Anzac Girls

I loved this series and didn't want it to end (not the war, I was well ready for it to end, but not the acquaintances with these phenomenal women). This series is brilliantly told and performed. It is the story of five real women who served the Australian and New Zealand war effort as nurses, researched through their journals and letters, at the time. The actors fully embody their characters and win our hearts. From the fledgling excitement of their new postings to the decent into the midst of the horrors of war, their tales are told. Greg Haddrick, Executive Producer, summed up this 6 hour limited TV series rather nicely, "...after watching it you have experienced the pointlessness of war and are left with a feeling that human compassion and decency toward each other is more important than many other things in life." I can't speak highly enough of this production, it just did everything right. I give it a 10 (brilliant) out of 10. {Historical War Drama}

Have so far thoroughly enjoyed this offering of nurses serving in World War I. The emphasis on their personal lives has meant that it has not been necessary to dwell on the actual battle scenes and the horrors that entailed. Was hard to follow who was who in the first two episodes but it became a lot clearer after that. The development of the relationships over the episodes means it is a continuing story rather than just an episodic one and this has kept us waiting for the next chapter (episode). We will be sorry to see this excellent period drama end next week at episode 6. This has been a sterling effort by the producers and an ensemble cast using minimal sets and sometimes ordinary outdoor settings. The series also gives an insight to how the allied armies behaved in that conflict.

An excellent series sharing the stories and experience of the amazing ANZAC nurses. Each episode has a focus on a particular nurse and her experience of the war - whether it be adventure, romance, opportunity, the depths of grief or the sheer exhaustion of nursing the wounded day after day. It provides an important insight into the essential work of these women who put their lives on the line in so many ways. I was particularly inspired by the story of Sister Olive Haynes and her great generosity of spirit, commitment to serve and big heart for all the men she cared for. Matron Wilson, too, was an exceptional woman who demonstrated inspirational leadership, compassion and determination in the face of enormous hardship and challenge. A very moving series, well acted - a great Aussie production we can be proud to watch.

A great series, much enjoyed, but.....big shame that they had to have a swipe (as usual for Aussies film producers) at 'British pomposity' / snobbery, which whilst maybe not entirely unfounded, was I feel grossly exaggerated, and in very poor taste. But on the plus side they did not take a swipe at the Brit general, who came across as quite a good guy. Also, whilst most of the effects were excellent, the immaculate state of the nurses' uniforms in most of the scenes, was totally unrealistic; anyone who has spent a few hours in the field will know that white has no place, and grey / grime / sweat and smell rules. All above said, well done on a great production, helping to ensure that we remember them all, with gratitude, and admiration.

ANZAC Girls provides insight into two historical dramas that need more of our attention: World War I and the women from all nations who served therein. This series is an attempt at a true account of the trials of a group of ANZAC nurses providing heroic aid and comfort to soldiers while dealing with the loves, losses, and true friendships that color thier lives. The series is heartbreaking and uplifting at once, leaving us so impressed by the courage of these women. It has long been my contention that nurses are angels on earth, and this series reinforces my contention. Writing, action, and production are all first-rate.