Packed to the Rafters

'Packed to the Rafters' is a relatively light, well written family drama that won a slew of awards during its time on air, and rated highly in Australia across its six season run.

The show begins the day before the 25th wedding anniversary of its two main characters, Dave and Julie Rafter, who married and had children very young and have been living in their small suburban home throughout their married life. Their last remaining child at home has decided he is going to move out and Dave and Julie are looking forward to being empty nesters. However a series of events lead to different family members one by one returning to the Rafter home. With all bedrooms full and only one bathroom, the house becomes packed to the rafters!

One of Australia's finest drama series, each episode of Packed to the Rafters is carefully crafted, narrated by a different character and often has an extended metaphor or motif throughout. Packed to the Rafters deals with difficult and very real issues facing members of society, all while balancing comedy and being heartwarming at the same time. The natural chemistry between the cast enhances the believability that in difficult times, this family comes together and is there for each other no matter what.

While all seasons were a joy to watch, I particularly enjoyed Season 1 as the pasts of each character was revealed through their narration and flashbacks, so we get some back story as to why they are the way they are.

Wow channel 7, what the hell happened? All of the female lead role actors are jumping ship faster then I have ever seen for a new soap. Last season went for 6 shows (WTF?), and upon its return this Aug 2011, it seems like it has lost its magic. Are the actors 'over it', because it seems like all the spark has gone flat. Rachael has gone, Mel has gone, Carbo's flat mate has gone (now on Winners and Loosers).

I never thought I'd say this, but my hectic time schedule allows for Winners and Loosers these days. I am afraid Packed to the Rafters have had too many false starts.

I loved this show so much too. A shame!

Heart warming, funny and relatable! The cast and writing is absolutely sensational. Although I've rewatched it multiple times, I still laugh and cry every time. I have a tonne of love and appreciation for this show and the people/actors that gave it life. You must watch it.

The Rafters are the greatest family on Earth. They give so much without being political nor religious, and sadly most times they get burned. The 3 main principles in S1 thru 5 are outstanding. I'm speaking of Hugh Sheridan, Rebecca Gibney and the star rising Jessica Morais. Ben and Nathan are also fantastic.

I loved how, as each year progressed, slight cursing was added, because, some of the bridges they HAD to cross...man, they held it together.

And the problems are not forgotten in the next episode.

Jake and Coby are the best.

This is not a spoiler...in, " Back to the Rafters", Ruby is like 10, and precotious and horrible.

I rated this show 8, I really loved this show.

P. S. The original Rachel does not show up in " Back to..." The grandfather is THE ABSOLUTE WORST.

You are really going to enjoy this series.

This is one of the best series I have ever seen. Love the characters, acting is impeccable, and each episode is wonderful.