Dead Lucky

Fantastic Aussie television that grabs you from the get go. Great cast, especially the newbie detective (Charlie) who is also oh so easy on eyes!

I loved that is focussed on internationals students studying in Aus as well as the fact that it was filmed in Sydney (with some very nice cinematography to boot).

Add in some plot twists which I did not see coming and I'd say this is a really enjoyable ride.

Recommended!

Many of the reviews - unfortunately by Americans - try to place this in an environment they understand - existing US gangster and cop shop shows.

Don't.

It casually introduces other elements - like overseas students trying to pay their university fees by working in corner convenience stores. Being exploited and underpaid is a running theme that many reviewers missed, relative to why one of the students ultimately goes missing. No spoiler there.

It also introduces (in a backhand way) Chinese prejudice against gweilos: when this same Chinese student is dating a man originally from Iran. And not telling her parents back in China.

It contains more twists than the usual cops and robbers inhabiting pay TV. Rachel Griffiths is outstanding, as are some of the minor actors playing overseas students. It needs quite a grasp of Australia and Sydney, particularly.

I loved the cast and story. I just wish it had more seasons.

This one hooked me in right from the beginning - great cast (love Rachel Griffiths), directing, and the twisting plot turns that kept me guessing. It's a real, gritty crime thriller that showcases Sydney's multi-layered, cultural diversity - well done SBS!

When I started the 1st (of only 4) episodes, I thought it was a mistake. It looked to be really cliche, and the characters seemed like "TV characters". You know: characters who don't behave in ways that actual humans do out here in the real world. By the 2nd episode, the unexpected plot twists, which kept this long-time TV viewer guessing, overshadowed that. Gained 2 stars simply for very creative plotting. I'm not disappointed that there won't be (AFAIK) another season, because the characters aren't compelling enough on their own and I don't think lightening could strike twice in terms of a really creative plot.