Watch Rain Shadow

"Rain Shadow" is a compelling Australian drama series that aired in 2007. The show explores the challenging lives of those who call the town of Paringa home. The town, located in the heart of the Nullarbor Plain, is a dry and barren place where rain is a distant memory. The story is told through the eyes of Dr. Kate McDonald, played by Rachel Ward, a city girl who finds herself stuck in Paringa after a breakdown.

The series starts with Kate, who is a botanist, relocating from Adelaide to Paringa after she has a mental breakdown. The town is suffering from a prolonged drought, and Kate is unable to leave due to her circumstances. She quickly realizes that not only is the town and the environment harsh, but the residents of Paringa are also dealing with their own unique set of challenges. Kate takes on the role of the town's doctor, where she encounters a range of medical issues, from minor ailments to serious afflictions.

Gary Sweet plays the role of Tom, a seasoned farmer who has met many challenges that come with living in such a harsh environment. He is a man of few words but of great wisdom, and thus he becomes Kate's confidant and source of support as she tries to adjust to life in Paringa. Piro, on the other hand, portrays the character of Max, a local policeman who carries a deep-seated resentment towards Tom due to an incident in the past. Victoria Thaine portrays the role of Tilly, a young and ambitious veterinarian who has recently moved to Paringa. Edwin Hodgeman plays the role of the town's mechanic, Harry, and Tom O'Sullivan stars as Frank, Kate's gruff landlord, who is not afraid to speak his mind.

The plot thickens as Kate works to discover the hidden secrets and personal struggles of the town's residents, all while struggling to find her place in the community. Her stance on many issues is tested, including her relationship with Tom and her ability to stand up to the town's local authorities. Kate's presence in Paringa shines a light on the characters' lives, and it becomes noticeable that everyone is dealing with their demons.

The plot's richness is further enhanced by the backdrop of Paringa, which is a harsh and unforgiving place. The town, situated next to the Nullarbor Plain on the edge of the continent, is surrounded by wide-open, flat landscapes, with shrubs and trees that offer little protection from the elements. The people in Paringa rely heavily on the land, which creates a sense of isolation and dependence on the environment. Coupled with the characters' individual struggles, all of this makes for a deeply moving drama.

The show is well-executed, with brilliant performances from the entire cast. The writing offers a wide range of experiences, from the struggles of the farmer dealing with the drought to the difficulties faced by the region’s flora and fauna. Rain Shadow offers a look into the struggles and lives of an Australian community, and how they strive to survive in a harsh and unforgiving environment.

To conclude, Rain Shadow is a must-watch for anyone looking for an engaging and dramatic series that offers more than just typical TV fare. With its excellent performances, engaging storyline, and stunning visuals, Rain Shadow is an Australian drama series that is sure to captivate and intrigue viewers. It is a well-written story that portrays the struggle and life of those living in the harsh Australian climate, making it an excellent addition to the drama TV genre.

Rain Shadow is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (6 episodes). The series first aired on October 7, 2007.