Australian-Made Show ‘Nautilus’ Inspired by Jules Verne Breaks Records with $300m Budget

Investing in film and TV productions can be a risky endeavor, with even the most talented directors and producers just one flop away from damaging their careers. Companies holding the rights to popular intellectual properties often opt to revisit well-known stories, especially when those stories enter the public domain. This trend explains why classic tales from childhood are frequently reimagined on screen.

Disney, in particular, has excelled in reinterpreting familiar narratives from different perspectives, capturing audience interest with fresh takes on beloved stories. For instance, "Maleficent" offers a new angle on "Sleeping Beauty" by exploring the perspective of the infamous evil queen. While this approach to fairy tale revisionism has roots in feminist fiction, Disney has become a master at leveraging social movements for financial gain.

One of Disney’s recent ventures, "Nautilus," was initially set to debut on Disney+ before being picked up by other platforms. With a substantial budget of A$300 million, making it the most expensive series ever produced in Australia, "Nautilus" generated significant anticipation. However, after viewing all ten episodes, it became apparent why Disney decided to pass on the series.

"Nautilus" struggles to capture the essence of Jules Verne’s iconic novel "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea," presenting a contrived narrative from the start. The show’s portrayal of British soldiers and East India Company representatives as caricatures, coupled with a diverse yet stereotypical crew aboard the Nautilus, fails to resonate with viewers seeking authenticity and depth.

The series attempts to modernize the original story by emphasizing themes of freedom and environmentalism, but the execution falls flat. Lead actor Shazad Latif’s portrayal of Captain Nemo lacks conviction, contributing to the overall lackluster performance of the production.

Despite its ambitious scope and high production value, "Nautilus" falters in its delivery. The show’s visual effects appear artificial, and the storytelling lacks the immersive quality needed for a successful adventure epic. Furthermore, the series’ attempt to address historical and political themes comes across as heavy-handed and superficial, diminishing the impact of the narrative.

In striving to appeal to a broad audience, "Nautilus" misses the mark, failing to engage viewers on a meaningful level. The series’ attempt to blend entertainment with social commentary results in a disjointed and unsatisfying viewing experience. Ultimately, "Nautilus" serves as a cautionary tale about the pitfalls of prioritizing commercial appeal over artistic integrity in the realm of film and television production.