Matthew Foss
This series would have been much better on almost any other network (CBS, NBC, Showtime, HBO, etc) simply because the channel that brought us such enriching programs as Jersey Shore and 16 and Pregnant is not the right place for such a well-written, epic fantasy series (the books, of course). The problem with MTV is that because it is geared towards young college-aged adults it continues to try to appeal to them with modern things even though this show is set thousands of years into the future. For instance, modern music plays in the background to a few scenes and the younger characters all talk like they’re posting texts on Snapchat. The older actors, John Rhys-Davies (King Eventine) and Manu Bennett (Allanon) are brilliant and maybe over time, when Shannara hits its stride, the younger characters will have better dialogues as well. The special effects are pretty decent and they did a great job with the demons. The show also isn’t afraid to show its fair share of violence and gore. I’m anticipating some awesome, epic battle scenes later in the season as decent of quality as in the Lord of the Rings movies.
63 people found this review helpful
joseph allstead
The best show i have watched in a long while if u like RPG games an stuff dealing with magic an demons, elfs, half elfs, gnomes havent seen yet but are said to be in it an trolls an many more so try it an i promise u wont regret it. now only if u guys would give me the lic on my comp so I can watch with my wife on my tv since I did pay for the full 1st season, then it would go back upto 5 stars, but otherwise its a very great show to watch
Steven Bellin
Considering how formulaic and derivative the novels were, the interest here lies in seeing how the material is reinterpreted for the format and its target audience. (Sadly, it's the MTV audience, who are justifiably underestimated by this lowest-common-denominator network.) The acting is mediocre, with occasional scenes when cast members must have been having a banner day. The cast is dominated by beautiful youngsters who were obviously chosen for their looks over any outstanding talent. The writing is uninspired, with a lack of the stylized dialogue so necessary for this genre. (Then again, the source is Terry Brooks' prose, which is far from inspired.) Yet within these shortcomings I cannot help but see potential. Given time, this series could blossom, if the writers and cast can find the groove. At this point, it's too early to commit or condemn. The show does boast high production values, and (if his involvement is more than mere deal-packaging) we can hope Mr. Favreau will lend his inestimable skills in guiding the series toward real improvement. Fans of genre escapism, keep your expectations low and you will, at least, be entertained.
17 people found this review helpful