Les Norton

"Les Norton" is an action-comedy drama series from Australia, first aired in 2019 and marketed by 101 Films. It is based on Robert G. Barrett's classic Australian novels and is named after its main character, Les Norton.

At the heart of this series is Norton himself, a charismatic yet mysterious character. Les Norton is a small-town bloke who finds himself on the wrong side of the tracks one day, engendering a series of exciting and audacious events. He's endearingly rough-around-the-edges, a country boy from the fictional bush town of Dirranbandi, Queensland. Arriving in Sydney in the mid-1980s, Norton lands a job as a bouncer at an illicit casino, on only his first night in the city.

Norton is a rural lumberjack in his 20s, large in stature and brimming with affable charm which contrasts with his tough exterior. He's an outsider, engulfed in a world of crime and mystery he didn't ask for but must now navigate. Despite finding himself in a city steeped in corruption and underworld dealings, Norton retains his earnest, good-natured charm, eliciting both laughter and empathy throughout the series.

What makes "Les Norton" unique is its sound commitment to authentically bringing the 1980s Australian setting to life. The series is steeped in nostalgia, with everything from the brightly-coloured beachside fashion to the cars, and even the lingo used by characters reflecting this time period. The locations are equally evocative, portraying the iconic Eastern Suburbs and various other parts of 1980s Sydney.

Further intensifying the series' captivating appeal is a colourful cast of diverse characters. Their interactions with Les Norton often result in hilarious situations, adding a delightful touch of humour to the otherwise thrilling narrative. The flamboyantly colourful Billy Dunne is particularly noteworthy. As the illegal casino owner and Norton’s de facto boss, Dunne is one of various characters who introduce Norton and the audience to Sydney's gritty underworld.

Accompanying the entertaining characters, dynamic plotlines and engrossing settings are impressive production values. The series boasts high-quality cinematography and design elements that further embellish the story's vivid visual appeal. The music, largely era-specific rock, pop, and dance tracks, adds another layer of authenticity to the setting.

Despite its humour and charm, "Les Norton" is not just another light-hearted comedy series. The show masterfully blends different genres, featuring elements of action and mystery amidst its comedic scenarios. The series goes to great lengths to show the complex facets of its characters and the conditions that led them to their current circumstances, resulting in a narrative that is as deep and engaging as it is fun.

The writing bears a keen sense of wit and a profound understanding of the Australian way of life, which only adds to the show's charm. Dialogue is natural, adding personality and depth to the characters, further endearing them to the audience. The humour is distinctive, risqué at times, but it does an excellent job of offsetting the drama’s heavier moments. This combination of brilliant writing, unique humour, and intriguing storytelling results in a series that is highly engaging and thoroughly enjoyable.

"Les Norton" is a dynamic and entertaining series that excellently captures the essence of its source material while also displaying a unique character of its own. This energetic show pays homage to Australian culture in the '80s, unapologetically showcasing the lively, rough-around-the-edges charm that this decade is known for. It successfully combines humour, action, and mystery in a single narrative arc, making it a must-watch for both domestic and international viewers.

At its core, "Les Norton" is an intricate blend of engrossing storylines, enigmatic characters, and a generous sprinkle of humour. With its charismatic lead, an entertaining and well-rounded supporting cast, and an immersive storyline, the series is a testimony to the richness and diversity of Australian television content.