Invisible Boys: A Coming-of-Age Story – Podcast Review

Delve into the heartfelt world of 'Invisible Boys,' a 10-part Australian series on Stan that masterfully portrays the LGBTQ+ coming-out experience. The series follows four teenage boys as they navigate the complexities of family expectations and their burgeoning sexuality. The series is set during Australia's 2017 same-sex marriage postal vote and based on the novel by Holden Sheppard. Prepare for an emotional rollercoaster, and don't forget the popcorn!

Review written by Noel Anderson. 

For further information and to connect with Noel Anderson, visit here. 

You can catch Noel Anderson's 15 Mins of Fame on all major podcast platforms!

Episode Transcript

(00:00):
Welcome to Noel Anderson's 15 Mins of Fame.

(00:04):
My name is Tim.
You know there's something uniquely refreshing about discovering a series that resonates deeply with both heart and humour.
Recently,I watched "The Invisible Boys" on Stan,and I'm thrilled to share why this 10-part Australian series deserves your attention.
It beautifully captures the LGBTQ+ coming-out experience,

(00:26):
blending humour,raw emotion,and an authentic portrayal of life in a small coastal town.
Set against the backdrop of Western Australia,"The Invisible Boys" intricately weaves the stories of four teenage boys grappling with family expectations and their burgeoning sexual identities.
The series provides a poignant look into the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ teenagers,

(00:50):
especially in tight-knit communities where acceptance is often hard to find.
The narrative highlights the harsh reality that suicide rates are higher among LGBTQ kids,
making it all the more vital to see stories that empower them rather than adhering to heteronormative norms.
The cast delivers remarkable performances that bring these characters to life.

(01:13):
Joe Klocek shines as the mysterious Matt,while Zach Blampied captures hearts as the charismatic football star.
Joseph Zada takes center stage as Charlie,a complex character with a penchant for mischief and a love for Nick Cave.
Yet, it’s Aydan Calafiore, as Zeke, who almost steals the show.
Calafiore,known from his time on "The Voice Australia" in 2018 commands attention in every scene,

(01:39):
particularly during a tense moment with his homophobic Italian mother,
played with depth by Pia Miranda.
Their dynamic is at its peak during a wedding scene where the boys defy expectations by dancing to Kylie Minogue.
The series also deserves praise for its diverse representation,
notably featuring a strong Indigenous cast.

(02:02):
Jade Baynes as Charlie's bandmate Bec,alongside Elaine Crombie and Shareena Clanton,
deliver performances that are both compelling and relatable.
Set during the pivotal 2017 same-sex marriage postal vote in Australia,
"The Invisible Boys" explores the complexities of growing up queer in the remote coastal city.

(02:24):
Based on Holden Sheppard’s young adult novel,the series is skillfully directed by Nicholas Verso and stunningly shot,
with Western Australia's landscape providing a breathtaking backdrop.
Themes of identity,mental health,invisibility,and friendship are woven together,
creating a tapestry of storytelling that is both honest and quintessentially Australian.

(02:47):
Please be advised,"The Invisible Boys" does not shy away from confronting storylines and includes male-on-male sex scenes.
If this isn't your cup of tea, perhaps try something lighter like "MasterChef.
" However,if you're ready for an enthralling ride crack open a beer and immerse yourself in this exceptional series.

(03:07):
Kudos to Stan for delivering such a gem to our screens.
This "15 Mins of Fame" podcast review is written by Noel Anderson.
If you liked this review, remember to subscribe.