The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart

The show is better than the book. That's something I say rarely, but it's my honest opinion. The beginning of both book and show are breathtaking, but fall apart mid way through. After fumbling a time-jump so badly it nearly lead me to quit watching, the show writers take the pig's ear that is the 2nd half of the novel and make it look like a silk purse.

While the show's transition from young child to young adult Alice isn't particularly well done, it's far better than the book's. After the abrupt book transition to Alice as a young woman the story goes to pieces. I understand that both show and book are character-driven (if you're looking for a fast-moving suspense or action drama, don't bother with this show) but in the book the characters stop developing in any way after the time jump. The show stumbles for an episode or so then picks up the threads the book author dropped and do their best to weave both the character and plot arcs into a coherent and compelling narrative.

The soundtrack is fantastic if you like otherworldly modern indie music. The acting and scenery are very good. If you enjoy a bleak, slow-burning character study that blossoms in sparse sunlight, then this Australian drama is worth a look.

Usually i'll wait until the end of a season or a show before I write a review but I decided to go ahead and write one about this and I will adjust as needed. This was a very strong start with the first three episodes! Doesn't take long before they pull you in that's for sure. I am very ready for all of the secrets to be revealed... I have a sneaky suspicion we are in for a lot. I'm enjoying the characters so far and I have no doubt they will flesh them out and we will see more of the past and into the future. I don't pretend to know if this will be an ongoing thing or just a limited series. If it's going to be something that continues for another season, I already think they will need to pick up the pace a little bit. Not that I'm not completely involved and I will certainly watch each episode as it comes out but they are dragging a little bit. That's the reason I didn't give 10 stars I believe there were a few things they could have pushed forward a little faster. But I'm not mad at it at all! Or bored. Great characters really good actors I'm excited to see where it goes. Oh, and I am loving Oggi and hope he's in for the entirety. We haven't seen a whole lot of him but everything I've seen of him I love!

Despite oddly choppy accents and some slower moments than a slow-burning story needs, this is a wonder. It is a story that should be seen and heard. If you haven't know violence, it is crucial; if you have, it is utterly respectful, familiar, perhaps healing.

What the slow burning plot does well is the inching towards reveals and epiphanies that happen as patiently crafted as the scenes surrounding them. No tricks of twists, no Hollywood quick turns.

The journey all these characters take, especially Alice, happens as life happens. One moment at a time.

Characters are complex and dynamic in rare realness; you'll find no heroes where it seems you will and no pure villains.

Flowers grow slowly from seed yet bloom quickly, like this beautiful piece of acting, courage, and community.

The scenery is NOT dark and dim. Someone's TV settings need adjusting. No, this was never meant to be a plot driven "action" movie so if that's want you want, skip watching it. Otherwise if a mystery down under interests you, watch this series. It's beautifully filmed. The acting is top notch. Most people who aren't Aussies won't notice Sigourney's wavering accent.

I will admit that episodes 1-3 out the 4 available at the moment were more interesting. The actress who plays young Alice is appealing and believable. Kudos to Alyla! I am unable, however to warm to the older Alice at this point and I hope that changes. All the flower designs and flowers themselves are beautiful. As wells as the beach scenes.

We just 'binged' the first three episodes and honestly can't wait for next week's instalment. Great story with lots of interesting twists. Our fingers are crossed that the same high standard is maintained right through the 7 episodes. Very impressive so far.

Alyla Browne does a magnificent job of playing the part of a young Alice Hart. A great talent at such a young age. I'm certain we will see a lot more of her into the future.

The senior actors set a standard that would make any director proud and collectively raise the bar for all Aussie productions into the future.

The scenery is beautiful and the cinematography is as good as it gets.

Well done everyone, you have a lot to be proud of.