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Four ordinary New Zealand women, closely connected by shared history and friendship, meet regularly to drink and talk. One night, the women rail against men in general and husbands in particular. Jodie, leading the charge, goes one step further – to hell with divorce, she wishes Brian were dead. Little does Jodie know that her husband will soon lie stone-cold dead on the kitchen floor. It’s an accident, but it looks bad – very bad. Jodie would face the music if it was only herself to consider; but what about the children? She turns to her friends for help and they come through – utilising their various talents to help bury Brian’s body and convince the world that he has run off with another woman. As Jodie is about to discover, Brian did have his secrets, which could make it look like she had a motive or two for murder. But she can’t worry about that for long, with the arrival of her mother-in-law, and the helpful friend of Brian’s who keeps popping in to check on her…
Genre: Drama
Main Cast: Jodie Dorday, Rebecca Hobbs, Carolyn McLaughlin, Ingrid Park
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1 season, 6 episodes, 265-minute runtime
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In 2008, a unique TV show from New Zealand hit the screens, intriguing audiences with its dark humor and compelling narrative. “Burying Brian” is a show that, despite its somewhat grim title, managed to blend comedy, drama, and a touch of crime thriller into a concoction that was hard to resist. This article takes a closer look at what made “Burying Brian” stand out, its plot, characters, and why it’s worth revisiting or discovering for the first time.
The Plot: A Quick Overview
At the heart of “Burying Brian” is a story that kicks off with an event that’s as shocking as it is darkly comedic. When Jodie, a suburban housewife, accidentally kills her abusive husband Brian during a domestic altercation, she and her close friends are thrust into a situation none of them could have anticipated. Opting against going to the police, they decide to bury Brian and pretend as if he’s disappeared. This decision sets off a chain of events that is both hilarious and harrowing, as the women navigate their lives while keeping a significant secret.
Characters: More Than Meets the Eye
Jodie
Jodie is the protagonist around whom the story revolves. Portrayed as a typical suburban mom, her character depth unfolds as she deals with the aftermath of her actions. Her transformation from a victim of domestic abuse to a woman taking control of her life, albeit through questionable decisions, is central to the narrative.
The Friends
Jodie’s friends, who become her accomplices, are essential to the plot. Each friend brings a unique perspective and set of skills to the table, making their dynamic interesting. There’s the pragmatic friend, the emotional supporter, and the one who’s always a bit on edge. Their interactions, filled with genuine care and moments of conflict, add layers to the story.
Brian
While Brian’s physical presence in the show is brief, his character’s impact lingers throughout the series. The show delves into who Brian was, through flashbacks and conversations, painting a picture of a complex individual who affected many lives, for better or worse.
Why “Burying Brian” Stands Out
“Burying Brian” isn’t your typical TV show, and here’s why:
The Blend of Genres
It’s not easy to categorize “Burying Brian” into a single genre. It masterfully combines elements of drama, comedy, and crime, creating a unique viewing experience. The show’s ability to balance dark humor with serious themes is commendable, making it more than just a comedy or a drama.
Tackling Serious Issues with Humor
Domestic abuse, the main catalyst for the series, is a serious issue. “Burying Brian” approaches it with sensitivity while also using humor as a tool to explore its impact. This approach allows for a more nuanced discussion and brings a certain lightness to a heavy topic, making it accessible without undermining its seriousness.
Strong Female Leads
At a time when TV was still finding its footing in terms of representing strong, complex female characters, “Burying Brian” was ahead of the curve. The show focuses on women taking charge of their lives, supporting each other, and facing challenges head-on. It’s refreshing and empowering to watch.
Memorable Moments
Throughout its run, “Burying Brian” had several standout moments that left an impression on viewers. Here are a few:
- The Initial Decision: The moment Jodie and her friends decide to bury Brian instead of going to the police is pivotal. It sets the tone for the entire series and showcases the blend of drama and dark humor that defines the show.
- The Disposal Scene: The scene where the women dispose of Brian’s body is both tense and comically absurd, highlighting the show’s ability to balance different tones.
- Personal Growth: Watching each character grow and deal with their personal issues, all while managing the secret of what they’ve done, is both engaging and heartwarming.
Behind the Scenes
Creating a show like “Burying Brian” was no small feat. The writers and producers had to navigate the fine line between humor and respect for the serious themes they were dealing with. The cast, too, played a significant role in bringing this story to life, delivering performances that were both believable and deeply engaging. Their ability to embody these complex characters and make viewers care about them is a testament to their talent.
Legacy and Impact
Though “Burying Brian” might not have the same name recognition as some of its contemporaries, its impact on those who watched it is undeniable. It showed that it’s possible to create a series that’s funny, thought-provoking, and emotionally resonant all at once. It paved the way for more shows that aren’t afraid to mix genres and tackle difficult subjects with a blend of seriousness and levity.
Conclusion
“Burying Brian” is a show that deserves more attention than it initially received. Its unique blend of genres, strong character development, and willingness to tackle serious issues with humor and sensitivity make it a standout series. For those who missed it the first time around or are looking for something different to watch, “Burying Brian” offers a viewing experience that’s as entertaining as it is thought-provoking. Whether you’re drawn to the intriguing plot, the complex characters, or the show’s unique tone, there’s something in “Burying Brian” for everyone to appreciate.