Review of Total Control

Although there are some really solid performances (I personally never 'bought' into Ms Griffiths portrayal as prime minister), the focus on the personal relationships and many issues and agendas being addressed quickly made this into more of a soap opera than political drama. I was impressed by the many Aboriginal characters that defied the usual cinematic stereotypes and predictable storylines, but it just became far too complex and busy to be able to fully develop anyone or any issue satisfactorily. It's refreshing to see that not all Aboriginal characters are saintly or even likeable at times (Alex drinking too much, swearing too much and screwing another woman's hubby, for instance), as well as the blatant self-serving political apparatus that is all too real. A few unrealistic scenarios and above all, for me, the constant inclusion of unnecessary songs that overwhelmed some scenes, really spoiled it. If you want to showcase a singer or soundtrack, do it at the beginning or end of a show, not all the way through! Arg. Far too much of this is being done lately and it's annoying. If there isn't good writing and character development, then this is one way to carry a production forward. But not for me, thanks. It's watchable but heads downhill after a while in my opinion. A missed opportunity for lots of good talent and premise.