While no masterpiece, this bit of surf, gorgeous Aussie locations and romantic teen adventures has its moments. There's a feel-good atmosphere behind each episode that is almost more Kiwi than Aussie. Smiles abound and tensions are soon resolved, the condescending moral storytelling so often associated with Hollywood teen efforts nowhere in sight.
60 Reviews
So fun!
Charlie_nora30 June 2022
Great Summer Break Viewing
nfarr411 June 2022
This brought back some old school good summer vibes when people went to the beach and surfed out their issues. There was an air of innocents to this while still remaining relevant. I highly recommend for some lighthearted entertainment.
Feel-good show!
movlov158 June 2022
My husband and I started this show (and finished it) last night, and it was a very cute, feel-good show. I wasn't sure what to expect, as most films I've seen about Australia lately revolve around an American moving there and falling in love with it, so I figured it'd be typical. Yes, it's not a storyline you've never heard before, but the show was well-made and each episode, though only a half hour, felt like a little mini-movie. I hope it gets renewed for a second season, as I'd love to see Summer return to Australia! (Or maybe...Ari visit New York?? It does have a beach...)
I thought it was an okay series.
prolelol5 June 2022
It had some good moments, but felt a bit too simple and bland. Even though I enjoy teen/summer shows. The acting and the chemistry the actors in the main group have is weak. I wasn't very interested by the storylines also. The show makes Outer Banks way better and I wouldn't be mad if it gets cancelled.
It's solid at best, anyway.
It's solid at best, anyway.
Loved S1, quit S2 during 2nd episode
dumbmartian18 September 2023
My tween daughter and I watched season one ages ago and loved it, she's rewatched it several times. Was it flawless? No. But it had good story lines, interesting characters who had some emotional depth and grew throughout the series. It was funny and quirky, and very friendship focused. It had romance, but it also really showed complex platonic relationships, and family ones.
After waiting months for season two we were so excited, only to find a lot of the charm and depth removed in favour of (very) lingering shots on bikini-clad bodies, and very cliched love triangle / mean-girl storylines. Almost all emotional insight has been removed from more grown-up subjects leaving a much crasser result. Not merely less suitable for a tween, but rather boring for me as an adult too (this is no heartbreak high or s*x education in its handling). My daughter decided for herself not to continue and I probably won't bother either, a real shame as I really will miss the anchor cove originals and Summer.
After waiting months for season two we were so excited, only to find a lot of the charm and depth removed in favour of (very) lingering shots on bikini-clad bodies, and very cliched love triangle / mean-girl storylines. Almost all emotional insight has been removed from more grown-up subjects leaving a much crasser result. Not merely less suitable for a tween, but rather boring for me as an adult too (this is no heartbreak high or s*x education in its handling). My daughter decided for herself not to continue and I probably won't bother either, a real shame as I really will miss the anchor cove originals and Summer.
Another American exiled to paradise
indialm23 June 2022
By the fourth episode most main characters, in this case "Summer" begin to be somewhat likable. Not the case with this lead. She's everything the "ugly American" represents while overseas, in this series, Australia. She's annoying, entitled and a snob. I'm not sure the writers intended it to be this way or if it's the delivery by the lead actress, Sky Katz. Either way she's from New York City and portrays New York teens as those who believe there's no place else in the world except NYC and she's got a smart ass answer for every other character, especially adults.
She gets sent off by her mother to Australia to live with her aunt, uncle and their two kids, because of her bad behavior. The boy, Ari, has had a surfing accident that put him out of surfing for a year. There is the usual teenage drama with a really obnoxious teenage American mixed in. If you can handle the lead actress's character it's worth watching.
She gets sent off by her mother to Australia to live with her aunt, uncle and their two kids, because of her bad behavior. The boy, Ari, has had a surfing accident that put him out of surfing for a year. There is the usual teenage drama with a really obnoxious teenage American mixed in. If you can handle the lead actress's character it's worth watching.
It started out good...but...
dbfluffy22 September 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I actually enjoyed season 1, but season 2 had great chance of doing something new and out of character to spice up the series. Like Summer and Bax, they were a great match. And I got so dissapointed when they went back to Summer and Ari. Such a boring plot. Why not try new things, stop being so predicable all the time.
I hope there will be a season 3 and that the writers take the time to do more fun and exiting things. Stop with all the drama and backstabbing.
Focus on what matters, the chemistry between friends, competition, family and fun.
It has potential, but needs something more added..
I hope there will be a season 3 and that the writers take the time to do more fun and exiting things. Stop with all the drama and backstabbing.
Focus on what matters, the chemistry between friends, competition, family and fun.
It has potential, but needs something more added..
great fun show
DesolationGod8 June 2022
For what this show is, i really enjoyed it much more then i thought i would, it was a quick binge on Netflix and kind of hoping for a season 2. Wasn't a crazy amount of drama but there was some, great scenery and beaches, surfing scenes were well done.
Easy breazy fun watch
mircea_radu935 October 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I liked it overall, nothing preachy or in your face, good looking people getting into relationship and surfing drama. Too bad that the main actress didn't look at all in shape in season 2. She stands out so much compared to the other girls who look amazing. Hard to buy someone like that qualifying to nationals.
I liked it overall, nothing preachy or in your face, good looking people getting into relationship and surfing drama. Too bad that the main actress didn't look at all in shape in season 2. She stands out so much compared to the other girls who look amazing. Hard to buy someone like that qualifying to nationals.
I liked it overall, nothing preachy or in your face, good looking people getting into relationship and surfing drama. Too bad that the main actress didn't look at all in shape in season 2. She stands out so much compared to the other girls who look amazing. Hard to buy someone like that qualifying to nationals.
Teen friendly
joni-stamm6 June 2022
Teen friendly which I applaud as there aren't a lot of good wholesome teen shows out there. It's fairly low key. The most disappointing part is the main character, Summer. I find her character annoying and useless in this show. Ari is the real star.
Season two is a must
Sage77718 June 2022
Amazing show all around, season two, and many more seasons need to happen!!!!!. This show has me wanting to learn how to surf. And I have to add I completely fell in love with Sky Katz(Summer Torres) her attitude and passion had me intrigued all season and laughing so hard. Overall ten/ten show.
Pass time
georgiapoli6 June 2022
it's alright if your bored
tully-7361818 January 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I did enjoy this show as a quick binge however it was a bit bland and the acting wasn't great.
Summer was a very annoying character that didn't really need to be there. I feel like most of the plot could have worked well, maybe even better without her.
I think this was a missed opportunity for a great character though especially since she was meant to be the main character but you hardly ever saw her. Ari made a much better focus point.
The ending was also quite disappointing. I didn't think Ari and Summer had a connection at all and that kiss made no sense whatsoever. Why does every teen show have to turn into a "love story" or "romance" can't we just have a normal coming of age story for once?
Overall if your a bit bored and want something to watch to fill time it's pretty good. But if you want to watch a great show with great acting and plot lines, i wouldn't recommend.
Summer was a very annoying character that didn't really need to be there. I feel like most of the plot could have worked well, maybe even better without her.
I think this was a missed opportunity for a great character though especially since she was meant to be the main character but you hardly ever saw her. Ari made a much better focus point.
The ending was also quite disappointing. I didn't think Ari and Summer had a connection at all and that kiss made no sense whatsoever. Why does every teen show have to turn into a "love story" or "romance" can't we just have a normal coming of age story for once?
Overall if your a bit bored and want something to watch to fill time it's pretty good. But if you want to watch a great show with great acting and plot lines, i wouldn't recommend.
AINT THEY COUSINS?!?!?!
debruijnevi3 June 2022
I'm a little confused. The acting was not the best but it was a fun show to waste time on. I did catch a couple of very obvious production mistakes. It was not a very deep going storyline but there was some great character development. Main character was very annoying and cringe. Ew.
Meh
lhbaker-2878315 June 2022
Refreshing teen drama
helenasaba14 January 2024
Warning: Spoilers
The cinematography was a solid 10/10. Every surfing shot was done SO beautifully, it makes you want to surf, literally.
The script for me was a 6/10. It was kind of predictable, when I first started watching I just knew Summer (main character) was going to fall in love with Australia and not want to go back to New York, it was also obvious that her and Ari would be a love interest. Although I liked the drama in both season 1 and 2.
The acting was also not the best but I didn't expect it to be emmy award winning because it's a teen show and you can very obviously tell that the cast haven't had as much experience as an A-Lister actor. But everyone starts somewhere. Some of the cast have so much potential.
Lastly, I loved the Maori representation, I knew as soon as I saw Poppy that she was Maori, and as soon as they started speaking Te Reo later on in season 1, I was happy. Love to see my culture being represented especially on a Netflix Original series.
Overall worth the watch if you like teen dramas.
The script for me was a 6/10. It was kind of predictable, when I first started watching I just knew Summer (main character) was going to fall in love with Australia and not want to go back to New York, it was also obvious that her and Ari would be a love interest. Although I liked the drama in both season 1 and 2.
The acting was also not the best but I didn't expect it to be emmy award winning because it's a teen show and you can very obviously tell that the cast haven't had as much experience as an A-Lister actor. But everyone starts somewhere. Some of the cast have so much potential.
Lastly, I loved the Maori representation, I knew as soon as I saw Poppy that she was Maori, and as soon as they started speaking Te Reo later on in season 1, I was happy. Love to see my culture being represented especially on a Netflix Original series.
Overall worth the watch if you like teen dramas.
WHAT A DEADBEAT MUM!
philstrachan8 March 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Poor Summer is dumped from New York to the picturesque Great Ocean Road in Victoria because she's not convenient to her mother's life. The young cast did a great job in their roles were believable enough as young, countey, Australian youth but the older geberatiobs were not great, which is probably why we haven't seen them act in anything better. It's a typical story of surfing. Conquor the fear for the seasoned surfers who'd had "an accudebt" tobthe new york surfer chick showing bothbthe boys up with ger courage. Of course she needs rescuing. And low and behold, the boys suddenly realise they've conquored their fears, by saving her. Yah! It's ok. Ok for kids. It's not the worst Australian surfer flick I've watched. Less insidious than "Breathe".
I want a Season 2!!
isgittchristian5 June 2022
I love this show, I believe in things that stay true forever and this is one, love how it goes through our minds and teenagers, and this show gives a lot of that and it tells you that you should never hold back for any reason to tell you parents important stuff because things can happen.
PLEASE GIVE IT A SEASON 2, plus I love all the stuff Sky Katz, shes a pretty good actress.😊
PLEASE GIVE IT A SEASON 2, plus I love all the stuff Sky Katz, shes a pretty good actress.😊
Kinda liked the first season, but had to stop watching during the first episode of season 2
therry-6977916 September 2023
The first season was kind of a feel-good show for me that didn't require my full attention so I could just "casually watch" it. Started the second season today, because I was actually really looking forward to it but had to stop watching because I think the main character Summer is just so incredibly annoying and the plot keeps getting more unrealistic. I mean, it's just annoying when a character does bad things but is still rewarded in the end and there are zero consequences. Also, from only watching the first episode of season 2 I felt like it already gave away the plot of the whole season. And a quick look at the online summaries of the season confirmed my presumption. Too predictable!
Great Pre-teen/teen show
eacasanova-348175 June 2022
A show that revolves around the life of 5 kids during summer, finding who they are, where they fit in, and how to manage life and teen love. A non overly sexualized show, but still manages to experience the teen love, without the extensive substance abuse exposure but still manages to touch on subjects. A clean show for families and teens to enjoy. We enjoyed it.
Worst main character of any show ever.
cdtqyqvn20 January 2024
This could be such a great show if it weren't for the 'rebel' American main character! Would be 100% better without her!! She's so cringe it's unwatchable her storyline's is so unbelievable. There's also actually no reason she needs to be there the Aussie kids and the family dynamics of the Australians had more than enough interesting back story to make a great show! And honestly she's so annoying like so annoying I felt compelled to write this review the first review I've ever felt like I had to write. I lasted 6eps hoping it would get better. Do better Netflix you can make a great Aussie show!!
Short Simple and Sweet! Ready for Season 2
Proking18 June 2022
Warning: Spoilers
There's so much to enjoy here. The island life with beautiful scenery, fresh faces with good character roles, hip tunes that subtly set the mood, young adolescence mischief, the importance of team and family spirit, the level of drama is never exhausting, I can go on and on.
There's no denying if you're going to watch this series there will be alot of surfing. The writers did a good job with changing up the key character(s) and/or surfing events throughout the episodes. The choreography on the water is done really really well. And it's obvious the actual characters did a fair amount of their own surfing, too! Well done.
Ari is the star of the show. He's such a stand up young character, watching him evolve as he begins to the see the light beyond his watchdog parents. My favorite one-liner from him: "I hate noone.." at a moment when he easily could have said otherwise. All of the characters are unique and portrayed well.
As I began watching the first couple of episodes I kept asking myself, when is the drinking, drugs or sex drama going to steal the show. The refreshing part is.. none of this was introduced (with a small exception in one episode). The entire series carried itself without any of these elements. And quite honestly, this is the part that impressed me the most. If the writers decide to bring these elements into future episodes I'm hopeful they won't sensationalize on it.
Compare Surviving Summer to a much simpler less complicated 90210 series.
Myself, wife and son watched the series together. We're ready for Season #2 please!
There's no denying if you're going to watch this series there will be alot of surfing. The writers did a good job with changing up the key character(s) and/or surfing events throughout the episodes. The choreography on the water is done really really well. And it's obvious the actual characters did a fair amount of their own surfing, too! Well done.
Ari is the star of the show. He's such a stand up young character, watching him evolve as he begins to the see the light beyond his watchdog parents. My favorite one-liner from him: "I hate noone.." at a moment when he easily could have said otherwise. All of the characters are unique and portrayed well.
As I began watching the first couple of episodes I kept asking myself, when is the drinking, drugs or sex drama going to steal the show. The refreshing part is.. none of this was introduced (with a small exception in one episode). The entire series carried itself without any of these elements. And quite honestly, this is the part that impressed me the most. If the writers decide to bring these elements into future episodes I'm hopeful they won't sensationalize on it.
Compare Surviving Summer to a much simpler less complicated 90210 series.
Myself, wife and son watched the series together. We're ready for Season #2 please!
So close, yet so far
ddolcefarniente4 June 2022
So good
triggmicah5 June 2022
I honestly didn't know what to expect when I started the show. But it was amazing. The soundtrack was great, the cinematography and surfing scenes were so cool, and I loved the various plot lines and drama. There were different issues addressed as the some characters home lives were unpacked, and seeing these characters bond and grow together was so fun to watch too. I really hope this show gets a season 2 because I would love to see Summer go back. But I give this show a 10/10.
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