It’s one of the year’s most anticipated series, but is The Wheel Of Time going to be your next fantasy obsession?
When we begin the series, we are told that magic was corrupted by man and now a powerful all-female organisation, known as the Aes Sedai. Member Moiraine (Rosamund Pike) is about to embark on a mission with companion Lan Manragoran (Daniel Henney), who has some pretty impressive sword skills, to find a reincarnated dragon/child. According to a prophecy, they will either save the world or destroy it.
When she arrived at Two Rivers, she stumbles upon a group of people, all of whom could be the chosen one. There’s archer Rand al’Thor (Josha Stradowski); wind talker Egwene al’Vere (Madeleine Madden); blacksmith Perrin Aybara (Marcus Rutherford); hustler Mat Cauthon (Barney Harris); and wisdom Nynaeve al’Meara (Zoe Robins).
When battle breaks out at Two Rivers, Moiraine decides to take all five candidates on a journey back to the Aes Sedai headquarters.
It’s safe to say that, through the six of eight episodes offered for this review, that the journey will change all of them.
Based on the incredibly popular 14-book series from Robert Jordan, showrunner Rafe Judkins has delivered a visually stunning series which is easily accessible for those who haven’t delved into the books. Pike and Madden give compelling performances, although there isn’t a bad performance all round.
It’s time to let The Wheel Of Time spin onto your watch list.
4.5 Stars
The Wheel of Time premieres with the first three episodes Friday, 19 November, with new episodes dropping every Friday through to December 24.
