Breaking Bad has long reigned because the gold standard of darkly comedic crime dramas for years, but there’s a “hidden gem” that some fans consider gives Vince Gilligan’s masterpiece a run for its money. After over a decade, the Australian series Mr Inbetween has quietly earned critical and audience acclaim. It’s praised for its sharp writing, tight direction, and standout performances.
Mr Inbetween: A Perfect Mix Of Crime, Humor & Heart
Described as a gripping mixture of motion, tension, heart, and humor, Mr Inbetween has drawn inevitable comparisons to Breaking Bad. For many who loved the American classic, this lesser-known Aussie counterpart is a must-watch, with all three seasons available for streaming on Disney Plus.
The show, which premiered in 2018, follows Ray Shoesmith, a hitman entrenched in Sydney’s criminal underworld. But his job isn’t his only challenge. He has to balance murder, debt collection, and drug trafficking with fatherhood, relationships, and caring for his terminally unwell brother, adding layers of complexity to his character.
Despite its grim themes, the series never loses its sharp comedic edge, largely because of Scott Ryan, who not only stars as Ray but additionally created the show based on his 2005 film The Magician. His deadpan delivery and unflinching moral code make Ray an unforgettable lead.
Critical Acclaim & Rave Reviews
Critics have praised Mr Inbetween, which has a stellar 95% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The show’s direction, helmed entirely by Nash Edgerton (brother of Hollywood star Joel Edgerton), has also been lauded for its seamless tonal shifts between ironic humor and gruesome violence.
Audiences have been just as enthusiastic. Fans on Rotten Tomatoes have praised its flawless mixture of comedy, tragedy, and raw intensity. Shaun R raved about its effortless mixing of humor and brutality, while Tim K called it “easily the very best Aussie show ever made and amongst the very best series of all time.”
Some viewers have even gone so far as to put it above Breaking Bad and Higher Call Saul, calling it “perfect with zero fat and nil filler.”
Social media is buzzing with recommendations as well. One X user wrote, “I just finished the series Mr Inbetween, wow what an incredible, temporary show. somewhere between Sopranos and Breaking Bad in tone but funnier and with rather more of a lowkey, slice of life vibe – yet the stakes and danger seem all of the more real for this reason. I loved it.”
I just finished the series Mr Inbetween, wow what an incredible, temporary show. somewhere between Sopranos and Breaking Bad in tone but funnier and with rather more of a lowkey, slice of life vibe – yet the stakes and danger seem all of the more real for this reason. I loved it. pic.twitter.com/Z7CyfSu3rL
— David James 🍩 (@funkentechno) March 31, 2024
One other said, “Just finished Mr. Inbetween @IceAgeAokiji. Great series, as an Australian I can’t say we make many great TV series but of the few I’ve seen this is certainly the most effective.” A 3rd penned, “Mr Inbetween is unquestionably the most effective TV series to ever come out of Australia. Easily one of the bingeable shows ever made as well.”
Just finished Mr. Inbetween @IceAgeAokiji. Great series, as an Australian I can’t say we make many great television series but of the few I’ve seen this is certainly the most effective. pic.twitter.com/iTGn4vrvDq
— Leo | Sengoatku No. 1 (@Leleo2211) February 23, 2025
Mr Inbetween is unquestionably the most effective TV series to ever come out of Australia. Easily one of the bingeable shows ever made as well. https://t.co/cnao7zpKBW
— GmanLives (@GmanLives) February 10, 2025
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