A land grab threatens to destroy a fading dynasty
Narrative
When the vast Lawson cattle ranch lacks an heir, rival factions across Australia see an opportunity to take over. The series was filmed in the Northern Territory and South Australia in places so remote they are barely inhabited, let alone shown on screen.
What many modern Western dramas try but often fail to capture: authenticity, depth, and a raw, character-driven plot that grabs you from the first episode
Sites include the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park, with special permission from the traditional owners, and Tipperary Station, a real working cattle station so large it has its own airport and school. The series offers a refreshing look at the power struggles, family dynamics, and intransigence of frontier life without the glossy, overly stylized presentation found in shows like Yellowstone.
It doesn’t rely on over-the-top drama or pompous monologues
The actors bring every bit of their A-game and bring nuance that brings complexity and depth to their characters. Each episode reveals the layers of their motivations, strengths, and vulnerabilities, painting a landscape where no one is simply “good”; or “bad.” It’s a world where the characters are as tough as the terrain they inhabit, but their struggles are deeply intertwined, drawing you into their emotional battles as much as the external conflicts.
If you’re looking for a Western drama with substance, Territory is definitely worth your time
Instead, it unfolds with an honest, grounded storytelling style, making you feel like you’re eavesdropping on real lives. The writers and directors respect the intelligence of their audience and trust us to pick up on the subtleties without spelling everything out.