Since Game of Thrones concluded last year, we’ve been watching a host of studios roll out new medieval fantasy shows looking to fill the gap left by the HBO giant. Nobody has made more of a push than Netflix, who made The Witcher, which may be the most worthy successor so far.
Now, Netflix has released a teaser trailer for its latest — but not last — foray into the genre: The Letter for the King, a six-episode medieval fantasy series starring BAFTA-winning actor Andy Serkis (Planet of the Apes, The Lord of the Rings) and His Dark Materials star Amir Wilson. Other cast members include Thaddea Graham and Gijs Blom. Serkis’ sister Ruby will appear on the show, too!
The show follows Tiruri (Wilson), a young knight in training who is sent of an epic quest to deliver a secret letter to the King when news spreads that a ruthless prince has threatened to turn the world to darkness. While on his quest, Tiruri unexpectedly learns that he is at the centre of an ancient prophecy, a prophecy that says he is the one to restore peace to the land.
The teaser already shows off some of the fantastic world-building that’s gone into this, providing us with some details about a long-running war between the kingdoms of Unauwen and Dagonaut against the southern land of Eviellan. Check it out:
The show is based on Tonke Dragt’s 1962 best-selling book of the same name. It has been adapted for television by Will Davies (How To Train Your Dragon, Johnny English), who is also an executive producer. Joining him is Paul Trijbits (Sing Street, The Casual Vacancy).
If you’ve seen the trailer and still need more, check out this Netflix placeholder. It has a cool graphic, and you can add the show to your watchlist so there’s no forgetting!
The Letter for the King is set to premiere March 20, on Netflix.
As long as we’re talking about medieval dramas, check out the trailer for David Lowery The Green Knight, which stars Dev Patel in an adaptation of the Arthurian legend:
“An epic fantasy adventure based on the timeless Arthurian legend, The Green Knight tells the story of Sir Gawain (Dev Patel), King Arthur’s reckless and headstrong nephew, who embarks on a daring quest to confront the eponymous Green Knight, a gigantic emerald-skinned stranger and tester of men,” reads the official synopsis. “Gawain contends with ghosts, giants, thieves, and schemers in what becomes a deeper journey to define his character and prove his worth in the eyes of his family and kingdom by facing the ultimate challenger. From visionary filmmaker David Lowery comes a fresh and bold spin on a classic tale from the knights of the round table.”
Arthur meets horror. I love it; also look out for an appearance from Game of Thrones alum Kate Dickie (Lysa Arryn) in there.
And finally, watch Jackie Chan and Arnold Schwarzenegger fight each other in the Tower of London the trailer for The Iron Mask:
I could try to explain what’s happening here, but honestly I think it works better if you just go with it.
The Iron Mask has already come out in Russia and China, and will in theaters throughout the rest of the world on April 10.
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