I'm a big fan of all things Witcher. It's just a tremendous series that stands unique in a sea of medieval style fantasy. Geralt is one of the best protagonists of all time and the world he inhabits is complex and compelling; but especially dark.

However what makes it work is that it's also lighthearted and funny. The best adaptations find a way to balance that aspect. Not making Geralt a Mary Sue or a cliche stoic hero of legend and allowing the rest of the cast to have their spotlights.

And the show does a great job at all that. It maintains a lot of the darker depressing elements the series is known for while being good for a great laugh. It's often hopeful but also depressing.

And Henry Cavill is perfect casting. Not only is he eliciting new feelings in every straight man watching this, but he completely gets the vibe. He is simulationiously badass and likable while also not being infallible. He makes mistakes, gets beaten, and can be a real selfish jerk sometimes.

His relationship with Ciri is a highlight as well. She's a great character and Freya Allen does an excellent job portraying her; showing her struggles of being a young girl with such a huge unwanted burden but also making her enjoyable to watch. Geralt going from reluctant babysitter to father figure is well done and feels natural.

The entire cast is mostly excellent. Joey Batey as Jaskier is a standout. He steals every scene he's in and it's extremely entertaining watching him try to break down Geralt's stoic demeanour. And the subtextual romantic relationship he may feel for Geralt is well done as well, with his breakup songs being bangers.

The only thing I did not like was Jennifer. I don't think it's the actresses's fault, I think it's the writing. She was compelling as pre "fixed" but just kind of became a selfish and entitled jerk afterwards. I know that's the point and eventually she comes around somewhat but I think it's just more aggravating than interesting.

But I blame that on a lot of writer's that have trouble depecting a strong but flawed woman while making her likable. It almost always falls into "b word" territory.

The set designs, special effects, and direction are great as well. It really is a good looking show. Even in the first season when it's going for more of a 90s monster of the week fantasy show vibe still has a lot of charm to it.

I can't wait for season 3!