Treasure & Dirt is a six-part series that takes viewers on a journey into the heart of an enigmatic opal-mining town, Nulla. It's a detective mystery, but not one that relies on the usual suspects and familiar tropes. Instead, it's a unique and captivating exploration of a place and its peculiar inhabitants. The show is a co-production between the BBC and the ABC, with a stellar cast and crew, including director Madeleine Gottlieb and cinematographer Edward Goldner. The series is a testament to the power of storytelling, where the setting becomes as crucial as the characters themselves.
The story begins with a gruesome beheading, a crime that sets Detective Ivan Lucic and his partner, rookie detective Nell Buchanan, on the trail. Lucic, played by Michael Dorman, is a gruff but dedicated investigator, and Buchanan, portrayed by Liv Hewson, brings a fresh perspective to the case. Their investigation leads them into the heart of Nulla, a place that feels like another world entirely. The town is ruled by a peculiar set of customs and unwritten laws, and the locals, including the enigmatic 'Mayor' (Mark Mitchinson), add to the surreal atmosphere.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Treasure & Dirt is its attention to detail. The writers, Matt Cameron and Kate Mulvany, have crafted a vivid and immersive world. The town of Nulla is brought to life through the eyes of the characters, and the audience is treated to a rich tapestry of unique individuals. From the physically imposing 'Man Mountain' (Nathan Jones) to the tech billionaire Robby Inglis (Eamon Farren), each character contributes to the overall sense of place and mystery. The show's cinematography, with its faded and weather-beaten look, and the editing by Tyson Williams, create a dreamlike atmosphere that enhances the story's intrigue.
What sets Treasure & Dirt apart is its focus on the town itself. The greatest pleasure of the series lies in the exploration of Nulla's peculiar dynamics and the relationships between its inhabitants. The show doesn't shy away from the crime, but it also doesn't make it the sole focus. Instead, it uses the murder as a catalyst to delve into the town's secrets and the complex web of characters that inhabit it. This approach adds depth and richness to the narrative, making it more than just a whodunit story.
The show's unique setting and atmospheric tone are reminiscent of other Australian TV shows and films that have explored off-the-grid locations, such as 'Deadloch', 'Population 11', 'The Cars That Ate Paris', 'Welcome to Woop Woop', and 'Wake in Fright'. These works have all contributed to a rich tradition of storytelling that embraces the surreal and the offbeat. Treasure & Dirt continues this tradition, offering a fresh and captivating take on the crime drama genre.
While there are some minor bumps along the way, such as slow patches and character dynamics that don't always gel, these are minor quibbles. The show's strength lies in its ability to transport viewers to a different world, where the crime is just one piece of a much larger puzzle. Treasure & Dirt is a testament to the power of storytelling, where the setting becomes a character in its own right, and the audience is invited to explore a world that is both strange and eerily familiar.
In conclusion, Treasure & Dirt is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted mystery with a unique twist. It's a show that invites viewers to step into a different reality, where the crime is just the beginning. With its rich characters, atmospheric setting, and clever storytelling, it's a series that will leave a lasting impression long after the final episode.
