‘The Winter King’: A Lackluster King Arthur Drama

‘The Winter King’ Brings the Legend of King Arthur to Life, but Keeps Its Heroes Two-Dimensional: TV Review

A Whimsical Take on Arthurian Myth

The MGM+ series “The Winter King,” based on the popular trilogy of novels by English author Bernard Cornwell, attempts to bring the legend of King Arthur to life. However, instead of embracing the fantastical elements often associated with the Arthurian myth, the show leans more towards historical fiction. Gone are the sword in the stone and encounters with dragons, replaced instead by pragmatic concerns such as natural resources, national sovereignty, and political alliances.

While there are hints of the supernatural in the presence of characters like Merlin, their abilities are not presented as objective reality but rather subjective belief, locked in a quiet competition with the rising influence of Christianity. This approach aligns “The Winter King” more closely with the realism of “Game of Thrones,” which also drew inspiration from British history. By focusing on Arthur’s quest to unite the warring kingdoms of Britain against the invading Saxons, the show’s creators aim to tap into the same vein that made “Game of Thrones” a hit.

A Missing Complexity in Characters

While “The Winter King” may appeal to fans of “Game of Thrones” and nonfiction enthusiasts, it falls short in its portrayal of complex, nuanced characters. The show begins with Arthur’s exile from Dumnonia and the subsequent rise to power after his father’s death. The perspective is primarily from Derfel, a Saxon orphan rescued by Arthur, who becomes the series’ protagonist.

Unfortunately, this perspective limits the exploration of Arthur’s inner life, leaving him as an enlightened and almost messianic figure from an outsider’s view. The script and performance fail to delve into the depth beneath this persona, resulting in a one-dimensional portrayal. Derfel, on the other hand, idolizes Arthur but seems constrained by awkward accent work, making his character less compelling. The lack of character development undermines the show’s attempt to make the sixth century feel real, leaving its heroes stuck in the realm of fable.

An Intriguing Setting and Lackluster Protagonists

Despite its shortcomings in characterization, “The Winter King” does offer intriguing ideas about the decline of paganism and the birth of a national identity. The show creates an immersive setting that aims to transport viewers to the sixth century. However, without well-rounded protagonists to anchor the narrative, the series falls short of its potential.

While the show undoubtedly has its merits, it ultimately lacks the complexity and depth necessary to fully captivate its audience. As it premieres on MGM+, viewers may find enjoyment in its historical elements and exploration of Arthurian myth, but they should temper their expectations for fully developed characters. The success of “The Winter King” will likely hinge on striking a balance between the whimsy of Arthurian legend and the grounded realism seen in “Game of Thrones.”

Advice for ‘The Winter King’

For “The Winter King” to elevate itself beyond a mere retelling of Arthurian myth, the show’s creators and writers must prioritize character development. By delving into the complexities and inner lives of Arthur and his companions, the series has the potential to carve out a unique niche within the realm of historical fiction.

Additionally, while the show presents interesting themes around the decline of paganism and the formation of a national identity, it should strive to strike a balance between historical accuracy and the allure of fantastical elements. By embracing the mythos surrounding King Arthur, the series can create a more captivating and immersive experience for viewers.

In conclusion, “The Winter King” has the foundation to be an engaging exploration of Arthurian legend, but it needs to breathe life into its characters and strike the right blend of realism and fantasy. By doing so, it has the potential to capture the imagination of audiences and leave a lasting impact in the world of historical dramas.