Wakefield

Only 2 eps in and I am already convinced this will go down in history as one of the best Aussie shows ever made. Uniquely moving and important.

I support this very excellent work . . . By EVERYone. All aspects . . . Stunningly creative, intelligent. I would not even write a review if I wasn't unable to find my two misgivings anywhere here addressed, so I'll add: the musicality.

Difficult for me since I don't, in the main, enjoy musicals. One, maybe two exceptions. This is not one of them. HowEVER. I do see, once the 'mystery' is solved, why. Literally.

Additionally I appreciate that the full spectrum of feeling is explored as an intrinsic aspect of the nature of the entire work and music may be the only way to achieve a certain aspect of joy.

Then there's the pace. This was just too long by one or two episodes. Too slow in some spots especially given the complexities and discomforts. Asking your audience to sit and simmer in the soup is, I think, too much.

But a difficult conclusion at which to arrive given the amazing work overall.

My solution: to click on ALL the tens in the reviews and rate an 8/10.

Re-watched this show at least four times already. Heart-breaking, brilliant and how a TV series around mental health should be. A wonderful look in. Kudos to the cast and crew for this masterpiece.

Wakefield is a difficult show to watch at time, partly because of the subject matter, and partly because it's so real.

But the pay-off is a beautifully scripted story, superb direction, spectacular scenery and a set of flawless performances from an incredible Australian ensemble cast. Oh, and an Englishman as the star, although his Australian accent is so surprisingly good, I think we will make him an honorary Aussie.

The final episode left me sitting quietly for a while contemplating what I'd just watched.

If you want something that is seriously cerebral but still capable of making you burst out laughing, Wakefield is for you.

Wakefield tackles different extremes of poor mental health with regular doses of black comedy. The heavy story lines are lifted by tenderness of humanity and set against the stunning backdrop of the blue mountains.

All characters are genuine and well developed ,not just the main ones. The mystery is compelling and will keep you guessing until the end. Spectacular acting from all players. Really hoping for a second season as this was a spectacular production and completely original.