About Tsunami: The Aftermath

Tsunami: The Aftermath is a two-part television drama mini-series that was aired in 2006. It traces the lives of several characters in the backdrop of the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami. With riveting drama and heartfelt moments, the show delves deep into the devastating effects of the natural disaster on the characters' lives and their subsequent adaptations and transformations.

Making / Production

The series was a joint production by HBO and BBC, directed by Bharat Nalluri. With a compelling script by Abi Morgan and memorable performances by the ensemble cast, the series managed to leave a lasting impact. It was shot primarily on location in Phuket, Thailand, capturing the raw beauty and charm of the region whilst underlining the horrific impact of the tsunami.

Actors

• Chiwetel Ejiofor as Ian Carter, a British man searching for his lost family. Ejiofor delivers a powerful performance, masterfully walking the thin line between hope and despair.
• Sophie Okonedo as Susie Carter, a mother who has lost her family and is dealing with the aftermath. Okonedo's intensely emotional portrayal of Susie is heart-wrenching.
• Tim Roth as Nick Fraser, an ambitious journalist covering the story. Roth's performance as the hard-nosed but empathetic journalist is sterling.
• Toni Collette as Kathy Graham, an aid worker. Collette's layered performance as an aid worker dedicated to help those around her, whilst dealing with her own personal loss, is noteworthy.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The series is based on real-life accounts of the tsunami survivors.
• Despite mirroring a real event, the series has faced criticism for not featuring Thai characters in central roles.
• It took almost two years to complete the production of the series.

Awards

Tsunami: The Aftermath has been recognized with numerous awards and nominations, including three Golden Globe nominations, an Emmy nomination, and a nomination for BAFTA TV Award for Best Drama Serial.

Quotes

• “It's not enough to survive. One has to be worthy of survival.” - Ian Carter
• "Every single second is an eternity when you're looking for someone." - Susie Carter
• "Hope is all that’s left when everything else is taken from you." - Nick Fraser

Music, Soundtrack

• The score was composed by Alex Heffes, providing a haunting background to the series.
• The soundtrack additionally includes songs and compositions from various artists, carefully selected to resonate with the mood of the series.