I can't believe they're cancelling this show right as I found it and binged it on Netflix. There will never be enough of Eliot and Margo. Somebody ovary up and pick this show up. Please.
371 Reviews
Screw you SYFY
Maeve434 March 2020
Really picks up steam after season 1
jedinixo17 February 2019
I am surprised by how much I enjoy this series. The wit and intelligence in the writing, the character development, the acting... all of it is terrific. Season 1 is so-so, and at the very end of that season it feels like the writers were told to kick it into high gear because the final episodes build story line after story line to set up the next seasons. In Season 3 there is an episode that is so heartfelt that I weeped both times I watched it and just thinking about the story that was told in that episode (episode 5!) gives me chills. I was very surprised to find this fun/witty show could evoke so much emotion out of me in one episode. That episode stayed with me for a few days after watching it, which to me that is my mark of brilliant storytelling - I just couldn't stop thinking about it. I'm hooked. If you watch and get bored in season 1, stick with it! You will be very glad you did.
Good show...who cares if it's like the books.
joshfanguy9 March 2018
First off I'll say I haven't read the books which I think makes me more qualified to give an impartial review of the TV SHOW without all the BS references to how this wasn't like the book or that isn't like that book or whatever. This is a fun show. It has all the elements of fantasy and adventure that anyone who enjoys those types of shows will enjoy. The characters are (for the most part) well developed and the actors are doing a great job with the material. A very good entertaining watch for anyone who enjoys adventure themed shows/movies or magic.
NOOOOOO
ben-d-freeland2 August 2020
Never before have I disliked all the characters and still liked something this much because..
Jingleling8 February 2018
Constant surprises!
This show is a fresh take on all the topics you could ever imagine being linked to the umbrella topic that is "magic".
Yes all the characters are annoyingly teen-like despite being in their 20's, with the usual designated roles; the nerd, the bitch, the shy girl etc.
Yet this show is so (!) inventive with how magic is portrayed. I feel like the writers are very much aware of how annoying the characters are (haven't read the books btw) and portrays them this way in order to create this very fast, quirky and weird plot. There's simply not enough time to dwell on the characters while at the same time having this crazy and quite complicated plot unfolding.
The characters in a way becomes secondary to the topics being discussed, the underlying topic being the role, function and meaningfulness/or not of magic.
(Edit: having re-watched the entire show and going on season 4 I have come to actually like the characters. They have grown more complex and I no longer find them shallow which is a big plus.)
It is very 'in your face' and informal, with a lot of swearing and sets/costumes that sometimes look like a high-school play setup.
This show has made me: scared: it has one of the most terrifying characters I have ever come across in a show; it has made me think (on the definition of magic, on the experience of time, of death, of evil..) ; and made me laugh: It has a lot of humor, not in a 'one joke after the other' kind of way, but in the absurdity and craziness that is the show.
There are some VERY dark themes being explored in it, but it manages to do so in a way that doesn't leave you feeling down after watching it. For me partly because I didn't care too much about the characters, but I did care a lot about the plot so I kept watching, and kept being amazed at the inventiveness and strangely light and playful way it is written and delivered.
Just watched the latest episode of season 3 and Im still loving it!
Yes all the characters are annoyingly teen-like despite being in their 20's, with the usual designated roles; the nerd, the bitch, the shy girl etc.
Yet this show is so (!) inventive with how magic is portrayed. I feel like the writers are very much aware of how annoying the characters are (haven't read the books btw) and portrays them this way in order to create this very fast, quirky and weird plot. There's simply not enough time to dwell on the characters while at the same time having this crazy and quite complicated plot unfolding.
The characters in a way becomes secondary to the topics being discussed, the underlying topic being the role, function and meaningfulness/or not of magic.
(Edit: having re-watched the entire show and going on season 4 I have come to actually like the characters. They have grown more complex and I no longer find them shallow which is a big plus.)
It is very 'in your face' and informal, with a lot of swearing and sets/costumes that sometimes look like a high-school play setup.
This show has made me: scared: it has one of the most terrifying characters I have ever come across in a show; it has made me think (on the definition of magic, on the experience of time, of death, of evil..) ; and made me laugh: It has a lot of humor, not in a 'one joke after the other' kind of way, but in the absurdity and craziness that is the show.
There are some VERY dark themes being explored in it, but it manages to do so in a way that doesn't leave you feeling down after watching it. For me partly because I didn't care too much about the characters, but I did care a lot about the plot so I kept watching, and kept being amazed at the inventiveness and strangely light and playful way it is written and delivered.
Just watched the latest episode of season 3 and Im still loving it!
Excellent and nothing like the book
Piestein5 March 2016
I will just start by saying that this is nothing like the book (which I like) and it is done in an excellent way. They basically just took the names and two or three basic ideas, but that's it. Even the Main Character has a different background and skills.
The premise is that there is an unhappy boy who wants something and finds a magic school. Sounds a bit... used. But:
1) Magic is a tool that the show uses, not a goal in and of itself.
2) The show focuses on many characters instead of just one and it develops their personalities and interactions, independently from the Main Character.
3) The pacing is really good of the show. They cover surprising amounts of subjects in one episode - this is not a show where they will make you wait for the finale for something exciting.
4) What they do is dangerous and people get hurt. Also, magic takes a lot of effort - you don't just say a word and wave a wand.
5) They curse and do not get always get along, and they smoke, sure, but they don't make a big deal out of it. It's not a prude show, but it's not a Spartacus/GoT show (blood & tits) either.
6) The first season has 13 episodes and SyFy has already renewed it for another season. So you won't just start a show, just to see that they cancel it at the end of the first season.
I'd personally recommend it if you are into fantasy. It's not exceptional, but it is good and it got me hooked up and wondering what will happen next. This is why between the first and the third episode, the 18-34 audience has actually been growing.
The premise is that there is an unhappy boy who wants something and finds a magic school. Sounds a bit... used. But:
1) Magic is a tool that the show uses, not a goal in and of itself.
2) The show focuses on many characters instead of just one and it develops their personalities and interactions, independently from the Main Character.
3) The pacing is really good of the show. They cover surprising amounts of subjects in one episode - this is not a show where they will make you wait for the finale for something exciting.
4) What they do is dangerous and people get hurt. Also, magic takes a lot of effort - you don't just say a word and wave a wand.
5) They curse and do not get always get along, and they smoke, sure, but they don't make a big deal out of it. It's not a prude show, but it's not a Spartacus/GoT show (blood & tits) either.
6) The first season has 13 episodes and SyFy has already renewed it for another season. So you won't just start a show, just to see that they cancel it at the end of the first season.
I'd personally recommend it if you are into fantasy. It's not exceptional, but it is good and it got me hooked up and wondering what will happen next. This is why between the first and the third episode, the 18-34 audience has actually been growing.
You've grown up with Harry Potter, now that you're an adult watch The Magicians
chrisstineb5 April 2019
This is Harry Potter for adults. Yes, it's a genre that's been done. But it hasn't been done like this. I read the first book in the series and my dislike for the characters kept me from reading the rest of the series. The good news: the show characters are more likeable... but not entirely.
The Magicians embraces cliches. It's very aware of what it is. Harry Potter, meets Narnia, meets The Hangover. Yes, F-bombs are dropped like popcorn. It's laugh out loud funny(seriously, the one liners will make you cry) with a fantastical plot that draws you in and keeps you hooked. Bonus if you're into mythology.
Does Julia ever finally sneeze?
dc_ox14 February 2020
It's getting better with time
nexx-4331425 April 2017
At the beginning of Season 1 everything in this show is really weird and artificial. The characters felt gimmicky and that got more pronounced when you'd realize they're suppose to be playing teenagers. The plot also feels rushed, you feel there is more content between the lines that you can't really read. Things get more interesting when the main antagonist shows up and from there things start to look a bit better. What really kept me with this show are the characters (despite the acting) because there are no good/bad guys. I mean, there are villans and heroes but even while they're doing good all the characters seem a bit bored, like they're doing it because they think it's proper, not because they feel it's right. In that way they seem more inline with modern culture that always wants excitement but can never get satisfaction out of anything.
As this series is progressing through seasons it's getting better and better. The plots are craaaaazy, Alice in Wonderland level crazy, and characters keep growing with the story and changing which is surprising because I never would have guessed it from season 1. Highly recommend watching it if you like something different and out there
I've seen reviews online that rate this show badly solely because it's not Harry Potter. I am a fan of HP too but this is not that kind of magician story, so keep an open mind.
I've seen reviews online that rate this show badly solely because it's not Harry Potter. I am a fan of HP too but this is not that kind of magician story, so keep an open mind.
The Magicians of our days
senatorukr28 January 2020
Great cast. Interesting plot with some well-written twists. Even though I must admit dialogues and characters logic of the last seasons are a bit cringe. The only thing I really don't like about seasons 3 and 4 is that there is no darkness this show used to have. It should've had dark atmosphere like in the 1st season IMO, but then showrunner took different approach or/and followed the books to make it more mainstream. Nonetheless, it's still entertaining :)
Excellent series with a tenuous relationship to the books
cherold22 March 2016
If you've read Lev Grossman's wonderful Magicians trilogy you may find watching this series rather disorienting. The characters are all there and quite recognizable, and it's still about magic students and mysterious otherworlds, but it often feels like the series' writers cut the books into pieces, stirred those pieces in a bowl, then pulled them out and stitched the pieces together in random order, making up new stuff to fill in gaps.
That's not bad, and the world they have created works quite well, but it increasingly diverges from the books' mythology. This approach means I often find the show full of weird left turns where it shows me something familiar and then wanders off somewhere else with it, but the show is very entertaining, and it's prickly characters (awkward guy geek, ridiculously hot, short-skirted girl geek, snarky macho guy, snarky gay guy, angsty magic reject) are, if not quite likable, still fairly relatable.
The first changes from the book were relatively small. We follow Julia's story throughout the series, whereas her later reappearance in the book represented a plot twist. And while the books' Quentin did not have a Harry Potter-ish Destiny - he was just a smart guy so desperate for grand adventure that he would pursue all sorts of crazy things - comments made by supporting characters suggest that in the series, Quentin is in some way inherently Important. I feel that's a bit too obvious - the lack of destiny was one of those nice contrasts with Harry Potter - but it's fine.
Some story elements in the series are from the books, but they can come from any book in any order and are often mixed with things that aren't from the books at all. But while I'm often discombobulated by these changes, I'm rarely displeased.
Addendum: Just saw the last episode, so came back to say that this series held up throughout. Sometimes overly confusing, but overall very solid with an excellent finale.
That's not bad, and the world they have created works quite well, but it increasingly diverges from the books' mythology. This approach means I often find the show full of weird left turns where it shows me something familiar and then wanders off somewhere else with it, but the show is very entertaining, and it's prickly characters (awkward guy geek, ridiculously hot, short-skirted girl geek, snarky macho guy, snarky gay guy, angsty magic reject) are, if not quite likable, still fairly relatable.
The first changes from the book were relatively small. We follow Julia's story throughout the series, whereas her later reappearance in the book represented a plot twist. And while the books' Quentin did not have a Harry Potter-ish Destiny - he was just a smart guy so desperate for grand adventure that he would pursue all sorts of crazy things - comments made by supporting characters suggest that in the series, Quentin is in some way inherently Important. I feel that's a bit too obvious - the lack of destiny was one of those nice contrasts with Harry Potter - but it's fine.
Some story elements in the series are from the books, but they can come from any book in any order and are often mixed with things that aren't from the books at all. But while I'm often discombobulated by these changes, I'm rarely displeased.
Addendum: Just saw the last episode, so came back to say that this series held up throughout. Sometimes overly confusing, but overall very solid with an excellent finale.
I have read the book
louiseromero2 February 2016
OK I must be the only person who has read the book! Now the book is a hard read. I felt you are NOT meant to like the main character Quentin. He is a very self absorbed introvert, who in the book just walks away from his friends and leaves everything behind for his pursuit of magic.
To me he is the awful modern version of Holden Caulfield.
So this is NO Harry Potter - do not even compare. The books characters are flawed but deliberately. I felt the author wanted you not to like them.
I am not going into any detail. But the Show has taken the premise of the characters and re-written the entire thing and made something more, from shallow characters. I am really enjoying it. Don't waste your time on the book - this is one where the show outshines the pages.
To me he is the awful modern version of Holden Caulfield.
So this is NO Harry Potter - do not even compare. The books characters are flawed but deliberately. I felt the author wanted you not to like them.
I am not going into any detail. But the Show has taken the premise of the characters and re-written the entire thing and made something more, from shallow characters. I am really enjoying it. Don't waste your time on the book - this is one where the show outshines the pages.
I'm confused why I like this series so much...
lisannebraat3 June 2020
It's so difficult to describe why you should watch this series. I tried to make a few friends watch it, but they stopped after the first episode. I get why. I remember thinking after the first two episodes that I was not sure if it was a bad rip off of Harry Potter or that all the absurdity was on purpose and actually a stroke of genius. After a few more episodes it turned out to be definitely the last one. This series is full of absurd but amazing storylines, characters with depth, and it can make you cry and laugh at the same time.
I finished all 5 seasons in 1 week and really have a weird feeling in my stomach that it is canceled/finished. The end was great, but I want more. The relations between the characters feel so real to me, with such realistic emotions and relationship problems. That is the best part of the show really. I love how they show depression, dealing with abuse and addiction, and how series deals with the sexual orientation of the characters. It's a bit ironic now talking about this myself, while I actually love how the writers and actors don't make it a big thing.
I think this series, and especially some episodes, will stay with me for a long time. I don't think I have watched a series before that had such an impact on me. Even after thinking about it a lot, I can't really tell why. Maybe it's the quarantine, who f*cking knows. I see the flaws of the series as well, but still, I gave it a 10.
I finished all 5 seasons in 1 week and really have a weird feeling in my stomach that it is canceled/finished. The end was great, but I want more. The relations between the characters feel so real to me, with such realistic emotions and relationship problems. That is the best part of the show really. I love how they show depression, dealing with abuse and addiction, and how series deals with the sexual orientation of the characters. It's a bit ironic now talking about this myself, while I actually love how the writers and actors don't make it a big thing.
I think this series, and especially some episodes, will stay with me for a long time. I don't think I have watched a series before that had such an impact on me. Even after thinking about it a lot, I can't really tell why. Maybe it's the quarantine, who f*cking knows. I see the flaws of the series as well, but still, I gave it a 10.
Excellent show worth watching! It might not turn out to be how you expected it from the description though
janrosseau25 May 2017
So to start off I will say to you this: This series is amazing.
I am a huge Harry Potter fan, or a fantasy fan in general, and so I was really excited to hear of a series in which adolescents discover having magical powers. I expected to see a kind of rip-off from Harry Potter, but not that I really cared much about that, because I am a fan of the genre in general.
But what the show actually was like, blew me away. You expect some cliché main characters with standard personalities, some basic struggling with magic, some discovering the magical world through little quests and so on. Although it may seem at first this show gives you this, and it maybe does at first, it actually gives you so much more.
It touches so many topics, that not even relate to magic at all. They just use the magic to bind the story together. It is actually an adult show (would not advise watching it with younger children), trying to bring to you a story of a group of misfits that happen to all have magical powers. But it could have been a series without the magic as well and still be good. It's actually a very intelligent show, making a lot of references to other works of fictions. Every time you think you know what will happen, they surprise you by adding a new element to the show.
I know many people call it an adult, dark and gritty Harry Potter adaptation, and I cannot say that they are wrong. It actually is just that. But they way the story weaves everything together. I don't know, I think it's just very refreshing to see that the writers didn't restrain themselves on using real world problems and implementing these into a show that's actually about magic (not reality). It doesn't feel in any way forced and the pace of the show is really good. I have been watching this series and never had one moment thinking that it was getting boring. There are a few episodes that I just think are magnificent, but up to you to decide which are, because that's pretty subjective.
I would not say this series is a perfect 10/10. But in its genre and just for being so creative and different it is really a must to see.
The special effects AND the acting are both incredible for a series this "small". To start up a show with a very small fan base, almost from scratch and ending up with a quality product like this, from episode 1 already, gives me the feeling that this show will bloom to get even more awesome than it is already. I think season 2 is even better than season 1, so if you are having your doubts after season 1, I think it's worth a try to keep on watching and see how you feel about the second season.
All I can say is that if you're a fan of the fantasy genre and you're not easily scared by the ugly side of the magic, this is has to be on your watch list. Just don't expect it so be a sort of comedy show of a group of magicians just wizarding through the world.
I am a huge Harry Potter fan, or a fantasy fan in general, and so I was really excited to hear of a series in which adolescents discover having magical powers. I expected to see a kind of rip-off from Harry Potter, but not that I really cared much about that, because I am a fan of the genre in general.
But what the show actually was like, blew me away. You expect some cliché main characters with standard personalities, some basic struggling with magic, some discovering the magical world through little quests and so on. Although it may seem at first this show gives you this, and it maybe does at first, it actually gives you so much more.
It touches so many topics, that not even relate to magic at all. They just use the magic to bind the story together. It is actually an adult show (would not advise watching it with younger children), trying to bring to you a story of a group of misfits that happen to all have magical powers. But it could have been a series without the magic as well and still be good. It's actually a very intelligent show, making a lot of references to other works of fictions. Every time you think you know what will happen, they surprise you by adding a new element to the show.
I know many people call it an adult, dark and gritty Harry Potter adaptation, and I cannot say that they are wrong. It actually is just that. But they way the story weaves everything together. I don't know, I think it's just very refreshing to see that the writers didn't restrain themselves on using real world problems and implementing these into a show that's actually about magic (not reality). It doesn't feel in any way forced and the pace of the show is really good. I have been watching this series and never had one moment thinking that it was getting boring. There are a few episodes that I just think are magnificent, but up to you to decide which are, because that's pretty subjective.
I would not say this series is a perfect 10/10. But in its genre and just for being so creative and different it is really a must to see.
The special effects AND the acting are both incredible for a series this "small". To start up a show with a very small fan base, almost from scratch and ending up with a quality product like this, from episode 1 already, gives me the feeling that this show will bloom to get even more awesome than it is already. I think season 2 is even better than season 1, so if you are having your doubts after season 1, I think it's worth a try to keep on watching and see how you feel about the second season.
All I can say is that if you're a fan of the fantasy genre and you're not easily scared by the ugly side of the magic, this is has to be on your watch list. Just don't expect it so be a sort of comedy show of a group of magicians just wizarding through the world.
A Journey Into A Dark World of Excitement
atlasmb27 January 2016
After two episodes, this new series by the Syfy Channel has already captured my interest and my imagination. "The Magicians" is a supernatural tale adapted from the books of Lev Grossman, which I have not read. It will inevitably be compared to the Harry Potter saga, but it operates on a different level.
When we are introduced to Harry Potter, he is a young child, full of hope and fascination. Hogwarts is a Disney-like playground, full of wonderment. The main character of "The Magicians" is Quentin Coldwater (Jason Ralph)--a college senior who suffers from a general malaise, as if he never feels comfortable in the world.
His path is set--the obligatory applications for ivy league schools, probably followed by an unfulfilling career in something uninspiring. But he is sidetracked (just as Harry literally was) by unknown forces, and finds himself sitting for an exam. The purpose of the exam is obscure, but Quentin (Q) feels an opportunity is at hand.
The show is about Q's introduction to magic. At the same time, the viewer learns that destructive forces are at play. From its beginning, "The Magicians" lets us know this is a dark and sinister story, full of foreboding and impending menace. It feels more like "His Dark Materials" than Harry Potter, and that is a good thing.
The story moves quickly. We are introduced to competing factions and a world of dreams that may be real. A villain--one of the creepiest ever created with special effects--makes an appearance and leaves his mark.
There is also humor, mostly via the whimsical nature of magic. It provides a welcome relief. Otherwise, the show would be nothing more than a battle among dark forces.
Early on, Q feels like an underdeveloped character--one with potential and plenty of room for blossoming. Into something special, we feel. Into a person who knows his place in the universe. But there is plenty of time for that. We want to enjoy the journey.
Update 3/1/16: A world of magic should be unbound by the rules and conventions of the natural world. And that is the world "The Magicians" has proved to be. The world of magic is revealed to be inventive and unpredictable. It is freewheeling, nearly anarchic, full of surprises and possibilities. I am upping my grade to "9".
When we are introduced to Harry Potter, he is a young child, full of hope and fascination. Hogwarts is a Disney-like playground, full of wonderment. The main character of "The Magicians" is Quentin Coldwater (Jason Ralph)--a college senior who suffers from a general malaise, as if he never feels comfortable in the world.
His path is set--the obligatory applications for ivy league schools, probably followed by an unfulfilling career in something uninspiring. But he is sidetracked (just as Harry literally was) by unknown forces, and finds himself sitting for an exam. The purpose of the exam is obscure, but Quentin (Q) feels an opportunity is at hand.
The show is about Q's introduction to magic. At the same time, the viewer learns that destructive forces are at play. From its beginning, "The Magicians" lets us know this is a dark and sinister story, full of foreboding and impending menace. It feels more like "His Dark Materials" than Harry Potter, and that is a good thing.
The story moves quickly. We are introduced to competing factions and a world of dreams that may be real. A villain--one of the creepiest ever created with special effects--makes an appearance and leaves his mark.
There is also humor, mostly via the whimsical nature of magic. It provides a welcome relief. Otherwise, the show would be nothing more than a battle among dark forces.
Early on, Q feels like an underdeveloped character--one with potential and plenty of room for blossoming. Into something special, we feel. Into a person who knows his place in the universe. But there is plenty of time for that. We want to enjoy the journey.
Update 3/1/16: A world of magic should be unbound by the rules and conventions of the natural world. And that is the world "The Magicians" has proved to be. The world of magic is revealed to be inventive and unpredictable. It is freewheeling, nearly anarchic, full of surprises and possibilities. I am upping my grade to "9".
And a halfish
Headturner1130 January 2023
I never really watch stuff like this. I think of Vampire Diaries, supernatural etc. But there was some reason I continued tho some of the actors are unbearable like Summer Bisil? Every time she talks I cringe! Tho the acting from females in most things is usually bad ( in most things I watch as of late) but I literally fast forward threw most of her scenes. Jason Ralph, Jade taylor ugh! But it's not bad just some of the actors! Fillory could have been cool! I was wanting some real king/queen action but it seems kind of hopeless. I think I'm almost to season 3 which would have never happened if I had other things to watch atm! I take it at face value! A somewhat decent show with some really bad acting but entertaining none the less!
Favorite show
mspac-2443225 March 2019
The books had been on my 'to-read' list for a while, then the show came out and I was glad to get in to it unspoiled. It's over the top and darkly absurd, and gets better and more bizarre (often disturbing) every episode. Bought the books in the off season, but waiting to read til the end of the most current season.
Has a little bit of everything. Don't like a scene? Just wait a few minutes
ndriscoll25-182-85350913 April 2020
This show has a lot of different aspects to it. It has some comedy, fantasy, music, dancing, and even a couple of talking animals. I've never read the books, and truth be told, I didn't know there were books for this until other reviews mention it. However, from the first episode, it has been a show with a little bit of everything, and makes you want to see what happens next. That's obviously the mark of a good TV Show. On the very first episode, I was starting to get a little bored, thinking that it was going to be something of a Harry Potter knock-off, where the main character finds out that magic is real, and is sent to a "special" school to learn the ways of it, along with a sinister villain that wants to rule it all (sounds familiar, I know) But, even though it might have the same skeleton to the plot, it definitely doesn't have the same "guts" to it. Where Harry Potter was more family oriented and more or less PG, this was a little more gritty, talking about child molestation, and not to forget at the end of the first episode the Dean has his eyes pulled from his skull, while the classroom of students are completely helpless, paralyzed and can only watch. That scene by itself sets this apart from the family oriented Harry Potter.
All in all, this is a great TV Show.
Interesting show!
chellssaik2 August 2020
I just started season 2. I have really enjoyed learning about each character's personalities and special magical abilities. I ordered the book to compare the show with the book. I'm definitely hooked on this show and I am so thankful there are 5 seasons. I look forward to further character development, as well as, the adventures of each character
Disappointing show with unlikeable characters
peterschmidmusic3 March 2016
After seeing the pilot I had high hopes for this new series. Troubled teenagers who don't fit into society are being told they're magicians. So basically it seemed like a grown up version of Harry Potter. (Though the last few books and movies were def no children's stories anymore)
But the problem are the characters. There is not one who is likable. Now you can argue that they're not supposed to be and that the writing is on purpose but in my opinion this is bad writing and stereotyped acting. None of which is really entertaining. The protagonists can be troubled and full of flaws but deep down we still have to root for them and believe me I really tried to like them, but it's just not possible. All of them are self-centered, spoiled, anti-social or just plain mean.
This is a big disappointment. I feel like this could have been a really good show, but it's just not working.
But the problem are the characters. There is not one who is likable. Now you can argue that they're not supposed to be and that the writing is on purpose but in my opinion this is bad writing and stereotyped acting. None of which is really entertaining. The protagonists can be troubled and full of flaws but deep down we still have to root for them and believe me I really tried to like them, but it's just not possible. All of them are self-centered, spoiled, anti-social or just plain mean.
This is a big disappointment. I feel like this could have been a really good show, but it's just not working.
Much-welcomed Harry Potter upgrade :-)
Dodo-phe25 December 2015
Clever and innovative approach to a not-so-innovative premise of a hidden magical reality, parallel to the world we live in - told from the perspective of a graduating high school student, struggling to decide what to do with his life. The narrative is well set, placed in the modern world with (young) adult protagonists; which immediately gives it somehow more real-feel, and makes it more relatable and interesting. And the idea it proposes - that the cause behind being an awkward teenager with identity crisis is actually sensitivity to magic - is a brilliant touch, with timeless quality and something that should resonate well with the audience.
It's based on a book I haven't read - so I can't really tell you how much it's faithful to the original or not. However, the storytelling in this TV adaptation so far has no flaws, it's just perfect.
It's contemporary, it's realistic, it creates credible logic in its own universe, it's presented by quality actors and it builds gradually into what I would expect to become a much more interesting and powerful version of HP-fantasy.
And if you might think we don't need a modernized, 'American' version of Potter-world - well, I believe you're wrong. J.K. Rowling may have started it all, but now we want somebody to try and make it into something more. For me, Harry Potter was always just a cute story of an slightly-upgraded-but-still-out-of-date world of magic for children aged 4- 14.
And because I will at this point most likely have antagonized all hard core HP fans - I want you to know I have nothing against Harry Potter. I think it's crafted skilfully, it's cute and I like it quite a bit, but at the time it was made I've simply felt I was too old (24) to get fully immersed into that world. Well, THIS story makes me feel quite differently about it from the start. It sits quite well with my expectations and requirements.
I'll say this adventure has started down the right path. We can only hope it stays or better yet, evolves that way. Judging by what I've seen in the manner of directing it so far, my hopes are high. And I don't really care if it doesn't follow the original, I've given up on that a while ago, while following the series such as The Game of Thrones or The Walking Dead. All I care about now is quality storytelling and and quality delivery.
Whoever claims it's boring - either is not really a fantasy fan, or doesn't really understand how quality and convincing dramatic build- up works: you really DO need a proper character-build in order to achieve it. And if the pilot is not to do that, what is?
This has all been confirmed times and again, and just recently strong case has been made by the success and critical acclaim of series such as Breaking Bad and its spin-off, Better Call Saul. We all know Breaking Bad has reached its peak interest, wide critical acclaim and cult status with its audience - only in its last, 5th season. Talking about build- up...
And BB was never really about thrilling action - the external development of narrative only served the purpose of creating dramatic tension that led to the inner change and (morally downward) development of the character (ergo, breaking bad)... But that hasn't stopped it from being greatest show ever, au contraire. That being said, I found the first episode of Breaking Bad quite slow and boring - but by the end of it I was curious. After 2 or 3 episodes - I couldn't stop.
I felt a similar pull while watching the pilot of this show, and since I wasn't totally happy with the only review at the time and also believed it deserves better rating, I wanted to contribute a bit if I can.
Since I'm already comparing it, can this be AS great? Well, surely not.
Firstly, it's just too far away from day-to-day reality everyone's experiencing, to be AS relatable. You're immersed into a surreal world where rules and contents are made-up and you have no vote over that: you are merely an observer, who can only accept what happens and maybe, track how much it makes sense. You and your life experience is - for the most part - excluded. What's more important, you can't really expect such ingenious character development when issues and inner conflicts of the main character are nowhere near as deep and socially and existentially relevant to be able to engage you on such a fundamentally deep level.
However, we are all nowadays more and more inclined to explore the true potential of life, so the topic of magic is indeed asking for far more (quality) exploration of it in the modern TV and film medium, then it's being done at the moment. So, this show is doing it justice, at the least.
And finally, when I look at it again - the pace of this show is actually amazing. There are sudden twists in the plot that make it quite unpredictable, there's been already a powerful appearance of a villain who promises to be an imminent and overpowering threat to our unlikely hero; while interesting inversions of the common motives and good-vs-bad principles of fantasy worlds (such as walking/not walking the 'garden path') and introduction of spiritual 'cross-over' ideas (as 'not having any molecule of control over what happens') make it cast undoubtedly a new, fresh and exciting light to the genre...
I've had a lot of fun watching it and can't wait to see more! 25th of January just seems so far, far away...
And if you still don't like it, I can conclude only one thing - you probably have no 'magical aptitude' AT ALL :-)
It's based on a book I haven't read - so I can't really tell you how much it's faithful to the original or not. However, the storytelling in this TV adaptation so far has no flaws, it's just perfect.
It's contemporary, it's realistic, it creates credible logic in its own universe, it's presented by quality actors and it builds gradually into what I would expect to become a much more interesting and powerful version of HP-fantasy.
And if you might think we don't need a modernized, 'American' version of Potter-world - well, I believe you're wrong. J.K. Rowling may have started it all, but now we want somebody to try and make it into something more. For me, Harry Potter was always just a cute story of an slightly-upgraded-but-still-out-of-date world of magic for children aged 4- 14.
And because I will at this point most likely have antagonized all hard core HP fans - I want you to know I have nothing against Harry Potter. I think it's crafted skilfully, it's cute and I like it quite a bit, but at the time it was made I've simply felt I was too old (24) to get fully immersed into that world. Well, THIS story makes me feel quite differently about it from the start. It sits quite well with my expectations and requirements.
I'll say this adventure has started down the right path. We can only hope it stays or better yet, evolves that way. Judging by what I've seen in the manner of directing it so far, my hopes are high. And I don't really care if it doesn't follow the original, I've given up on that a while ago, while following the series such as The Game of Thrones or The Walking Dead. All I care about now is quality storytelling and and quality delivery.
Whoever claims it's boring - either is not really a fantasy fan, or doesn't really understand how quality and convincing dramatic build- up works: you really DO need a proper character-build in order to achieve it. And if the pilot is not to do that, what is?
This has all been confirmed times and again, and just recently strong case has been made by the success and critical acclaim of series such as Breaking Bad and its spin-off, Better Call Saul. We all know Breaking Bad has reached its peak interest, wide critical acclaim and cult status with its audience - only in its last, 5th season. Talking about build- up...
And BB was never really about thrilling action - the external development of narrative only served the purpose of creating dramatic tension that led to the inner change and (morally downward) development of the character (ergo, breaking bad)... But that hasn't stopped it from being greatest show ever, au contraire. That being said, I found the first episode of Breaking Bad quite slow and boring - but by the end of it I was curious. After 2 or 3 episodes - I couldn't stop.
I felt a similar pull while watching the pilot of this show, and since I wasn't totally happy with the only review at the time and also believed it deserves better rating, I wanted to contribute a bit if I can.
Since I'm already comparing it, can this be AS great? Well, surely not.
Firstly, it's just too far away from day-to-day reality everyone's experiencing, to be AS relatable. You're immersed into a surreal world where rules and contents are made-up and you have no vote over that: you are merely an observer, who can only accept what happens and maybe, track how much it makes sense. You and your life experience is - for the most part - excluded. What's more important, you can't really expect such ingenious character development when issues and inner conflicts of the main character are nowhere near as deep and socially and existentially relevant to be able to engage you on such a fundamentally deep level.
However, we are all nowadays more and more inclined to explore the true potential of life, so the topic of magic is indeed asking for far more (quality) exploration of it in the modern TV and film medium, then it's being done at the moment. So, this show is doing it justice, at the least.
And finally, when I look at it again - the pace of this show is actually amazing. There are sudden twists in the plot that make it quite unpredictable, there's been already a powerful appearance of a villain who promises to be an imminent and overpowering threat to our unlikely hero; while interesting inversions of the common motives and good-vs-bad principles of fantasy worlds (such as walking/not walking the 'garden path') and introduction of spiritual 'cross-over' ideas (as 'not having any molecule of control over what happens') make it cast undoubtedly a new, fresh and exciting light to the genre...
I've had a lot of fun watching it and can't wait to see more! 25th of January just seems so far, far away...
And if you still don't like it, I can conclude only one thing - you probably have no 'magical aptitude' AT ALL :-)
My fav TV show
malwina-m-jakobczyk24 August 2019
It's a kind of magic
kosmasp25 March 2024
It also contains songs (and singing) - but only from time to time. So no pun intended with my summary line - especially because it seems that every show almost has to have one musical episode. While we do not get entertained (or annoyed, depending on how you feel about musicals and singing and a bit of dancing) with a full episode of this stuff ... there is quite a lot of it.
But let me back up a bit. I have not read the source material this is based on. That said, I am not sure if this makes me a better judge ... or an impartial one. What I can tell you is that I had this on my watch list and I came around watching it or rather binging it. And I quickly realized that like Burn Notice, but also way more shows from the past, this worked better if you had to wait a week or longer for the next episode to (shout out to Dr. Dre - not implying anything, though maybe something also could help - some might call it magic too).
Just to be clear I would not condone that. Which brings me to the show that is funny and charismatic but also not always on the right side of weird ... it tries to walk a thin line and cross many genres and be many things to many people ... and maybe that works for a younger audience ... and again with a weekly expectation.
But it does lack a lot - especially coherence. Which it does make fun of to its own credit. But is it enough to be self aware to make this great? Not for me, but you may feel different. Though if you do, you have long stopped reading and gave me a thumbs down. That is ok, I am not fishing for anyones approval - I am however trying to be as objective as possible.
That said, I do like the actors and it quite clear they had a lot of fun with the stuff. If you thought Marvel with its Multiverse had lost its thread ... well you ain't seen nothing yet (again no pun intended). There is a sexiness here, but this never gets ... well too explicit! It still is made to be shown to a younger audience - so while characters feel and do ... things to each other, it rather shows the violence than the love making. Well that is America in a nutshell for you.
Not sure if anyone is bold (cast and character wise, you decide what you think), but they sure are beautiful! There are things that some might call woke, there is an episode that deals with racism (to name just one example of a social commentary - there are many others too) ... if you don't mind and do not feel it is forced (some moments may feel cringe I reckon, again up to you) ... you can enjoy the lightness - mostly this has. Because there are consequences ... even if some seem to be reversed or adjusted .. Magic and all that. So many rules, so many threads ... well I couldn't keep up with all of them to be honest ... maybe I should read the books ... still great production values and if you were smitten by it more than me, than good for you. I really mean it - I never felt the magic touch, but pun aside I am happy for anyone who did.
But let me back up a bit. I have not read the source material this is based on. That said, I am not sure if this makes me a better judge ... or an impartial one. What I can tell you is that I had this on my watch list and I came around watching it or rather binging it. And I quickly realized that like Burn Notice, but also way more shows from the past, this worked better if you had to wait a week or longer for the next episode to (shout out to Dr. Dre - not implying anything, though maybe something also could help - some might call it magic too).
Just to be clear I would not condone that. Which brings me to the show that is funny and charismatic but also not always on the right side of weird ... it tries to walk a thin line and cross many genres and be many things to many people ... and maybe that works for a younger audience ... and again with a weekly expectation.
But it does lack a lot - especially coherence. Which it does make fun of to its own credit. But is it enough to be self aware to make this great? Not for me, but you may feel different. Though if you do, you have long stopped reading and gave me a thumbs down. That is ok, I am not fishing for anyones approval - I am however trying to be as objective as possible.
That said, I do like the actors and it quite clear they had a lot of fun with the stuff. If you thought Marvel with its Multiverse had lost its thread ... well you ain't seen nothing yet (again no pun intended). There is a sexiness here, but this never gets ... well too explicit! It still is made to be shown to a younger audience - so while characters feel and do ... things to each other, it rather shows the violence than the love making. Well that is America in a nutshell for you.
Not sure if anyone is bold (cast and character wise, you decide what you think), but they sure are beautiful! There are things that some might call woke, there is an episode that deals with racism (to name just one example of a social commentary - there are many others too) ... if you don't mind and do not feel it is forced (some moments may feel cringe I reckon, again up to you) ... you can enjoy the lightness - mostly this has. Because there are consequences ... even if some seem to be reversed or adjusted .. Magic and all that. So many rules, so many threads ... well I couldn't keep up with all of them to be honest ... maybe I should read the books ... still great production values and if you were smitten by it more than me, than good for you. I really mean it - I never felt the magic touch, but pun aside I am happy for anyone who did.
Hat's off, without bunnies, I promise.
Tactrix2 March 2016
This is a concept for a show that we(the fans of magic shows/movies) have been waiting for. A show that progresses very quickly through the actual learning part of magic and can then ricochet into where they actually use the magic. They rightfully picked a cast of people who seem to know how to come off with just the right amount of nerd vs sex appeal to make the show a little of both but enough to where it enhances the story lines.
Now for the actual story, so as you might have guessed from the title this show is about people who can do magic. They reside in an academy in another realm and they seem to be particularly stingy when it comes to acceptance into their school(rightfully so). The story centers around 4 students and 1 outcast. Without giving anything away this is what you wanted harry potter to be when they actually grew up but never got to see.
10/10, just right.
Now for the actual story, so as you might have guessed from the title this show is about people who can do magic. They reside in an academy in another realm and they seem to be particularly stingy when it comes to acceptance into their school(rightfully so). The story centers around 4 students and 1 outcast. Without giving anything away this is what you wanted harry potter to be when they actually grew up but never got to see.
10/10, just right.
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