Over the last couple of years, Netflix has brought out some quite spectacular fantasy series. From The Witcher and more recently The Sandman, the popular streaming service has done a pretty good job of providing nail-biting, yet totally epic journeys through alternative universes and realities. When season one of Fate: The Winx Saga was released, I had high hopes for a fantastical ride through a new world that I could get lost in. In reality, the first installment, although unique in some respects, was a bit of a let-down. Netflix’s first season of Fate: The Winx Saga brought on magic, mystery and mixed reviews with complaints about the lack of diversity of the cast and the unrealistic plot lines. The big question is, have Netflix brushed up on their script writing skills and sharpened their inclusivity for season two? Alternatively, does it present us with another 'Marmite situation' to add to the pile from this year’s new releases? Well, the verdict is in...
Let’s just say cliché is an understatement
If you haven’t already devoted your time to watch this then I’ve got to be honest - if you want fairies and magic then P. J Hogan’s Peter Pan is always going to be a solid choice. Although the idyllic landscape is perfectly chosen for the series and stylish wardrobes give vibrancy to the show, overall there is nothing to write home about. The second series is still set within the school of Alfea, an institution for fairies and specialists for those who haven’t done their homework, focusing on a group of teens with mystical talents. With the limiting focus on the fire fairy, Bloom (Abigail Cowen) for most of season one, the perspective thankfully shifts into a more inclusive point of view for the new segment of this fantasy tale. In the new season, fairies begin to go missing in the night and along with Stella, Terra, Aisha and Musa, Bloom brings it upon herself to solve the mystery.
The second installment of this mystical whirlwind of love, war and cringe-worthy scenes shows potential within the first episode, but I’m afraid to say that if anything, this series became too unrealistic for my liking. Yes, I know it's about a fairy high school, a highly improbable environment for our world today, but it’s the undeniably dodgy decision-making and skewed priorities of the teens that just seem completely off. In the first season, Bloom is most definitely someone to avoid, with selfish tendencies and a lack of common sense, leaving her friends in the dark when they were all in danger. Yes, she has become a bit more empathetic in this season, but the finale ends with the same theme, with Bloom disappearing and leaving a goodbye letter on the mantelpiece. Let’s just say cliché is an understatement.
It's fair to say no tears were shed
We do see a lot more depth into the members of the Winx club; however, in a measly 7 episodes, there is no chance to properly do each individual justice. A hasty coming-out story squished into the midst of the confusion and Sky’s mental health struggles brushed under the rug are subjects that should have been addressed more thoughtfully. New relationships are explored, with us slowly warming to Beatrix through her interactions with fellow fairy, Stella. Unfortunately, she is abruptly killed off before we have become fully attached and share any sort of connection with the character. For some reason, many important scenes were skipped with the use of random time shifts, allowing for character development to fall flat for many of the individuals. With dreary acting in most scenes, the chemistry between Bloom and Sky, helped by the relationship between Cowen and Griffin in the real world, is one of the only aspects generating any sort of emotional connection to the show. The anticipated roller coaster of emotions was not experienced, with us waiting a year and a half only for the ride to be a disappointing one. It's fair to say no tears were shed and no heart rates were raised.