In the world of book-to-screen adaptations, the involvement of the original author can be a double-edged sword. However, when it works, it truly works. I’m Matteo Rivera, The Cinematic Catholic, and today I’ll be sharing my thoughts on the newly premiered Percy Jackson and the Olympians series on Disney+. Join me as we explore the first two episodes and delve into what the rest of the season has in store.
A Catholic Review Of Percy Jackson
The Plot Of Percy Jackson
Percy Jackson, a 12-year-old, discovers that the Greek Olympian gods are real, and he is a demigod—the child of a god and a human. As he navigates the challenges at Camp Half-Blood, Percy realizes the fate of the world may rest in his hands. While there was a previous movie adaptation in 2010, the new series promises a fresh take on Rick Riordan’s best-selling books.
Walker Scobell, portraying Percy, leads a talented cast that pleasantly surprised me. While Scobell may not be what I initially envisioned for Percy, his performance is commendable. The chemistry between Grover and Percy feels authentic, and Leah Jeff as Annabeth strikes the perfect balance between snarky and funny. Special mention goes to Glenn Turman as Chiron and Jason Mantzoukas as Dionysus, stealing the show with his portrayal of the god of wine.
For a series of this magnitude, the visual elements are crucial, and Percy Jackson delivers. The CGI is impressive, reaching movie-quality standards. The Minotaur battle showcases the stunning effects, with photorealistic details even in daytime scenes. The seamless integration of CGI into the world sets a high standard, reminiscent of the cinematic achievement of the Harry Potter series.
Rick Riordan’s involvement in the production is evident, with attention to detail and episode titles mirroring the book chapters. The series explores different story elements compared to the movies, benefitting from the extended runtime a series allows. The character development, especially for Luke, hints at a promising narrative arc.
Family-Friendly: Is Percy Jackson safe for children?
Absolutely. The series is accessible for all ages, making it an ideal family watch. The first two episodes lay a solid foundation, and if they are indicative of the overall quality, Percy Jackson has the potential to become a beloved family show, fostering shared viewing experiences.
Morals and Life Lessons In Percy Jackson
While it’s early to draw definitive conclusions, the series hints at themes like “hold fast and brave through the storm.” These initial episodes lay the groundwork for a hero’s journey, potentially offering valuable life lessons for viewers, particularly those of the Christian faith.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians on Disney+ has made a strong start. The involvement of Rick Riordan bodes well for a faithful adaptation. As a fan, I’m excited to see how the series unfolds week by week. If you’re a Percy Jackson enthusiast or just seeking a captivating family show, this might be the one for you. Stay tuned for more updates and reviews as the series progresses!
Oh, and did I mention the enticing post-credit scene? It gives us a glimpse into the exciting journey ahead, promising a faithful adaptation with some surprises along the way. Get ready for a thrilling ride through the world of Percy Jackson and the Olympians.
