Great video. I personally think it's one of the best shows out there. A great example of keeping everything simple and pared back. No flashbacks to a 'previous' life, no backstory. Just a fantastic example of "show me, don't tell me".
Great line. Sometimes there are potential witnesses, and you can't be confrontational.... but I agree with the philosophy. Don't let a-holes be a-holes again, without thinking twice, maybe. The police don't like people standing up for themselves anymore....
It’s also about people are assholes, society is just like that. Violence is not the answer but to be the good guy in the long term u have to beat your enemies in there game without losing morale principles. It’s a controversial mindset but a particular interesting one
I strongly suspect that Ray Shoesmith is modelled on an American hitman called Richard "the iceman" Kuklinski. He was a prolific hitman for the mob and would kill without mercy, often befriending his victims. He wouldn't tolerate disrespect and would murder many people for doing so. There are interviews on youtube with the iceman, truly chilling stuff, and the similarities between the real killer and Ray are hard to miss. Both are true psychopaths that ultimately end up hurting those they care about the most.
@trevorpom doubt it. Ray is an amalgamation of Australian criminals. If anything hes closest to chopper ried with his code of conduct when it comes to who he inflicted his violence on.
Not at all. Chopper had no compunction about hitting innocent women at all where Ray and Kuklinski would only hurt women who were part of the criminal underworld and despised those that did. Chopper was largely full of shit where Kuklinski was the real deal. Many many unsolved murders and disappearances were solved with Kuklinskis' arrest. I didn't include Ray in that sentence as he's ultimately a made up character but his character is a no nonsense character like Kuklinski.@@lukedeker4676
@@trevorpomno I have seen enough interviews with, and read about, the Iceman, to say that the two are not really that alike. Richard comes across as a truly problematic person who is not just psychologically and morally impaired but is also a bit of an insecure turd of a person on top of that. His tales of his morality and rules come across as self serving and ring hollow. Ray to be frank comes across as a good bloke baring all the murdering and general professional hard man behaviour. I have met a few professional hard men over the years and they come across more like Ray than Richard. Guys like Richard are not people you would like to have a beer with so not really the sort of person professionals in Australia like dealing with. I once heard a former high ranking mafia member say that people like Richard were rare in professional circles and generally avoided due to their poor personality and the fact they can’t be trusted (he doubt much of what Richard said was true).
Then you would be familiar with Dr. Park Dietz and his interviews with Richard. When Ray is being interviewed and being challenged, he comes across like Richard when he was being challenged by Dr. Park. That's where I saw the similarities. I wouldn't give either of them time of day knowing what they've done. They're both people to be avoided as they're both psychopaths and very dangerous. Rays' offsider also reminds me of Richards' "mentor" with the ice cream van who taught him about cyanide use. They're not that different really once you take away the producers' understandable efforts to make Ray likeable. They have a show to sell after all and if Ray was modelled exactly like Richard it would fail. @@gareth4045
"What if I want to tell you to leave me and my beloved ones in peace but you only understand the language of the sword. I let the blade do the talking ,so my tongue shall become iron..." Krigsgaldr by Heilung
Sadly, I don't think they understand what is said. They do at least understand you're not an easy target, which gives the good result you want. But they don't understand they were doing wrong, they cannot comprehend that.
I loved Mr Inbetween. The writing, acting and directing put many blockbusters to shame. As to your question, Ray has a clear moral code that would probably make many of us envious. He's capable of violence and is willing to use it where he feels it's justified. Most of us would privately agree with his choices but we don't have the courage or skills to act on them. He owns his choices and rarely regrets his actions. The two clips you showed where Ray was crying were not related to remorse. Both followed losses of people he was attached to.
A show where the insignificant moments just STICK with you. That's how you know it's a masterpiece. The therapy scenes convinced me ray was right and everybody else was wrong.
Until you realize that Ray is a sociopath that kills with about as much feeling as he would doing the dishes, and that his violence hurts those that he cares about directly or indirectly. It's easy to miss this because he is a superficially charming and likeable person. Those he loves are in constant danger because of his actions but are completely unaware of the danger his violence has put them in.
Well thought out video, thanks. Episodes were a fair bit less than 30 minutes but each one felt like a well produced movie, so much happened. The mark of a great show is one that you continue to think about long after it is over and each one did this in spades. Scott Ryan should be a household name, for his writing and his acting. Let's hope he achieves the recognition he deserves.
The problem is not whether violence can be necessary or even good, but that self-serving arguments from people who are good at violence are often dishonest. Ray is an unusual character in that he can recognize that beating down his girlfriend's brother was too much, rather than merely regretting the consequences.
Absolutely. A person I talk to, no need to label, but let's say hes done some really fucked up shit to people, he likes to argument himself with the fact that there cant be only good in the world, that the idea of good wouldnt be real, if there wasnt evil. Which is true, but it's not a reason to be evil. Its laughable. And he himself knows it deep inside, its just easier and thats what he wants. Easy
A lot of people miss that Ray goes from blase about his job to true regrets over what his violent lifestyle has cost him, and we go through that transition with him.
@@PeteRockChroniclesWhy is he deeply flawed? Our prehistoric ancestors fought like Ray Shoesmith. But here we are in our micromanaged world where men are emasculated and deprived of their character. I'd actually say that was deeply flawed
I don't think I've ever been shocked at how good a series I had never heard of until a year ago like I was with this one. Ray is such a brilliant and relatable character, criminally underrated series.
Listen here, sunshine. Where did you come by this information that Mr Inbetween was a criminally underrated series? Eh? I am a gangland criminal and me and all my boys fackin lav it.
I'm not a huge fan of violence myself but I'm still a firm believer of a good beat down if you have it coming. This belief keeps me grounded. I haven't been in a proper fight in like 25 years just by having a basic level of respect and humility. It really isn't that hard to be kind, assholes get what they deserve.
It really is amazing how effective minding your business, leaving people alone, getting in and out of places in public and heading straight home really is. The only times I've ever experienced or have heard of shit kicking off and confrontation occuring is when people fk around and aren't where they should be doing what they should be doing, or acting up being disrespectful to others.
@@Sevatar_VIIIthminding your own businesses in the pursuit of avoiding conflict is exactly why assholes get away with it. Because people aren't prepared to call bad behaviour out enough.
@@robd8577 Well... often people make decisions about others without knowing all the facts. It is very easy to make judgments while watching a TV show where 'limited background facts' are laid out in the plot. Not so easy in reality when two persons interpretation of the same event are polar opposites.... and both contain elements of the truth. I spent 5 years arguing with lawyers about my late father's estate.. no matter what I said.... they could turn night into day and day into night when it suited them.... I am still trying to make sense of the chicken or egg argument they used to get me over buying a vehicle off the estate.... damn sure they did... just cannot work it out for want of trying....
Truly a great show. One of the few that I would think about days after watching an episode. Sad that it ended, but better to end too soon than too late.
I enjoyed the hell out of that show. I wish there were more seasons. I also love dark comedy. The whole "Quentin" conversation almost killed me it was so funny.
I picked up on the show from bits of episodes on UA-cam. Then I went hunting for it. I found seasons 1 & 2 and they were absolutely brilliant. To my knowledge this series hasn't even been shown on UK TV and I can't understand why. Unlike the Americans we don't need an interpreter or sub-titles to understand what is being said. I think Scott Ryan is missing a trick here. The show would go down really well and the DVDs would sell all day long. Great show, great characters and well acted
Your government has probably banned the DVDs as "too violent" for your tender society. Especially with the current politics of the UK, I'm sure they don't want anyone getting... Ideas....
I loved the series and experienced sadness and disappointment when it abruptly ended. I hope there is a sequel as the character is incredible. Excellent review!
There is a movie called The Magician from 2005 which is also about Ray. It's the only other media to feature the character apart from the TV series and is really worth a look if you liked the series.
Violence isn't an answer to a question, in my opinion. That's to philosophical. Violence is a solution to a real world problem. Is it always the solution? No, at least it shouldn't be, but sometimes.. Yes, yes it is.
Like all human actions, it's a tool... it can be used for good or evil. This is the way with everything human -- from our tech to our society to our interpersonal dealings. I wish we were wise enough to spot when our leaders have placed us on a collision course with ultra-violence. We keep electing them and they liquidate millions. I feel like its a cycle we'll never escape because those who have a moral center will always lose to those who don't -- because they have a wider array of tools at their disposal. Also, in peacetime, the most useless of people can succeed in politics -- and pursue it with a feverish zeal. Only when times get bad do the competent leave the private sector to join politics... reluctantly and at the greatest personal risk.
Fantastic video. Very well done. I absolutely loved this show. Saw a preview for it watching the last season of Fargo, and thinking it looked intriguing, decided to give it a go. And what a go. What a ride. I wasn't expecting the range of emotions I would go through. Massive respect for Scott Ryan. Whatever he does next, I am definitely on board
UA-cam kept feeding me clips of this show, and I became interested. Finally this week I bit the bullet and watched it on Hulu. Couldn’t stop watching it. Watched all 3 seasons over 2 nights. It was great! A lot funnier than I thought it would be. I wish we had more.
Gandhi, perhaps the most renowned non-violence advocate, noted in his essay 'Doctrine of the Sword: "If I had to choose between violence and cowardice, I would choose violence" Truly excellent essay here, too! Makes me think even more deeply about a genuinely brilliant and provocative show. Thanks PONDER.
In one of the episodes I think in season 3 Ray goes to a mob bosses house where he beats up a bodyguard. When Ray walks out after speaking to the mob boss, the mob boss asks his body guard if he knew who that was. The bloke says no & the mob boss says “that’s the magician”
The acting throughout from EVERY character and ‘extra’ was perfect. I have rarely seen such a professionally produced programme. Special shout out to the guy who plays Ray’s brother. Sublime acting.
I love the show. This is the first time I came across a very well-written review because you didn't try to judge or explain... as the series does, you opened your heart and ideas to generate more exploration than conclusions. Kudos man.
This is such a horribly underrated tv show. I only heard of it by the time it was already over, I know of nobody else that watched it and I binged watch the 3 seasons. Wish it kept going.
The moments when Ray dishes out violent justice are really satisfying. We've all done it or at least thought about it. But generally the moments when Ray acted violently on impulse, not on a job, negatively impacted his life. Ally broke up with him, Brit started losing respect for him after lying about jail, and he ends up living in a caravan far away from her. It's implied Ray's father's anger made them estranged as well. The conversation he has with the old teacher at the reunion also touches on Ray's unhealthy holding of grudges.
Violence is when extreme physicality is perpetrated and one (or more) or the people involved are unwilling. Just becasue a person is unwilling does NOT mean they didn't have it coming. And as much as it ISN'T politically correct to say so... violence (or extreme physciality) is STILL a means of communication. Most especially when two men are involved in a discussion. I've been a bouncer (Crowd Controller) for 32 years. Have been involved in Close Personal Protection (bodyguarding to civvies) for over twenty years and have taught self defence workshops for women for over ten years. I've been on the receiving end of violence. Seen it perpetrated. And put a stop to the commiting of violent acts more times than I can recount. Ray is portrayed beautifully. He shows the contradiction that many Security professionals live.
Great essay dude. One thing I would add and that many women (and some men) can't seem to get is, that every interaction between 2 males holds the threat, no matter how small, of violence. If they like each other or are related the threshold may be more extreme but it is always there. Many of our fathers tried to teach us with kind words about standing up to bullies in school. The threat alone is enough to curb another's selfish actions but sometimes it requires a balled fist and broken teeth. You may not be violent yourselves but you should always prepare for that one moment where life or your loved ones may require it.
It’s a good thing that Ray is only an individual. If most people were raised with no hesitation to violence society would be a wreck. Only those savvy enough to discern others intentions would be successful. Just think about operating your vehicle in traffic how many of the people around you seemed “qualified”. It’s quite a balance so be careful what you wish for.
I'm halfway through season 2, and I think you've written a profound essay here. The line, "This is not a glorification of violence, it's an examination of it." really struck me. I'm very happy with your writing and insights, and I eagerly hit subscribe. I hope you're doing well.
It’s so good because Ray isn’t a Psychopath ,he is a man who sees society isn’t protecting anyone from the real predators and living in that world he is forced into dealing with things permanently even when it sometimes shows he isn’t happy doing so and has a conscience about a situation.
Violence is the only thing violent people understand, you cannot be neutral on a moving train, there are violent people in this world that will try to harm you, being a non-violent person just makes you a target.
Ray's attitude towards violence is mostly a result of the terrible abuse he experienced as a child. That doesn't mean violence is always the wrong response. Violence is required to defend yourself or to defend those who cannot defend themselves. The show expresses Ray's violence in varying circumstances. Most of the time his violence is criminal, or pathological, but not always. With experience, for the most part, Ray evolved enough to turn away from his violent lifestyle and his pathology. However, like many of us, he is also capable of backsliding a bit. :-)
Excellent explanation of the show!! Thanks! I have my own thoughts and feelings about it...but this really puts it into context for me....he was absolutely violent....but most of the time it was necessary....I cried and l laughed through it all...he was mesmerizing and i really miss it...❤❤❤...I think I'll have to rewatch the series again .......
"His violent choices often lead to isolation, pain, and loss." So do our non-violent choices. We need a better argument for non-violence than "It doesn't work". Ray is not a conflicted or ambiguous character. He simply doesn't make the common - and arguable - equation of "violence" = "evil". In many respects he is a good man. He never, ever uses his intimidating presence simply for fun or to be the big dick, unlike the assholes he frequently seems to come across. He seems to do what he does almost more often out of principle than for money. Got to watch this again!
When you initiate without just cause, it is violence. When you defend against unjust violence, it is defensive force. The two are not the same. Violence only occurs when one initiates harm against others. Like government. Government is always violence.
This show is awesome. It is an extension of the movie with the same character called The magician, and this referenced in the movie. Fantastic movie as well and very funny
In a world where often the weak and vulnerable are victimised without justice, as was the case in rays childhood...those people then develop belief about the world and themselves. In this case he developed a worldview that entailed " I must myself get justice against those who will otherwise go unpunished" "it's me or them" to some degree this is true, however nothing but forgiveness combined with hopefully some form of justice against the perpetrators can free someone like Ray
At least that's what I believe he was seeking in the anger sessions in the show from my perspective, as I was shocked when he said a single word in those scenes... He was clearly seeking someone to understand and empathise with his lonely and isolating coping mechanisms/belief he developed when he was victimised in his childhood... Something the empty plastic anger management guy was too shallow to grasp...in Rays perspective violence was the only answer THEN...how does he then move forward with another tool to solve the situations he previously resorted to violence to solve
Hi, I’ve just randomly found your channel this evening when I saw your Dune II clip which was amazing. I loved that so I went to see what other videos you’ve made and then I find this video. Mr Inbetween is the most underrated TV show in history in my opinion, it is absolutely brilliant! And then I finally come to my question, how does your channel only have 6K followers??? Please keep up the great work, you’ve earned one more subscriber today from me. Your videos are fantastic!!
He was speaking 💯, he said there's so many AH because everyone does nothing , we definitely need more chin checks and fades for anyone being outta pocket ( disrespecting you) way too many people have no repercussions for their actions
People that are disrespectful, rude and mean have never been punched in the face and it shows. Sometimes they need to be reminded that actions and words have consequences.
Great video…. Reminded me of a comedian I saw at least 30? 40? Years ago…. His name was Ron Darian… He told a joke about instant retribution for wrong doing….. Guy driving down the highway, flicks a cigarette butt out the window… Gets instantly suck out the window after the cigarette butt… Moron in a pet store tapping on a fish tank, saying look at the fish, look at the fish as the fish panic….. God looks at the earth, starts tapping on the earth like it’s a basketball…. All the humans running around screaming, God laughing saying Look at the humans, look at the humans…. Never forgot that joke….. Ray Shoesmith, on people doing stupid things, being assholes, Because we let them get away with it…. Wouldn’t it be nice if Ron Darian’s instant retribution policy was reality…. What a wonderful world it would be….. Wonder what the retribution would be for the Putin’s and Trump types…. People that have no compassion for the lives they’ve destroyed…. Have a nice day… Thanks for reading this, and thanks for a great video post. 👍🏻🍻💙😎
yes, you got the point of the series. that's the question it wants us to ask. But there's a movie that came long before it, a low budget indi film (called The Magician,) that introduced Ray Shoesmith and asked those questions in even more complex and confronting ways. Even after the series, it's still worth a watch. The movie and series share a protagonist, but the stories resolve themselves quite differently, and in the movie ray works in Melbourne, not Sydney. At a few times in eth series ray is referred to as The Magician by others, or has people hint at his terrifying reputation.
I was fortunate enough to work in another industry with Scott Ryan. I've never seen him pick a fight, but he never walked away from one either! Not a massive physical guy, but sharp , quick and street smart! I notice that you give credence to the "Creators?" To my knowledge, Scott Ryan wrote the script for "Mr Inbetween ". He was the one who sold it to HBO! But a perfect scrip for himself as the Main Character! ( his daughter in the series was the director's daughter, I believe) My best wishes for Scott., but for the total winner? How about a movie with Scott, Johnny Depp, Eric Banna and Mel Gibson? I kinda think it would break the box office? I'd even invest some dollars into that movie! 😊
The dialogue in this was so good because it was simple and earnest, relatable to the people watching. Another series with good dialogue was Deadwood, although that was good for its florid complexity. I highly suggest Deadwood if you can find it. Another show cancelled too soon, unfortunately.
Arguably the best television series I have ever watched. Brilliantly written and acted.
Great video. I personally think it's one of the best shows out there. A great example of keeping everything simple and pared back. No flashbacks to a 'previous' life, no backstory. Just a fantastic example of "show me, don't tell me".
I totally agree with you, excellent story telling. Thanks for stopping by!
The world is full of arseholes - you know why? ‘
‘Because people let ‘em get away with it’.
Probably one of the truest lines ever uttered…
Great line. Sometimes there are potential witnesses, and you can't be confrontational.... but I agree with the philosophy. Don't let a-holes be a-holes again, without thinking twice, maybe. The police don't like people standing up for themselves anymore....
Excellent line. It crosses my mind frequently.
Same with stupidity and mediocrity, it's often times rewarded, thus it keeps happening and even growing, in multiple cases. Corruption also.
It’s also about people are assholes, society is just like that. Violence is not the answer but to be the good guy in the long term u have to beat your enemies in there game without losing morale principles. It’s a controversial mindset but a particular interesting one
Can you give examples of non violence changing things. @@meesvanegmond9787
When Ray gives you "that smile"..you're in trouble
I strongly suspect that Ray Shoesmith is modelled on an American hitman called Richard "the iceman" Kuklinski. He was a prolific hitman for the mob and would kill without mercy, often befriending his victims. He wouldn't tolerate disrespect and would murder many people for doing so. There are interviews on youtube with the iceman, truly chilling stuff, and the similarities between the real killer and Ray are hard to miss. Both are true psychopaths that ultimately end up hurting those they care about the most.
@trevorpom doubt it. Ray is an amalgamation of Australian criminals. If anything hes closest to chopper ried with his code of conduct when it comes to who he inflicted his violence on.
Not at all. Chopper had no compunction about hitting innocent women at all where Ray and Kuklinski would only hurt women who were part of the criminal underworld and despised those that did. Chopper was largely full of shit where Kuklinski was the real deal. Many many unsolved murders and disappearances were solved with Kuklinskis' arrest. I didn't include Ray in that sentence as he's ultimately a made up character but his character is a no nonsense character like Kuklinski.@@lukedeker4676
@@trevorpomno I have seen enough interviews with, and read about, the Iceman, to say that the two are not really that alike. Richard comes across as a truly problematic person who is not just psychologically and morally impaired but is also a bit of an insecure turd of a person on top of that. His tales of his morality and rules come across as self serving and ring hollow. Ray to be frank comes across as a good bloke baring all the murdering and general professional hard man behaviour. I have met a few professional hard men over the years and they come across more like Ray than Richard.
Guys like Richard are not people you would like to have a beer with so not really the sort of person professionals in Australia like dealing with. I once heard a former high ranking mafia member say that people like Richard were rare in professional circles and generally avoided due to their poor personality and the fact they can’t be trusted (he doubt much of what Richard said was true).
Then you would be familiar with Dr. Park Dietz and his interviews with Richard. When Ray is being interviewed and being challenged, he comes across like Richard when he was being challenged by Dr. Park. That's where I saw the similarities.
I wouldn't give either of them time of day knowing what they've done. They're both people to be avoided as they're both psychopaths and very dangerous. Rays' offsider also reminds me of Richards' "mentor" with the ice cream van who taught him about cyanide use. They're not that different really once you take away the producers' understandable efforts to make Ray likeable. They have a show to sell after all and if Ray was modelled exactly like Richard it would fail. @@gareth4045
Violence is necessary sometimes not all ways ,but it’s the only language some people understand
I found that to be the truth, First learned that against bullies in school.
"What if I want to tell you to leave me and my beloved ones in peace but you only understand the language of the sword.
I let the blade do the talking ,so my tongue shall become iron..." Krigsgaldr by Heilung
No, it's a language the body understands when the mind ain't workin'.
reminds me of a quote from the movie Fury: "You're like an animal, all you understand is the boot and the fist".
Sadly, I don't think they understand what is said.
They do at least understand you're not an easy target, which gives the good result you want.
But they don't understand they were doing wrong, they cannot comprehend that.
The greatest television program ever.
I loved Mr Inbetween. The writing, acting and directing put many blockbusters to shame. As to your question, Ray has a clear moral code that would probably make many of us envious. He's capable of violence and is willing to use it where he feels it's justified. Most of us would privately agree with his choices but we don't have the courage or skills to act on them. He owns his choices and rarely regrets his actions. The two clips you showed where Ray was crying were not related to remorse. Both followed losses of people he was attached to.
The best TV series I've watched in last 3 or 4 years, the star who wrote & directed it is an amazing talent.
MR Inbetween is one of the best shows ever made in Australia. It's witty and violent and humane.
It's one of the best shows ever made anywhere, I'd say.
Beat me to it.
It's the best show I've watched. Ahead of them all
A show where the insignificant moments just STICK with you. That's how you know it's a masterpiece. The therapy scenes convinced me ray was right and everybody else was wrong.
Until you realize that Ray is a sociopath that kills with about as much feeling as he would doing the dishes, and that his violence hurts those that he cares about directly or indirectly. It's easy to miss this because he is a superficially charming and likeable person. Those he loves are in constant danger because of his actions but are completely unaware of the danger his violence has put them in.
@@trevorpom oh he's not right at all he just 'convinces' you he is.
Well thought out video, thanks.
Episodes were a fair bit less than 30 minutes but each one felt like a well produced movie, so much happened.
The mark of a great show is one that you continue to think about long after it is over and each one did this in spades.
Scott Ryan should be a household name, for his writing and his acting. Let's hope he achieves the recognition he deserves.
Glad you enjoyed it!
The problem is not whether violence can be necessary or even good, but that self-serving arguments from people who are good at violence are often dishonest. Ray is an unusual character in that he can recognize that beating down his girlfriend's brother was too much, rather than merely regretting the consequences.
Bingo. He's an honest man, although deeply flawed.
This is a bloody excellent point. Thought provoking
Absolutely. A person I talk to, no need to label, but let's say hes done some really fucked up shit to people, he likes to argument himself with the fact that there cant be only good in the world, that the idea of good wouldnt be real, if there wasnt evil. Which is true, but it's not a reason to be evil. Its laughable. And he himself knows it deep inside, its just easier and thats what he wants. Easy
A lot of people miss that Ray goes from blase about his job to true regrets over what his violent lifestyle has cost him, and we go through that transition with him.
@@PeteRockChroniclesWhy is he deeply flawed? Our prehistoric ancestors fought like Ray Shoesmith. But here we are in our micromanaged world where men are emasculated and deprived of their character. I'd actually say that was deeply flawed
It's been two years now. Gonna rewatch this. It was golden.
I don't think I've ever been shocked at how good a series I had never heard of until a year ago like I was with this one. Ray is such a brilliant and relatable character, criminally underrated series.
Was capped to bits when this came out after seeing the magician in 2005/6. Was great to have Ray back
Listen here, sunshine. Where did you come by this information that Mr Inbetween was a criminally underrated series? Eh? I am a gangland criminal and me and all my boys fackin lav it.
Youve probably seen Dexter already, but if you haven't,youll probably like it
I'm not a huge fan of violence myself but I'm still a firm believer of a good beat down if you have it coming. This belief keeps me grounded. I haven't been in a proper fight in like 25 years just by having a basic level of respect and humility. It really isn't that hard to be kind, assholes get what they deserve.
People nowadays have words meaning them nothing expect fun
It really is amazing how effective minding your business, leaving people alone, getting in and out of places in public and heading straight home really is. The only times I've ever experienced or have heard of shit kicking off and confrontation occuring is when people fk around and aren't where they should be doing what they should be doing, or acting up being disrespectful to others.
@@Sevatar_VIIIthminding your own businesses in the pursuit of avoiding conflict is exactly why assholes get away with it. Because people aren't prepared to call bad behaviour out enough.
@@robd8577 Well... often people make decisions about others without knowing all the facts. It is very easy to make judgments while watching a TV show where 'limited background facts' are laid out in the plot. Not so easy in reality when two persons interpretation of the same event are polar opposites.... and both contain elements of the truth.
I spent 5 years arguing with lawyers about my late father's estate.. no matter what I said.... they could turn night into day and day into night when it suited them.... I am still trying to make sense of the chicken or egg argument they used to get me over buying a vehicle off the estate.... damn sure they did... just cannot work it out for want of trying....
"Never be a doormat"....best worldly advice by our man Ray!!
The acting is outstanding in this show.
Great actor! Great story. Great script.
No doubt.
I’ve watched this series a couple of times. It’s awesome
Never came across any television series where the character has such a menacing smile. I will never forget that creepy smile of Ray shoesmith.
If they remake The Shining, we know who they should call.
He looks like Willem Dafoe's younger brother.
A psychologist once pointed out Meghan Markle's creepy smile. He said, smile your most wonderful smile, then tilt your face down and look upward...
Truly a great show. One of the few that I would think about days after watching an episode. Sad that it ended, but better to end too soon than too late.
I enjoyed the hell out of that show. I wish there were more seasons. I also love dark comedy. The whole "Quentin" conversation almost killed me it was so funny.
What's really great is that the man who married his ex wife is named Quentin in the show. I think few people caught that 😂
Yes I agree I just wish they didn't end it I miss this show!
One of the greatest shows I've ever watched
I picked up on the show from bits of episodes on UA-cam. Then I went hunting for it. I found seasons 1 & 2 and they were absolutely brilliant.
To my knowledge this series hasn't even been shown on UK TV and I can't understand why. Unlike the Americans we don't need an interpreter or sub-titles to understand what is being said.
I think Scott Ryan is missing a trick here. The show would go down really well and the DVDs would sell all day long. Great show, great characters and well acted
I can't get hold of the dvd in the UK. I'd love the complete series
Your government has probably banned the DVDs as "too violent" for your tender society.
Especially with the current politics of the UK, I'm sure they don't want anyone getting... Ideas....
It’s on Disney+
I loved the series and experienced sadness and disappointment when it abruptly ended. I hope there is a sequel as the character is incredible. Excellent review!
Appreciate the love :)
creator has said this is a closed book, and there will be no expansion to the series.
There is a movie called The Magician from 2005 which is also about Ray. It's the only other media to feature the character apart from the TV series and is really worth a look if you liked the series.
You delivered a great analysis of this show and its themes. Not a dynamic delivery, but an accurate one. Well done
Probably the single best show i have ever watched from any country.
Ray Shoesmith for President.
So bummed this show was seemingly dropped. It was SO good.
It was always planned to have 3 seasons
Better to go out before your time than to fade into a husk
This has to be the single best insight into the world of crime and violence in the setting of rays life.
Bravo 👏
Violence isn't an answer to a question, in my opinion. That's to philosophical. Violence is a solution to a real world problem. Is it always the solution? No, at least it shouldn't be, but sometimes.. Yes, yes it is.
Like all human actions, it's a tool... it can be used for good or evil.
This is the way with everything human -- from our tech to our society to our interpersonal dealings.
I wish we were wise enough to spot when our leaders have placed us on a collision course with ultra-violence. We keep electing them and they liquidate millions.
I feel like its a cycle we'll never escape because those who have a moral center will always lose to those who don't -- because they have a wider array of tools at their disposal.
Also, in peacetime, the most useless of people can succeed in politics -- and pursue it with a feverish zeal. Only when times get bad do the competent leave the private sector to join politics... reluctantly and at the greatest personal risk.
Fantastic video. Very well done. I absolutely loved this show. Saw a preview for it watching the last season of Fargo, and thinking it looked intriguing, decided to give it a go. And what a go. What a ride. I wasn't expecting the range of emotions I would go through. Massive respect for Scott Ryan. Whatever he does next, I am definitely on board
Just an absolute stormer of a show. It needs prime time telly it's that good!
As I've said before, one of the best shows ever made. Great video....
Possibly the most criminally underrated shows of all time...
Was the pun intended?
@@papastalin3498 Ohhh yeah. 😉
best series i have watched in years,,,watched the whole series one after the other,
UA-cam kept feeding me clips of this show, and I became interested. Finally this week I bit the bullet and watched it on Hulu. Couldn’t stop watching it. Watched all 3 seasons over 2 nights. It was great! A lot funnier than I thought it would be. I wish we had more.
Gandhi, perhaps the most renowned non-violence advocate, noted in his essay 'Doctrine of the Sword: "If I had to choose between violence and cowardice, I would choose violence"
Truly excellent essay here, too! Makes me think even more deeply about a genuinely brilliant and provocative show. Thanks PONDER.
"That smile, that damned smile" 😁
The Wire is the greatest TV show of all time.
It’s closely followed by The Sopranos.
But Mr Inbetween is my favourite show of all time.
he did a film first called "the magician." it also follows Ray but in mocumentary format... worth a watch for sure
It's on my watchlist for sure. Thanks for sharing!
In one of the episodes I think in season 3 Ray goes to a mob bosses house where he beats up a bodyguard. When Ray walks out after speaking to the mob boss, the mob boss asks his body guard if he knew who that was. The bloke says no & the mob boss says “that’s the magician”
The most slept on TV series in existence
Ray was and is a thoroughly likable character. Amazing 3 seasons. Enjoyed every episode.
The acting throughout from EVERY character and ‘extra’ was perfect. I have rarely seen such a professionally produced programme. Special shout out to the guy who plays Ray’s brother. Sublime acting.
I love the show.
This is the first time I came across a very well-written review because you didn't try to judge or explain... as the series does, you opened your heart and ideas to generate more exploration than conclusions. Kudos man.
This is such a horribly underrated tv show. I only heard of it by the time it was already over, I know of nobody else that watched it and I binged watch the 3 seasons. Wish it kept going.
Truly great character given a chance to challenge our perspectives
Absolutely great show. I've watched it 3 times now, and have always been enthralled by the cast, plot, and story line.
I’m not familiar with Mr. Inbetween. Really thought provoking piece. Very well presented, it made me uncomfortable. Thanks daaane. Love your work.
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for your comment :)
Couldn't recommend it more. Definitely check it out.
Highly recommended. So well written and acted. There is no 'fat' on any of it.
The moments when Ray dishes out violent justice are really satisfying. We've all done it or at least thought about it. But generally the moments when Ray acted violently on impulse, not on a job, negatively impacted his life. Ally broke up with him, Brit started losing respect for him after lying about jail, and he ends up living in a caravan far away from her. It's implied Ray's father's anger made them estranged as well. The conversation he has with the old teacher at the reunion also touches on Ray's unhealthy holding of grudges.
Unhealthy holding of grudges.......if someone's done something to you you shouldn't be naive, they'll certainly do it again. Don't be a doormat
Ive watched through this series twice. It's amazing! If you haven't seen it, download it now!
Tremendous analysis of a brilliant show. Absolutely primal.
One of my all time favorite television shows. The character development is off the charts.
The unicorn Pony in the forest scence one best idea's ive seen .
so many others but that got me how he rolls both ways softy yet hard outside
'Sometimes, cruelty is the only way to make a point so clearly that nobody can ever mistake its intent.' - Perturabo
Violence is when extreme physicality is perpetrated and one (or more) or the people involved are unwilling. Just becasue a person is unwilling does NOT mean they didn't have it coming. And as much as it ISN'T politically correct to say so... violence (or extreme physciality) is STILL a means of communication. Most especially when two men are involved in a discussion. I've been a bouncer (Crowd Controller) for 32 years. Have been involved in Close Personal Protection (bodyguarding to civvies) for over twenty years and have taught self defence workshops for women for over ten years. I've been on the receiving end of violence. Seen it perpetrated. And put a stop to the commiting of violent acts more times than I can recount. Ray is portrayed beautifully. He shows the contradiction that many Security professionals live.
Violence is a question, and the answer tends to be "Yes".
Great video and terrific insight. Just subscribed
I miss this show I loved how it was done.
Great essay dude. One thing I would add and that many women (and some men) can't seem to get is, that every interaction between 2 males holds the threat, no matter how small, of violence. If they like each other or are related the threshold may be more extreme but it is always there. Many of our fathers tried to teach us with kind words about standing up to bullies in school. The threat alone is enough to curb another's selfish actions but sometimes it requires a balled fist and broken teeth. You may not be violent yourselves but you should always prepare for that one moment where life or your loved ones may require it.
I love to see my favourite Australian show get some love. Amazing video!
It’s a good thing that Ray is only an individual. If most people were raised with no hesitation to violence society would be a wreck. Only those savvy enough to discern others intentions would be successful. Just think about operating your vehicle in traffic how many of the people around you seemed “qualified”. It’s quite a balance so be careful what you wish for.
Awesome show! First time a show can capture my attention.
I'm halfway through season 2, and I think you've written a profound essay here. The line, "This is not a glorification of violence, it's an examination of it." really struck me. I'm very happy with your writing and insights, and I eagerly hit subscribe. I hope you're doing well.
It’s so good because Ray isn’t a Psychopath ,he is a man who sees society isn’t protecting anyone from the real predators and living in that world he is forced into dealing with things permanently even when it sometimes shows he isn’t happy doing so and has a conscience about a situation.
Wise man once said that true communication is possible only between equals.
Ray is simply a very clear and concise communicator.
Violence is the only thing violent people understand, you cannot be neutral on a moving train, there are violent people in this world that will try to harm you, being a non-violent person just makes you a target.
Ray's attitude towards violence is mostly a result of the terrible abuse he experienced as a child. That doesn't mean violence is always the wrong response. Violence is required to defend yourself or to defend those who cannot defend themselves. The show expresses Ray's violence in varying circumstances. Most of the time his violence is criminal, or pathological, but not always. With experience, for the most part, Ray evolved enough to turn away from his violent lifestyle and his pathology. However, like many of us, he is also capable of backsliding a bit. :-)
Great take
Excellent explanation of the show!! Thanks! I have my own thoughts and feelings about it...but this really puts it into context for me....he was absolutely violent....but most of the time it was necessary....I cried and l laughed through it all...he was mesmerizing and i really miss it...❤❤❤...I think I'll have to rewatch the series again .......
3:34 I love the use of the word “weave” paired with the visuals 😂 perfect match
"His violent choices often lead to isolation, pain, and loss." So do our non-violent choices. We need a better argument for non-violence than "It doesn't work".
Ray is not a conflicted or ambiguous character. He simply doesn't make the common - and arguable - equation of "violence" = "evil". In many respects he is a good man. He never, ever uses his intimidating presence simply for fun or to be the big dick, unlike the assholes he frequently seems to come across. He seems to do what he does almost more often out of principle than for money.
Got to watch this again!
I love how the show lets the quiet moments linger just long enough to hit you in a way that very, very few pieces of media ever manage to do.
The Australian "Breaking Bad" or "Ozark." It's just that good.
you perfectly described what makes the show amazing, excellent video sir
Thank you 🙏
When you initiate without just cause, it is violence. When you defend against unjust violence, it is defensive force. The two are not the same. Violence only occurs when one initiates harm against others. Like government. Government is always violence.
Fantastic show but an even better video essay from yourself.
Good work.
Excellent essay on a great show.
Violence as an answer is strictly situational, and hard to predict the outcome of. and this show demonstrates that perfectly
Real, true authentic gentleman, are no strangers to violence.
I always wrote my own narrative for that final scene...IE those young scumbags Fecked around and found out.
God I love this series!.
I've never liked it when people say violence is never the answer, sometimes it's the only language people understand.
Agree 💯
Sometimes you have to meet violence with violence.
Awesome video mate was pretty powerful actually made my heart race
Yes it a freindly reminder of what , Life is Truely About in the REAL LIFE IS ?
This show is awesome. It is an extension of the movie with the same character called The magician, and this referenced in the movie. Fantastic movie as well and very funny
I want to watch this series again, so much of it I have forgotten.
"And force my friends is violence. The supreme authority from which all other authority is derived."
In a world where often the weak and vulnerable are victimised without justice, as was the case in rays childhood...those people then develop belief about the world and themselves. In this case he developed a worldview that entailed " I must myself get justice against those who will otherwise go unpunished" "it's me or them" to some degree this is true, however nothing but forgiveness combined with hopefully some form of justice against the perpetrators can free someone like Ray
At least that's what I believe he was seeking in the anger sessions in the show from my perspective, as I was shocked when he said a single word in those scenes... He was clearly seeking someone to understand and empathise with his lonely and isolating coping mechanisms/belief he developed when he was victimised in his childhood... Something the empty plastic anger management guy was too shallow to grasp...in Rays perspective violence was the only answer THEN...how does he then move forward with another tool to solve the situations he previously resorted to violence to solve
Ray is the ultimate Sigma. As close to a hero as I've ever had
Such a shame they didn't flush the story out a bit more with another season. Gotta be 1 of the best shows like this. Hidden gem!!
Hi, I’ve just randomly found your channel this evening when I saw your Dune II clip which was amazing. I loved that so I went to see what other videos you’ve made and then I find this video. Mr Inbetween is the most underrated TV show in history in my opinion, it is absolutely brilliant! And then I finally come to my question, how does your channel only have 6K followers??? Please keep up the great work, you’ve earned one more subscriber today from me. Your videos are fantastic!!
Thank you, I really appreciate that. I'm always happy to see other people out there that are passionate about Mr Inbetween.
It's just an option. Not always a good one, but not always a bad one either.
Such a fantastic show.
Fantastic series
He was speaking 💯, he said there's so many AH because everyone does nothing , we definitely need more chin checks and fades for anyone being outta pocket ( disrespecting you) way too many people have no repercussions for their actions
People that are disrespectful, rude and mean have never been punched in the face and it shows. Sometimes they need to be reminded that actions and words have consequences.
Great video….
Reminded me of a comedian I saw at least 30? 40? Years ago….
His name was Ron Darian…
He told a joke about instant retribution for wrong doing…..
Guy driving down the highway, flicks a cigarette butt out the window…
Gets instantly suck out the window after the cigarette butt…
Moron in a pet store tapping on a fish tank, saying look at the fish, look at the fish as the fish panic…..
God looks at the earth, starts tapping on the earth like it’s a basketball….
All the humans running around screaming, God laughing saying Look at the humans, look at the humans….
Never forgot that joke…..
Ray Shoesmith, on people doing stupid things, being assholes,
Because we let them get away with it….
Wouldn’t it be nice if Ron Darian’s instant retribution policy was reality….
What a wonderful world it would be…..
Wonder what the retribution would be for the Putin’s and Trump types….
People that have no compassion for the lives they’ve destroyed….
Have a nice day…
Thanks for reading this, and thanks for a great video post. 👍🏻🍻💙😎
yes, you got the point of the series. that's the question it wants us to ask.
But there's a movie that came long before it, a low budget indi film (called The Magician,) that introduced Ray Shoesmith and asked those questions in even more complex and confronting ways. Even after the series, it's still worth a watch. The movie and series share a protagonist, but the stories resolve themselves quite differently, and in the movie ray works in Melbourne, not Sydney. At a few times in eth series ray is referred to as The Magician by others, or has people hint at his terrifying reputation.
I was fortunate enough to work in another industry with Scott Ryan. I've never seen him pick a fight, but he never walked away from one either! Not a massive physical guy, but sharp , quick and street smart! I notice that you give credence to the "Creators?" To my knowledge, Scott Ryan wrote the script for "Mr Inbetween ". He was the one who sold it to HBO! But a perfect scrip for himself as the Main Character! ( his daughter in the series was the director's daughter, I believe) My best wishes for Scott., but for the total winner? How about a movie with Scott, Johnny Depp, Eric Banna and Mel Gibson? I kinda think it would break the box office? I'd even invest some dollars into that movie! 😊
The dialogue in this was so good because it was simple and earnest, relatable to the people watching.
Another series with good dialogue was Deadwood, although that was good for its florid complexity. I highly suggest Deadwood if you can find it. Another show cancelled too soon, unfortunately.
Thoughout human history standards of living only elevate after periods of war. Let that sink in
I loved this show an still recommend it to every one
One of the best shows ever