Treasure & Dirt is a six-part series that takes viewers on a journey into the heart of an opal-mining town, Nulla, where a grisly beheading sets off a chain of events that unravels a complex web of secrets and mysteries. This series, co-produced by the BBC and directed by the talented Madeleine Gottlieb, offers a refreshing take on the crime drama genre, blending surrealism with a gritty, realistic setting. The show's unique charm lies in its ability to captivate audiences not just with the crime, but with the intricate details of the town and its eccentric characters.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Treasure & Dirt is its setting. Nulla, a fictional opal-mining town, is brought to life with meticulous detail. The writers, Matt Cameron and Kate Mulvany, have crafted a world that feels both familiar and utterly bizarre. The town's customs and unwritten laws, as enforced by local senior sergeant Pat Richter, create a sense of isolation and self-reliance that is both fascinating and unsettling. This off-the-map location, reminiscent of other Australian shows like Deadloch and Population 11, serves as a microcosm of society, where the rules are bent and the lines between right and wrong are blurred.
The series also excels in its character development. Detective Ivan Lucic, played by Michael Dorman, is a gruff, no-nonsense investigator who finds himself in a strange and surreal world. His partnership with rookie detective Nell Buchanan, portrayed by Liv Hewson, adds a layer of complexity to the story. The supporting cast, including opal dealer The Irishman (Dean O'Gorman), Man Mountain (Nathan Jones), tech billionaire Robby Inglis (Eamon Farren), and cult leader David 'The Seer' (Thomas M Wright), all bring their own quirks and mysteries to the table. The self-proclaimed 'Mayor', played by Mark Mitchinson, is a particularly memorable character, with his peculiar habits and eccentricities adding to the town's surreal atmosphere.
What sets Treasure & Dirt apart from other crime dramas is its focus on the place itself. The show's greatest pleasure lies in the exploration of Nulla's unique dynamics and the relationships between its inhabitants. The intense thought and care put into unpacking this location result in a setting that feels like a character in its own right. The dreamlike mood, captured beautifully by cinematographer Edward Goldner and editor Tyson Williams, adds to the sense of unease and intrigue. The faded, weather-beaten look of the town, with its sparse but evocative details, creates an atmosphere that is both haunting and captivating.
However, Treasure & Dirt is not without its flaws. There are occasional slow patches and character dynamics that don't quite coalesce, but these are minor setbacks in an otherwise strong series. The show's strength lies in its ability to balance the crime plot with the exploration of the town and its characters. The bodies pile up, but the real mystery lies in the heart of Nulla itself.
In my opinion, Treasure & Dirt is a refreshing and unique addition to the crime drama genre. It offers a captivating blend of surrealism and realism, with a focus on the place and its characters. The show's ability to engage audiences with its intricate details and eccentric personalities is a testament to the talent of its writers, directors, and cast. As the series unfolds, viewers are treated to a journey into the unknown, where the line between treasure and dirt is blurred, and the truth is as elusive as the opal mines themselves.
