Surviving Summer

My husband and I started this show (and finished it) last night, and it was a very cute, feel-good show. I wasn't sure what to expect, as most films I've seen about Australia lately revolve around an American moving there and falling in love with it, so I figured it'd be typical. Yes, it's not a storyline you've never heard before, but the show was well-made and each episode, though only a half hour, felt like a little mini-movie. I hope it gets renewed for a second season, as I'd love to see Summer return to Australia! (Or maybe...Ari visit New York?? It does have a beach...)

A show that revolves around the life of 5 kids during summer, finding who they are, where they fit in, and how to manage life and teen love. A non overly sexualized show, but still manages to experience the teen love, without the extensive substance abuse exposure but still manages to touch on subjects. A clean show for families and teens to enjoy. We enjoyed it.

Teen friendly which I applaud as there aren't a lot of good wholesome teen shows out there. It's fairly low key. The most disappointing part is the main character, Summer. I find her character annoying and useless in this show. Ari is the real star.

It had some good moments, but felt a bit too simple and bland. Even though I enjoy teen/summer shows. The acting and the chemistry the actors in the main group have is weak. I wasn't very interested by the storylines also. The show makes Outer Banks way better and I wouldn't be mad if it gets cancelled.

It's solid at best, anyway.

While no masterpiece, this bit of surf, gorgeous Aussie locations and romantic teen adventures has its moments. There's a feel-good atmosphere behind each episode that is almost more Kiwi than Aussie. Smiles abound and tensions are soon resolved, the condescending moral storytelling so often associated with Hollywood teen efforts nowhere in sight.