Fisk

From the brilliant minds behind some of Australia's most renowned television shows, comes Fisk - a Netflix original series from 2021 that brings a fresh, unique, and hilariously compelling take on the often sombre world of probate law. Centred around the life of Helen Tudor-Fisk, a disgraced corporate lawyer who is forced to shift from her high-flying city life, to the seemingly mundane world of suburban law after a misjudged affair makes it impossible for her to stay in her previous job.

Fisk immerses the viewer in the world of Gruber & Gruber, a small-time, suburban law firm that specialises in wills and probate. Tasked with dealing with the estates of those who have departed, the series cleverly navigates the often dark and complex ins-and-outs of the legalities surrounding death - adding a surprisingly light-hearted and humorous twist to what might otherwise be a heavy topic.

At the forefront of this series, we find Helen Tudor-Fisk, portrayed by the exceptional Kitty Flanagan. Helen is a brilliantly flawed and remarkably quirky character who finds herself grappling with the starkly different environment and relationships in her new work life - made all the more hilarious by her disinterest in people and their feelings. Her well-intentioned but often clumsy efforts to navigate the emotional intricacies of her new situation make for delightfully amusing viewing.

Throughout the series, viewers are introduced to a sensational ensemble cast of characters that bring the comedic genius of Fisk to life. There's Roz Gruber, played by the wonderfully talented Julia Zemiro, the ever-optimistic head of Gruber & Gruber, who continually attempts to encourage Helen to adopt a more empathetic approach to clients. Enter Ray Gruber, Roz's more pragmatic brother, who is unapologetically blunt and unemotional, giving Helen an ally in the somewhat unpredictable world of probate law.

The standout element of Fisk is without a doubt its clever and sharp-witted script. The show offers a side-splitting blend of absurdist and observational comedy that permeates each episode. The dialogue is filled with witty exchanges and deadpan humour, making it a joy to watch. The writers skilfully balance the humour with poignant moments, which provide depth to the characters and richness to the storyline.

Visually, Fisk does not disappoint either. From a dreary grey office contrasted with colorful eccentric personalities to the soft pastels of Helen’s sorrowfully chic apartment, the cinematography is outstanding. The attention to detail in the production design underscores and enhances the comedy, as well as the pathos that permeates the series.

Fisk is a remarkably fresh comedy, tackling a topic often considered taboo with grace, irreverence, and a hearty dose of cynicism. The bold and in-your-face humour serves to offset the darker themes surrounding death and loss, making this show a viewing pleasure. All these contributes to a series that stands out from the crowded landscape of contemporary television, showcasing the perceptiveness and originality of Australian humour on an international platform like Netflix.

Moreover, the series shines a light on the underappreciated landscape of probate law. While it may seem drab and dull, Fisk makes it engaging, drawing us deeper into the lives of these characters, their idiosyncrasies and the emotional roller coaster that comes with dealing with loss.

At its heart, Fisk is a series about people navigating their way through loss and change, the complexities of relationships, and the occasional absurdity of existence. While it is a comedy series, it does not shy away from the encompassing touch of tragedy, creating a balanced viewing experience between laughter and emotional depth.

In conclusion, Fisk from Netflix in 2021 is worth a watch for anyone who enjoys a well-crafted, intelligent comedy. The show presents a unique take on the world of probate law, coupling it with character-driven humour, and a multitude of wonderfully awkward and relatable moments. With a superb cast, stellar writing, and a theme that marries the dark with the humorous, Fisk is an engaging and rewarding series that promises to keep you hooked from start to finish.