“Boy Swallows Universe:” Navigating the Gritty Streets of 1985 Brisbane

In a seven-part adaptation, the Netflix rendition of Trent Dalton’s novel, “Boy Swallows Universe,” takes viewers on a journey through the gritty streets of 1985 Brisbane. Directors Bharat Nalluri, Jocelyn Moorhouse, and Kim Mordaunt skillfully weave a tapestry of storytelling that merges the realms of video games and fantasy narratives, bringing Eli’s world to life in a truly unique way.

The series kicks off with a heart-pounding home invasion scene, immediately immersing the audience into the gritty underbelly of Eli’s lower-class neighborhood. Against this backdrop, 13-year-old Eli, portrayed with radiant optimism by Felix Cameron, navigates a world of shady characters and formidable challenges. The storytelling unfolds through a series of vignettes, exploring Eli’s entanglement in the drug trade, encounters with underworld figures, and his poignant correspondence with a pen pal behind bars.

One of the series’ standout features is the incorporation of dream sequences, where Eli and his mute older brother Gus take flight through space. These surreal interludes add a touch of whimsy and serve as quasi-flashbacks, enhancing the overall narrative with a unique visual flair.

While the tone of “Boy Swallows Universe” may be lighter compared to the novel, it successfully captures the gritty realities of adult life through the lens of a young and hopeful protagonist. The series occasionally leans toward being heavy-handed but ultimately maintains an optimistic outlook. Felix Cameron’s performance as Eli is a beacon of positivity, shining brightly even amidst the challenges depicted in the series.

However, a notable shift occurs with the change in actors portraying Eli, with Zac Burgess stepping into the role in the penultimate episode. This transition, coupled with the absence of a replacement for Gus’s character, introduces a tone shift that may require some adjustment for viewers.

The strong cast includes the likes of Travis Fimmel, Simon Baker, Phoebe Tonkin, Felix Cameron, Lee Halley, Bryan Brown and Anthony LaPaglia.

“Boy Swallows Universe” stands out as a unique Australian period piece, offering a compelling narrative that seamlessly blends light and dark elements. The series paints a vivid picture of individuals striving for more despite their challenging circumstances. While it’s not without minor flaws, the compelling performances and engaging storytelling do make “Boy Swallows Universe” worth watching.

Boy Swallows Universe is streaming now on Netflix.