Rating - 4/5
The Witcher on Netflix is based on Polish writer Andrzej Sapkowski's books written in the 90's. These books were not translated into English as late as 2008. There has been a successful game adaptation as well. The gaming fans would be a little disappointed as the series follows the books to the T.
The scale, the setting, complex story make it worthy competitor to shows like GoT, Vikings.
The story revolves around 3 main characters - Geralt of Rivia (Witcher), Yennefer (The Mage) & Ciri (The young lioness). Its their struggles, pains, successes and their relationships and how they are intertwined that makes up for the 1st season.
Henry Cavill (Witcher) has become synonymous with the silent brooding roles. He has the physicality to carry the Witcher on his shoulders with aplomb. Akin to Batman he is a necessary monster who kills other monsters in the society, but he is hated, shunned and looked down upon at every instance. Well not everything is like Batman, he does not kill the monsters for a sense of justice, he is a simple mercenary (not necessarily getting paid every time). As the episodes progress, we come to know the real person behind the monster. He has the capability to love, to care and sympathize with the people who are ostracized by the society.
Freya Allen as Ciri has the least screen time out of the three but as the show ended in the S01, she will have a bigger role to play in the upcoming seasons. Her character is thrown into a turmoil due to war and she has a single goal, to find the witcher. No spoilers here as to the reason behind her journey.
Anya Chalotra (Yennefer), according to me has biggest character growth in the season. Her journey is like the caterpillar who turns into a beautiful butterfly through some tough decisions. Her journey shows what power can do to people and how they choose to use it shapes their destiny.
My favourite character is of Jaskier (Joey Batey). He is the storyteller who converts all the dirty and not so brave tales of the Witcher into a heroic saga, to entertain the masses and collect some coin. The witcher does not accept it but he is alone in this world and when Jaskier joins him, he might show that he does not like him but his banter, fights and when the time comes his caring all point to the fact that witcher also needs some one in his life.
The production is top notch. Real locations, satisfactory VFX and a great story line makes Witcher a compelling watch. Its refreshing to see a show which follows the book like a puppy. Biggest reason for enjoying the show is the soundtrack. Its catches the mood of the show perfectly and I am not sure how you cannot love the tune of "Toss a coin to the Witcher".
Overall, The Witcher is a worthy binge watching show.
Rating - 4/5
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