In this episode of TV Gold, hosts James Manning and Andrew Mercado discuss three shows: Families Like Ours (SBS On Demand, 7 episodes)
Enigma (HBO Max documentary feature)
The Backside of Television (Foxtel/Binge)

They delve into the emotional and societal themes presented in 'Families Like Ours', the intriguing lives of Amanda Lear and April Ashley in 'Enigma', and the historical insights provided by 'The Backside of Television'. The conversation highlights the impact of streaming services on viewing habits and the importance of cultural narratives in television.

Highlights include:

• 'Families Like Ours' presents a harrowing yet brilliant concept.
• The show explores the impact of climate change on families.
• Character decisions in 'Families Like Ours' lead to deep emotional responses.
• 'Enigma' reveals the hidden lives of Amanda Lear and April Ashley.
• The documentary highlights the struggles of trans individuals in the past.
• 'The Backside of Television' uncovers lesser-known stories of Australian TV history.
• Mitch McTaggart's research is commendable and insightful.
• The hosts emphasise the importance of representation in media.
• Cultural reflections in these shows resonate with current societal issues.

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This bonus episode of TV Gold delves into the revival of the iconic Australian television show Number 96, exploring its historical significance, production challenges, cultural impact, and the future of Australian classics in the streaming era.

Andrew Mercado shares insights on the show's groundbreaking themes, its reception, and the efforts to bring it back to audiences through the streaming service Brollie.
Takeaways from this special episode:
Number 96 was a groundbreaking show in the 70s.
The show tackled social issues like LGBT representation and domestic violence.
Andrew Mercado worked on a project to make all the episodes available.
The original tapes of Number 96 are degrading and need digitisation.
The show was a massive ratings hit, airing five nights a week.
Number 96 featured a mix of drama and comedy, appealing to diverse audiences.
The tabloid press played a significant role in the show's popularity.
The introduction of colour TV marked a turning point for the show.
Brollie is working with Andrew to revive and stream other classic Australian TV shows.
UK fans are using VPNs to access Brollie and watch Number 96.

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This week on the TV Gold podcast.
Listen on Spotify, Apple and more…links here.
https://pod.link/1106441089

• Smoke (Apple, 9 episodes)
Inspired by true events, “Smoke” follows an arson investigator who begrudgingly teams up with a police detective as their race to stop two arsonists ignites a twisted game of secrets and suspicions. Great cast includes Taron Egerton, Jurnee Smollett, Rafe Spall, Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine and Greg Kinnear.

• Hal & Harper (Stan, 8 episodes)
Hal & Harper are codependent siblings (played by Cooper Raiff and Lili Reinhart) doing their best to navigate long-term relationships, friendships, and situationships. When their dad (played by Mark Ruffalo) makes a big announcement, the two are forced to consider the current state of their lives and their complicated childhood.

• My Mom Jayne (Max, movie)
In her feature film directorial debut—and the first time she has delved into her mother Jayne Mansfield’s story—Mariska Hargitay searches for the mother she never knew almost six decades after the Hollywood legend’s tragic death. A must-see HBO documentary for people interested in Hollywood history and iconic movie stars.

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