joanh-1

This series is refreshingly different to all the formulaic cop shows/hospital dramas/sitcoms which dominate the TV landscape. The episodes deal with everyday issues in a realistic fashion; we are privileged to see some of Australia's best actors at work; and indigenous people are portrayed non-stereotypically. Not all the story lines are resolved neatly - just like real life, things sometimes turn out other than we would wish. Each episode is self-contained, but many characters appear in several eps with differing degrees of prominence, so someone who features in one episode as the protagonist may pop up later in a supporting role. If you like intelligent, thoughtful and thought-provoking drama, and you are an open-minded discerning viewer, I think you will find Redfern Now a rewarding experience.

I have fond memories of this comedy series, with the ferociously funny one-liners of chief surgeon Sheila Sabatini keeping everyone on their toes. She could make me laugh out loud, which is rare indeed for me when watching so-called comedies (especially US sitcoms). Nichola McAuliffe portrayed wonderfully the acid-tongued Sheila, a woman of intelligence, skill and just the right touch of arrogance. She was part of an ensemble cast who all appeared to be enjoying themselves immensely. The focus was on a few staff of the hospital, the patients being almost an afterthought. Surgical Spirit was cleverly-written & well-acted, a pleasant half hour of light relief. If it's repeated on your local station, give it a go, you might enjoy it.