Rosehaven

By many standards, Australians are a bit quirky, and among Australians, Tasmanians are even more quirky. This assessment is from someone who lived there for 5 years and loved the place and the people. Nowhere have I seen this quirkiness captured better than in this series. The characterizations are so good that they are sometimes painful, but you get pain when you get so close to the truth. If you like the first episode, then stay with it because it gets better.

Hard not to make comparisons to Utopia, but the important thing is that the lead performances in Rosehaven add more direct/obvious humour. Even the delivery from the supporting cast make for great foils for the jokes (mainly wordplay and puns.) There is more deliberate humour (than Utopia) so this is where the comparisons break down. It is what it is. It is not a vehicle for characters from another show, and in being that it reaches -different- heights. It puts a different spin on what has become an almost formulaic approach to 'cringe-worthy' humour. The low episode count enhances the mood and themes of the show, rather from detracting from it. I ended up longing for a second season, but guiltily hoping they never do one... I hope they prove me wrong... or not...

Lyrical setting. Quirky direction and relationship between key actors, Celia Pacquola, Luke McGregor and Kris McQuade.

A welcome respite from the ubiquitous edgier comedy that too often relies on shock and awe to gather followers. In Rosehaven, actors' lines are put out there without blazing neon lights telling viewers how to react.

More and more viewers seem to be seeking location interest and this one gives you heaps. Tasmania has some beautiful and frequent changes of scenery within a short distance and the series has taken advantage of that.

Plot looks promising although the characters have carried the show so far.

Well promoted by the ABC which isn't always the case in comedy.

I dig this show, it has a similar vibe to Wilfred but is more family friendly. Deserves recognition for reminding us of the phrase 'redheaded rat rooter'. Celia Pacquola must be a versatile actress as her character in this is really extroverted and annoying whereas in Utopia she was the straight man. Also there should be more screen time for Bruce.

A gorgeous episodic series that allows you to dip in and out at leisure. Beautiful landscape and sweet settings that are real. It reminds me of Seinfeld as a show about nothing but with a delicate and delightful Australian sensibility. A truly feel good series that is easy to watch before going to bed because it leaves you feeling happy and content.