Fisk is an engaging and witty Australian television series that initially premiered on the ABC in Australia before making its way to international audiences via Netflix in 2021. The show, a refreshing addition to the comedy-drama genre, creatively weaves humor and suspense together in a story centered around the world of wills and estates law.
Fisk, which is named after the show's central character, Helen Tudor-Fisk, is an innovative series developed by Australian comedy household name, Kitty Flanagan. Flanagan not only co-wrote the series but also stars as the charismatic, albeit socially awkward, Helen. The wild and unpredictable nature of Helen's character is skillfully used by Flanagan to create a protagonist that is equal parts relatable and wonderfully peculiar, captivating audiences with her ability to drive the plot forward using a healthy dose of comedy and unique charm.
After a professional faux pas uproots her from her comfortable corporate law job, Helen Tudor-Fisk is forced to make a drastic career change and lands in the world of wills and probate at suburban law firm Gruber & Gruber. The show narratively exploits Helen's transition from the cut-throat corporate sphere to a small suburban firm, rife with its own set of challenges and quirky characters.
Gruber & Gruber is a small legal establishment run by the brilliant but intimidating Ray Gruber, played by the talented Marty Sheargold. While initially abrasive, the character of Ray serves to bring out Helen's comedic, resilient, and irreverent side. On the other hand, Roz Gruber, played by Julia Zemiro, is Ray's sister and business partner, who emerges as a more gentle and understanding character, of grating on Helen's nerves with her New Age theories and alternative remedies, thus adding to the ridiculousness and comic relief of the series.
Fisk also features a well-rounded supporting cast, including Aaron Chen as George, a milling and gullible millennial paralegal. His naivety and blind optimism serve as an effective counter to Helen's intelligent yet world-weary cynicism. Their dynamic offers viewers more comedic gold as well as a different kind of character interaction that succinctly captures the generation gap in a workplace environment.
One of the key characteristics of the series Fisk is its unique setting. The world of wills and probate is not one typically explored in comedic dramas; however, it offers up a myriad of story possibilities. Death and inheritance naturally stir up a depth of emotion and conflict that can be darkly humorous. The creators effectively trot out an array of eccentric characters contesting wills or dealing with other legal issues related to death, making each episode a Benjamin's box of absurdities.
The semi-procedural framework of the show allows each of the six episodes in the first season to tell a standalone story while also unfolding Helen's personal narrative. Each respective episode brings a new case to Gruber & Gruber, allowing us to get to know Helen more intimately as she interacts with a plethora of clients, each more eccentric and unpredictable than the last.
Fisk is successful in offering up a fresh approach to the world of law in television. It provides everything an audience could want from a comedy-drama: heart, humor, suspense, and imaginative storytelling. It leans into the absurdity and craziness of everyday life, putting a comedic spin on the universal human experiences of struggle, change, and the search for purpose.
This show is perfect for those who appreciate an engaging narrative, exceptional scriptwriting, and brilliant acting performances. Its unique blend of dark humor and unconventional character-driven storylines ensure that Fisk offers a viewing experience that stands out in the world of comedy-drama television. If you're seeking a show that provides comfort, laughter, and compelling character dynamics, Fisk might just be what you're looking for.
Fisk is a series that ran for 3 seasons (18 episodes) between March 17, 2021 and on Netflix
