Underbelly: War on the Streets

Very Good Start to an Epic Franchise (4-1/2* Rounded Up)
MINOR SPOILERS:

As my review for the "import version" may be getting lost, I thought I would keep K. Harris company over here!

Pros:

1.) There was a good deal of nudity & violence

2.) The filming technique reminds me of a Guy Ritche movie

3.) Shows how unorganized "organized crime" crime can be

4.) Really good soundtrack

5.) I increased my knowledge of Australian slang

Cons:

1.) It was difficult to figure out the actual organizational structure of the "Moran Mob" (referred to in the series as the "Carlton Crew"). With the exception of the Loan Sharking (Mario) and the attempt of the Moran Brothers to get into the "X" business, it was difficult to ascertain what everyone else was into. I couldn't even figure out to the last disc that Mick was the defacto head of the crew. Perhaps it is me, though I tend to like details and enjoy doing the "math" re: ill gotten gains. Unless I missed it...

The First Season Of Australia's Gritty Crime Import
The fascinating television import "Underbelly" finally got a U.S. distribution earlier this year in a three season set, but now the individual seasons are being released separately. My recommedation is to get the set, you'll want all three seasons in it. I first became aware of "Underbelly" when I read that it was Australia's answer to "The Sopranos." Since that first comparison, I've heard the same point made countless times. To be frank, other than the fact that they are two adult series set in the criminal underworld, I don't think that generalized statement is very apt or has much bearing on whether or not you'll enjoy this show. If you are expecting a rich "Sopranos" type narrative and continuing storyline, this isn't quite going to fulfill your expectations. But that doesn't make it any less intriguing. The general tone of "Underbelly" is a bit more lurid. The show itself has much more of a docudrama feel, recreating significant true events in Australia's criminal history...

Run of the mill gangster show
Underbelly is not the Sopranos, The Wire or the Shield, it is not that good. Having said that it's Ok, its just a run of the mill gangster show which is not saved by either it's Australian setting or the fact that it's based on real events. Beware much of the story is open to question. These are after all professional criminals who lie as a matter of course.

If you like Aussie crime series try Blue Murder (not the British series of the same name) or the Great Bookie Robbery both of which are like underbelly based on real events and much better viewing.

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