The Netflix version builds its narrative centred around Nimue which is based upon the illustrated novel of the same name by Frank Miller and Tom Wheeler, who are also the executive producers of the show. In the announced cast, Katherine Langford (13 Reasons Why, Knives Out) is set to star as Nimue, Devon Terrell (The Professor, Ophelia) as Arthur and Gustaf Skarsgard (Vikings, Westworld) as Merlin. According to Netflix, the show is set to be about Nimue and Arthur’s journey together on a quest to find Merlin and deliver Excalibur, the ancient mythical sword which would defeat Mordred.
Netflix also released various stills from the show which give the audience a very clear idea of what’s to come. The promotional poster shows Langford wielding a sword with grey magical manifestation growing around her, a mystical and empowered look similar to Charlize Theron’s Queen Ravenna in Snow White and the Huntsman. Merlin’s look is created as an older Merlin with a black robe on who is made to appear “skilled in dark magic, drinking and the art of war.” Terrel’s Arthur in his suave avatar is a charismatic surprise of the show, who exhibits the contained and restrained demeanour, contrasting energy to Bradley James’ youthful King Arthur.
kudos to Netflix for bringing more empowered female narratives
There has been an abundance of fantasy mythical and historical epic film as well as television shows released in the past decade such as Game of Thrones, The Hunger Games, The Witcher and Snow White and the Huntsman to name a few. Cursed appears to be a mix of all of these in its mise-en-scène, cinematography and textual context which re-imagines the original legend from a fresh perspective. Additionally, kudos to Netflix for bringing more empowered narratives starring badass young female protagonists who are a mix of magic, power and strength. (An enthusiastic wink to Sabrina and Yennefer) With the on-going pandemic, the show is undoubtedly a thrilling one to look forward to.