8.4 / 10 (based on 46 reviews)
An Australian drama series, which revolves around The Breakers building, situated near Bondi Beach, and the lives of the people who work and live there.
Genre: Drama, Romance
Main Cast: John Atkinson, Michelle Avery, Angelena Bonet, James Stewart
Creators: Jimmy Thomson
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1 season, 429 episodes, 30-minute runtime
Shows Most Like Breakers (1998)
Breakers (2019)
7.4 / 10 (based on 106 reviews)
Jack is reliving the same day over and over again so he seeks help from a therapist, but when Jack discovers a murder and finds himself pursued by gangsters and a psychopath he must find a way to stop the murder or wind up stuck forever.
Genre: Crime
Main Cast: Allan Thomas, Amanda Joy Erickson, Clay E Jones, James DeWitt III
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1 season, 10 episodes
The Heights (2019)
6.7 / 10 (based on 395 reviews)
The 60 x 30 serial drama centres on the inner-city neighbourhood of Arcadia Heights, exploring the relationships between the residents of the Arcadia social housing tower and the people who live in the rapidly gentrifying community that surrounds it. The Heights mines the frictions and commonalities between the upper and working classes in the melting pot of urban Australia. The series presents a medley of characters, cultures, classes and backgrounds from the ‘tower’ community, exploring their relationships, work lives and everyday challenges faced by its characters in an entertaining relationship drama series.
Genre: Drama
Main Cast: Shari Sebbens, Calen Tassone, Roz Hammond, Bridie McKim
Creators: Warren Clarke, Que Minh Luu
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2 seasons, 60 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
Number 96 (1972)
7 / 10 (based on 130 reviews)
Drama examining the lives of residents of a Sydney apartment block. Initial storylines focused on adultery, drug use, frigidity, rape, gossip, homosexuality, marriage problems, racism. The building’s ground floor delicatessen run by Hungarian Jew Aldo Godolfus and the nearby laundrette provided central meeting places for characters. Original residents included busty blonde virgin Bev Houghton who fell in love with her neighbour, homosexual lawyer Don Finlayson. Don’s flatmate lover was Bruce Taylor, a photographer who was secretly being kept financially by his employer, the bitchy and sardonic Maggie Cameron. Friendly Vera Collins read tarot cards for a living; her husband had deserted her and she would be perpetually unlucky in love. In flat 8 lived immigrants from Lancashire, whining Alf Sutcliffe and his salt of the earth wife Lucy, who worked in the laundrette. Interfering, malaproping gossip Dorrie Evans was the building’s self-appointed “conserge”; her husband was the more friendly Herb. Lovable rogue and ladies man Jack Sellars romanced Bev, Aldo had the problems of his rebellious daughter Rose before she got married and moved away, and Aldo’s new wife Roma Lubinski joined him in his comedy attempts to use modern Australian idiom. Also coming to work at the deli was new resident, the bookish young Arnold Feather. A wine bar opened in the building, run by bubbly Norma Whittaker. She and her amateur inventor husband Les moved in to live in flat 1. Camp young movie fan Dudley Butterfield arrived to work in the wine bar, and Dorrie’s old friend and now lodger was the no-nonsense Flo Patterson: a perfect foil for snobbish Dorrie. Maggie Cameron later became part owner of the building, frequently making unsuccessful attempts to evict the residents. The regimented Reg “Daddy” McDonald, has dizzy wife Edie “Mummy” McDonald and their ebullient daughter Marilyn later moved in the flat 5. An early storyline was the dreaded ‘knicker snipper’, a devious intruder who ransacked the women’s bedrooms and cut holes in their panties and bras. Later comedy storylines were added, while 1974 saw more crime with the horrific panty-hose strangler killing off two young women residents, and attacking one other. 1975 saw four major stars killed off in the infamous bomb-blast episode: a failed attempt to boost the show’s by then declining ratings. Australia’s first full frontal nude scene was added during the later episodes in 1977 but nevertheless, ratings waned and the series eventually ended, with Dorrie, Herb and Don the only original characters still around at the end.
Genre: Comedy, Crime, Drama, Mystery, Romance
Main Cast: Pat McDonald, Jeff Kevin, Joe Hasham, Elaine Lee
Creators: David Sale
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1 season, 1218 episodes, 25.0-minute runtime
In the late 90s, amidst a sea of soap operas that dominated daytime television, a unique show emerged from Australia. It was called “Breakers”. Unlike its contemporaries, “Breakers” tried to carve its own niche, focusing on the lives of the residents of a Sydney beachside apartment complex. This show, which ran from 1998 to 1999, may not have had the longevity of some of its counterparts, but it left a mark on its audience nonetheless. Let’s take a closer look at what made “Breakers” stand out, and why it’s worth revisiting or discovering for the first time.
The Setting
One of the first things that set “Breakers” apart was its setting. While most soap operas of the time opted for glamorous and often unrealistic locations, “Breakers” chose a more relatable backdrop—a beachside apartment complex. This choice not only grounded the show in reality but also provided a beautiful and sometimes serene backdrop to the drama that unfolded. The setting allowed for a variety of storylines, from the mundane to the extraordinary, all while keeping the ocean as a constant, calming presence.
The Characters
“Breakers” boasted an ensemble cast that brought a diverse range of characters to life. From the ambitious and sometimes ruthless business owners to the laid-back surfers, each character was well-defined and contributed to the show’s dynamic storytelling. What made these characters stand out was their depth and relatability. They weren’t just caricatures or archetypes; they were people with complex emotions, motivations, and flaws. This complexity made viewers invest in their journeys, cheering for their successes and empathizing with their struggles.
Memorable Characters
- Sonia Kingsley: As the owner of the Breakers cafe, Sonia was a central figure in the show. Her strength, resilience, and compassion made her a beloved character among fans.
- Dione Green: Dione’s storyline dealt with issues of identity and belonging, themes that resonated with many viewers. Her character’s growth throughout the series was both compelling and heartwarming.
Storylines
“Breakers” didn’t shy away from tackling tough issues. From substance abuse and mental health to family dynamics and personal growth, the show addressed topics that were both relevant and impactful. What made these storylines effective was their execution. The writers handled each subject with sensitivity and nuance, avoiding melodrama in favor of genuine emotion and realism.
Standout Storylines
- Mental Health: One storyline that stood out involved a character struggling with depression. The show portrayed this not as a plot device but as a serious issue, offering insight into the character’s experience and the importance of support and understanding.
- Community: “Breakers” also excelled at showcasing the power of community. Whether it was rallying around someone in need or coming together to celebrate, the sense of community was a recurring theme that underscored many of the show’s most memorable moments.
Why “Breakers” Stands Out
In a landscape filled with soap operas, “Breakers” managed to distinguish itself through its setting, characters, and storytelling. It offered viewers something different—a glimpse into the lives of everyday Australians dealing with real issues. The show’s focus on community and the importance of supporting one another is perhaps its most enduring legacy.
The Impact of “Breakers”
Though it was short-lived, “Breakers” had a lasting impact on its audience. It showed that soap operas could be about more than just sensationalism and escapism; they could also offer meaningful commentary on the human condition. For those who watched it, “Breakers” remains a fond memory, a show that, despite its flaws, captured the heart and spirit of its time.
Rediscovering “Breakers”
Today, “Breakers” might not be as well-known as some of its contemporaries, but it’s worth rediscovering. For fans of soap operas looking for something different, or for anyone interested in Australian television history, “Breakers” offers a unique viewing experience. Its blend of drama, humor, and heart makes it a show that, even decades later, still resonates.
Where to Watch
Finding “Breakers” can be a bit of a challenge, as it’s not as readily available as more popular shows from the era. However, dedicated fans have shared episodes on various online platforms, and occasionally, reruns appear on niche cable channels. For those willing to seek it out, “Breakers” is a hidden gem waiting to be rediscovered.
Conclusion
“Breakers” might not have had the longevity or widespread popularity of other soap operas, but it carved out its own niche in the late 90s television landscape. With its unique setting, complex characters, and thoughtful storytelling, it offered something different from the norm. For those who remember it, “Breakers” is a cherished part of their viewing history. And for those just discovering it, it’s an intriguing glimpse into a bygone era of television. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a curious newcomer, “Breakers” is a show that deserves a second look.