Boy Swallows Universe Review: Based on Trent Dalton’s novel, the series is skilfully directed by Bharat Nalluri, Jocelyn Moorhouse, and Kim Mordaunt. This gripping Netflix crime drama features Lee Tiger Halley portraying Gus Bell, Christopher James Baker as Ivan Kroll, Phoebe Tonkin embodying Frances Bell, Felix Cameron taking on the role of Eli Bell, Jordy Campbell as Bobby Linyette, Eloise Rothfield shining as Shelly Huffman, and Zachary Wan playing Darren Dang and others. The show consists of 7 compelling episodes, each with a runtime of 60 minutes.
Boy Swallows Universe Plot
In the gritty underworld of Brisbane, Boy Swallows Universe unfolds the life of twelve-year-old Eli Bell and his elder brother, who apparently possess the visual power to see the future. Despite a tumultuous upbringing, Eli aspires to be a good man. However, his world takes a dark turn when his mother’s life is at stake. Navigating the dangerous underbelly of the city to save her leads him into a web of secrets, alliances, and a fight for survival.
– Boy Swallows Universe Netflix Review Contains No Spoilers-
Boy Swallows Universe Review
This series takes us on an emotional rollercoaster, offering a refreshingly unique blend of working-class authenticity, dark humour, and a touch of magical realism. The narrative kicks off with Lyle’s earnest attempts to improve his family’s circumstances, unwittingly triggering a chain of events that leaves Eli and Gus fending for themselves in a world filled with elaborate scenarios and colourful characters. Throughout the series, we witness the hardships faced by Eli, fostering empathy for him as he strives to correct his path amid a backdrop of adversity.
Drawing inspiration from Trent Dalton’s own experiences, the show’s keen observation of authenticity in working-class communities prevents it from coming across as preachy or judgmental. Instead, it genuinely strives to understand and communicate why each character, regardless of their circumstances, deserves a second look. The energetic journey through Eli’s eccentric life is both surprising and sincere. Adding to the intrigue is the character of his elder brother, Gus, who, in the initial episodes, remains silent due to a car accident at the age of seven. Despite his inability to speak, Gus possesses the power of visualizing the future, making each subsequent event even more captivating.
While the show may offer moments of social commentary, its strength lies in its day-to-day enjoyment. It manages to be both fun and well-observed, resonating particularly with those from battered communities. The series seamlessly weaves in elements of magical realism, providing a fantastical touch to Eli’s tumultuous experiences. The use of these elements is well-balanced, often rooted in a child’s traumatised mind trying to rationalise challenging situations. The payoffs for these surreal moments are consistently worth the suspension of disbelief.
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What sets this series apart is its unwavering compassion for its characters, especially those facing adversity. Lyle, a central figure in the early episodes, is portrayed as a deeply sympathetic character whose misguided decisions stem from good intentions. Even seemingly cartoonish characters like Robert, the father, reveal layers of trauma and sentiment beneath their exterior.
Felix Cameron’s portrayal of Eli is nothing short of stellar, capturing the character’s chattiness, humour, and optimism. Eli’s journey is not just a dark tale; it’s a poignant exploration of a child forced to grow up ahead of his time. The decision to age Eli up in the penultimate episode introduces Zac Burgess, which, while initially jarring, adds a new layer to the narrative. Burgess brings a hard-nosed quality to the role, shifting the tone unexpectedly but effectively.
It did seem that there may have been an oversight in the ageing process for Eli, as it could have been extended to other characters within the narrative. This observation is particularly evident when considering Eli’s elder brother, who remarkably retained an identical appearance despite the passage of time. Furthermore, other peripheral characters in the story also remained unchanged, highlighting a potential inconsistency in the portrayal of ageing throughout the narrative.
The series excels in portraying characters with depth and nuance. Despite their flaws, the series humanises them – Lyle’s unfortunate decisions stem from a desire to provide for his family, and Slim Halliday is presented as more than just an infamous killer. Even in the face of grief, bullying, and addiction, the show maintains a relatively bright atmosphere. It cleverly balances moments of inspiration with a more cynical undertone without overwhelming the audience.
While the series captivates with engaging dialogue, it occasionally falters with uneven pacing. Episodes may feel sprawling, and the narrative, at times, seems slow without intending to be. Despite this, the drama remains melodramatic, tugging at the heartstrings with emotional moments that, while poignant, may not resonate equally with everyone.
Boy Swallows Universe Review: Final Thoughts
This series stands out as more than just a dark tale; it’s a poignant exploration of growth, love, and the indomitable nature of the human spirit. Despite occasional pacing challenges, the drama remains emotionally resonant, delivering poignant moments that, while not universally relatable, create a memorable viewing experience. For those seeking a unique blend of realism and fantasy, coupled with well-developed characters facing adversity, this series offers a compelling and enjoyable narrative worth exploring. In its compassionate storytelling and nuanced character portrayals, Boy Swallows Universe becomes a captivating choice for those who appreciate the complexities of life woven into the fabric of an engaging and thought-provoking tale.
Boy Swallows Universe series is now streaming on Netflix.