High Life

High Life is a groundbreaking, cutting-edge Australian television series that grabbed critical attention in 2017. The show came to life through the collaborative creativity of creatives who came together under the banner of Fullscreen and had a unique perspective to share with their audience. The series offers a profound reflection on the intricacies of life and the struggles that are rarely spoken about openly in the entertainment industry. A majority of the episodes strike a chord with a myriad of their viewer's experiences.

The series stands out for its portrayal of a young woman named Genevieve, who is stuck in a battle against her own deep-rooted psychological issues. The narrative, meticulously paced and brilliantly executed, isn't about someone looking for a quick-fix for her issues; instead, it's about learnings through life. With numerous thought-provoking situations and unexpected plot twists, High Life is far from a cliché.

At the heart of High Life is the viewer’s journey alongside Genevieve or "Gen," played by the incredibly talented Odessa Young. Gen's journey isn't just about fighting mental health problems. It's also about the profound realization that comes from self-exploration and understanding. Fighting her mental health demons with humor, stoicism, and raw honesty, Gen isn't always likable, but she's consistently human and real.

The main highlight of High Life is its relatable narrative and engaging script. The storyline effortlessly portrays life with mental challenges, making sure to incorporate lighter moments to balance the intense drama. The audience is allowed to comprehend the character’s struggles and empathize with her reality. The storyline doesn't trivialize or dramatize the issue; it normalizes it.

Probably one of the most compelling characters in the series, apart from Gen, is her father, David, portrayed by Simon Burke. Their relationship is complex and nuanced, highlighting the reality of many families dealing with mental health issues.

Furthermore, Stephen Nicolazzo's masterful direction ensures that the storyline doesn't lose its intensity while exploring some of the profound topics. The creative storytelling technique used throughout High Life provides a unique representation of ordinary life with an extraordinary perspective.

What sets High Life apart from other series in the same genre is its cinematic aesthetics, which are aesthetically pleasing while maintaining a realistic tone. This is evident in both the production design and the cinematography. With sweeping, artistic shots and subtle production design, the show is visually appealing, adding another layer to the compelling writing and performances.

The dialogue in High Life is sharp, witty, and deep, filled with wisdom and humor. It’s a huge part of what makes the characters so well-rounded and the storyline so potent. Each episode is based on meticulously structured plot points that guide the viewer towards a deeper understanding of the characters.

In terms of the production, Fullscreen has played a pivotal role in bringing High Life to the small screen. Given the subject matter, it was essential to present the content appropriately to avoid any misconceptions or stigmas around mental health issues. Kudos to them for ensuring that the series was able to shine a light on this essential topic in a gentle, compassionate, and respectful manner.

Lastly, it is essential to mention the performances. High Life wouldn’t be the triumphant series it is without its incredibly talented cast. Young, Burke, and the rest of the cast deliver performances that appeal to a wide spectrum of emotions, making the audience laugh and sob, sometimes within minutes of each other. Given the heavy material they are working with, their performances are impressively nuanced and impactful.

In conclusion, High Life is for viewers who appreciate television that steps outside the boundaries of common drama. It's a show that doesn't shy away from addressing hard topics head-on and doesn’t go for a whitewashed version of reality. Instead, it presents a raw, authentic, and deeply moving portrayal of mental health struggles, wrapped in engaging dialogue, thought-provoking scenes, and memorable performances. High Life is, without a doubt, a remarkable production and a commendable effort by Fullscreen. Its substance and aesthetic make it a must-watch series for anyone looking for quality content.