hammer and Matt. It means a lot to everyone who has connected so deeply to the characters via the book. Very grateful.

Growing up gay will probably never be easy or simple, but the more we are able to see ourselves in books and on screens, the better things will be for future generations of queer kids.

"I felt less alone knowing you were here."

This was honestly one of the best Australian shows I've watched. Aside from some small dialogue delivery at the beginning.

I won't go into it too much. But, Episode 9 was killer. I wasn't expecting the emotions. Haven't had that feeling since Game of Thrones and hoping Tyrion would die in every episode that he was in. Anxiety.

Charlie was absolutely fantastic. Everything about his character and what he went through.

Hammer was great, although, my least favourite. He was great and perfectly acted. An amazing scene with his Aunt. You'll know when you watch it.

But, Zeke. He was my favourite. He was a fantastic character played so perfectly. His story, his lows to his rise. It was fantastic. Don't get me started on the parents. I'm a little disappointed they didn't mention Zeke's likeness to Mewtwo from Pokémon the First Movie. Loved that part in the book.

Overall, it was an amazing show and hope Holden writes IB2 and we get a sequel. I need to know what happens to Charlie and Zeke and Hammer in Perth. But, most of all. I want to see how Charlie and Zeke deal with what happened to them.

This was such a fantastic adaption. I must say both couple had really great chemistry.. but I personally connected to Zeke and Hammer's storyline the most.. The actor who played Hammer truly delivered a gale force performance that was also assisted by the actors playing his aunt and mom. I love how they touched on so many societal issues with his character and the stigma and being part of a minority community in Australia.. a lot of people won't like the ending for one of the couples but I think it made sense.. it did not feel rushed or out of place and I think it was definitely essential to the plot. Fantastic show !!