Watch The Slap

The Slap is an Australian drama television series that was first aired on ABC in 2011. The 8-part series is based on the critically acclaimed novel of the same name by Christos Tsiolkas. The show focuses on the aftermath of a man slapping a child at a family barbecue, and how this one event affects the lives of those who were present at the party.

The show boasts an all-star cast including Jonathan LaPaglia, who plays Hector, a successful businessman who has a complicated home life, and Sophie Okonedo, who plays Aisha, Hector's wife. Alex Dimitriades plays Harry, the man who slaps the child, while Essie Davis portrays his wife, Rosie. Lex Marinos appears as Manolis, Hector's father, while Melissa George plays his cousin, Connie. Lastly, Sophie Lowe appears as Richie's sixteen-year-old girlfriend.

The show opens with a family barbecue where the eight primary characters are present. The slap that serves as the catalyst for the series occurs when Harry, a hot-headed man, slaps a child who is not his own after the child hits one of his kids. This single action sets off a chain of events that brings into sharp focus the cultural, social, and economic tensions that bubble below the surface of modern-day society.

However, the series is not about the slap itself but rather the fallout that follows. Each of the eight episodes is from the perspective of a particular character, and each one delves deeper into the lives and inner workings of a different character. This approach allows viewers to witness and understand each character's unique perspective and motivations, and how their lives are affected by the slap.

Throughout the series, we see how Hector and Aisha's marriage is hit hard by the slap, as they each cope with their own personal demons. Harry and Rosie are also grappling with their personal issues, such as their parenting styles and strained relationships with their children.

Meanwhile, Manolis is grappling with his own past and the cultural differences between his traditional Greek upbringing and the more liberal values of modern-day Australia. Connie, who is battling her own inner demons, uses the slap as an opportunity to exploit Richie, who is the child who was slapped.

At the heart of the show is the question of who was in the right and who was in the wrong. Was Harry justified in slapping the child, or did he cross a line? Was Rosie protecting her child in the aftermath of the incident, or was she overreacting? These are the questions that will keep viewers engaged and eager to watch every episode.

The Slap is a compelling drama series that explores complex relationships, multiculturalism, and social issues in modern-day Australia. It is a gripping study of the complexities of human behaviour that leaves a lasting impact on audiences. The show is beautifully shot, with stunning cinematography that captures the essence of each character, and the soundtrack that conjures up the mood and tension of each episode.

In conclusion, The Slap is an exceptional television series that is emotionally charged, engaging, and thought-provoking. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in exploring the intricacies of human behaviour and the social dynamics of modern-day society.

The Slap is a series that ran for 1 seasons (8 episodes) between February 15, 2012 and on ABC (Australia)