Reviews

Okay, I feel like you have to judge this show with a grain of salt. I've actually found it very enjoyable and oddly addictive, though that doesn't mean I think it's good. Yes, there are plot holes, character inconsistencies, cheesy dialogue, etc., but I think because it doesn't take itself too seriously (like, for example, Robin Hood was prone to do) it can get away with most of these things. There are moments of genuine comedy that I really appreciate, and the rest of the time I spend giggling at the aforementioned flaws. I think the cast is quite good as well: Colin Morgan is charmingly dorky as the title character; Anthony Head milks a surprising amount of emotion from a ridiculously poorly written character; and the rest (except perhaps for Katie McGrath, who can be a little too emotional) imbue their roles with genuine humanity. I especially like the growing relationship between Merlin and Arthur-- the way the show is written, Merlin's only reason for helping Arthur is that 'it's his destiny,' and Arthur has no real reason at all to help Merlin, and yet you definitely feel that they are starting to care for each other.

So, yeah, it's no television masterpiece, but it is fun to watch, and sometimes that's all you need.

I just saw this movie at an advance screening yesterday, and I loved it. Admittedly, I have not read the book upon which it's based, but I went with my best friend who is a die-hard Gaiman fan and had reread the book to prepare for seeing the movie. According to her, she had expected to hate the movie, and it is apparently quite different from the book, but she still walked out raving about it. It is sweet and often hilarious (Robert De Niro totally steals the show, but not in a way I've ever seen him do so before). The best parts are the constant surprises: though there are some formulaic and predictable moments, often a situation suddenly develops in a way you did not see coming. The beginning and end are perhaps a little rushed, and the special effects occasionally leave something to be desired, but other than that, I have no criticisms. Excellent performances by all and a really fun ride.