Sando

Sando is an Australian television comedy drama that aired on Acorn TV in 2018. The show, starring the immensely talented Sacha Horler, portrays a deeply entertaining and engaging narrative revolving around family dynamics, flawed relationships, humorous circumstances, and life's imperfect realities.

Horler takes on the quirky title character, Victoria 'Sando' Sandringham, a larger-than-life character, brimming with infectious energy, unpredictable antics, and radiant charisma. Sando used to be the charismatic and energetic CEO of a popular low-cost furniture store, 'Sando's Warehouse', earning her celebrity status. However, after a series of personal and professional setbacks, she hits rock-bottom, still clinging onto her spot in the limelight.

Now a washed-up public figure, Sando's life takes a downturn from which she is struggling to recover. An outrageous scandal within her family led to a major falling-out with her daughter, alienating her from her loved ones, especially her grown-up children. The series begins ten years after her fall from grace as she battles to reestablish the family ties, getting her business back on track while trying to mend broken relationships.

The narrative weaves together poignant moments with uproarious laughter, constantly kept fresh and engaging. It explores themes of betrayal, forgiveness, and redemption, catapulted by Sando's outrageously comedic attempts at winning back her title as "Australia's Divorcee Queen". Moreover, the show intersperses dramatic family break-ups and make-ups with ludicrously humorous situations, showcasing Sando's outrageous attempts to regain both her family's love and her business empire.

Sacha Horler's performance as Sando sets the stage on fire as she embodies the character with unmatched vivacity and charm. Her brilliant comic timing and expression lend an undeniable appeal to the series. Not rooted solely in comedy, Horley successfully brings out the emotional side of Sando, displaying her vulnerabilities and fears, giving depth to her character, and making her relatable to the audience.

The ensemble cast further enriches the narrative of the show. Characters like Sando’s ex-husband Don (Phil Lloyd), her estranged daughter Susie (Krew Boylan), Susie’s partner Gary (Uli Latukefu), her son Eric (Dylan Hesp), as well as her father (Rob Carlton) contribute to the dynamic storyline. They portray fascinating characters with their unique quirks and distinctive personalities, contributing to the comedy while adding layers to the family dynamic. For instance, Sando's interactions with her ex-husband and business partner, Don, often hit the comic high-note while also capturing the underlying bitterness and discomfort between the two.

The dialogues are sharp and witty, contributing to the humor, but they also carry the weight of intended emotions. The screenwriting is commendable as it weaves multiple plot-lines simultaneously without getting too overburdened. The humor not only comes from the comic situations that arise but also from the interpersonal relationships of the characters.

The set designs, especially the flamboyantly designed Sando's Warehouse, add further flavor to the show. Each location serves as the backdrop for Sando's drama-filled life, adding depth to the story. The production value and cinematography of the series are top-notch, contributing to an immersive viewing experience.

In Sando, the creators have crafted an unusual character study, showcasing Sando’s wild attempts to regain her family and her career. It is a show that brilliantly uses humor to highlight the complexities of familial relationships while exploring the themes of redemption and self-improvement.

All in all, Sando from Acorn TV is a highly entertaining family-focused dramedy filled with unforgettable characters, hilarious situations, and tender moments. It invites the viewers to be a part of Sando's world as she sails through the tumultuous waters of family scandals, broken relationships, and business blunders. With its unique blend of humor and emotions, it promises to offer a rollercoaster ride of laughter, disappointment, heartbreak, and redemption.