This telemovie is subtle, engrossing, beautiful to look at and makes complete emotional sense. The first part is not slow – it depicts the migrant experience and presents multiple perspectives so the viewer can understand the shadings and shiftings of viewpoint. This makes the second part work because the viewer sees the ethical dilemma as real and visceral. Does Thornhill protect his family or does he take a huge chance that would place him outside of his own society and expectations? The scenario depicted shows why Australia developed the way it did. A tragedy that realistically could not have been avoided.

Grossly over rated. Typical Lefty view of history and so predictable. Not to deny what happened, it had been well documented. However, the turn of events was so so predictable with nothing more to add than what we have seen time and tine again. This was more to appeal to the emotions in that previously dispossessed working class worker is sent to the colonies only to turn out dispossessing the locals. I was was always waiting for the punch line, but it never arrived. The real villains never came to justice. What happened to them? Disappointing given all the hype. The Brits, typically are made out to be the bad guys, typical stereotypes But nothing really new or compelling to make one want yo watch again. As usual, no surprise that viewers are switching off Australian ABC produced drama.

This production was pure excellence from the opening scenes. From the outset, the audience was catapulted into early colonial Australia. The grit, the grime, the smells. Every experience was visceral and you really felt for the characters as they negotiate the foreign landscape and society. The epic journey down the river delivered snapshots of early colonial life.The screenplay was sublime. It was authentic. The characters were believable and their personal desires and dreams seemed realistic. The performances were sound and the director shies away from being overly sentimental.