Boy Swallows Universe is a coming-of-age drama series that follows the life of a young boy named Eli Bell as he navigates through the crime world of 1980s Brisbane. Most of Eli’s family has a criminal background, leaving him to deal with the world with his brother. The two of them set off on an odyssey of love and retribution after a drug lord ruins their life. So, is Boy Swallows Universe based on a true story, and are there any real events and facts that have inspired the creators of this show?
Is Boy Swallows Universe based on a true story?
Yes, Boy Swallows Universe is loosely based on a true story and inspired by Trent Dalton’s eponymous semi-autobiographical novel. The events in the show are somewhat based on his experiences from young adulthood in Queensland, Australia. According to Dalton, the story is a “50/50” blend of all the factual events in his life, spiced up by some fictional elements. He wrote the novel from memory and recalled all the tragic years when his family began to crumble, turning his pain into something artistic and meaningful.
Boy Swallows Universe’s real events and facts explained
As Eli is partially based on Dalton himself, the criminal activities of the character’s family mirror the dangers involving the writer’s kin. Eli’s childhood is also similar to that of Dalton, including the part where he craves to see his mother while she’s away in prison. Besides, the series portrays potentially dangerous people visiting Eli during the daytime, which is another experience that Dalton went through.
The real people behind Boy Swallows Universe’s characters
Dalton’s real-life stepfather who was involved in criminal activities, inspired the character of Lyle Orlik. Even his mother and the time he spent away from her, all made their way to his novel and consequentially the show, although with a fictional touch. There are more characters in the show based on real-life people, but it is still a blend of factual information and creative imagination.
Is Eli Bell a real person?
Eli Bell, the fictional protagonist is based on Trent Dalton, the author of the novel who dared to share his unique story through a fictional lens. In the show, Eli is simply a young boy growing up in Brisbane, Queensland, and navigating his complicated childhood, which is not very far from Dalton’s life.
Is Slim Halliday a real person?
Slim Halliday is a fictional character based on a real-life criminal from Queensland who is infamously known as the ‘Houdini’ of Boggo Road. In reality, he was a mentor to Dalton in his early years, and Slim fills this role in Eli’s life.
