breakthesky.neti'll break the sky, for you and i are going nowhere.

“Keep the magic secret.”

Merlin Season 1 (2008)

Merlin is a new retelling of the sorcerer Merlin (Colin Morgan) and the experience he has as a young sorcerer in the mythical city of Camelot. It introduces the beginning of his relationship with the future King Arthur (Bradley James), as well as other important characters in the King Arthur Legend such as Morgana (Katie McGrath), Guinevere (Angel Coulby), Uther (Anthony Head), and Gaius (Richard Wilson). As magic is forbidden in Camelot by King Uther’s command, Merlin is forced to practice his magical abilities in secret, with Gaius’ guidance, and often seeks advice from the Dragon Uther keeps imprisoned in the belly of the castle. As the series progresses, other important figures in the Arthurian legend are introduced, such as Lancelot and Mordred, and Merlin learns more about his destiny, and how it is forever intertwined with the destiny of Arthur.

I had heard brilliant things about Merlin from many of my friends, but as it is a BBC UK series, I wasn’t sure if it would be my cup of tea. I decided to give it a try one day, and I am so glad I did because it is brilliant! I am not really familiar with the Arthurian legend, but I do know the basics (King Arthur united the kingdom, there was a love triangle between Arthur/Guinevere/Lancelot, Merlin was a powerful sorcerer, etc.) and I really enjoyed the BBC’s interpretation of the legend, especially the fact that the series is from Merlin’s perspective rather than Arthur’s. The cast is superb as well, and the progression of the friendships between the main four youths is wholly realistic and believable. Also, I love how the series gradually displays different aspects and dimensions of each character’s personality, giving depth and layers to each character in the show.

My favorite characters are Arthur and Nimueh (Michelle Ryan); I love Bradley James’ portrayal of Arthur and I think Michelle Ryan is a wonderful and seductive schemer as Nimueh. While Nimueh does not have as great a role as the characters of Morgana and Guinevere, I think Nimueh consistently outshines Guinevere and occasionally Morgana. I’m not a fan of Gwen; I think she lacks the depth that the other female characters on the show have. Morgana is a great character though, I love the relationships she has with Arthur and Merlin and how she isn’t afraid to speak her mind despite living in a society where women are of lesser value. As much as I love Arthur and his steadfast belief that his first duty is to his people as the prince of Camelot, I love Merlin as well, especially his sense of humor! I dislike King Uther as well, but I love how Anthony Head portrays the king; there is a steely exterior but there are definite chinks in his armor that are shown throughout the season.

Merlin has been renewed for a second season, and I cannot wait until it airs. I am so excited to see what they do with the main characters, and what parts of the Arthurian legend the show chooses to retell for season 2!

Overall Rating: 9.5/10