"Boy Swallows Universe" is a tale centered around Eli, a young boy caught in a web of challenges in a drug-ridden and violent neighborhood. The story follows Eli, his brother Gus who is notably quiet, and their mother Frankie, a former addict. Frankie's marriage to Lyle Orlik, a previous drug dealer, adds another layer to the family's complex life. However, their seemingly stable life spirals into chaos when Ivan and his gang abduct Lyle, leading to a series of unfortunate events including Frankie's arrest and Slim's heart attack-induced death. Frankie's eventual release and her decision to live with Robert and her sons mark a new chapter in Eli's story, which continues in the episode titled “Boy Meets End.”
As the narrative progresses, signs of hope emerge for Eli and his family. Robert overcomes his alcoholism, and Frankie reconciles with him, setting aside past differences. Bermuda ensures that Kallas no longer troubles Frankie, and Robert even secures a job managing a bookstore. Despite his fear of heights, Robert accepts the job located in Dara, close to his home.
Eli's journalistic aspirations bear fruit as he lands a job at a newspaper agency, writing an impressive piece about Alex Bermuda. His article highlights Bermuda’s intentions to reform his life post-incarceration. Gus and Shelly gain recognition for their philanthropic work, being named Queensland’s champions for their fundraising efforts for disabled school children.
However, Eli's journalistic curiosity leads him to suspect Tytus Broz's involvement in the town's drug trade. Broz, who had business ties with Bich Dang, a notable drug dealer, is suspected of laundering money through an offshore company linked to Ivan Kroll. Eli and Caitlyn's investigation uncovers Broz's employment of ex-criminals, raising suspicions about his true motives.
Their investigation takes a dangerous turn when Broz and Ivan become aware of their probing. Detective Tim Cotton mysteriously disappears, and Eli is summoned for a face-to-face interview with Broz. During the interview, Broz subtly threatens Eli, alluding to the fate of his stepfather.
Undeterred, Eli and Caitlyn infiltrate Broz's warehouse, discovering a hidden laboratory with skeletal remains and animals. Shockingly, they find Lyle’s dismembered head among the specimens, indicating Broz's gruesome experiments. Ivan arrives with intent to kill, but Eli and Caitlyn manage to escape.
The climax unfolds at an award ceremony where Eli and Caitlyn expose Broz's heinous acts, leading to his arrest. However, Ivan catches up, stabbing Eli and Robert. In a dramatic turn, Eli, pursued by Ivan, climbs a clock tower, a scene foreseen in Gus's vision. Gus's timely intervention saves Eli, pushing Ivan to his death.
Eli survives, waking up in the hospital expected to make a full recovery, and Robert is saved as well. The series finale brilliantly resolves the mysteries, though it dashes the hope of Lyle being alive. The revelation of Broz's involvement in the town's criminal activities and his connections with Ivan Kroll and Bich Dang provide a satisfying conclusion.
"Boy Swallows Universe" masterfully wraps up its intricate storyline, delivering a compelling narrative that makes it a must-watch. Available on Netflix, it's an excellent choice for those seeking a captivating and entertaining series.
