Netflix’s new coming-of-age TV series “Boy Swallows Universe” has left viewers astounded and emotional. The seven-part limited series, which premiered on January 11, is based on the semi-autobiographical book of the same name by Australian author Trent Dalton. It stars newcomer Felix Cameron as protagonist Eli Bell and is set in 1980s suburban Brisbane.
The series follows the challenging upbringing of 13-year-old Eli, whose life is complicated by his stepfather’s involvement in drug dealing and his mother’s struggles with addiction. As Eli grows, he embarks on a journey to save his mother, Frances, played by Phoebe Tonkin, by delving into the criminal underworld.
Viewers have taken to social media to express their adoration for the mature and emotionally charged series. One user commented, “Just spent the last 7 hours crying on and off, Boy Swallows Universe was fantastic.” Another praised the stunning acting and compelling story, asking others if they had started watching it.
The lead child actors in the series have been particularly lauded for their performances in handling the heavy subject matter. Fans have expressed a range of emotions, from love and pride to fear and laughter, as they relate to various aspects of the story.
“Boy Swallows Universe” has received critical acclaim as well, with an average Tomatometer score of 86 percent on Rotten Tomatoes and an 8/10 star rating on IMDb. The series is not only a gripping drama but also a reflection of author Trent Dalton’s own childhood experiences. Dalton opened up about his life, saying, “I don’t have enough words in the book to go on about all the things my mum survived, things that other people would have succumbed to.”
The series is currently available for streaming on Netflix, offering viewers a poignant and resonant story that is both heart-wrenching and inspiring.
