Merlin is not about the experienced, powerful wizard. Great magicians also have to learn the trade at some point. We get to watch as Merlin discovers and develops his talent for magic. The name Merlin is known to everyone. Children know him from the cartoons. They may not know that he was King Arthur's mainstay, but they certainly know him as a wizard. As the poster of the series immediately makes clear, The Adventures of Merlin is about a young, inexperienced Merlin.
Almost every older viewer has also seen a King Arthur film adaptation. For example, in Excalibur by John Boorman, the dark and unpredictable side of this mysterious wizard was very strongly portrayed by Nicol Williamson (Lord Mountbatten: The Last Viceroy). At the same time, this actor also managed to incorporate a trace of humor into his character.
Humor is also an important part of Merlin. However, it never becomes a thigh-slapper; Merlin is not a comedy series. And although serious themes are sometimes discussed, it never becomes very realistic or as dark as Excalibur. Merlin is a pleasant series that sometimes has surprisingly deep pockets in its script. At other times it is unfortunately a bit of a dime a dozen.
The story begins when Merlin (Colin Morgan, We Hunt Together) arrives at Camelot Castle. There, court physician Gaius (Richard Wilson, Around the World in 80 Days) takes him under his wing as a page. There he learns how to clean, tidy up and receives lessons in medical knowledge. Gaius soon discovers that Merlin has a talent for magic. Unfortunately, that is a dangerous talent at the court of King Uther Pendragon (Anthony Head, Ted Lasso).
The king has vivid and dark memories of the time when black magic almost destroyed the kingdom. That should never happen again. He therefore strictly prohibited the practice of magic, with the death penalty for anyone who violates this ban. Well, she'll learn that!
Well, no. Merlin feels that he can also do good things with magic. Gaius warns him again and again, but even he has to admit that sometimes a pinch of magic works wonders. However, Merlin must not be caught, because then Uther will not hesitate. And court physician Gaius has influence, but he will probably not be able to persuade the king.
Next to and sometimes opposite the rigid and stubborn king stands his son Arthur. Right, that Arthur. Initially, Arthur is an arrogant brat, but he soon develops a soft spot for the simple Merlin. That even turns into a cautious friendship when Merlin saves his life. Such a powerful friend is quite useful at court, especially if Merlin has committed another impulsive act.
Over time, a group of allies is created around Merlin. In addition to Merlin, Gaius and Arthur, Princess Morgana (Katie McGrath, Supergirl) and her chambermaid Gwen (Angel Coulby, Thunderbirds Are Go) are also regular 'partners in crime'. Every episode there is a new mystery to be solved or danger to be averted.
That weekly formula is a bit old-fashioned these days, but this series is from 2008. With better script writers and a much larger budget, this could have been made into an even better series. Merlin certainly has shortcomings for the critical and older viewer. However, as a series for younger and/or less critical viewers, it is recommended. It is surprisingly well constructed for those who can see past the formulas and weaknesses.
Merlin has built up a huge fan base during its 5 seasons. The call for more seasons and a larger budget hardly seems to be subsiding. That actually makes this series a must-see for those who like a medieval atmosphere and are curious about the journey from young Merlin to the adult wizard he once became (according to legend).
