Merlin on NBC

[gemini0521]

Ok,what did you all think of the last two episodes of Merlin,season 1? I didn't quite understand the ending of the first one,although I was glad that Uther was not killed. The finale episode,however,really had me going. The Sorceress(who we saw in an earlier episode,but I don't remember the title)demanded a life in exchange for Arthur's. I was not surprised that Merlin offered his life,but it seemed strange that he would do it,knowing that his destiny was directly connected to Arthur's. Anyway,Gaius decided to offer his life in place of Merlin,who would not allow him to do so. I didn't understand the ending,which had the dragon calling out Merlin's name and Morgana awakening from yet another dream-was it about Merlin? Guess we'll have to wait until season two.

I liked the dragon-he seemed friendly enough,but could be fierce when necessary. He reminded me of the dragon Hercules befriended in Lady & The Dragon-I believe his name was Bracus. I don't remember if the dragon of Camelot had a name-I don't remember Merlin calling him by any specific name.

[RobRoy]

Ugg. I'm sorry, while I like the concept of Uther's presence in the show, I've found the character (not the portrayal) to be wholly annoying. Merlin has proved himself, his loyalty, etc. so many times, and yet Uther never trusts him, even on the smallest things. The relationship between Uther and Arthur is equally silly, in that it appears they had no relationship before the show started, and now they are starting to develop one.

Altogether, I keep hoping that Uther will die, add some gravitas to the show, and allow it to progress.

[kszonew]

Some nonspoiler info that is safe for all to read.

Season 2 (or Series 2 as its called in the UK) will premiere September 19 on BBC One. Sadly, outside the UK will have to officially wait for NBC, CTV and other networks to hopefully air it. Or for those with region free players, the DVD set to be released in Region 2. BBC has actually got plans to release Season 2 Part 1 in late November. No date yet for Part 2, which is the later part of the 13 episode second season.

Featured guest stars for Season 2 include Mackenzie Crook (the "eye" pirate from the Potc films) as a creepy lad named Cedric, Adrian Lester (from the 2008 film Doomsday) as the devious Myror, Sarah Parish as Lady Catrina and Charles Dance as the Witchfinder. Santiago Cabrera will also return as Lancelot for 2 episodes. A possible recurring character is the lovely Emilia Fox as a blonde knight whose name is not yet revealed. Mordred is set to return and we'll meet a character named Morgause.

The promo pics that have been released support the general feeling that Season 2 will be a little darker storywise, while still retaining the humor to keep it family friendly. The official tagline is, "You can't escape destiny".

Season 1 was a mixed bag. It got better as it got older. To their credit, it was their first year and they did what they could. It now looks like they are taking the show to another level this year, doing more and maybe growing it up a bit with the characters. I look forward to Season 2 and hope that the show retains the balance of Season 1 and doesn't turn into 20 minutes story, followed by 25 minute "rundown of the relationships".

The premise and title for Episode 2001 is expected to be released by BBC sometime Thursday.