It's true that this is a slow burner, and its story is woven with care and attention to detail. Some of the actors are not known to me, but some were familiar faces - a good mix. I did feel a similarity to Hunt for the Wilder people to start with, but that soon went on its way, and it wandered along its own path. I found I was engrossed and anxious that nothing would interrupt my viewing - and the scenery and birdsong were beautiful. The characters were particularly well-drawn and the rural community were obviously written by someone who knows them well, and portrayed accurately too. I have seen some very good NZ productions over the past few years and this has to be up there with the best - perhaps I might edit it to a 10 after a second viewing. (I must ask someone about Cows' sense of humour though)
Review of Bellbird
