

52 minSeason 1 • Episode 6
LatestIt's New Year's Eve. A usually picturesque holiday town looks like a war zone - as day turns to night, then the sky turns blood-red, people rush to the water's edge for safety.
Inspired by true events, the story of everyday Australians at the front line of the devastating fires of the 2019-2020 Australian summer.
Acting
Non-showy performances that feel like documentary, not drama.
Direction
Ayres lets the fire steal every scene it wants.
Production
Chaos so authentic you'll check your windows for smoke.
Creators
Tony Ayres, Belinda Chayko
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Several extras were actual 2019-2020 fire survivors; some couldn't finish their scenes.
Released when 'Black Summer' was still fresh wound, not history—Australian critics called it 'too soon' and 'necessary' in equal measure.