Snobs

Snobs is an engaging teen-oriented television drama that aired on Nine Network Australia between 2003 and 2004. The series, with an intriguing premise of a clash of cultures and values, draws its audience into an authentic depiction of the dynamics of Australian life.

This 26-episode series revolves around the lives of two major characters: Abby Oakley, a girl from an affluent middle-class suburb, and the eponymous hero, Snobs, a handsome and mischievous stray dog. Befriending Snobs leads Abby into the heart of a nomadic community known as “The Ferals”. Thrilling adventures unfold as the duo navigate life among the Ferals while dealing with the challenges and prejudices of Abby's privileged suburban life.

The Feral community, depicted as free-spirited and guided by their rules and code of conduct, stands in stark contrast to Abby's structured and materially focused suburban lifestyle. The town of Eden Beach, where Abby lives, is a quintessential depiction of a town in the coastal area of New South Wales, characterised by its sand, sea and relative tranquility.

While Abby and Snobs are certainly the central characters, the show offers a plethora of other nuanced characters. Each member of the Feral community has a unique persona and carries their own compelling backstory, creating a rich tapestry that adds depth and complexity to the plot.

Characters like Spike, the de facto leader of the Ferals, Pia, his feisty sister, and Sam, a boy with a unique understanding of the environment, contribute to the dynamics and tensions within the series. These characters, along with Abby’s school friends Marian, Brooke, and Charlie, embody a range of personalities and perspectives, which provide multi-dimensional viewpoints on the situations that arise from the clash of the two vastly different worlds.

Not confined to being just a show for entertainment, Snobs addresses a number of significant themes and issues. With thought-provoking subplots, it confronts topics such as social differences, prejudice, friendship, loyalty, understanding, acceptance, and human-nature relationships. The differences between the free-roaming lifestyle of the Feral community contrasted with the more rigid, rule-based suburbia also sheds light on freedom, individuality, and conformity.

Snobs deftly balances lighthearted, humorous moments with more serious and poignant scenes, allowing it to appeal to a range of audiences. As viewers journey through the series, they will encounter varied situations that trigger a mix of emotions - laughter, empathy, tension, surprise - ultimately making for a memorable viewing experience.

The heart of the show undoubtedly lies in the growing friendship between Abby and Snobs, and the lessons they learn together. Both are outsiders in their respective ways with Abby being misunderstood by her peers due to her sympathy for the Ferals and Snobs being a stray dog. The bond they share and the mutual understanding they reach due to their unique circumstances form the backbone of the series.

In terms of production, Snobs boasts high-quality visuals and captures the stunning Australian beachside topography. The soundtrack is well-suited to the show’s vibe, using music effectively to heighten emotion and drama.

All these elements combined make Snobs more than just a teen show. It is a series that aims to encourage viewers to contemplate social norms, prejudices, and the true value of friendship. While it works as an entertaining coming-of-age story, it also serves as a cultural microcosm reflecting ageless socio-cultural conflicts. With its compelling characters, quality production, and engaging narrative, Snobs remains a notable piece of Australian television.