East of Everything

East of Everything is a distinctive Australian television drama that aired on Acorn TV in 2008. Known for its blend of humor, drama, and a touch of romance, the show highlights the complexities of familial bonds, personal redemption, and the longing for home against the idyllic backdrop of the idyllic Australian coastal town of Broken Bay.

The story is centered around two estranged brothers, Art Watkins (Richard Roxburgh) and Vance Watkins (Tom Long). Art is a globe-trotting travel journalist who has spent his adult life avoiding the sleepy coastal town of Broken Bay, the place he once called home. Upon receiving word of his mother's death, he is compelled to return to his long-abandoned hometown, only to find out that he now co-owns the dilapidated family-run tourist resort, ‘Far Out East,’ along with his older brother Vance. With this, Art is abruptly reeled back to his roots, and the series traces the brothers' turbulent journey as they wrestle the ghosts of their past.

In East of Everything, viewers explore the intricacies of a wide spectrum of relationships, notably that of the Watkins brothers. Richard Roxburgh, known for his performances in Moulin Rouge and Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries, portrays the role of Art with a cool charm and speculative distance of a man wrestling with his past. In contrast, Tom Long delights with his enactment of Vance; a laid-back, surf-loving local who is the complete opposite of his city-dwelling brother. Their volatile relationship forms the backbone of the show, driving the narrative forward with its exciting ups and downs.

The supporting cast greatly contributes to the show's appeal, painting a broader picture of the community in Broken Bay. This includes Susan Prior, who plays the role of Eve Pritchard, the manager of the Far Out East resort, and Gia Carides as Bev Flick, Art's high school sweetheart who continues to harbor feelings for him. Other vital characters woven into the fabric of the community include Art's teenage son, Josh Watkins, and Ethan Hardy, played by Craig Stott and Kodi Smit-McPhee, respectively.

Their collective stories create a tapestry of past issues and present realities, exposing numerous heartfelt and hilarious moments that provide engaging subplots and twists. Compelling dialogue and brilliantly choreographed scenes make the interpersonal relationships more vibrant, enmeshing the viewer deeper into the lives of each character.

The setting plays an important role in the show. Broken Bay, a fictional location was actually filmed in Byron Bay, a popular seaside town in New South Wales, Australia. Its vast beaches, crystal blue waters, and lush landscape provide a stark contrast to the chaos and struggles within the Far Out East resort. The vibrant local culture and scenic backgrounds lend an undeniable charm to the series, adding layers to the town’s personality, almost making it a character in its own right.

An important aspect of East of Everything is its exploration of complex themes like redemption, responsibility, and reconciliation. It successfully captures the essence of a small coastal town and the tumultuous relationship between two siblings who must face past mistakes, familial misunderstandings and their differing perspectives of home.

Furthermore, the series depicts Australian life away from stereotypical images often presented to the global audience. Instead of the familiar scenes of Sydney Harbor or the Outback, East of Everything presents viewers with a refreshing glimpse of a coastal small-town life. The series is a clear standout with its portrayal of authentic Australian characters and settings.

East of Everything ran for two seasons, offering viewers a rich array of episodes blending comedy, drama, and romance with questions of identity, home, and family. It's an introspective series that brings together strong performances, a solid script, and breathtaking surroundings, making it a commendable addition to Acorn TV's line-up of Australian programming.

In conclusion, East of Everything is a beautifully-shot series that delves into life's universal conundrums of homecoming, emotional baggage, and sibling relationships. Its narrative intertwines threads of personal transformation and community ties, set within the calming expanse of an Aussie coastal town. Whether it's the drama, humor, or the allure of reconciling with one's past, East of Everything offers something for everyone.