Howzat: Kerry Packer's War

Howzat: Kerry Packer's War is a compelling two-part Australian television mini-series that aired in 2012. Produced by Southern Star Group and distributed by Endemol, the series is a captivating tale of power, money, and the love of sports. Central to this narrative is Kerry Packer, a media magnate whose influence during the late 20th century had a massive impact on Australian television and cricket.

The series begins by depicting a recurring situation in the late 70s, when Kerry Packer, played brilliantly by Lachy Hulme, is refused the broadcasting rights to Australian cricket, despite being a die-hard fan and the owner of Channel Nine. Rooted deeply in the rights issue, the series passionately narrates Packer's battle to revolutionize the game of cricket.

As a viewer, you'll be transported back to an era when cricket, much like many other sports at the time, remained an amateur sport. Its players were grossly underpaid and often needed to find jobs elsewhere to support themselves financially. This disregard for the welfare of the players, despite cricket's growing popularity, sparks Packer's journey to transform the world of cricket into the lucrative professional sport it is today.

The narrative of Howzat: Kerry Packer's War galvanizes a tempestuous strength that begins and ends with Kerry Packer. His personality traits of stubbornness, aggression, and the will to succeed against all odds perfectly embodied in Hulme's evocative performance. As Packer, Hulme brings an appealing blend of brash business sense, unshakeable determination, and quick wit, coupled with a penchant for vibrant language that truly reflects the character.

However, the series is far from being a one-man show. Surrounded by a dynamic ensemble cast, including Abe Forsythe, Hamish Michael, and Clayton Watson among others, the narrative cleverly paints a vivid portrait of the milieu of cricket in the era before Packer's intervention, and how it changes as a result of his radical ideas.

The series takes a deep dive into the world of cricket, so even if you are not familiar with cricket, you'll still find yourself engrossed in its gripping narrative. You're introduced to a world of political intrigue, financial power-plays, and an underdog's war against an established order. For those with a penchant for sports-based dramas, Howzat: Kerry Packer's War offers an intriguing look at the interplay of sports administration, media rights, players' welfare, and the evolution of cricket that fueled a revolution in sport broadcasting.

Beyond the game of cricket, the mini-series paints a larger picture of media ownership and its role in the sporting landscape. It elucidates a fascinating commentary on how groundbreaking shifts can take place within conventional structures when perseverance and audacious vision unite. This, combined with an engaging storyline, stunning recreations, and first-rate performances, makes Howzat: Kerry Packer's War a much-watch for both sports and drama enthusiasts.

The production values of the series are also noteworthy, as the creators have meticulously reconstructed the 1970s-era, from the vintage cars and television sets to the flamboyant clothing of the era. This meticulous attention to detail allows viewers to immerse themselves fully in the time and place, making the narrative all the more powerful.

To sum up, Howzat: Kerry Packer's War operates on multiple levels. It is a gripping story about the gritty determination of a man to turn the sporting world on its head. It is a historical account of the transformation of cricket from a slow-paced, elitist sport to a fast-paced, popular game watched by millions around the globe. And finally, it is an in-depth study of the interplay between sports, media, and money.

Whether you are a cricket lover, a sports fan, a history enthusiast, or a follower of compelling drama, Howzat: Kerry Packer's War has something to offer to everyone. Its potent mixture of drama, history, and sport ensures an immersive viewing experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.