Introduction to The Wheel of Time
Before becoming one of Prime Video’s most acclaimed series, The Wheel of Time originated from a beloved series of high fantasy novels by Robert Jordan. It’s one of the best-selling book series since The Lord of the Rings. The story unfolds in a universe where time is cyclical, and history has a way of repeating itself in different forms over the ages. At the heart of the tale is the prophecy surrounding the Dragon Reborn, a powerful figure destined to either save the world from an ancient evil known as the Dark One or lead it to destruction.
The Journey Begins
The captivating journey starts with Moiraine, played by Rosamund Pike. She belongs to the Aes Sedai, a formidable group of women capable of wielding the One Power. When Moiraine arrives in the quiet village of Two Rivers, she dramatically shifts the lives of five young adults: Rand al’Thor (Josha Stradowski), Egwene al’Vere (Madeleine Madden), Perrin Aybara (Marcus Rutherford), Mat Cauthon (Barney Harris/Dónal Finn), and Nynaeve al’Meara (Zoë Robins). Moiraine reveals that one among them is the prophesied savior. As the series unfolds, each character faces obstacles that bring forth their unique abilities, making their individual journeys profoundly engaging.
What to Expect from the Show
The Wheel of Time offers plenty of high-stakes action, deep character development, and intricate world-building. For fans enthralled by the fantasy genre, this show provides an epic narrative filled with mythic quests and otherworldly elements. If you find yourself wanting more after watching The Wheel of Time, there are various other fantasy series to immerse yourself in. From legendary heroes to enchanted realms, there’s a curated list of ten fantasy shows that fans of The Wheel of Time will definitely enjoy.
Reimagining Arthurian Legends with Merlin
Another fascinating fantasy series worth checking out is Merlin. This show provides a fresh take on the classic tale of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table. Unlike other adaptations, Merlin centers around the point of view of the young warlock Merlin, played by Colin Morgan. As a young man living in a Camelot where magic is outlawed, Merlin struggles to conceal his powers. However, he soon learns that he is destined to protect Arthur, the future king (Bradley James).
Merlin aired for five seasons, creatively reinterpreting the medieval backdrop of Camelot. It incorporates elements of prophecy, destiny, and magic, similar to what fans see in The Wheel of Time. The series is packed with adventure, sword fights, and enchanting storytelling. The chemistry between Morgan and James stands out, making it an engaging watch, but there are also other delightful characters that add depth to the show.
Themes and Appeal
Both The Wheel of Time and Merlin share core themes of destiny and magic and are rich with adventure. If you enjoy intricate storylines woven with a sense of purpose, you’ll love how both series manage to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Conclusion
In summary, The Wheel of Time is a must-watch for fantasy lovers, especially those who appreciate complex narratives and character growth. Alongside it, Merlin offers another unique spin on well-known tales. Both shows provide thrilling adventures in fantastical worlds where magic and fate intertwine, making them perfect companions in the realm of fantasy television. Whether you’re delving into the epic journey of The Wheel of Time or enjoying the charm of Merlin, you’re in for captivating stories that ignite the imagination.
