australian television information archive

Sea Patrol

Of all the local dramas to be launched this year, Sea Patrol carries the greatest weight of expectation.

Of all the local dramas to be launched this year, Sea Patrol carries the greatest weight of expectation. This is partly because of its price tag (at $900,000 an episode, it's the most expensive drama made in this country) and partly because it marks the return to series television of 1990s golden girl Lisa McCune. The main reason, however, is that its fortunes are inextricably bound with those of its network. Nine has taken a beating this year and it needs this show to do well - for its ratings, bottom line and morale.

Everything about Sea Patrol screams old-school drama. Co-producer Hal McElroy and writer Tony Morphett were driving forces behind Blue Heelers and Water Rats, while the show's setting recalls the ABC's venerable Patrol Boat. Toss in McCune and you're looking at a template for classic Aussie drama.

That's not to say the show looks creaky. In fact, it looks fantastic. You can see every cent that was spent on it and the navy's co-operation means the actors get to strut about some very impressive boats. Other positives include a solid cast and an intriguing mystery subplot.

Still, there's something missing. A group of ambitious young men and women in a high-pressure environment should be the very stuff of drama but everything seems a bit polite. You'd think fraternisation and bullying would be hot issues but the emphasis here seems to be on the brave and noble souls dedicated to the protection of our borders. You have to wonder whether the production's closeness to the navy has closed off some valuable dramatic avenues.

Ultimately, the question is: are Australian viewers looking for a solid, old-school drama in 2007? Considering our top-rating local dramas are All Saints and McLeod's Daughters, the answer is probably yes.

By Greg Hassall
July 4, 2007
Sydney Morning Herald