10 Must-Watch TV Series for Epic Fantasy Fans

Explore the realm of epic fantasy on the small screen! This blog post introduces 10 TV series adaptations, blending captivating storytelling with breathtaking visuals, for a magical escape.

For epic fantasy readers, the allure of immersive worlds, epic quests, and memorable characters can be an addictive escape.

Thankfully, the small screen has embraced the realm of epic fantasy, offering visually stunning adaptations that transport viewers to fantastical realms.

In this blog post, we present ten TV series for fans of epic fantasy, providing an enchanting blend of captivating storytelling and breathtaking visuals.

So, grab your popcorn and prepare for an adventure beyond the pages.

“Game of Thrones”

Based on George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” series, “Game of Thrones” quickly became a global phenomenon. Set in the fictional land of Westeros, this epic saga weaves together intricate political intrigues, gripping battles, and compelling character arcs. With its sprawling cast, morally complex characters, and unexpected plot twists, “Game of Thrones” sets the standard for epic fantasy television.

“The Witcher”

“The Witcher,” adapted from Andrzej Sapkowski’s book series, follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter in a dark and gritty world filled with magic and mythical creatures.

With its rich lore, complex narratives, and Henry Cavill’s charismatic portrayal of Geralt, this series captures the essence of the books and brings them to life with breathtaking visuals and intense action sequences.

“His Dark Materials”

Philip Pullman’s beloved trilogy comes to life in “His Dark Materials,” a visually stunning and emotionally resonant series.

Set in parallel worlds, it follows young Lyra Belacqua on a quest to uncover the truth behind mysterious phenomena.

With its intricate world-building, powerful themes, and exceptional performances from the cast, this adaptation captures the essence of Pullman’s enchanting universe.

“The Expanse”

While technically science fiction, “The Expanse” by James S.A. Corey offers a compelling blend of epic world-building and political intrigue.

Set in a future where humanity has colonized the solar system, the series delves into a complex web of interplanetary conflicts and conspiracies. With its well-developed characters, thought-provoking themes, and gripping plotlines,

“The Expanse” will appeal to fans of epic fantasy looking for a dose of thrilling escapism.

“The Chronicles of Narnia”

The Chronicles of Narnia” by C.S. Lewis has captivated readers for generations, and the TV adaptations bring these timeless tales to life with enchanting visuals and heartfelt storytelling.

Whether you journey to Narnia through “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe” or “Prince Caspian,” these adaptations capture the wonder, magic, and profound messages of Lewis’ beloved series.

“Outlander”

Based on Diana Gabaldon’s best-selling series, “Outlander” transports viewers through time, weaving historical fiction, romance, and adventure.

Follow the story of Claire Randall, a World War II nurse who finds herself in 18th-century Scotland, caught in a tumultuous era of clan warfare and political intrigue.

With its captivating performances, breathtaking Scottish landscapes, and epic love story, “Outlander” offers a compelling blend of history and fantasy.

“American Gods”

Neil Gaiman’s novel “American Gods” takes readers on a journey into a modern-day America where old gods clash with new ones.

The TV adaptation expands on Gaiman’s mythological tapestry, immersing viewers in a visually stunning and thought-provoking exploration of faith, identity, and the power of belief.

With its stellar cast and evocative storytelling, “American Gods” offers a unique and captivating viewing experience.

“Shadow and Bone”

Based on Leigh Bardugo’s Grishaverse novels, “Shadow and Bone” introduces viewers to a war-torn world where darkness threatens to engulf everything.

This series weaves together multiple storylines, introducing us to complex characters with extraordinary powers and high-stakes conflicts.

With its lush visuals, gripping storytelling, and interconnected narratives, “Shadow and Bone” delivers an epic fantasy experience.

“The Wheel of Time”

Robert Jordan’s beloved fantasy series, “The Wheel of Time,” is set to captivate audiences with its upcoming TV adaptation.

The story follows a group of individuals who are destined to play crucial roles in the battle between light and darkness.

With its sprawling world, rich mythology, and intricate plotlines, “The Wheel of Time” promises to be an epic journey for fans of the books.

“The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance”

“The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance” is a visually stunning prequel to Jim Henson’s beloved film.

Set in a magical world of Thra, this series employs puppetry and cutting-edge visual effects to tell an epic tale of rebellion against dark forces.

With its intricate puppet designs, immersive world-building, and compelling storytelling, this series is a treat for fans of epic fantasy seeking a unique and visually captivating experience.

The Enduring Magic of Narnia: Unpacking Its Relevance Today

Dive back into the magical world of Narnia and explore its enduring appeal, timeless themes, and relevance in today’s modern world.

As you step into the wardrobe, pushing past the fur coats, you enter a world where talking animals, magical creatures, and epic battles are part of everyday life.

This is the universe of ‘The Chronicles of Narnia,’ the much-loved fantasy series by the British author, C.S. Lewis.

In this post, we are revisiting this fantasy classic to see whether it’s still relevant in the modern world.

Unparalleled Imagination and World-Building

The Chronicles of Narnia are universally recognised for their incredible imagination and world-building.

The fantasy land of Narnia, with its talking beasts and sprawling scenery, continues to capture the hearts of readers across the globe.

This timeless appeal, in part, stems from the depth and richness of the Narnian universe—a testament to Lewis’s remarkable imaginative prowess.

Timeless Themes

The Chronicles of Narnia weave a complex tapestry of themes, ranging from the universal struggle between good and evil, the exploration of faith and spirituality, to a profound commentary on the nature of power and authority.

Despite their age, these themes continue to resonate in the 21st century, making Narnia a relevant read even today.

A Guide to Moral Compass

The Chronicles of Narnia are more than a series of fantasy novels.

They also offer guidance and lessons on courage, honesty, and humility, with each character embodying specific virtues or vices.

Lewis cleverly uses these characters to guide readers, especially younger ones, in developing their moral compass.

A Reflection of Real-World Issues

Despite its fantastical setting, ‘The Chronicles of Narnia’ subtly reflects real-world issues.

Themes such as discrimination, war, and the abuse of power are cleverly woven into the narrative.

These parallels allow readers to engage with these challenging topics in an accessible and safe environment, thus opening up a dialogue on their importance.

Christian Allegory

One of the most compelling (and controversial) aspects of the Chronicles of Narnia is its Christian allegory.

While the series can be enjoyed as a simple fantasy, the exploration of Christian themes provides an added layer of depth.

Aslan, the majestic lion, serves as a Christ-like figure, and the stories themselves draw from biblical narratives.

However, this allegory is never intrusive and is often interpreted differently by readers based on their own beliefs and backgrounds.

So, ‘The Chronicles of Narnia,’ despite being written over seventy years ago, continues to hold a significant place in the literary world.

Its universal themes, moral guidance, and allegorical exploration make it a series that transcends time and continues to captivate audiences in the modern era.

This timeless classic serves as a reminder that the magic of Narnia is just a wardrobe away.

What is Noblebright Fantasy? A Beginner’s Guide

Explore Noblebright Fantasy, a sub-genre that celebrates hope, virtue, and triumph of good over evil. Discover top books and how it contrasts with Grimdark fantasy.

If you’re a fan of fantasy literature, you may have come across the term “noblebright.” But what exactly does it mean?

In this post, we’ll explore the concept of noblebright fantasy and what sets it apart from other sub-genres of fantasy literature.

What is noblebright fantasy?

Noblebright fantasy is a relatively new term, first coined in 2014 by author C. J. Brightley. It’s an approach to fantasy that emphasises hope, virtue, and the triumph of good over evil.

The stories are generally uplifting, featuring heroes who are motivated by a desire to make the world a better place.

Noblebright fantasy often contrasts with the more grim and gritty sub-genres of fantasy, such as grimdark or dark fantasy.

What makes a fantasy story noblebright?

One of the defining characteristics of noblebright fantasy is the presence of noble and virtuous characters. These characters may be flawed, but they strive to do the right thing and uphold moral principles. They often work together to overcome challenges and obstacles, and their actions inspire hope in others.

How can you tell you’re reading a noblebright fantasy?

The worlds of noblebright fantasy are often filled with awe-inspiring landscapes, magical creatures, and wondrous artifacts. These elements are used to create a sense of wonder and enchantment in the reader, reminding us that there is still magic and beauty in the world.

What are the themes of noblebright fantasy?

Noblebright fantasy often features strong themes of community and cooperation. The heroes work together to overcome obstacles, and their actions have a positive impact on the world around them. There is often a sense of interconnectedness and unity in these stories, with characters coming together to support each other and achieve their goals.

What are the criticisms of noblebright fantasy?

Noblebright fantasy can sometimes come across as too idealistic or simplistic. Some readers may find the lack of nuance or shades of grey in the storytelling to be unrealistic.

However, defenders of the genre argue that there is still room for complex characters and difficult choices within a noblebright framework.

Where to start reading noblebright fantasy?

“The Lord of the Rings” by J.R.R. Tolkien.

This classic epic fantasy novel is the perfect introduction to the genre and has had a significant influence on the development of noblebright fantasy.

“The Earthsea Series” by Ursula K. Le Guin.

This series follows the journey of a young wizard as he learns to harness his powers and fight for what is right.

“The Belgariad” by David Eddings.

This five-book series is a classic of the epic fantasy genre and features a cast of memorable characters and a thrilling story of good versus evil.

“The Dragonriders of Pern” by Anne McCaffrey.

This beloved series combines elements of science fiction and fantasy and features dragons, telepathic bonds, and a richly detailed world.

“The Chronicles of Narnia” by C.S. Lewis.

This series of seven books is a beloved classic of children’s literature and features a magical world filled with talking animals, mythical creatures, and epic battles between good and evil.

“The Riddle-Master Trilogy” by Patricia A. McKillip.

This beautifully written series follows the journey of a young prince as he seeks to unravel the mysteries of his world and defeat the forces of evil.

Overall, noblebright fantasy offers readers a refreshing and uplifting take on the fantasy genre. If you’re looking for stories that celebrate hope, virtue, and the power of good to triumph over evil, noblebright fantasy may be just the sub-genre for you.

If you enjoy fantasy books, you can get a free Ravenglass Universe starter library when you join Jon’s VIP newsletter.

The Kings and Queens of Fantasy: A Look at the Most Iconic Royal Characters

Explore the captivating world of fantasy literature and its iconic royal characters. From Aragorn to Joffrey Baratheon, discover the memorable kings and queens that have enthralled readers for generations. Delve into their stories, strengths, and impact in this enchanting blog post.

The Ravenglass Chronicles by Jon Cronshaw audiobook

Fantasy literature is filled with a wide variety of royal characters, each with their own unique strengths, weaknesses and stories.

From brave warriors to cunning politicians, these kings and queens have captured the imagination of readers for generations.

In this blog post, you’ll find seven of the most memorable and impactful royal characters in fantasy.

From the epic battles of Middle-Earth to the political intrigues of the Seven Kingdoms, these characters have left a lasting impression on readers and continue to be beloved to this day.

So, let’s explore some of fantasy’s most iconic royal characters.

1. Aragorn from J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings”

Aragorn is a true leader, both on the battlefield and in his role as king of Gondor. He is wise, brave, and just, and his love for Arwen adds a romantic element to this classic story.

2. Elphaba from Gregory Maguire’s “Wicked”

As the Wicked Witch of the West in “The Wizard of Oz,” Elphaba is a fierce and independent ruler who fights for the rights of animals and the oppressed.

3. Caspian from C.S. Lewis’s “The Chronicles of Narnia”

Caspian is a young and inexperienced ruler, but his journey to reclaim his rightful place on the throne of Narnia and his leadership during a great war makes him a noble and brave king.

4. Aelin Ashryver Galathynius from Sarah J. Maas “Throne of Glass”

Aelin is a fiercely loyal young woman who fights for her people, using her powers and her cunning to reclaim her throne and defend her kingdom.

5. King Maven Calore from Victoria Aveyard “Red Queen”

Maven is a complex and conflicted character, torn between his duty to his country and his love for Mare Barrow. His actions throughout the series make him both a villain and a tragic figure.

6. King Leopold from Robin McKinley’s “The Blue Sword”

Leopold is a wise and just king who forms a deep bond with the protagonist, Harry Crewe, as she becomes a powerful leader in her own right.

7. King Joffrey Baratheon from George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire”

Though Joffrey is a cruel and sadistic king, his actions and eventual downfall drive much of the action in the series.

Ten Movies Every Fantasy Reader Should Watch

Discover the enchanting realm of fantasy movies with our top 10 must-watch films. Immerse yourself in magical worlds, epic adventures, and beloved characters that have captivated audiences for generations.

Fantasy movies have captivated audiences since the dawn of cinema, transporting us to magical worlds filled with wonder and adventure.

From classic tales of good versus evil, to modern interpretations of fantasy literature, these films have left a lasting impression on audiences of all ages.

Here are the ten movies every fantasy fan should watch:

1. “The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring” (2001)

Directed by Peter Jackson, this epic film adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s classic novel is a must-see for any fantasy fan. With stunning visuals and a compelling story, “The Fellowship of the Ring” sets the stage for an epic trilogy of films.

2. “The Wizard of Oz” (1939)

This classic film, based on L. Frank Baum’s novel, is the timeless tale of a young girl’s journey through a magical land. With unforgettable performances and iconic songs, “The Wizard of Oz” is a movie that continues to be loved by audiences of all ages.

3. “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” (2001)

The first film in the Harry Potter series, “The Philosopher’s Stone” introduces audiences to the magical world of Hogwarts and the beloved characters of Harry, Ron, and Hermione. With stunning special effects and a compelling story, this film is a must-see for any fantasy fan.

4. “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” (2005)

Based on C.S. Lewis’s classic novel, “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” is a visually stunning film that transports audiences to the magical world of Narnia.

5. “Pan’s Labyrinth” (2006)

Directed by Guillermo del Toro, “Pan’s Labyrinth” is a dark, magical tale that explores the blurred lines between fantasy and reality. With stunning visuals and a thought-provoking story, this film is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers.

6. “The NeverEnding Story” (1984)

Based on Michael Ende’s novel, “The NeverEnding Story” is a classic fantasy film that tells the tale of a young boy who is drawn into a magical world filled with adventure and danger. T

7. “The Dark Crystal” (1982)

Directed by Jim Henson and Frank Oz, “The Dark Crystal” is a bizarre fantasy film that tells the story of a young Gelfling who must restore balance to his world.

8. “Labyrinth” (1986)

Directed by Jim Henson, “Labyrinth” is a classic fantasy film that tells the story of a young girl who must navigate a dangerous labyrinth to save her baby brother. Starring David Bowie, this movie has one of the best soundtracks of the 1980s.

9. “The Princess Bride” (1987)

Directed by Rob Reiner, “The Princess Bride” is a classic fantasy film that tells the tale of a young woman who must be rescued from an evil prince. Comedic and charming, this is a movie that will delight viewers of all ages.

10. “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey” (2012) Directed by Peter Jackson, “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey” is the first film in a trilogy based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s classic novel. The movie follows the story of hobbit Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) as he joins a group of dwarves on a quest to reclaim the Lonely Mountain from the dragon Smaug.

Click HERE to claim your free Ravenglass Universe starter library.

%d bloggers like this: