The Principal

Poor, I expected much more, could not soar above the quality of a TV crime standard series. I was misled by the Imbd rating to engage with this program.

Compelling drama, hard not "bingewatch". Slightly mystified by the supposed ages of the students. For most of these "boys" ,I suspect being thirty was just a memory. But enjoyable, none the less.

While based on the first episode. I believe Australian drama has come along way and hope that it continues. The actors provide some good tension and realism to the story line. I think they could push for more in terms of violence and family sorrow but overall thought the balance was worthy viewing on SBS demand. The range of characters and time in the first episode didn't really permit much depth however understand that it is grab viewers' attention and curiosity. The ending encounter for a random student was a welcomed twisted but also surprising in how younger persons are not shocked by death instead actually embrace it for social media. Was a recommendation for me and would for someone else.

In TV Land, all troubles are fixed with a thoughtful statement from the protagonist. It's that easy. So it is with The Principal. You have violent unruly students filled with hate? Just say a kind word and ta da, they'll change into caring individuals. Simplistic and one dimensional.

The Principal is an excellent Australian drama - well written, directed and performed; and with a lot of style. The photography and editing are top notch: daring, jagged and experimental. It's both polished and raw, a dexterous feat to be sure.