A Wichitan suggestion: The Witcher

If you’re one of the many college students who want to experience the world-building and fantasy drama of HBO’s Game of Thrones but don’t have the time to watch 73 hour-long episodes, Netflix’s The Witcher is the show for you.

The Witcher is based upon a series of novels by the same name written by Andrzej Sapkowski, namely The Last Wish and Sword of Destiny. The Witcher season one’s plot precedes the events of the main Witcher saga that fans of the game series or books may be familiar with.

This fantasy adventure follows brooding loner Geralt of Rivia (Henry Cavill), a member of a magically enhanced people known as “witchers,” as he finds himself reluctantly pulled into the politics of the world around him. This series also follows the development of Yennefer of Vengerberg (Anya Chalotra) as an abused hunchback to an infinitely powerful sorceress, and Princess Cirilla (Freya Allan) as she evades capture to search for Geralt.

For those who need more in a series than just monster-slaying and magic, The Witcher has plenty else to offer. The romantic subplot between Geralt and Yennefer is complex and gripping, and the cocksure bard, Jaskier (Joey Batey) provides frequent comedic relief. The soundtrack, composed by Sonya Belousova and Giona Ostinelli, provides a mystical and beautiful background to the saga.

The non-linear storytelling can be confusing at first, but it makes it that much more satisfying when all the plot lines come together. Ultimately, the show is carried by Cavill’s ability to make the gruff and brawny witcher a character that the audience can easily sympathize with.

Number of episodes:

• one season
• eight episodes

Status:

• season two slated for 2021

Where to watch:

• Netflix

Warning:

• This show contains graphic violence, strong language and nudity.