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Tag: Wheel of Time

  • REVIEW: Wheel of Time 1×3, “A Place of Safety”

    REVIEW: Wheel of Time 1×3, “A Place of Safety”

    The first episode of Amazon’s Wheel of Time has its issues, and the second episode, “Shadow’s Waiting” does a fine job at fixing most of them. However, the third episode, “A Place of Safety,” is where the show finds itself.

    “A Place of Safety” sees our group of characters divided. Following the shadows overtaking the abandoned city they’d sought shelter in – Shadar Logoth – the group is forced to seek safety or accept death. Desperate to stay alive, the cast of characters went in search of the nearest escape. This, of course, resulted in groups losing track of each other as they got out in various ways. This episode revolves around them trying to find their way back to one another. Of course, things do not go as planned.

    The episode opens with a trolloc dragging Nynaeve al’Meara behind it. Of course, Nynaeve is believed to be dead at the end of episode one following the trolloc attack at the village of the Two Rivers. This opening, however, shows how she was able to escape and go in search of the others. We then cut to the present time as she demands answers from Lan. While she struggles to accept the teens are no longer with Lan and Moiraine, she offers to try and heal Moiraine of the poison coursing through her body.

    As the episode unfolds, we cut to Rand and Mat and Egwene and Perrin. While Rand and Mat are in the mountains, desperately trying to locate the others, we see Egwene and Perrin traveling through a deserted area. As the teens reckon with the idea of going home, they are reminded of why they can’t return. As Moiraine explains early on, one of the four are the Dragon reborn and so long as they remain in the Two Rivers, the Fade and trollocs will continue to come.

    Rand and Mat eventually find shelter in a nearby village where they are welcomed by a young lady named Dana. However, they soon learn the village they landed in is far from welcoming. While Egwene and Perrin find themselves surrounded by wolves who look to have brought them to safety thanks to travelers. As we cut back to Lan and Moiraine, we find she’s barely reacting to the concoction Nynaeve used to draw out the poison. This, of course, leaves Rosamund Pike‘s Moiraine on the sidelines for the remainder of the episode. It does, however, allow for us to see the relationship between Lan and Nynaeve begin to develop.

    For an episode that is meant to simply move along the plot “A Place of Safety” is an excellent exploration of Jordan’s world and the trials and tribulations these characters will need to endure. Mat, who has mainly served as a plot device thus far, finally showcases some true emotions this episode. There’s a vulnerability to him that he has hidden up until this point. When he tries to talk Rand into going home, it’s evident he’s doing so because he wants to return to his sisters. He knows the choice Rand will make, but he tries his best to change his mind because he doesn’t want to leave him behind. His actions are frustrating, sure, but it’s a great dive into his character.

    The same could be said with Perrin. While the show has yet to explain the wolves and why they are following him, knowing the series will explore his relationship with the wolves is satisfying. So far, we’ve seen him suffering from the knowledge of knowing he killed his wife on accident while trying to recover from a wound on his shin. He’s been relatively quiet, trying not to disturb the others as he comes to terms with his mistakes. The moments between him and Egwene are so well done, especially the moment in which he finally lets his grief and pain overtake him.

    The best part of the episode, however, is the ending when Lan and Moiraine are greeted by Liandrin Sedai, who reveals she has captured a man claiming to be the Dragon Reborn. However, as Moiraine knows, the man is not the Dragon Reborn. Although weak from the poison in her body, for the first time this episode, her eyes are wide and alert as they fall upon the caged man. It’s a huge cliffhanger, but it makes what is still to come in “The Dragon Reborn” all the more exciting.

    With three episodes down, Amazon’s Wheel of Time is proving to be a well-done take on Robert Jordan‘s books. Yes, it does make some changes, as do all adaptations, but the changes ultimately work. The imagery is stunning, the costume work is fantastic, the casting choices are great and the score only helps to elevate the story. It’s hard not to enjoy this take on the beloved fantasy series.

  • REVIEW: ‘Wheel of Time’ 1×2 “Shadow’s Waiting”

    REVIEW: ‘Wheel of Time’ 1×2 “Shadow’s Waiting”

    Following a strong pilot episode, Amazon’s Wheel of Time returns with its second episode, “Shadows Waiting.” When it comes to adapting a popular title like Wheel of Time, it’s important to ensure book fans are happy, as well as the general audience. Not everyone has had time to devour Robert Jordan‘s books, and Wheel of Time understands this. The series has found a way to tell its story without making newcomers feel unwelcome.

    “Shadows Waiting” sees our foursome on the run with Rosamund Pike‘s Moiraine and Daniel Henney‘s Lan. With the group on the move, the trollocs are coming after them and they must find a way to escape. As it turns out, though, the trollocs are terrified of deep water, which Moiraine uses to their advantage. After bribing a ferriman, the group successfully crosses the water, but not without a casualty.

    As the group finds temporary solace from the threat, Moiraine reveals to Egwene that she’s able to access the power of the One. There’s a hint of uncertainty on Egwene’s face as she walks away, but their conversation carries weight in later scenes. It is clear the group is unsure of whether or not Moiraine and Lan are trustworthy, however, they know they need to trust her if they want to survive.

    One thing this episode does fantastically well is balance the storytelling with the action. The characters help to expand upon the world, helping to familiarize those who have not yet read the books. Yet, the dialogue doesn’t bog things down because the episode knows when to splice in action and tension. As the crew manages to escape two enemies, it appears as though they’re safe. However, it quickly becomes apparent that is not the case.

    What follows thereafter, is a stunning sequence that sees our heroes split up against their will. The CGI does suffer at times, especially as the shadow encompasses the city and chases the group away. However, it’s a strong note to end the episode on, especially given the huge reveal at the end of the episode: Nynaeve is alive.

    Overall, “Shadow’s Waiting” is a stellar second episode that both book lovers and series newbies will enjoy.

  • REVIEW: Wheel of Time 1×1, ‘Leavetaking’

    REVIEW: Wheel of Time 1×1, ‘Leavetaking’

    Adaptions are a tough thing. Choosing to make a straight adaption of a title can be viewed as lazy, while failing to stay true to the source material can upset fans. Amazon’s Wheel of Time is one of those titles with a rabid fanbase that has been eagerly awaiting a live-action take on the project for two decades. For book purists, Amazon’s Wheel of Time may be disappointing. After all, it does take departures from the novels, however, the adaption is successful in capturing the spirit of Robert Jordan‘s epic fantasy.

    The first episode of Wheel of Time wastes no time in moving the story forward. We see women on horseback chasing after a man who has fallen under the control of the taint. As they apprehend him, the story changes focus to the story’s main character, Rand, as he helps his father transport a cart full of brandy and cider to the Winespring Inn ahead of Bel Tine. In the book, Rand sees a cloaked figure watching them during the journey to the Inn. The series, however, skips over this detail and instead sees the duo reach the Inn safely and without questioning any mysterious figure watching over them.

    It’s a minor change, but one that does leave an impact, as Rand was unsure and anxious following the event. It’s an odd scene to omit, however, despite this, the story still manages to pull viewers in. As with most adaptions, the cast has been aged up, which allows the writers to explore possibilities on the small screen that might’ve been skipped over in the novels. Case in point is the relationship between Rand and Egwene Al’Vere, which sees the duo as well-established and in intimate settings. It’s a bit startling at first, especially given how young the characters are in the books, but the television series does a good job at establishing its own take on these characters while adhering to the characteristics of each in the novels.

    When we finally move into the village of Two Rivers is when the series shines. Viewers will become engrossed in the world before them. Jordan might’ve been criticized for his tendency to write flowery text and his love of descriptions. However, the images painted by his words come alive on screen in this adaption so perfectly.

    As Rosamund Pike‘s Moiraine Damodred comes into the picture, joined by Daniel Henney‘s Lan Mondragoran, Wheel of Time becomes its own take on the beloved fantasy series. It pulls from the book, but manages to offer its own twist on the story, an important detail when adapting a title as loved as this one.

    Midway through the episode, the Trollocs make their way into the village and wreak havoc. They are after the chosen one – Rand – and will not stop coming and destroying life in the village until they’ve gotten him. The Trollocs were so well-designed, they’re absolutely terrifying and the CGI work is impeccable. It’s impressive just how well done the battle is, s much so it becomes hard to look away in fear of missing something.

    When Damodred helps to save the village to the best of her ability, she tells Rand he will need to leave in order to remain safe. Resulting in him, and his group of friends, joining her on a journey that’ll take them out of the village of the Two Rivers and into a world of the unknown.

    Admittedly, the episode does have some moments that lull. And yes, there will always be changes from the books that make no sense. However, there’s more than enough here to enjoy. Pike is a force to be reckoned with every moment she’s on-screen, and her chemistry with Henney is exciting. While some of the younger actors stumble at times, when they come together as a group, they seem to lift one another up. The performances are strong, the action is perfectly executed, and the settings perfectly bring Jordan’s words to life.

    Overall, Amazon’s take on Wheel of Time pays respect to Jordan’s work while also establishing itself as its own story. It’s a hard line to walk, but so far, Wheel of Time looks to be off to a promising start.

  • REVIEW: Amazon’s Wheel of Time is a Well-Done Adaptation

    REVIEW: Amazon’s Wheel of Time is a Well-Done Adaptation

    Note: This review contains no spoilers for the first three episodes of Wheel of Time.

    After two decades of being in development, Robert Jordan‘s Wheel of Time series is finally hitting the small screen. For fans of the book, it has been a long wait. However, it’s safe to say it has been worthwhile as Amazon’s Wheel of Time adaption is a well-done take on the beloved fantasy series.

    Amazon’s decision to release the first three episodes upfront may seem a bit strange initially. After all, these are hour-long episodes and the first season only contains eight episodes total. Once given the chance to dive in, though, it is clear the first three episodes are best viewed back-to-back. While the pilot episode falters at times as it struggles to set up this massive fantasy world, the second episode seems to regain its footing.

    Jordan’s books are known for being full of flowery text. They are overly descriptive to the point readers are able to envision the world while reading. It’s great for reading, however, it can make it harder to translate to another medium – especially a live-action take. This is something the first episode, “Leavetaking,” struggles with as it tries to find a balance between telling its own story and merely adapting its source material.

    The pilot does a great job at paying homage to the books, as it focuses on the woman and them earning the right to bore a braid, as well as the village located near the Two Rivers. The scenery is often breathtaking and the casting choices, although aged-up, are smart and well-done. Some minor decisions make no sense, though, including scenes from the first book that would better impact the story moving forward. It almost feels as though the writers want to hold off on more fantastical aspects of the story until the end of the episode, unleashing a new world of magic upon viewers in the last minutes.

    Thankfully, the second episode “Shadow’s Waiting,” realizes there’s no need to shy away from the magic and lore of this massive world. From the start, the second episode puts our characters through the wringer. It’s an expansive episode that captures Jordan’s work and Rosamund Pike delivers a heck of a performance. If there is one casting choice the series nails, it is Pike as Moiraine. She commands every moment on screen, and in “Shadows Waiting” she puts everything on the table. From the way she delivers some of the lore on screen, to her chemistry with Daniel Henney‘s Lan, this is her episode to shine and she does. This episode belongs to them.

    Going into the third episode, things are rocky for our gang. “A Place of Safety” has one of the best openings of the series yet. No longer does Wheel of Time try holding its audience’s hand. Viewers are thrown deep into this world where death is something to constantly outrun. Our group of characters is left feeling defeated and desperate, with emotions overtaking rational thought. Pike’s Moiraine takes a backseat in this episode, allowing the younger cast to shine. Each of them is driven by something – anger, desperation, love, regret – and despite their desire to escape the terrors that await them, they ultimately all decide to do what is needed. Lorne Balfe’s score is noticeably effective in this episode, it is both haunting and cinematic serving as the perfect backdrop.

    Overall, Wheel of Time is not a perfect adaption. It is, however, a very good adaption that is worthy of your time. The first three episodes are a strong effort and do an impressive job at recreating the magic of Jordan’s novels.

    The first three episodes of The Wheel of Time debut on Amazon on Friday, Nov. 19.

    For spoiler-filled reviews, check back on the 20th when we run the individual reviews for the first three episodes. Then we’ll be reviewing the series on a weekly basis!

  • Rafe Judkins Envisions 8 Seasons for ‘The Wheel of Time’

    Rafe Judkins Envisions 8 Seasons for ‘The Wheel of Time’

    The Wheel of Time will be Amazon’s step into a well-loved fantasy series. The original novels were written by Robert Jordan with Brandon Sanderson taking over the final three entries after Jordan‘s passing. While six entries were originally planned, it ended up running for 14 ever since the initial publication in 1990. Given how long the series ran, it made sense for Amazon Prime to approach it as a television series and Rafe Judkins discusses his vision of where the series will go. In an interview with Deadline, he reveals that the vision, for now, would be going for eight seasons, as their plan is to cover all the books.

    I think that’s probably true. I think Wheel of Time lends itself better to a television series. That’s why I think now is the right moment for it to finally exist because people who know that books know it’s just a story about the characters and the journeys each of them is on. The amount you’d have to compress it to turn it into a series of movies is too much. It would take away the heart of what’s good about it.

    The story takes place in a world where magic is real. Rosamund Pike‘s Moiraine sets out on a journey like no other that sees her joining a group of unlikely heroes to find whoever the prophesied Dragon Reborn might end up being. The fact he is trying to cram 14 books into eight seasons is an interesting choice and might offer a hint of how they’ll structure future seasons.

    Source: Deadline

  • ‘Wheel of Time’ and its Long Journey to the Small Screen

    ‘Wheel of Time’ and its Long Journey to the Small Screen

    The Wheel of Time is a beloved fantasy series by author Robert Jordan. Yet, despite its continued popularity, the series has had a long road to being adapted. In 2000, the series was initially optioned by NBC, however, a project never came to fruition. Then four years later, Jordan sold the rights to the series to Red Eagle Entertainment. The sale included film, television, video game and comic rights. At the time of the sale, Red Eagle Entertainment assured fans it had plans to bring Jordan’s magical world to audiences worldwide.

    Like with the NBC deal, though, things seemed to stall under Red Eagle Entertainment. In 2007, the author wrote a blog post showing his frustration at the lack of movement on a live-action film. Unfortunately, Jordan died about a month later. It wasn’t until 2008 that movement on a Wheel of Time film began to take place, with Universal optioning the title. No movie would come, though. Instead, as a surprise to everyone, Red Eagle Entertainment would go on to produce a ‘pilot’ for a Wheel of Time series. Unfortunately, it was an act merely to retain the rights. The pilot episode aired on FXX, technically fulfilling the contract to keep hold of the rights. However, FXX later admitted it was paid to air the supposed ‘pilot.’

    Fast forward to 2016, the series looked to finally be happening, but as fans of the series know: nothing is ever set in stone. Just when they found themselves excited over the prospect of an adaption, something always got in the way. Luckily, this no longer was the case. The series would officially be ordered by Sony Television a year later, before moving to Amazon Studios in 2018.

    In 2019, the first cast member for Wheel of Time was announced when actress Rosamund Pike joined the series. Since then, Amazon Studios has taken the time and effort to give the property the attention it rightfully deserves. While some details have been changed, the core of Wheel of Time has been captured finally on film for Jordan’s fans to revel in when the series later this month.

    It was a long road to get here, but the Wheel of Time is finally coming.