As a kid, I read the novel by Tonke Dragt several times. It was one of my favorites. So, I had big expectations for this show. After the first 15 minutes in, it was clear I was in for a disappointment. They made a lot of changes to the story and I question why? Why do we need the heavy emphasis on magic? Why can't a historically correct chappel be good enough to hold a wake during the night, but do we need a weird skull-looking monstrosity? Why does Tiuri need a bunch of sidekicks to join him in his quest instead of just Piak like in the novel? Why can't an adventure story during medieval times just be that? Why do we need all the extra's? Which in my opinion don't add any extra depth to the story?
I always found that part of the charm of the novel was it could have happened during the Middle Ages. The series is pure fictional fantasy. This just shows bigger doesn't always mean better.
If we are not speaking story-wise there is a lot of beautiful scenery and shots of New-Zealand. I liked most of the costume design. Most of the actors did a decent job. I'm not talking Oscar award-winning level here, but it felt better than a lot of similar styled shows.
If you haven't read the book. This is a mediocre fantasy series. Trying to hop on the "LOTR" and "GOT" bandwagon.
If you have read the book and don't want to be as disappointed as I am. You could spend your time better re-reading it and enjoying a beautiful story, than watching this soulless show.
What a boring ending.... Don't even waste your time on this crappy show
As others have stated, this is an OK show. Not something I would recommend to others, unless they need something to kill time with. The characters are forgetful and not great acting. However the shooting locations are amazing, just breath taking scenery.
This show could be skipped. You're not missing anything.
It got a bit better towards the end. But basically ordinary.
I never read the book so I'm only judging from what I saw in the show.
The main character is a bit lame and the story sometimes cheesy, but other than that I don't have much to complain.
It's a nice little fantasy show to enjoy in one sitting. Sets, locations, effects and costumes are great.
Also, the ending of season one gives you enough closure if it doesn't get renewed.
Enjoyable show. It was a bit different from what we are used to today in that genre, because it feels like it is aimed at a younger audience (young characters, not PG13, rather typical character arcs, bad guy is bad for no reason, good guy is just good). But even aimed at a younger audience, it was entertaining enough to me as an adult.
I cared enough about the characters to watch the entire season (Iona's character is interesting and fun). The scenery is pretty (New Zealand once again). SFX are meh, but it's not unusually bad. There are some weird plot twists and deus-ex-machinis that let the show down
Overall, I would recommend it if you don't plan on watching it too seriously.
It began with a lot of promise and lost its foothold completely at the ending. I mean honestly, it was such a letdown.
Flimsy fantasy with a half assed twist. Don't waste your time. Even if you have got plenty of it because the world is elf isolating:face_vomiting:
Shout by zombiebxxkVIP BlockedParent2020-03-20T22:01:50Z
Meh. Just a boring YA fantasy show. All the typical tropes and bad stuff associated with that genre you're going to get with this show. But without any of the good or interesting parts. Just boring main characters, forgettable villains and bad acting all around.
But it does have great cinematography and set design.
I'm probably not the target audience for these kinda shows anymore but I do still enjoy them from time to time when they are made well. This one just isn't in almost all aspects.