"Leavetaking"
Release Date: 19 November 2019
The inaugural episode of The Wheel of Time takes a somewhat indirect approach when it comes to its visual cues. It doesn't explicitly point out who the main characters are through their appearance. Instead, it seems to be more about establishing the central characters' roles in the story. Written by showrunner Rafe Judkins and directed by Uta Briesewitz, the episode, titled "Leavetaking," revolves around four humble villagers who are informed by a powerful sorceress that one of them is a messianic figure. This revelation prompts them to join her on a journey away from their home. Essentially, the protagonists of this fantasy series, adapted from Robert Jordan's renowned novels, are also the focal points of the world it portrays. It's a notable departure from the traditional King Arthur legend.
Rosamund Pike leads the series as Moiraine, an influential member of the Aes Sedai, a group of women with magical abilities in a world where only women can wield magic. Moiraine's powers, reminiscent of the Bene Gesserit from Dune and elemental abilities akin to those in Avatar: The Last Airbender, set the stage for the story. Moiraine and her bodyguard, al'Lan Mandragoran, embark on a quest to find the enigmatic Dragon Reborn, a figure of great significance in the world's history.
Their journey brings them to a peaceful village known as the Two Rivers, where we meet the other main characters. Among them are Egwene, recently initiated into womanhood; Rand, the son of the local innkeeper; Mat, a humorous youth; and Perrin, a blacksmith who is married. However, Perrin's marriage takes a tragic turn during the episode. The adaptation showcases a refreshing racial diversity throughout, seamlessly integrated into the narrative.
The tranquility of the Two Rivers is abruptly shattered when a horde of Trollocs, monstrous creatures led by a ghoul-like commander known as a fade, attacks the village. Despite the villagers' efforts, the attack results in loss and chaos. Moiraine arrives in the nick of time, displaying her formidable magical abilities to repel the Trollocs. She reveals to Egwene, Rand, Mat, and Perrin that one of them is the Dragon Reborn, the only being capable of defeating the rising Dark One. To save their village, they must join her on a journey to the White Tower, the Aes Sedai's headquarters. Without much hesitation, the group sets off, setting the stage for future adventures and encounters with Trollocs.
In discussing The Wheel of Time, it's impossible to avoid mentioning the series' influences, primarily The Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones. Robert Jordan's novels have often been compared to these works and have carved their place in the fantasy genre. The episode's departure from the Two Rivers echoes Frodo Baggins' departure from the Shire. Moiraine's narration carries shades of Cate Blanchett's prologue in The Lord of the Rings films, and certain scenes evoke memories of Game of Thrones, particularly with the Trollocs' attack.
This mention of influences is not meant to be condescending; rather, it highlights the joy of experiencing familiar elements in a new context. The episode delivers entertaining moments, from the menacing Trollocs to Moiraine's awe-inspiring displays of power. The chemistry between the characters, particularly Egwene and Rand, is well-executed. While not all aspects of the show are equally successful, it succeeds in being enjoyable, fulfilling the simple expectation of a critic. The journey has just begun, and it will be interesting to see where it leads.
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