What To Watch On Netflix: Boy Swallows Universe

Welcome to our ‘What To Watch On Netflix‘ series, where we delve into the captivating series ‘Boy Swallows Universe’. This Australian production, set in the gritty yet vibrant landscape of 1980s Brisbane, balances the harsh realities of life with a story of love, redemption, and retribution.

Based on Trent Dalton’s semi-autobiographical novel, the show has been brought to life through the lens of main cinematographer Shelly Farthing-Dawe, immersing viewers in a poignant coming-of-age tale.

Plot

At the heart of the story is Eli Bell, played by Felix Cameron and Zac Burgess at different ages, a precocious boy navigating a very tumultuous childhood. His world is filled with complex figures: a drug-dealing stepdad, a mother battling addiction, and a brother who’s a poetic clairvoyant with selective mutism. Eli’s journey through his dark but enchanting teenage years is marked by family struggles and encounters with Brisbane’s criminal underbelly, all while he strives to understand what it means to be good amidst chaos and adversity.

Cast

The series features a stellar cast, including Travis Fimmel as Lyle Orlik, Phoebe Tonkin as Frankie Bell, Simon Baker as Robert Bell, and Bryan Brown as the family’s babysitter Slim Halliday. Each actor brings depth and nuance to their characters, further enriching the complex narrative woven by the series.

Reviews

While the series has only recently launched — ‘Boy Swallows Universe’ has been well-received by both critics and audiences. On Rotten Tomatoes, the series has already earned a strong 89% audience rating. The series has been praised for its tightrope walk between despair and optimism, and its ability to infuse humour and warmth into a story deeply rooted in trauma. The reviews on IMDb are also full of praise for Boy Swallows Universe with an 8.2/10.

Trailer

‘Boy Swallows Universe’ is a standout addition to Netflix’s catalogue, showcasing the power of storytelling in capturing the complexities of life and the journey towards adulthood​​​.

Show Details

• Year: 2024

• Seasons: 1

• Episodes: 7

• Run Time: 6h 44min

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This Week On Netflix — 15th to 21st of January