The Tribe

I came across this show during insomnia around 2 in the morning, and fell for it. This is an interesting premise that could have really blown, but they handle it so well, and its very interesting seeing teenagers and younger being forced to act like adults (getting married, arranging governments, and yes, having babies) so the world can carry on. It's absolutely addicting and I have often turned down plans to watch it if it rarely comes on.

Talk about original. This show is available in very few countries, but it really is a gem. Not only does it deal with just about every issue under the sun (illness, death, heartbreak and teen pregnancy), combining it with wacky costumes, hairstyles, make-up, names you wish you had and some of the best talent New Zealand has to offer. There should be more shows like this on TV.

I happened upon this Kiwi gem one lonely night while flipping through my new digital cable. It's basically a teenage soap opera set some years after a virus has wiped out the adult population. Following a small group (or "tribe") of kids who live in an abandoned shopping mall, the show is deceptively simple and silly. It is, in fact, epic in scope and deep in emotion. It even throws in the occasional religious allegory for good measure. Like all soap operas, the dialogue can be trite and the stories melodramatic and overly concerned with sex (yes, teen sex), but it is also one of the most addictive television shows I've ever encountered, capable of being funny, poignant, gut-wrenching and thought-provoking all at the same time. With, I might add, more inventive hairstyles, makeup and costumes than any you'll see on American television.

About a year ago I switched to digital cable, with it came about 200 new channels. About a week later I ran into this odd looking show that had teenage kids in weird clothing and tattoos on their faces. I honestly didn't know what to think about the show, but after the first several episodes I was hooked (I started around the middle of the 3rd season) I have seen only the 3rd and 4th seasons, or series as they are called and I am addicted. I won't go as far as painting my face for em but I've considered it once or twice.

The thing that amazes me is that Cloud 9, the production group that makes The Tribe isn't the most well funded film company in the world. But they have used every last dollar (or whatever currency is used in New Zealand) they have to make this show so good. The cast (which most have appeared on Hercules and Xena, as well as the Power Rangers)is talented enough to give their character's personality. The sets are believable, the outfits are are amazing, and the fact that most of the actors are dulling down their heavy Aussie accents is impressive enough.

For those that haven't seen the show before are best to look at it like a Live Action Anime, not the ultra Kung-Fu kind, but the soap opera kind (Ranma,Chobits,etc.) It's a good show that pretty much makes gold from the budget of straw that they have. 10/10

I first stumbled across this show back in 1999 on channel 5 here in the UK. I must admit at first i didnt really take a liking to it, as it does give you the impression that its a silly show when you first see it, due to the wacky hair and strange make up. But you soon realize that these characteristics are there to add to the tribe's amazing mood and personality. There is a certain quirkiness to it that draws you in, and once you're there, you're hooked. It makes you laugh, scream and sometimes cry. The Tribe is a mixture of action, adventure, conflict, growing up and love. During my time watching the show, i have witnessed some of the most poignant scenes i have ever seen .Brilliant characters, brilliant actors, my personal favourite is Beth Allen who plays the amazing Amber. Well done to everyone involved on the show. Series 4 has just finished over here with a massive climax, fingers crossed for a 5th series.

Keep the dream alive :)