Water Rats

Water Rats is an enthralling Australian television police procedural and crime drama series set in the picturesque backdrop of Sydney Harbour. Originating from the Nine Network and bringing together a fantastic ensemble cast, featuring top-billed actors such as Colin Friels, Catherine McClements, Steve Bisley, Jay Laga'aia, Aaron Pedersen, Dee Smart amongst others, the series showcased some captivating storytelling on screen from 1996 to 2001. As an iconic exploration of the marine law enforcement and harbor-centric crime in Sydney, Water Rats has left an enduring impact on the Australian Television landscape.

The series revolves around the fast-paced and challenging lives of the members of the Sydney Water Police, an operational unit of the New South Wales Police Force. They are tasked with maintaining law and order in and around the waterways of Sydney, including the bustling docks and the beautiful marina. The officers deal with an array of crimes that range from drug smuggling, pollution, theft, murder, and even maritime terrorism, reflecting the vast and diversified world of water-borne crime.

Colin Friels plays Frank Holloway, a seasoned detective who embodies that classic, hard-boiled investigator trope but with a distinctly Australian twist. His character has a deeply entrenched history with the harbor, giving a layer of personal connection and depth to each crime he investigates. Catherine McClements stars as Rachel 'Goldie' Goldstein, a young, ambitious detective who becomes partners with Frank. Their chemistry, often riddled with disagreements and differences, brings in a plethora of humor, tension, and warmth to the gritty crime-narrative.

The show also features Steve Bisley as Detective Jack Christey, Jay Laga'aia as Senior Constable Tommy Tavita, Aaron Pedersen as Michael Reilly, and Dee Smart as Donna Janevski; all as vital members of the Sydney Water Police. Each character has their unique backstory and personalities, whose arcs are beautifully intertwined with the overarching narrative, often presenting them with ethical dilemmas, personal conflicts, and opportunities for growth.

Across the series, viewers are submerged in the daily grind of these brave souls who protect the city both above and beneath Sydney's stunning Harbour. The series captures the essence of teamwork and camaraderie amongst police officers faced with riveting drama and high-tension situations, crafting an excellent balance of personal narratives against the backdrop of thrilling procedural crime-solving.

Filmed on-location using actual Water Police vessels, the series offers an authentic feel to its settings, and it’s not uncommon to witness spectacular sunny skies or chiaroscuro induced night-time sequences that grace the show's cinematography. There's an ongoing commitment in the series to depict both the beauty and the underlying grit of Sydney's waterways, often remarketed as an important character in the narrative.

During its run and post its conclusion, Water Rats made waves both domestically and internationally for its unique premise and memorable story arcs. The series brilliantly amalgamated elements from diverse genres, from traditional procedurals and thrilling action to interpersonal drama, making for a compelling narrative that kept audiences hooked for its 177 episodes.

The less-explored territory of marine crimes, combined with compelling character play, breathtaking scenery, and an intriguing plot, adds to the allure of Water Rats. The series masterfully utilized its setting and a great cast to build an endearing world of aquatic law enforcement, striking a chord with viewers who were seeking an out-of-the-box crime drama.

In conclusion, Water Rats is a noteworthy contribution to the Australian TV scene, adding a unique twist to the crime genre with its nautical theme. The series stands as a testament to Australia's ability to deliver gritty, yet engaging police drama, powered by skilled performances and riveting storytelling. It’s a must-watch for anyone keen on deep-diving into the intriguing world of maritime law enforcement.