H2o: Just Add Water
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H2O: Just Add Water, also known as H2O, is an Australian fantasy children and teen drama television show created by Jonathan M. Shiff. It first screened on Australia's Network Ten and as of 2009 ran in syndication in over 120 countries with a worldwide audience of more than 250 million. It was filmed on location at Sea World and other locations on the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia. The show revolves around three teenage girls facing everyday teen problems with an added twist: they become mermaids with unique, supernatural powers over water.
Only two series with a total of 52 episodes were originally planned, but due to popular demand, a third series was filmed. Series one premiered in July 2006, followed by series two in September 2007. Series three first aired in the United Kingdom in October 2009, with the Australian premiere occurring in May 2010.
Plot
Rikki Chadwick, Emma Gilbert, and Cleo Sertori are three teenage Australian girls who find themselves stranded on the mysterious Mako Island, where they end up in a pool under a dormant volcano just as a full moon passes above them, bathing the pool in light. The girls are rescued and brought back to shore, only to discover something strange. Ten seconds after coming into contact with water, the girls transform into mermaids. After further experimentation, the girls also discover they have supernatural powers over water. The trio enlist the help of Cleo's friend Lewis McCartney to help them keep their secret and find out more about it.
Why It's No Ordinary
- Unique Concept
- The show has a unique premise where the protagonists gain mermaid abilities, which adds a magical and fantastical element that sets it apart from other teen dramas.
- Catchy theme song and a memorable soundtrack that adds to its overall charm and nostalgia for fans.
- It balances drama and adventure with humor, adding a light-hearted element that enhances its appeal.
- The magical and mysterious elements of the girls' powers and the secrets of Mako Island keep viewers intrigued and wanting to learn more.
- The main characters, Cleo, Emma, Rikki, Bella and Lewis are relatable teens dealing with typical high school issues alongside their supernatural challenges, which resonates well with the audience, they are likable in their own way.
- Cleo Sertori is the brunette of the group and a bit awkward, but eventually becomes more outgoing.
- Emma Gilbert, the "leader" of the group, is a rather serious and responsible girl.
- Rikki Chadwick is the "Wild Child" of the group. She is the new girl in town but not a Naïve Newcomer, because she is rebellious and confident.
- The series emphasizes the importance of friendship and teamwork, showcasing how the girls support each other through various trials.
- The underwater scenes and special effects used to depict the girls' powers are visually appealing and add to the show's charm.
- Each episode features engaging and adventurous storylines, often involving the girls using their powers to solve problems or protect their secret.
- The show often delivers positive messages about responsibility, honesty, and the consequences of one's actions.
- The beautiful Gold Coast setting provides a stunning backdrop for the series, adding an exotic feel for international viewers.
- The characters undergo significant development throughout the series, dealing with personal growth, relationships, and their evolving powers.
- The show is suitable for a wide age range, making it a good option for family viewing.
- It has garnered a dedicated fan base over the years, leading to spin-offs like "Mako Mermaids," which speaks to its enduring popularity.
Bad Qualities
- The series decline in season 3.
- Season 3 is considered this to many fans as Emma, and later on Lewis, (until he returns in the end), are replaced with newer characters such as Bella and Will. While Bella is a mixed bag, Will does some questionable things throughout the season that in retrospect, felt uncomforting to watch. Furthermore, other changes such as the different necklaces, the water tentacle being as a new threat instead of the Full Moon (with the latter not having any plot/conflict all season long), and possibly the JuiceNet Cafe now being called Rikki's Cafe makes the entire season feel disconnected from the first two. Lastly, aside from Emma being mentioned, most of the past events of the first two seasons is barely discussed as well.
- Over time, certain characters can become exaggerated versions of their original selves, focusing too heavily on one trait or aspect of their personality.
- The show can become predictable with recurring themes and plot devices, making it less exciting for some viewers as it progresses.
- Some storylines or character arcs are left unresolved, which can be unsatisfying for viewers looking for closure.
- Antagonists can sometimes feel one-dimensional or unjustly vilified without sufficient character development or motivation.
- Some bad episodes.
- While her actions in the last half of Season 2 were pretty much villainous, Charlotte being a mermaid roughly lasted only 5-6 episodes. As much as she was hated by fans by the end of Season 2, wouldn't it still be interesting if Charlotte at least had a redemption arc while keeping her mermaid powers in Season 3 while also being the third mermaid that filled the gap in that season, or, if still keeping Bella in that season, as the fourth or fifth official mermaid in the group?
- The show never really explained why the girls should hide being mermaids from their parents, especially Emma (who has a very good relationship with hers) and Rikki (who has no younger siblings that could potentially out them). It might have been an interesting plot to have the parents discover their daughters' secrets and become Secret Keepers to subvert Adults Are Useless.
Reception
H2o: Just Add Water received positives reviews from audiences for its imaginative concept, engaging storylines, and the performances of its young cast. However, some noted that the special effects and production values were occasionally limited by the show's budget.
It received a 7.3/10 on IMDB.