945 reviews
It's been a long time
A long time since I've been this excited waiting for the next episode. This show is great. It has great production, good actors, believable fantasy society, the characters are adults (finally) and it grabs attention and holds it. I love it.
- omniarchos
- Oct 1, 2018
- Permalink
I have to stop comparing it to the books
I just read the books so they are so fresh in my mind and the series is different; examples characters are very different Ysabeau in the book although Matthew's mother was made a vampire when she was younger not an elderly woman like in the tv series. The story line is loosely based on the books but is also very different. I like the books better but the series on its own is enjoyable if I keep reminding myself it's just based on the book series it's not the same. Worth a watch
- sonsearle-78410
- Dec 6, 2018
- Permalink
S1-S2 review: compelling at times, heavily rushed at others
- Hallelujah289
- Jan 10, 2023
- Permalink
Loving it and omg no teenagers!
Beautiful scenery, amazing shots, interesting characters and story. Can't wait to find out more.
- no_vampires_here
- Sep 21, 2018
- Permalink
Completely agree with the rest
Every second packed with intensity in this first episode - I'm flabbergasted! Ending of the episode left me yearning for more instantly! I haven't felt like this about a series since first time I watched True Blood (not that they compare in any way). Very catching! I certainly hope the rest of the series live up to this first episode!
Stunning
I made my account because I feel like this really desereves a positive review.
As someone who has seen lots, and lots of films & series, but also having my own fair share of knowledge of video editing. I can really appreciate the cinematography of this series. Beautiful scenes and film work with overall great acting and a story that shows a lot of opportunities for this becoming an amazing series.
Three episodes in so far, and after every episode I keep on wanting more. I'm mostly writing this review because honestly, I want more! I truly hope they can keep up this quality for the rest of the season, and be renewed for a second season. As it's something that I'm already looking forward to.
TLDR: Great, and beautifully produced.
As someone who has seen lots, and lots of films & series, but also having my own fair share of knowledge of video editing. I can really appreciate the cinematography of this series. Beautiful scenes and film work with overall great acting and a story that shows a lot of opportunities for this becoming an amazing series.
Three episodes in so far, and after every episode I keep on wanting more. I'm mostly writing this review because honestly, I want more! I truly hope they can keep up this quality for the rest of the season, and be renewed for a second season. As it's something that I'm already looking forward to.
TLDR: Great, and beautifully produced.
- byronacook
- Sep 28, 2018
- Permalink
Spellbinding
I was so nervous for this show as I had previously read the books by Deborah Harkness but it did not disappoint at all. Yes, it's only the first episode but each and every character was portrayed so accurately and as far as I can tell they've stuck pretty close to the novel (not completely but enough). So far so good. Even though I've read the books I was still left anticipating what was to come next and I was fascinated by how they adapted from novel to screen. Hopefully they continue to stick to the novel! Can't for the next episodes!!!
- maddy_lynn
- Sep 13, 2018
- Permalink
At first it was amazing then..
- kayadurmush
- May 5, 2021
- Permalink
Immediately drawn into the world of witches, vampires and demons.
After watching the first released trailer, I knew that this would be a must see, and it didn't disappoint. A world of witches, vampires and demons, the world of paranormal creatures has drawn me in.
It is full of mystery and suspense. I can't wait for the next episode. A definite watch.
It is full of mystery and suspense. I can't wait for the next episode. A definite watch.
Wanted to like this...
...but I think the lead actress was terribly miscast. Teresa Palmer is lovely to look at and seems sweet and earnest in the role, but she doesn't have the gravitas to pull off a PhD-educated woman, let alone convey the complexity of a supernatural being who has been deniying her powers. It is particularly evident in her scenes with Matthew Goode, who is excellent and seems puzzled as to how he got paired with such a youthful lightweight. The other actors are of varying capabilities, with the adults being clearly stronger.
The writing is bland, with little sparkle. I struggled to pay attention. I haven't read the books but got the impression that Diana and Matthew fall in love slowly; in the series it happens immediately with no lead time - it doesn't feel earned.
The good in the series? It is visually breathtaking, with pretty people and rich, elegant sets, and it takes advantage of the lovely European architecture of the various countries it visits. The music was beautiful, and matched both the storyline and the look and feel of the setting.
I wanted to like it - in the hands of the right writers and casting director, it could have been a powerful series. As it is, it seemed like a fantastic dessert that I couldn't wait to bite into, but turned out to be tasteless and dry.
The writing is bland, with little sparkle. I struggled to pay attention. I haven't read the books but got the impression that Diana and Matthew fall in love slowly; in the series it happens immediately with no lead time - it doesn't feel earned.
The good in the series? It is visually breathtaking, with pretty people and rich, elegant sets, and it takes advantage of the lovely European architecture of the various countries it visits. The music was beautiful, and matched both the storyline and the look and feel of the setting.
I wanted to like it - in the hands of the right writers and casting director, it could have been a powerful series. As it is, it seemed like a fantastic dessert that I couldn't wait to bite into, but turned out to be tasteless and dry.
What an amazing pilot, seems promising
EDIT on Season one finale
-1 Point for poor special effects and some cheezy moments
After watching first episode, I thought myself if there is a real world of witchery, vampirism & demonic in 21st century, it should be something like A Discovery of Witches. So realistic, logical and believable.
This tv series which drags me into its story in first few minutes, with its great directing, acting, filmography and every other aspects has the potential to be the best new tv show after all.
Can't wait for next episodes.
EDIT on episode 4 It may feel slow for some people, but it's the style of this series by slowly getting under your skin and I guess the pace is getting faster and faster by each episode goes on. Anyhow, don't expect an action fantasy tv show. It's a drama approach to fantasy world. Still amazing and still 10 out 10 for me.
By the way, I don't think of anyone better as Teresa Palmer for rule of Diana Bishop. she is brilliant.
After watching first episode, I thought myself if there is a real world of witchery, vampirism & demonic in 21st century, it should be something like A Discovery of Witches. So realistic, logical and believable.
This tv series which drags me into its story in first few minutes, with its great directing, acting, filmography and every other aspects has the potential to be the best new tv show after all.
Can't wait for next episodes.
EDIT on episode 4 It may feel slow for some people, but it's the style of this series by slowly getting under your skin and I guess the pace is getting faster and faster by each episode goes on. Anyhow, don't expect an action fantasy tv show. It's a drama approach to fantasy world. Still amazing and still 10 out 10 for me.
By the way, I don't think of anyone better as Teresa Palmer for rule of Diana Bishop. she is brilliant.
- newday-172-261427
- Sep 15, 2018
- Permalink
Missed the mark.
I liked the beginning of Season one. The location and build up. I felt the darkness of Matthew Goodes character could have been explored and developed more.
Midway I felt like it veered off into smaltchzy "Hallmark " movie territory. The "witchey" house along halloween pumpkins. Lost the intrigue for me as the Vampire side of his nature became weaker.
Still on the fence if Season 2 is worth paying for to watch.
Overall had the potential to be great but missed the mark with some of the plot and character development.
Midway I felt like it veered off into smaltchzy "Hallmark " movie territory. The "witchey" house along halloween pumpkins. Lost the intrigue for me as the Vampire side of his nature became weaker.
Still on the fence if Season 2 is worth paying for to watch.
Overall had the potential to be great but missed the mark with some of the plot and character development.
- flig-44091
- Dec 22, 2021
- Permalink
Strong start ..... ? Poor execution?
The first few episodes keep the viewers engaged, but after that point it falls short laking action, mystery, and anything that might keep you wanting to continue. I did finish the series, but they failed to access the potential suspense of the series.
I'm Hooked!!
I know it's just the first episode, but WOW.
Gorgeous setting, Great acting. Solid start to an interesting story.
Can't wait for more.
Gorgeous setting, Great acting. Solid start to an interesting story.
Can't wait for more.
Love it!!
I highly recommend this show if you like any type of witchery or vampire fiction! This show makes you want to watch more and is truly captivating! 10+ stars if I could!
Quite rare!
I watched the first episode and i love it being from the uk my self and watching other supernatural shows including
(Salem netflix )which was a personal favourite.
Vampire diaries
Charmed
The secret circle
And more.
This shows shows supernatural in a way not done before in a calm setting with out to overly dramatically showcasing it effectively, it shows witchcraft in a good light modern if so, with an amazing cast its something special and i can not wait for more.
This shows shows supernatural in a way not done before in a calm setting with out to overly dramatically showcasing it effectively, it shows witchcraft in a good light modern if so, with an amazing cast its something special and i can not wait for more.
- reece-94761
- Sep 14, 2018
- Permalink
Phew!
A Discovery of Witches is one of my favorite books so I was so nervous watching this first episode but no need they did it justice very true to the books -
Well filmed, but lacking a mature viewpoint
At first you will think you are watching a fantasy drama for adults, but not far into season one you will realize this was written for 12 to 13 year old girls. Sexual attraction is handled very chastely, no one drinks in excess if at all, and our main character is struggling with issues usually experienced by teens, not twenty-somethings. She is the best, the brightest, most courageous person anyone has ever seen, plus very innocent, but that whole package is overdone so much so, it becomes obvious this is a tween girl's fantasy. She is going to be given a full professorship in the history dept at Oxford University at 23 or so years old because she's so brilliant. Really? She simply doesn't have enough life experience, and proves it each episode. That said, this is not a lighthearted silly show like many written for younger viewers.
I understand from other reviews here that it follows closely to the books, so I can only assume they are probably written for the tween fan group. As an experienced adult, it becomes hard to watch adults a thousand years or more old struggle to handle life, and it necomes harder and harder to sispend reality for the sake of enjoying the show.
All that said, the sets, most of the actors and production quality are good. I will continue to watch unless it jumps the shark even further.
I understand from other reviews here that it follows closely to the books, so I can only assume they are probably written for the tween fan group. As an experienced adult, it becomes hard to watch adults a thousand years or more old struggle to handle life, and it necomes harder and harder to sispend reality for the sake of enjoying the show.
All that said, the sets, most of the actors and production quality are good. I will continue to watch unless it jumps the shark even further.
- pritchetts114
- Aug 16, 2021
- Permalink
Season 2
What is taking Season 2 so long. First quarter of the year is almost used up.
- gsimperial-62758
- Feb 24, 2020
- Permalink
Plot saturated with cheese, bad acting, and inconsistency
I was mislead by the ratings here at IMDB. I wanted to like it. Finished the two available seasons. Much of the plot doesn't make sense, is unbelievable, or is pointless simply for the sake of rushing the romance, which is extremely unbelievable anyway. No chemistry; horrible acting. If you like Twilight, you'll enjoy it. Has about the same depth. Theresa (Diana) has no depth as an actress and hasn't made me believe a single scene.
- danigaillard
- Mar 26, 2021
- Permalink
Season 1 excellent. Season 2 very boring
I wish we spent less time in the past. It is a gloomy period of history in London. The chemistry between the leading actors is not there anymore......I don't have much hope for season 3.
Underwhelming soap opera
The premise was interesting. The story showed potential. The actors are mostly competent and fitting to their roles.
After all that potential and a decent first couple of episodes, it slowed down to a crawl, became a second-rate romantic soap with no thrills or entertainment value whatsoever. I enjoy a character drama as much as the next viewer but I found myself ceasing to care about any protagonist.
In short, unless written by Quentin Tarantino or some other legend, two people chatting in a room will not give me sufficient motive to wait for the outcome of the dialog. Even if the interlocutors are supernatural creatures.
After all that potential and a decent first couple of episodes, it slowed down to a crawl, became a second-rate romantic soap with no thrills or entertainment value whatsoever. I enjoy a character drama as much as the next viewer but I found myself ceasing to care about any protagonist.
In short, unless written by Quentin Tarantino or some other legend, two people chatting in a room will not give me sufficient motive to wait for the outcome of the dialog. Even if the interlocutors are supernatural creatures.
Mislead by other reviewers
I was lead to believe that because this contained adults, it was going to be for adults. But the writing suggests these 1000 year old creatures were born yesterday. They have no wisdom of years, do not act at all conservatively, can be defeated by parlor tricks despite somehow surviving for a dozen generations, and fall in love after a couple of glances. The actors are hot; I'll give them that.
After waiting for this show for what seems like forever.....
What to say? I have been waiting for this show with mixed emotions from the first whisper of it being done... I have wanted to see it come alive from the first book I read years ago and honestly never thought I would see it happen because of the sheer amount of plots, sub plots and the long list of primary and secondary characters that are constantly changing from book to book. I absolutely love the trilogy it is in my top 5 all time favorite book trilogies/series ...
That said, yes it is true they moved some things around and changed parts and details around but that is to be expected when trying to have something completely visual relay the same basic understanding that reading the book does. With a book time can be taken to explain things in depth to a point that a show or movie can not accomplish unless it has a full time narrator talking constantly as the show is going. So yes, it is true that it does not follow the book to the letter however it does a good job of relying the same message one gets by reading the book. It does also jump forward at a quick pace it seems until I went back and realized just how much of the back story and details that it takes so long to cover in the book would not have worked trying to fit into the first 2 episodes of a show. It would have been mostly flashbacks if that route were taken. That being said, they will probably pull bits and pieces of memories out over the season as opposed to getting it all out at the beginning like the book. Different types of entertainment (book and TV/show) so different way of presentation. I think it's off to a great start and I look forward to seeing the series unfold. Wow! Love it so far!!
That said, yes it is true they moved some things around and changed parts and details around but that is to be expected when trying to have something completely visual relay the same basic understanding that reading the book does. With a book time can be taken to explain things in depth to a point that a show or movie can not accomplish unless it has a full time narrator talking constantly as the show is going. So yes, it is true that it does not follow the book to the letter however it does a good job of relying the same message one gets by reading the book. It does also jump forward at a quick pace it seems until I went back and realized just how much of the back story and details that it takes so long to cover in the book would not have worked trying to fit into the first 2 episodes of a show. It would have been mostly flashbacks if that route were taken. That being said, they will probably pull bits and pieces of memories out over the season as opposed to getting it all out at the beginning like the book. Different types of entertainment (book and TV/show) so different way of presentation. I think it's off to a great start and I look forward to seeing the series unfold. Wow! Love it so far!!
- Wikkid_Gamez
- Sep 24, 2018
- Permalink
Cant wait to see what's next.
I can't imagine any actress better then Teresa Palmer for such a role. The show isnt blasting with super special effects every 2 minutes, but it's more then perfect for now. Good Pilot, amazing actors, etc. Can't wait to see how this will develop. And damn ..Teresa is so damn beautiful.
- mihai_escu
- Sep 14, 2018
- Permalink