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Big Sky is an intriguing Australian drama series that aired from 1997 to 1999. This captivating series stands out in the annals of Australian television for its immersive storytelling, dynamic characters, and thrilling plotlines. The series takes keen interest in the aviation industry, with many of the episodes revolving around Flying Doctors, medical emergencies, and a closer look at the personal lives of the crew operating in the remote Outback.

The setting primarily is the interior of a small aviation operation, Big Sky Aviation, based in Sydney. The show offers audiences a thrilling examination of the harsh beauty and ruggedness of Australia. It embraces a blend of adventure, drama, and episodic narrative that often reflect the harsh realities of life in the outback, causing viewers to gain appreciation for the complexity and resilience of people who live and work there.

The series revolves around several main characters, each of whom brings their own brand of tension, conflict, and diversity into their roles. The character line-up is helmed by Chris Manning, portrayed by actor Gary Sweet. Manning is a charismatic yet flawed man whose love for aviation runs as deep as his complex relationship with his father. Sweet's performance has been hailed for the strong, confident, yet sensitive depiction of an everyman's struggle against the elements and the pressures of his personal life.

The role of Lauren Allen, a divorcee and a mother who struggles to manage her inevitable attraction to Manning while trying to keep Big Sky Aeronautics afloat financially, is brilliantly played by Ally Fowler. The palpable tension and chemistry between these lead characters make the show strongly captivating for the viewers.

Other engaging characters include the confident and courageous pilot Jimbo James, played by Rhys Muldoon, and the young and enthusiastic rookie Shay McWilliam portrayed by Kathryn Beck. Martin Henderson excellently delivers the portrayal of Scotty Gibbs, a young engineer with a secret. The array of supporting characters also include Lena Cruz played by Lisa Baumwol and the ever-enthusiastic Lexie Ciani, a role embraced by Robyn Cruze.

The combination of exciting personalities leads to a kaleidoscope of storylines that touch on romance, adventure, moral dilemmas, and the pursuit of dreams. Series creators Tony Morphett and David Phillips expertly bring in cohesion and depth to the narratives, while maintaining an authentic Australian flavour that resonates well with the audience.

Rather than focusing solely on the personal lives of its characters, the show sheds light on the role of rural aviation services. Imbued with the element of emergency rescue, viewers experience the adrenaline rush of life-saving flights, the urgency of medical emergencies, and the courage it takes to respond effectively amidst the vast, harsh Australian landscape.

The cinematography of Big Sky is exceptional, playing an instrumental role in displaying the vastness of the Australian Outback. The sweeping panoramic views of the desert, the stunning shots of flights cruising above the sun-drenched savannah, and the precarious situations of emergency landings in the middle of seemingly nowhere all add to the vivid and realistic depiction of Australia. The show captures the casual, laid-back yet daring essence of the Aussie spirit through these visuals.

The two seasons of the show were impeccably balanced in terms of pacing and interest, keeping the viewers thoroughly engrossed till the very end. Its storytelling remained compelling by interspersing suspense, drama, and humor at accurate intervals. The writing was also noteworthy for its well-developed characters, the layered relationships between them, and the strong sense of attachment it created.

In conclusion, Big Sky is a captivating series that bares the unique challenges and triumphs of people working in aviation services against the backdrop of Australia's tough yet breath-taking Outback landscapes. Its blend of emotional depth, adrenaline-pumping action, and raw authenticity truly sets it apart making it a remarkable representation of Australian drama television. The series not only kept audiences on the edge of their seats but also allowed them to appreciate the richness and diversity of Australian life and culture.

Big Sky is a series that ran for 3 seasons (71 episodes) between February 17, 1997 and on