Mr Inbetween, the Australian crime comedy series, has garnered critical acclaim abroad but remains underappreciated at home. The show, which aired its final season in 2021, follows hitman Ray Shoesmith as he balances his violent profession with fatherhood, romance, and caring for his ailing brother. Despite its dark premise, the character is portrayed as lovable, operating by his own moral code.
The series evolved from a $3,000 mockumentary called The Magician, created by Scott Ryan in the early 2000s. After years of struggling to adapt it for television, Ryan gave up and moved to Echuca to drive taxis. However, 13 years later, US cable network FX picked up the show, leading to three seasons of 26 episodes.
Critics praise Mr Inbetween for its blend of humour and emotional depth, with moving meditations on grief, loss, and the consequences of one's actions. The show avoids fairytale endings, offering an honest portrayal of its world. Despite its quality, the series highlights challenges in the Australian television industry, including a reliance on familiar formulas and limited support for new voices.
Mr Inbetween is available to stream on Binge and Foxtel Now. As the show gains a cult following, many believe it will eventually be recognised as one of Australia's greatest TV series.
