Netflix’s new dark fantasy series “Cursed” stars Katherine Langford and Devon Terrell as the future Lady of the Lake and King Arthur. The show delves into the origins of Nimue, also known as The Lady of the Lake, and is based on Frank Miller and Tom Wheeler’s YA Graphic Novel. While the series tries to capture the audience by mirroring popular shows like “Game of Thrones,” it still offers unique elements such as strong female characters, diversity, and intriguing season finales.
Set under the rule of Uther Pendragon, magical beings are forced into hiding in forests and caves. Uther does little as the Red Paladins, a group of religious assassins led by the brutal Father Carden, seek to eliminate all Fey. Central to their efforts is the lethal Weeping Monk, who evolves beyond his assassin role by the season’s end.
Nimue, portrayed by Katherine Langford, starts as an average teenager bullied by her peers and even feared by her own kind because of her ability to control plants. Her life takes a drastic turn when the Red Paladins attack her village, and her dying mother sends her on a vital mission to deliver the Sword of Power to Merlin, who has lost his magic and is now an alcoholic working for King Uther. Along her journey, Nimue meets Arthur, a troubled mercenary, and romance begins to bloom between them. Slowly, Nimue transforms into a figurehead for the Fey, symbolizing hope and resilience.
The show also introduces secondary characters who play pivotal roles. Arthur’s sister, Morgana, has a significant destiny. Raised in a convent, she later aids an underground movement helping the Fey escape the Paladins. Gawain, the Green Knight, emerges as a protector of the Fey and adds a dynamic presence to the series. Nimue’s best friend, Pym, provides comic relief and showcases endearing qualities, particularly in her interactions with a group of Vikings. Another stand-out character is Lady Lunete, Uther’s power-hungry and cunning mother, played brilliantly by Polly Walker.
Squirrel, a young Fey boy who looks up to Gawain, is another engaging character. However, not all characters resonate well; Iris, a zealot who infiltrates the Fey underground to plot against Nimue, comes across more as an annoyance than a compelling villain.
“Cursed” has its flaws. The series struggles with originality, often feeling like a blend of elements from other famous fantasy series and sagas. The initial characterizations and dialogue can be quite cliché, and the romance between Arthur and Nimue sometimes clashes with the show’s overall tone, veering from a teen fantasy romance to scenes of intense violence.
Despite these issues, “Cursed” picks up pace in the second half of the season. Its production design and costumes are stunning, and many of the characters are likable and well-developed. By the end of the first season, the series proves to be thoroughly engaging. Merlin, in particular, evolves into a captivating Byronic Hero, making his character arc one of the highlights.
Overall, “Cursed” is an entertaining series with potential for growth in future seasons. It might have its imperfections, but it’s worth watching, and fans will be curious to see where the story goes next.
