Bali 2002

When tackling a subject as emotionally charged as the Bali bombings, authenticity and sensitivity are paramount. Bali 2002 does manage to strike these chords at times but falters in others, resulting in a series that is as uneven as it is poignant.


Bali 2002 dramatizes the harrowing events of the Bali bombings and their aftermath, weaving together multiple perspectives to explore the human, cultural, and communal impact of the tragedy. With a focus on both victims and survivors, as well as the local Balinese community, the series strives to balance emotional weight with cultural insight.

The performances by Rachel Griffiths and Richard Roxburgh are undoubtedly the show’s backbone. Griffiths is riveting, embodying her character with an emotional depth that elevates the series. Roxburgh, as expected, delivers a grounded and heartfelt performance that helps carry the narrative. However, the less experienced actors stand out for all the wrong reasons. Their performances often feel stilted, as though they’re rehearsing for a high school play rather than reliving one of the most significant tragedies in modern history.
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The show begins on a strong note, effectively drawing the audience into the chaos, fear, and heartbreak of the bombings. But as it progresses, the pacing starts to sag. The initial episodes feel tight and impactful, but later ones lose focus, dragging the series down. This could have been rectified by either condensing the story into fewer episodes or delving deeper into certain aspects. Instead, it sits in an awkward middle ground that occasionally tests the viewer’s patience.
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One of the show’s strengths is its attempt to depict the ripple effects of the bombings from multiple perspectives. It’s refreshing to see the focus extend beyond just the foreign victims and survivors to include the Balinese locals. Luh, the young Balinese mother, is a standout. Her performance is both gut-wrenching and deeply human, embodying the heartbreak and resilience of her community. The series does a commendable job of highlighting Balinese cultural and religious customs, adding layers of nuance and authenticity.

Unfortunately, this multi-perspective approach is also where Bali 2002 stumbles. By dividing attention among so many characters, the series spreads itself too thin. Some characters are introduced with significant emotional weight, only to be forgotten for long stretches. This lack of continuity makes it difficult to fully invest in their stories. The victims and survivors deserved more depth and care in their portrayals to ensure their narratives resonated as deeply as possible.
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On a production level, the series is hit or miss. At times, it captures the atmosphere of the tragedy with harrowing authenticity, pulling viewers into the chaos and aftermath. Yet other moments feel cheapened by obvious sets or unrealistic details—such as family members of victims looking unnaturally well-groomed given the circumstances. These inconsistencies can pull viewers out of the story, diminishing its emotional impact.