Netflix's new Australian series, 'My Brilliant Career,' draws from Miles Franklin's 1901 novel to tell the story of Sybylla Melvyn, a headstrong young woman in rural Australia who yearns to be a writer rather than adhere to the societal pressures of marriage and domesticity.
Set in 1900, the series opens with Sybylla, portrayed by Philippa Northeast, declaring her ambition to "create, not procreate" and to "eat like a man, ride like a man." She is an aspiring writer, constantly observing and jotting down her thoughts in a journal.
Sybylla's life takes a turn when her mother, Lucy (Mirrah Foulkes), informs her that her maternal grandmother, Mrs. Bossier (Anna Chancellor), has invited her to her estate. The intention is for Sybylla to "come out" into Australian society, a move her mother believes will lead to a more comfortable life through a favorable marriage. Sybylla, who has never met her grandmother and left the estate after her parents' marriage, resists the idea of being married off. However, her sister Gertie (Ella Oliphant) persuades her that the comfortable life offered by society would provide ample time for her writing.
Upon arriving at her grandmother's estate, Caddagat, Sybylla encounters Frank Hawden (Jake Dunn), the acting foreman, and Harry Beecham (Christopher Chung), who lives on a neighboring farm. She also learns about Harry's aunt, Augusta (Kate Mulvany), whom Frank describes as a "raging suffragist," sparking Sybylla's curiosity.
Despite her grandmother's disapproval of her unconventional behavior, Mrs. Bossier is determined to refine Sybylla for society and a suitable marriage, ideally to Frank. Sybylla, however, finds herself more drawn to Harry.
The series, created by Liz Doran, shares a tone with other period dramas like Apple TV's 'The Buccaneers' and HBO's 'The Gilded Age.' While 'My Brilliant Career' is based on a novel from the era it depicts, it aims for an earthy authenticity.
Philippa Northeast's portrayal of Sybylla is noted for its curiosity and spirited demeanor, making the character more complex than those in similar productions. Sybylla is aware of her desires and what she rejects, agreeing to visit Caddagat on her own terms. The series explores the challenges Sybylla faces in forging her own path against the backdrop of early 20th-century societal expectations, particularly as she learns her family is facing financial ruin. The prospect of marrying for wealth to secure her family's home and livelihood presents a significant dilemma.
Anna Chancellor's performance as the coolly officious Mrs. Bossier is also highlighted. Miah Madden, as housemaiden Betty, also shows potential, with ambitions that seem to extend beyond her upbringing, a trait Sybylla may find relatable.
One stylistic choice that drew comment was the inclusion of Rod Stewart's 1981 song "Young Turks" during a scene at a birthday party, which was considered out of place by some. Despite such moments, the series is described as a fun and watchable production, with its narrative and performances outweighing its more avant-garde stylistic choices.
'My Brilliant Career' was previously adapted into a 1979 feature film starring Judy Davis and Sam Neill.