etflix’s dramedy offering, Wellmania, based on journalist Brigid Delaney’s book, follows the escapades of Liv Bealey, portrayed with gusto by the talented Celeste Barber. In this Australian comedy-drama, co-created by Brigid Delaney and Benjamin Law, Liz is a successful yet tumultuous Australian food writer based in New York who finds herself at a crossroads when her reckless lifestyle catches up with her.

From the very first episode, Wellmania sets the stage with an engaging opening shot that plunges viewers into Liv’s world of unpredictability and spontaneity. Barber’s portrayal of Liv is nothing short of captivating, her comedic timing and infectious energy breathe life into the character, making Liv both relatable and winsome despite her flaws. Her charisma shines through every scene she graces.

The supporting cast adds depth and dimension to the series, with standout performances from JJ Fong as Liv’s best friend, Amy; Genevieve Mooy as her caring yet exasperated mother, Lorraine; and Lachlan Buchanan as her well-meaning but slightly clueless brother Gaz. Each character brings their quirks and complexities to the table, enriching the narrative and providing ample fodder for comedic moments and heartfelt exchanges alike.

A lot is going on. Liv has to deal with her health problems and a lost green card. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she is offered a spot on the judging panel of a new competitive cookery show, Banquet Royale. However, to secure her position, she must first create viral journalism that propels her out of the food world and into the mainstream. Before she can get to that, Liv must return to her hometown, Sydney, to attend the 40^th birthday party of her best friend, Amy.

Her homecoming is, however, far from smooth. She grapples with personal demons and past traumas while attempting to mend fractured relationships with her family and friends. Along the way, Liv succumbs to the demands of the wellness industry, starting a journey to learn more about herself and become better. From juice cleanses to colonic irrigation, Liv explores various wellness trends to achieve balance and well-being.

As she finds herself deeper into her quest to improve, Liv confronts the absurdities and pitfalls of the modern wellness culture, offering viewers a satirical yet insightful commentary on society’s relentless pursuit of perfection and self-care. Viewers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of laughter, introspection, and unexpected twists as Liv navigates her chaotic life filled with hedonistic indulgences and professional aspirations. Her journey from self-sabotage to self-discovery is as relatable as it is entertaining.

The show is great at blending multiple stories seamlessly, each as compelling as the last. From Liv’s quest to land a desired spot in a TV cooking competition to her tumultuous journey through the wellness industry in a bid to reclaim her health and happiness, Wellmania keeps viewers thoroughly entertained.

At its core, Wellmania is a commentary on modern-day society’s obsession with wellness and self-improvement. It sheds light on the quest for well-being in a world obsessed with appearances and external validation, reflecting on the complexities of modern life. The series is cleverly disguised as a lighthearted comedy. The Aussie series deftly explores themes of identity, friendship and the pursuit of happiness, offering poignant insights amidst the laughter.

The show’s production values are top-notch; sleek cinematography and stylish visuals enhance the viewing experience. From the bustling streets of New York to the serene shores of Sydney, each location is brought to life with vivid detail, providing the perfect backdrop for Liv’s adventures.

The writing is sharp and witty, peppered with clever one-liners and observational humour that will have viewers chuckling throughout. Despite its humorous facade, Wellmania is not afraid to tackle serious themes, delving into issues such as grief, self-destructive behaviour and the complexities of adult friendships with nuance and sensitivity. It is filled with razor-sharp observations that cut through the pretence of the wellness industry.

Whether it is Liv’s hilarious misadventures in the wellness industry or her intense journey of self-discovery, Wellmania keeps viewers thoroughly engaged from beginning to end. The ensemble cast delivers standout performances across the board, with each actor bringing their unique charm to their respective roles. Barber shines as the irrepressible Liv, infusing the character with equal parts humour and vulnerability. JJ Fong is a delightful presence as Liv’s loyal friend Amy. Genevieve Mooy and Lachlan Buchanan bring depth and warmth to their roles as Liv’s family members.

With its compelling characters, sharp writing and stellar performances, Wellmania is a binge-worthy delight that is sure to leave most viewers craving for more. The blend of humour, heart and high jinks make the eight episodes fun to watch. The series effortlessly offers something for everyone. All in all, this Aussie dramedy is definitely a must-watch series that offers equal parts laughter and heart.

The author is a freelance contributor