adrian-m-miller

I write this as an Australian, proud until very recently (see screening date of this series in your area)

Dear World,

We regret that for some reason known only to the CBS Corporation, our nation was roped into taking part in the spectacle which you have had to suffer through

If it were not bad enough that every possible jingoistic, over the top representation of Australia was used, they failed to make any single character likeable or exist beyond a singular dimension.

Not even the great William McInnes (oh how great the pay inducement must have been to corrupt your beautiful soul and make you sign on) could make this watchable, though he tried with what he was given.

Sadly what he was given was written by a room of 3 year olds, with crayons.

In particular the lead male Aussie actor, very Aussie (have i mentioned) was too metro sexual and a poor attempt at an analogue for Michael Weatherly - there is only ONE DiNozzo, you fiends....

As for any other possible character equivalency attempts, i just failed to even bother caring, because i felt the entire episode i watched looked like it was heading for one and done for the franchise spinoff.

Gibbs would not approve.

I had no previous knowledge (or bias) of any of the actors in the show

I just kept hearing people recommend it, and im glad i listened.

This is a well rounded show with well rounded characters, most of whom seem to be on their own (and collective) paths to redemption on one level or another.

Theres really no weak links in the cast, and if you dont particularly love Sydney by the end of her 2nd episode, then we're watching different shows. RIchie also rings so true as a character. Having worked in a demanding ristorante in my youth, this feels so very authentic....right down to the shady characters both inside and outside the place....

I just made it through season 1, binging it (always a good sign), and about to start season 2...

One of the best shows in years....

Update (post Season 2 viewing):

This was always a show about redemption, personal or collective, and Season 2 really does ramp it up and round it off, for all characters.

There was something special though about episode 6 (it is my favourite) where one character in particular finds their purpose, and to me it was powerful, as we can either perhaps personally identify with that struggle for purpose, or see it in someone we know. While i think its a high watermark for the season and show, it ultimately plays out its second act in the final episode of the season, where that purpose comes to the fore in place of a character perhaps you'd expect to lead in the chaos. Episode 6 is pivotal and powerful, and even beautiful...it moved me, almost to tears, as perhaps i self identified....