Invisible Boys

Holden Sheppard's novel Invisible Boys is likely the most moving and relatable book for many Aussie gay guys (especially if you grew up in a regional town).

Whether or not you have read the book - do yourself a favour and watch this TV show.

The adaptation is brilliant. It stays true to the overall narrative of the book, but has some fantastic additions too - such as the unintended impact of the same sex marriage vote on LGBTIQ+ kids, intersecting with the continued struggles of the aboriginal community, and delving deeper into isolation and mental health for men in the bush.

This adaptation is incredibly brave, highlighting the highs and lows of queer teenage life, without shying away from the awkwardness and messiness - something that we haven't seen in mainstream TV, both in Aus or abroad. Real life isn't Hollywood!

This is for all ages (MA15+ of course) - whether you're going through it now, have been through it in the past, or you're just human. There is so much to relate to with this show.

Thank you to Nicholas Verso for brining this to life so beautifully, and of course, to Holden! Joseph, Aydan, Zach and Joe, you really embodied Charlie, Zeke, Hammer and Matt. It means a lot to everyone who has connected so deeply to the characters via the book. Very grateful.

Growing up gay will probably never be easy or simple, but the more we are able to see ourselves in books and on screens, the better things will be for future generations of queer kids.

"I felt less alone knowing you were here."

This was such a fantastic adaption. I must say both couple had really great chemistry.. but I personally connected to Zeke and Hammer's storyline the most.. The actor who played Hammer truly delivered a gale force performance that was also assisted by the actors playing his aunt and mom. I love how they touched on so many societal issues with his character and the stigma and being part of a minority community in Australia.. a lot of people won't like the ending for one of the couples but I think it made sense.. it did not feel rushed or out of place and I think it was definitely essential to the plot. Fantastic show !!

This is one of the best Australian television series focusing on gay men and it needs to be seen by everyone. Set in the remote town of Geraldton, during the time of the gay marriage vote in Australia; it centres around the feelings and emotions of guys with brutal honesty and integrity. Whether you're gay or not, you can't help riding the emotional roller coaster with each of these characters. The performances are truly inspiring and endearing. All the actors do their parts so well. Pia Miranda who portrays a stereotypical homophonic matriarch is so good that she made me seethe with rage whenever she spoke her slurs.

This was honestly one of the best Australian shows I've watched. Aside from some small dialogue delivery at the beginning.

I won't go into it too much. But, Episode 9 was killer. I wasn't expecting the emotions. Haven't had that feeling since Game of Thrones and hoping Tyrion would die in every episode that he was in. Anxiety.

Charlie was absolutely fantastic. Everything about his character and what he went through.

Hammer was great, although, my least favourite. He was great and perfectly acted. An amazing scene with his Aunt. You'll know when you watch it.

But, Zeke. He was my favourite. He was a fantastic character played so perfectly. His story, his lows to his rise. It was fantastic. Don't get me started on the parents. I'm a little disappointed they didn't mention Zeke's likeness to Mewtwo from Pokémon the First Movie. Loved that part in the book.

Overall, it was an amazing show and hope Holden writes IB2 and we get a sequel. I need to know what happens to Charlie and Zeke and Hammer in Perth. But, most of all. I want to see how Charlie and Zeke deal with what happened to them.

Such a great, heartwarming show. Beautifully written and shot and amazingly acted! It is so bingeable, but it has a lot of depth and emotion. Gay men will definitely relate to the experiences, it will hit home a lot of times, but it's a show that can be enjoyed and appreciated by everyone. It tackles family relationships, homophobia (also internalised) and racism. Maybe it can be a bit predictable , but it doesn't take away anything from the show. I hope it gets a second season, the characters are very loveable. I found this show by sheer luck, and I wonder how many hidden gems like this exist!