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No young man, no matter how great, can know his destiny.
The mythical city of Camelot, in a time before history began. A fanatical realm of legendary beasts and mysterious peoples. A dangerous world in which magic has been banned by the ruthless tyrant, Uther Pendragon. When Merlin, a young man gifted with extraordinary magical powers, arrives in the kingdom he quickly makes enemies including the heir to Uther's crown, the headstrong Prince Arthur. But guided by Uther's wise physician, Gaius, Merlin is soon using his talent not just to survive but also to unlock Camelot's mystical secrets. As he does so he discovers that his destiny and that or Arthur, the kingdom's young leader-in-waiting, are inextricably linked.
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Now I like fantasy and mythology so when I heard that there was a series beign made about the life of Merlin and Arthur I was excited, when I heard that it was to be set in the time when they were young adults I got a bit worried. I wasn't sure how they could be true to the story of Arthur/Merlin and Camelot.
Well they have decided to do it like many other shows have when it comes to things of this type. They have adjusted the legend to suit their show, and in this case I feel it works for them. Now i'm sure that there will be many purists out there yelling and screaming that it's not true to the legend so it's rubbish, well from my knowledge of the legend of Arthur and Merlin, there are many different versions and this like many others is just a retelling of it.
As far as the story goes it is well thought out and while alot of the cast are not immediately recognisably big names they are well cast and play the roles well. Also of note are Anthony Head (who is probably better know for his role in Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Richard Wilson and of course the great John Hurt (in an rather unique role).
Like alot of UK produced series this season is only 13 episodes long, but they have packed alot into those 13 episodes.
While there are a lack of extras on this DVD (except for a small kind of behind the scenes/introduction to extra) this in no way detracts from the set.
Overall a good series for all the family, and I look forward to seeing what season 2 has in store for us.
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