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It is fair to say that the quality of the cast gives the show a big lift. The cast are well chosen for their roles and, mostly, familiar faces. It is also fair to say that the script does let the show down, however, not very often fortunately. The overall story is believable while being meaty enough to stir up the emotions from time to time. I have found no difficulty in following the many interwoven stories of the characters lives. The realism of relationships between friends and families can be sometimes annoying and sometimes warm and fuzzy, and there are bits for most people to relate to. I have heard many friends and colleagues talk of the show and discuss the characters or plot lines that seem to get them going, so I always have someone to share my favorite bits with, or bag the characters that are annoying me. The show has that multi faceted look at life feel, similar to 'Love My Way'(which Claudia Karvan was also in). It is different in that it's not as edgy or "sexy", perhaps a little more appealing to a wider audience. Go Aussie drama !!

Sometimes I think I know where this story is going and it suddenly takes a turn not expected.

At first glance many of the situations and characters seem so common or typical. As the story goes along the characters develop rich persona's and quirks of their own. Some of them need work but it's small criticism. Despite it's period setting, the feel is very contemporary and the writing style, sharp for period pieces. Still it's good for young and old. I don't often warm to these period pieces with women in long dresses and lace and the class differences being used as reason for conflict. Paradise seems to give equal standing to all its characters, regardless of class, and invents interesting back stories for so many of them. The sets and scenery and costume are good but not outstanding. The quality comes from the concept and the well written script.