My wife and I have just finished watching the final few episodes of season 2 of this wonderful, gentle and quirky series. Why there are no other reviews of season 2 and only a handful on series 1, I have no idea. For this is the kind of television production that exceeds expectations in every way. Feel good, funny, well acted, beautifully filmed, highly original and, given the concept, believable. And like other non-mainstream series that Australia, and, especially, Great Britain, occasionally throw up, Spirited appeared on our screen with minimal fanfare, was barely watched and disappeared with nary a trace. So sad. Spirited concerns the drawn out no-touch (well, mostly) love affair of socially inept dentist Suze and back-from-the-dead, jaded rock star Henry. From freaked out/irritable beginnings this relationship is destined for sweet interdependency. Lots of speedbumps along the way though. And plenty of other characters, both ghostly and real, to be fleshed out over the course of both seasons. Some characters, like Steve (Suze's ex) and Jonquil (her sister), can be annoying at first but come into their own eventually. The other ghosts who come and go in Suze's apartment block inhabit a complex world of their own , one where sadness and confusion is ever present but also one where both Henry and Suse can help bring wistful joy and resolution. My brother is, Jamie, is a 1st Assistant Director. Jane and I had watched season 1 and were waiting for season 2 to be released on DVD when Jamie mentioned his involvement in the final two episodes of season 2. So in case you wonder, we were already convinced fans. It is just a pity Claudia Kavan and Matt King, especially, won't be making more episodes of this great series.
34 Reviews
Cool Stuff--Brilliant, Really!
sarine_voltage18 June 2019
What an awesome show! Inventive and unusual with a super and perfect cast (Matt King especially kills), clever dialogue that is both serious yet funny, and rock 'n' roll as the underlying theme. This is the stuff that makes for a truly cool series which this definitely is. (Ahhhh, if other shows would only aim to be even half as cool as this.) No idea why there's only 2 seasons--if I'd known of this show when it was first broadcast, I would definitely have rallied to keep it going. Highly recommended.
Great Aussie Series
trivialivia9 November 2016
I've now rewatched the series THREE times, and I can't get enough of it. For an Australian series, it is brilliantly written, well-acted and the storyline is really original. I love the chemistry between Claudia and Matt's characters, and I think they were probably the best picks for their roles. It is incredibly QUIRKY! And I love the series for that, it's not like most series, it's original with its perks and quirks, funny characters and almost-cringe-worthy awkwardness at times, which goes to show how well-acted the cast played their roles. Of course I wished there was a season 3, but like I said, the show has been well written, and they left the series to finish in a 'satisfying' manner but still open for another season. I wish it could have got more popularity in Australia, it's a very good series and I recommend it to anybody who likes a well-written storyline with quirky characters and quirky plots, and of course fans who SHIP people, because the Henry/Suzy ship is definitely a likable CANON #FanTalk
Spirited - a lovely, quirky comedy that is a pleasure to watch!
riosd13 October 2010
What a wonderful show "Spirited" is - in this day of TV that must teach you something, embarrass you or scare the heck out of you, it's a real pleasure to watch a show that doesn't expect anything from you but to just sit back and enjoy. From the start you get swept into the story of Suzie and Henry (and family and friends - a great cast all round) and the impossible nature of their relationship.
The leads - Matt King (comedian actor/writer from the UK) and Claudia Karvan (Aussie actress that's been on our screens for over 20 years) are cast perfectly as Henry and Suzie with the chemistry to match.
I've just finished watching the final episode in the 1st Season and without giving anything away, I think it does give some answers but raises many more questions. These questions (hopefully) will be answered in the next Season (which begins filming in Australia in January 2011) and I for one cannot wait! If you can get hold of this show than please do so - it's so different from anything out there at the moment and it's worth every minute!
The leads - Matt King (comedian actor/writer from the UK) and Claudia Karvan (Aussie actress that's been on our screens for over 20 years) are cast perfectly as Henry and Suzie with the chemistry to match.
I've just finished watching the final episode in the 1st Season and without giving anything away, I think it does give some answers but raises many more questions. These questions (hopefully) will be answered in the next Season (which begins filming in Australia in January 2011) and I for one cannot wait! If you can get hold of this show than please do so - it's so different from anything out there at the moment and it's worth every minute!
Fantastic TV series, we need season 3
michellevennix1 April 2020
Really great Aussie series
mailes2224 August 2016
I stumbled across this on Foxtel's catchup Drama option list and binge- watched the whole first season. It's a genuinely original storyline, it's well scripted and well acted. The sister and ex-husband are caricatures and they're there as much to add extra complications into the plot. But apart from their exaggerated story lines, the rest of the scripting is excellent.
I really liked the developing relationship between Susie and Henry, the kindness that grows between them and the way in which he coaches her into opening herself up to people.
It's just a lovely little series and I'm only sorry it didn't get more fanfare when it was originally released. As Molly Meldrum would say: 'Do yourself a favour ...'
I really liked the developing relationship between Susie and Henry, the kindness that grows between them and the way in which he coaches her into opening herself up to people.
It's just a lovely little series and I'm only sorry it didn't get more fanfare when it was originally released. As Molly Meldrum would say: 'Do yourself a favour ...'
Unique, quirky and really enjoyable!
jacqui_rose7 September 2010
Although Spirited is relatively new, the episodes that I have watched i've really enjoyed. The characters and unique and quirky and the storyline keeps you wishing for the next episode already! I do wonder, however, whether this show has longevity. Simply due to the storyline it seems questionable whether the show will continue on for seasons. I'm hoping that there is a twist or something similar that enables the show to continue because I am personally really excited for this show and really proud that it is Australian. Matt King and Claudia Karvan have great chemistry and play their parts extremely well, so hopefully i'm proved wrong and Spirited has a long life because it's got some great potential. Good job!!!
Divine Show - A Must See!!!
sparrow-0745023 October 2019
Warning: Spoilers
"Spirited" wasn't quite what I was expecting when I stumbled upon it...it was so much more. There were scenes that had me laughing out loud, and other moments that brought a tear to my eye. This is the first Australian TV show that I've ever seen, and I absolutely loved it.
Suzy and Henry are complex but fantastic characters and the actors were perfect in the roles. Henry's eyes were beautiful and spectral; perfect for a ghost. Suzy was easily relatable in her sweetness and awkwardness that we all seem to have, no matter how hard we try to hide it. I loved how Henry saw in Suzy what no one else bothered to notice. It's also interesting to note how Henry reflects on his life unapologetically, yet still realizes the lessons his life was trying to teach him. Suzy also accepts him as he is, warts and all, as they say.
The entire cast was fantastic. Even though Steve and Jonquil both seem mildly irritating at times, they are a great contrast to the unique relationship that Suzy and Henry develop. Suzy and Henry basically become the most natural and normal of almost everyone around them, and I found myself rooting for them to be together. Zach was also easy to relate to for anyone who has ever been a devoted fan of a musician or rock band, and I loved his chemistry with Jonquil.
The unusual relationship between a living person and a ghost has been masterfully explored in "The Ghost and Mrs. Muir", and this show is comparable to that film. It explores how emotion and love is just as prevalent in the afterlife as it is in our living, mortal lives, and how two worlds can coexist with select few who can interact in both of them. I thoroughly enjoyed it and praise the writers for their exemplary work. The music in this show is great and I enjoyed the different genres woven throughout.
I honestly hoped that there was more to this show beyond two seasons and was disappointed that there isn't. I feel like the end, while it's not at all a cliffhanger, still left the story open for more adventures between Suzy and Henry, but it's left to the imagination. Perhaps that's as it should be.
I can see myself watching this show many times over. I hope you enjoy it, too.
Suzy and Henry are complex but fantastic characters and the actors were perfect in the roles. Henry's eyes were beautiful and spectral; perfect for a ghost. Suzy was easily relatable in her sweetness and awkwardness that we all seem to have, no matter how hard we try to hide it. I loved how Henry saw in Suzy what no one else bothered to notice. It's also interesting to note how Henry reflects on his life unapologetically, yet still realizes the lessons his life was trying to teach him. Suzy also accepts him as he is, warts and all, as they say.
The entire cast was fantastic. Even though Steve and Jonquil both seem mildly irritating at times, they are a great contrast to the unique relationship that Suzy and Henry develop. Suzy and Henry basically become the most natural and normal of almost everyone around them, and I found myself rooting for them to be together. Zach was also easy to relate to for anyone who has ever been a devoted fan of a musician or rock band, and I loved his chemistry with Jonquil.
The unusual relationship between a living person and a ghost has been masterfully explored in "The Ghost and Mrs. Muir", and this show is comparable to that film. It explores how emotion and love is just as prevalent in the afterlife as it is in our living, mortal lives, and how two worlds can coexist with select few who can interact in both of them. I thoroughly enjoyed it and praise the writers for their exemplary work. The music in this show is great and I enjoyed the different genres woven throughout.
I honestly hoped that there was more to this show beyond two seasons and was disappointed that there isn't. I feel like the end, while it's not at all a cliffhanger, still left the story open for more adventures between Suzy and Henry, but it's left to the imagination. Perhaps that's as it should be.
I can see myself watching this show many times over. I hope you enjoy it, too.
Way to Go Amazon You Picked A Winner
bshaef-3422919 July 2019
I have been looking for something to watch on NFLX and AMZN for two weeks when I ran across Spirited and immediately liked it and all the actors. Unusual story line that was almost perfect. I think I have a secret admiration for Australian movies and series because I usually like them. It seems that Australian actors are much better than anywhere else. Probably won't be any more seasons but I really enjoyed these two. Thank you actors, directors and writers and Amazon.
How refreshing!!
Hoods7727 January 2012
Warning: Spoilers
How very refreshing it is to have another Aussie series of such quality and pure entertainment value. What I love most about Aussie (and UK) productions is that the producers don't feel the need to patronise their viewers into a coma as American producers tend to do (excluding HBO). You can watch shows such as this at whatever level you want to and read whatever you choose to into them.
The premise of a ghost/human relationship is obviously not new, but the the Spirited writers have put a take on it that makes the series unpredictable, engaging and altogether delightfully different. There's plenty of subtle humour with just enough pathos to counter-balance things. Great acting all round, as you'd expect from the sprinkling of well or better known names involved. Rodger Corser as the narcissistic Steve is brilliant. (What a prat!!) Karvan and King have an almost palpable chemistry and if they don't get together by the end of Series 2 I will be sorely disappointed! I could ramble on, but won't - just watch it!
The premise of a ghost/human relationship is obviously not new, but the the Spirited writers have put a take on it that makes the series unpredictable, engaging and altogether delightfully different. There's plenty of subtle humour with just enough pathos to counter-balance things. Great acting all round, as you'd expect from the sprinkling of well or better known names involved. Rodger Corser as the narcissistic Steve is brilliant. (What a prat!!) Karvan and King have an almost palpable chemistry and if they don't get together by the end of Series 2 I will be sorely disappointed! I could ramble on, but won't - just watch it!
Went downhill
rich735431 August 2020
Unique and wonderful
kristinadavis-4040710 August 2019
Stumbled across this on Amazon, immediately fell in love with it within the first couple episodes. It could've gone on for more seasons, but wrapped up in a way that offers closure. If you're looking for something that's different from the rest, give it a shot- it's quite charming.
Give it a chance - really worth it!
bkdsl13 October 2010
Having just seen the full season 1, I was pleasantly surprised by Spirited. What first grabbed my attention at the start was intrigue about Henry's story but what kept me hooked was the relationship between Henry and Suzie. Both parts are played by brilliant actors - Claudia Karvan always brings a realism to the characters she plays, and just something that makes you empathise with her. Henry seemed like such a caricature at the start but he quickly develops in to a really interesting character. The relationship that grows between them is something quite special and I really loved the scenes between the two of them. You can just see how the uptight and awkward Suzie relaxes around Henry and how her child-like, fun loving side emerges.
The thing that I didn't like about this show were a couple of the supporting characters. The worst is Jonquil, I cringe every time she's on screen. I get that she's supposed to be irritating (her last name is 'Payne' afterall...) but there is no realism to her. Her character is just too farcical in a show that is otherwise quite realistic. Ex-hubby Steve walks a fine line between funny and a little over the top, but I think he manages to stay on the right side of that line most of the time. He is the likable tosser and is pretty good value for comic relief. I think we all know guys like him! Looking forward to Season 2!
The thing that I didn't like about this show were a couple of the supporting characters. The worst is Jonquil, I cringe every time she's on screen. I get that she's supposed to be irritating (her last name is 'Payne' afterall...) but there is no realism to her. Her character is just too farcical in a show that is otherwise quite realistic. Ex-hubby Steve walks a fine line between funny and a little over the top, but I think he manages to stay on the right side of that line most of the time. He is the likable tosser and is pretty good value for comic relief. I think we all know guys like him! Looking forward to Season 2!
I was looking to enjoy this ...
highlama24 August 2019
Warning: Spoilers
This kept reminding me of the lighthouse based "The Ghost and Mrs. Muir" of many decades past, a romance like "Spirited."
The episodes got increasingly teased out without advancing the plot much, by episode 8 I had an epiphany and that was it for me.
So Suzy Darling is seeing the ghost of rock star Henry Mallett who died in the penthouse of a hotel which is now, years later, Suzy's apartment.
It was frustrating to see how her friends and family reacted to her odd behavior due to her relationship with a friendly ghost they could neither see nor hear.
One simple trick solves this problem: Have the ghost and another person go into a different room where that person says, writes, or does something that Suzy is not witness to. Sure it'll seem like a trick but in short order it should be entirely convincing.
If you need something running in the background while you drift off to sleep this would be a good choice.
The episodes got increasingly teased out without advancing the plot much, by episode 8 I had an epiphany and that was it for me.
So Suzy Darling is seeing the ghost of rock star Henry Mallett who died in the penthouse of a hotel which is now, years later, Suzy's apartment.
It was frustrating to see how her friends and family reacted to her odd behavior due to her relationship with a friendly ghost they could neither see nor hear.
One simple trick solves this problem: Have the ghost and another person go into a different room where that person says, writes, or does something that Suzy is not witness to. Sure it'll seem like a trick but in short order it should be entirely convincing.
If you need something running in the background while you drift off to sleep this would be a good choice.
Superb
quacksieuk16 April 2011
Without the stupid restrictions put on UK TV the Australians have come up with a stunner - not only brilliantly acted but written by someone with a deep understanding of current theory about what ghosts are and what can await us in the afterlife.
The little, coincidental details are a delight - the backstage crew really knew what they were doing.
As is often the case the Australian film industry plays a blinder.
Great cast.
Great theory making this believable to those of us who believe in a life after death, and giving those of you undecided something to think about.
I can't wait to see the second series!
The little, coincidental details are a delight - the backstage crew really knew what they were doing.
As is often the case the Australian film industry plays a blinder.
Great cast.
Great theory making this believable to those of us who believe in a life after death, and giving those of you undecided something to think about.
I can't wait to see the second series!
Wonderful
guitarbabi15131 October 2019
I have been an stalker for over 10 (15?) years now, and have never rated or written a review.
I stumbled upon this when Amazon suggested it. I watched the first episode and almost turned it off. I found Suzy so off-putting and Steve so obnoxious. It seemed like it was trying too hard to be funny.
However, after watching the final episode tonight, I broke down in tears. Not necessarily because of the ending, but because in 20 episodes, the characters had developed so fully and so wonderfully, I was absolutely devastated by the thought of saying goodbye.
I am a sucker for this type of TV show. Monster of the week with a little bit of fantasy is exactly my cup of tea. This delivers. It has a steady pulse throughout the show, and some overarching plot lines, but the main focus is always captured within each episode. It has this lovely touch of magic that encourages you to still wonder, to not close the door on absurd ideas. Including love. It's wonderfully romantic without being too wishy-washy. If you've ever loved but been apart from someone, it captures that feeling perfectly.
The writers kept it light, but still created characters with such a depth of feeling, you couldn't help but feel like you knew them a little bit. I encourage everyone to watch this show.
I stumbled upon this when Amazon suggested it. I watched the first episode and almost turned it off. I found Suzy so off-putting and Steve so obnoxious. It seemed like it was trying too hard to be funny.
However, after watching the final episode tonight, I broke down in tears. Not necessarily because of the ending, but because in 20 episodes, the characters had developed so fully and so wonderfully, I was absolutely devastated by the thought of saying goodbye.
I am a sucker for this type of TV show. Monster of the week with a little bit of fantasy is exactly my cup of tea. This delivers. It has a steady pulse throughout the show, and some overarching plot lines, but the main focus is always captured within each episode. It has this lovely touch of magic that encourages you to still wonder, to not close the door on absurd ideas. Including love. It's wonderfully romantic without being too wishy-washy. If you've ever loved but been apart from someone, it captures that feeling perfectly.
The writers kept it light, but still created characters with such a depth of feeling, you couldn't help but feel like you knew them a little bit. I encourage everyone to watch this show.
So good
ealasaid-8552113 October 2020
What a surprise!
bertuccy15 October 2010
And to think I almost didn't watch this show...
The cast is perfect and the story line is surprisingly believable and a breath of fresh air! You can easily get swept away watching it. I have always watched Rodger Corser in very different roles to his character on this show. Now it's hard to watch him in anything else without thinking of 'Steve'. The characters Henry & Suzie have a real chemistry, but the sister is quite annoying. Guess that means she's playing the part well! I just watched the last episode and was hoping there's going to be a Season 2 (which is on it's way).
We need more shows like this. Hurry up Season 2!!
The cast is perfect and the story line is surprisingly believable and a breath of fresh air! You can easily get swept away watching it. I have always watched Rodger Corser in very different roles to his character on this show. Now it's hard to watch him in anything else without thinking of 'Steve'. The characters Henry & Suzie have a real chemistry, but the sister is quite annoying. Guess that means she's playing the part well! I just watched the last episode and was hoping there's going to be a Season 2 (which is on it's way).
We need more shows like this. Hurry up Season 2!!
Lovely dram'ody
smartin_jones21 February 2020
Divine!
staceyedwards-6013128 October 2020
I just finished the final episode and I'm so sad the show has ended. I thoroughly enjoyed it throughout both seasons. It is funny, but not silly. It is sweet, but not sugary. The relationship that develops between the lead characters is tender and moving. In finding each other, they find themselves.
Excellent fun show.
vittorio-1315 May 2020
This is a fun show to watch. While I came to show late. It does not feel date except for the phones but the premise is funny and just a enjoyable show, with characters that you want to love and care for. I highly recommend it.
Helps with sleeping
creenzie-7690018 October 2021
If you need something to put you to sleep this is the show for you,I was excited thinking this would be good but what a let down I ended up brushing my dog and completely forgot about the show...that screams exciting doesn't it.
Updated version of The Ghost and Mrs Muir
artistmuse25 April 2021
Best show ever
kmw-7434228 July 2021
Sweet Dreams Are Made of This
mekjd25 March 2020
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