Merlín

Season 1 – 80% – Because the Arthurian legend has already been presented in all possible adaptations as a dark fantasy or a historical spectacle with minimal magic, the version presented to us by the BBC is nearly flawless in its concept. It offers us simple spells, a dragon mentor, subtle hints of future relationships and mythological plots, and most importantly, a lot of ongoing jokes, led by Merlin's irresistibly cheeky smile or Gaius's raised eyebrows that often reach as high as watchtowers. And when my favorite Prince Arthur is played by Bradley James as a perfectly confident fool with his heart in the right place, I am willing to forgive occasional similarities between the individual plotlines. Season 2 – 90% – Although I generally have a negative attitude towards the phrase "guilty pleasure," here I have to own up to it. I see the occasional childishness, weaknesses in individual scripts, and certainly the formulaic nature of the ongoing events. No matter what happens, Uther announces that it's because of magic, and no matter who our enemy is, most of his plans end up with one of the main characters being kidnapped, injured, or involuntarily in love. However, as long as the main hero, with Colin Morgan's innocent expression and his master's sarcastic remarks, faces these obstacles, I am not capable of getting angry at this group. Season 3 – 90% – The plots gradually gain momentum, Arthur's responsibilities increase, and the smile just won't leave my face. Although many episodes are actively ruined by Morgana turning evil, the fact that Katie McGrath is anything but the master of an evil smile doesn't make me more critical. I am still genuinely fond of this castle, and as long as the scripts continue to choose attractive themes from the central legend precisely when I least expect it, I am unable to resist them. Season 4 – 100% – The golden times of Camelot and all of Albion are coming. The pure essence of a beautiful adventure is not disturbed even by the slimy Agravaine or other more or less predictable alliances of Morgana. Not as long as Merlin is practicing magic in the lower chambers, a dragon is flying across the sky, and a game for the throne is played more cunningly than ever before. The fourth season establishes this British (and still family-friendly) fantasy as an unforgettable staple, with a storytelling spirit that has no match in the world of TV series. It feels like a program from twenty years ago and, at the same time, by precisely alternating between humor, action, and touching moments, it is in no way inferior to much more famous competitors. I open the door to the last chamber with great anticipation. Season 5 – 90% – Unexpectedly darker storytelling, surprising twists, and a heavy burden in the stomach while waiting for the end of the legend. Even in the final season, Merlin's adventures did not avoid a certain repetitiveness or simplicity in solving episodic plots, but that unbreakable chemistry between the actors and the power of immortal friendship outweigh everything more than ever before. So, despite the fact that the longer story revolving around Gwen seemed a bit exaggerated to me, and the final two-parter was jarring to me at certain moments, I will never forget this fantasy. It had a few flaws, and a second viewing would probably harm it a bit, but heroism, honor, love, and courage are present here in greater measure than ever. And I simply respond to that. So, Merlin, Arthur, Guinevere, Morgana, Uther, Gaius, Leon, Gwaine, Percival, Elyan, Lancelot, Mordred, and the dragon Kilgharrah, you will have a very specific place tucked away in my heart. (29.03.2013) (menos) (más)