The fantasy genre has been thriving. Not only on the big screen but also on the small screen in recent years. The latest addition is the Amazon Prime Original Series The Wheel of Time. The series manages to hold its own in the crowded genre but (so far) cannot match the success of its predecessors.
“The Wheel of Time” is set in a medieval world where some can harness the magical ‘One Power’. This power is drawn from the True Source, the force that keeps the Wheel of Time turning. To avoid disturbing this balance, the Aes Sedai, a group of women who wield the One Power, have been established to protect the world. But it wouldn’t be a good fantasy story without the presence of good and evil.
The Dark One was sealed away centuries ago but is prophesied to return. Only the ‘Dragon Reborn’ can stop him. Aes Sedai Moiraine sets out to find the Dragon Reborn. Her quest leads to Two Rivers, where five potential candidates reside. Along with Moiraine and her guardian Lan, the group sets off for the Eye of the World to defeat the Dark One. But which of the five is the Dragon Reborn capable of completing the task?
Based on the Books by Robert Jordan
The best fantasy stories originate from books. Preferably lengthy series in which characters embark on epic journeys to achieve their goals. Think of Tolkien’s “Lord of the Rings,” George R.R. Martin’s “Game of Thrones,” Andrzej Sapkowski’s “The Witcher” or Leigh Bardugo’s “Shadow and Bone.” All fantasy tales with acclaimed adaptations. And now, “The Wheel of Time” joins the ranks.
The book series by American author Robert Jordan consists of a total of 15 books. Providing more than enough material for future seasons. With a renowned actress in the lead role, Rosamund Pike, and a highly diverse cast, the streaming service successfully brings a compelling story to the small screen. After a somewhat slow start with the need for numerous character introductions, the series picks up pace in the final episodes. Precisely what it needed to keep up in the fantasy genre.
Only The Wheel of Time will tell
With a multimillion-dollar budget provided jointly by Amazon Studios and Sony Pictures, the creators spared no expense to make this first season a global success. And they succeeded! It’s the most-watched Prime Original series to date. Season 2 was already announced well before the release of season 1, and it seems entirely justified now. With a new “Lord of the Rings” series making its debut on the same streaming service in September 2022, “The Wheel of Time” Season 2 appears to face stiff competition. Which of the two series will come out on top will only become clear when both are available on Prime Video. But one thing is certain: “The Wheel of Time” is a formidable contender against the juggernaut that is “Lord of the Rings.”
The Wheel of Time – season 1
Set in a high fantasy world where magic exists, but only some can access it, a woman named Moiraine crosses paths with five young men and women. This sparks a dangerous, world-spanning journey. Based on the book series by Robert Jordan.
Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy
Cast: Rosamund Pike, Josha Stradowski, Daniel Henney, e.a.
Creator: Rafe Judkins
