The drought of summer is officially over as far as TV Today is concerned as our main television networks gear up for their autumn launches. There was great excitement this morning at TV Today towers as the trailer for BBC One’s new Saturday evening family drama, Merlin, launched on the net ahead of cinema and TV showings this weekend…
First thoughts? It’s a very well put together trailer, very fast and seems to sell the story effectively. The whole thing looks beautiful, with some striking sets and costumes, and a cast that takes in some bright young things and some old scenery chewing pros.
Colin Morgan as Merlin definitely impresses, the clips on offer displaying a range of qualities taking in mystery, delight, wonderment and playfulness, and on the evidence of this he should have no problems being at the centre of the show. Conversely I’m not so sure about Bradley James as Arthur, he comes over here a little leaden, but perhaps that’s the function of the role. Merlin can get away with all the fun stuff while Arthur has to be solidly heroic, so this may not be too much of a problem.
If there’s one criticism at this stage, it looks a little bit too Harry Potter, but with John Hurt narrating and lots of bangs, flashes and dragons jockeying for position in the 90 second run time, it’s no wonder. But any show that gives Richard Wilson such an impressive wig has got to be worth at least an hour of somebody’s time.
So, a good start to the publicity campaign for Merlin - the trailer makes me want to watch the series, so job done. It seems Merlin could join Doctor Who and Robin Hood as top adventure entertainment for a Saturday night.
Remember, keep the magic secret…
Merlin airs on BBC One from the end of September
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