The Witcher (TV Series) Family (2021) User Reviews

Season Two Review

[southdavid · 8/10 · 20 December 2021]

I really loved the first season of "The Witcher". I felt the various timelines came together beautifully to tell a great story and set us up for adventure to come. Whilst this second season is not as narratively adventurous, or quite as thrilling overall, it's still an excellent run.

With his ward Ciri (Freya Allan) now under his care, Geralt (Henry Cavill) heads to Kaer Morhen, a Witcher stronghold that allows for rest and recuperation during the winter. The route there, and even the keep itself, is fraught with danger though, as various never before seen monsters seem to flock to Ciri like a moth to a flame. Meanwhile, Yennefer (Anya Chalotra) and Fringilla (Mimi Ndiweni) are captured by the Elf army, led by Francesca Findabair (Mecia Simson). The three are made a tempting proposal by an ancient evil, can any of them resist?

I'm slightly afraid that focusing on the negatives will give the impression that I didn't like the series, when this is not the case. (Check the score). It would probably have felt like cheating to again attempt to mix up the timelines, which is why this season has a much more straightforward through run. I'm not complaining about it per se, but there's no "Eureka" moment to match the realisation from the first run. There's also not quite as much fighting, I'd maybe have liked another 'side mission' episode for Geralt to show his skills.

It's still pretty great though. I do find that I actively care about the various strands of the story even if they don't weave directly into Geralt's adventure. The corruption of various characters is well done, as desire shifts to loss and then to hate. I didn't find the way that the season one characters came back into the story was too contrived either. The CGI and practical effects are very accomplished too and there is some amazing cinematography.

If you wanted to argue that the seasons story is mostly used to build a bigger narrative, rather than have one of it's own I don't think I'd argue against you. . . But as I'm already so sold on the show, and can't wait to see that wider narrative, I'm very happy with the season I've seen.

Disappointed

[Flippo9204 · 7/10 · 20 December 2021]

I'm sorry but this season felt way weaker than the first one.

The story felt like it dragged at times, and although the wild hunt got namedropped earlier in the season it turns out it was 'just' set-up for a third season.

I will watch season three, the atmosphere is still amazing and I feel like this season will basically be a prequel to the Witcher 3 (the game).

I still have to play the first two games but I saw so much of the third game hinted at in this one that it's inevitable (although they are, of course, based on the books).

I thought the theme of this season was more 'family' than 'destiny' which is much harder to sell as new or enticing, which they unfortunately failed at.

I would give this season a 7.4 out of ten, this episode a 7.

Packed with action, but...

[orgrinrt · 7/10 · 21 December 2021]

Packed with action, but ends with a reveal that I am not sure we should be getting this early on. I'll keep this spoiler-free, so I'll refrain from specifics there.

All in all, this episode was very on brand for this season; A lot of things that don't necessarily make a lot of sense, but probably make it a little bit more exciting as an adaptation. I am not against all that, since *if* done well, it can be very thrilling to see new things and perspectives in a story one loves. Action helps to palate it all for the average viewer, so it's a necessary evil, I suppose.

However, it's not exactly easy to pull something like that off. In the process, season 2 manages to crank the volume up to 11 and things do get fairly crazy, fast.

Overall, I don't hate most of the changes, which is not to say that I think they're bad either. A lot of it is okay, some of it even good, but in general I'm not sure if most of them really make the story better, even as an adaptation in a new medium that does indeed warrant *some* changes as a premise.

The finale feels hectic, but I actually think the Kaer Morhen bit was pretty cool, even if it was certainly the main culprit. It looked great, and I'll just go ahead and put all my gripes regarding to the sensibility of some of its parts aside and confirm that it was, indeed, visually exciting and really, really cool to watch.

I think this show is going way too fast and easy with some aspects of the story. I already mentioned the very end of the episode, but also the whole introduction of the deathless mother seemed unnecessary (i.e I can't see what value it brought even when thinking in terms of the medium and especially the visual side of things; other than maybe this one battle in the last episode, which could've been based on so many other things that would've made it less strange and divergent). In the process the show's presentation of Nilfgaard is now maybe too different and focuses on the wrong things (and Cahir is really getting a rough treatment...), since instead of being the calculated, rational outcome of what should really remain a secret for several seasons still, we now have this emphasis on impulsive religious-tasting stuff and a side of a hut grandma influencing the entire dynamics and politics of the continent.

But all this being said, I still don't think the finale, nor the season as a whole, was bad. Not by any means. It looked great all the way through, and especially in that regard it's been a significant bump up from the first season.

The cast does a great job and I think they've made a great job casting the actors. All of it works well.

My only real gripes are with how things have changed, in what manner, and with what speed. I have a feeling, though, that as the seasons keep coming, things are starting to get more cohesive and make more sense. A single season might seem hectic as we get this amount of stuff going on, some of which is entirely new (and some if it doesn't really mesh all that well with the part of the audience that has prior exposure and thus, expectations to be broken) just to stir the pot a bit more, but I think it'll feel less so as things get established. I still do think that they tackled way too much in this one season (honestly, even just very faithfully adapting the Blood of Elves would've probably felt rushed in 8 episodes), but I guess that's a thing all adaptations have to struggle with. There's only so many minutes to go, and I bet there are money daddies up in the food chain both demanding action and pop-culture references, as well as giving very rough constraints in which to accomplish all that. Things cost money, after all, so I don't think there's a universe in which we could get perfect adaptations of anything, ever.

I am satisfied and remain hopeful for what's to come. I'm really coming to terms with how different this show is going to be, and as we go, I think it'll get easier to adapt to that and not subconsciously compare the source with the adaptation so much.

All these book purists can seriously f off

[bojanvuletic · 19 December 2021]

I read all the books 2 times. I played and completed all games plus DLCs. And yes it is changed a lot, but this is not a book and it doesnt need to be a faithfull adaptation at all to be good. We get so few good fantasy adaptations over the years, and then when they finally make something right, book purists show up and trash the show because it doesnt corelate with their head cannon. For the people who leave 1* and 2* please go watch adaptations of Dark Tower or Avatar or Eragon. Then come back and think about your ratings. Thank you.

This not book and probably never will be

[adam-41194 · 8/10 · 19 December 2021]

I have read all books but movie fabulary is totally different. For me it is really ok, I know the story from books and that will be nothing suprising to see it 1:1 in movie. Really good job.

What is missing for me are emotions, I know that Geralt and witchers may be little "colder" it is ok from Henry Cavill, but why rest especailly Ciri, Jaskier and Yen dont show their deeper emotions ? Ciri is not even trying to hug Geralt i end ofS2E7 and after horse Plotka death - she is saying that Geralt is for her like father but she is doing nothing. To small of crying, , hunging. Actors are sometimes saying what they are feeling but interpersonal bonds are not showed. There is a luck of showing tenderness and affection. How can we identify with some character when we dont feel their emotions ? For me most emotional and real person in S2 is Tris.

The world is cold like a Witcher but Witcher dosent seems to be cold in this world.

If nobody will show Geralt how to feell feellings how we can belive in his transfomation from cold witcher to Ciri's father ?

And the other thing is lack of humor, Sapkowski's books was full of it but movie isnt, especially season 2. Additionaly in books we have really wide range of cuss words but in movie we hear mostly one :(

Season 2 is absolutely fantastic as a whole...

[ChrisMartins1973 · 9/10 · 19 December 2021]

Is it faithful to the books ? Or game ?

I'd say it's faithful to the spirit of whatever came before it, and while based upon the previous material, it's carving its own path.

No spoiler, but the ending of the last episode is a little predictable if you pay attention, but it doesn't deter from the sheer fun and intensity of the action and storytelling.

A really really great show, and a great season 2.

A good ending to a very good season

[Dannyboi94 · 9/10 · 18 December 2021]

The Witcher season 2 was very entertaining, and I would say it was overall, better than season 1. It was more consistent, better paced, better acted and overall more enjoyable.

It does have its faults; for example, this season feels very rushed. At times I'm thinking that certain points in this season should have been extended a little bit. I've not read the books, so I couldn't say if that's how it's suppose happen.

I would say the biggest improvement this season over season 1 is the production. The visuals, costumes, sets, make-up is fantastic in season 2. It is almost like they had double the budget this time around. It also vastly improves on the world-building. This world feels like a real place compared to season 1.

I would say that I wish we got more screentime with Geralt and Yennefer, but we barely ever see them together, which is a shame.

As for the characters, each of the main cast, all do a great job, with the stand out being Ciri. I wasn't a huge fan of her story in season 1, but here, she carries this season. Freya Allen is really good in this role, and her onscreen chemistry with Henry is perfect. Yennefer also got a big improvement this season. While I liked her in season 1, I wasn't over fond on how she looked - mainly because of the video games, but this season, she looks much more like how I expected her to look. From her make-up and wardrobe, Anya Chalotra brings the video game look of the character to the big screen. She is so good this season. Another would also be Anna Shaffer as Triss. I think most fans would agree that we did not agree with the casting of that character at all (no, it is not a race thing). She just didn't look or act the part. But it seems like the showrunners took fan's reaction, and used that to transform the character of Triss, and improve her to much I actually thought they had recast her. Her apperance is perfect. She now has the long curly red hair, talks more like how we would expect, and dresses the same. What a difference.

Overall season 2 was a really good season, with so much of it being greatly improved. I hope we don't have to wait another 2 years for season 3, because the young actors are growing really fast, and it took me awhile to understand who some of these characters are, because they have aged in real life.

9/10, It is good to see a good fantasy TV show, especially after watching The Wheel of Time.

Great as a standalone piece

[tomas-chrapek · 9/10 · 18 December 2021]

I'm on the edge here. As a standalone piece it's a very good series. However, I had expected this to be closer to the books I have loved since I was 15, more than 20 years ago. I love the book saga and this series is just something else completely. I would have understood changing the story to fit a different format, but I don't understand why they had to completely change the main characters from ground up. Yennefer could not be farer from the character in the books.

All in all, great piece by itself, just don't expect this to be anyway close to the books at all.

Topped Season 1 !!!

[abhijeet-abhijeet-bhatta · 8/10 · 18 December 2021]

Far simpler timeline with special focus on Ciri. The stakes are at an all time high. The amount of chaos caused and the rift between Mages, Nilfgardians and the trio of Geralt, Siri and Yennefer has set the table for an action packed and explosive S03. Just hope the wait isn't as much for the next season.

Cons- Would have liked a bit more screentime between Yennefer and Geralt but I think we will have plenty of that in S03.

P. S. Just gonna see how much power can Siri actually generate when she is properly honed. The Witcher is making enemies left and right no matter where he goes and I am just loving it. Bring it on. The whole world versus The Witcher !!!

#WildHuntIsComing

Verdict- 9.6/10.

Edit: Upon second viewing I have got to say that now that the hype is gone. The finale seemed a bit empty. The stakes in the first season finale were huge and somewhat this felt bland. And the big bad for the season never seemed a major threat. Could have been a lot better.

Edited Verdict- 8 (Finale) & 8.7 (Season 2)

Fantastic To A Fault - Season 2 Review

[JoshuaMercott · 9/10 · 21 December 2021]

Having played the games and read the books, it warmed my heart to watch the showrunners take the story of "The Witcher" forward in all the right directions. Season 2 was well worth the wait, and the hype. It evolved all the core characters' arcs in some of the most brilliant ways. A plethora of directors came on board for season 2, which comprised eight marvelous episodes. Stephen Surjik, Sarah O'Gorman, Ed Bazalgette, and Louise Hooper did excellent work in this regard. Writers Declan de Barra, Beau DeMayo, Sneha Koorse, Haily Hall, Matthew D'Ambrosio, Mike Ostrowski, Clare Higgins, and Lauren Schmidt Hissrich did some truly mind-blowing scripting for Netflix's "The Witcher" Season 2. Netflix even had a different colour theme going for its logo at the start of each epi. I think it was a nod to the 'vintage' yesteryear era setting prevalent in the show, I am not sure. It also reminded me of some of the flag/uniform colours belonging to select factions within the world of the "The Witcher" franchise. Henry Cavill shone even more as Geralt of Rivia in this second season. Freya Allan branched out her performance as Ciri, and it made for unforgettable viewing. Anya Chalotra took Yennefer to new magical heights and emotional depths. Joey Batey as the bar Jaskier was everything this season needed to balance things out - it was great watching him be himself. Joseph Trapanese's musical scoring was splendid - he captured all the highs and lows of the script through his heart-stirring compositions. Great work on editing, sound effects, and production design. Each of them truly set the pace and tone of this season, and helped keep it smooth and captivating. Superb set decoration and art direction - no flaws, no matter where my eye turned, it was real and doubly credible. Lucinda Wright enhanced costume design this season, and it showed on screen - her thoroughness deserves notice come awards season. Hair and makeup went all out, delivering perfection and realism in good measure. Some praiseworthy stunts, special effects, and VFX work in Season 2 "The Witcher" for Netflix. All departments added to the wealth of near-cinematic authenticity that prevailed throughout. Special shoutout to the creature design team - every monster in season 2 was superb and created nostalgia for the books and games. I enjoyed seeing: Bruxsa, Chernebog, Leshen, Wyverns, and Basilisks enriching Geralt's own 'rogues gallery' of monsters in season 2 This second season was brilliant for numerous reasons, first of them being Geralt getting closer to fulfilling his 'destiny' in regards to Ciri. This was a major element in the games and books, and it was wonderful to watch history repeat this season. Sorceress Yennefer of Vengerberg was coming into her own. Her empowered plot-angle was such a delight to watch from beginning to end. Much of her efforts and decisions in season 1 bloomed into results and consequences in this one, and I loved every second of it. Not only was Yen still alive following her chaos magic outburst in S01, she was in Nilfgaardian custody, with the treacherous mage Fringilla to boot. Jaskier gave us three - yes, three! - new songs this season. If you thought "Toss A Coin To Your Witcher" was worth playing on loop - I know I did - then wait till you hear "Burn, Butcher, Burn". There's some deep meaning in this song. Another Jaskier original to perk your ears to is "Whoreson Prison Blues". Also check out "The Golden One", which was exquisitely lyricized and better sung. Recurring characters took their performances up several notches. The mage Tissaia de Vries (played by Myanna Buring) was enigmatic, smart-working, and powerful. The mage Fringilla (played by Mimi Ndiweni) was cunning and unrelenting - her serving the 'opposite side', the Nilfgaardian Empire, led to much friction even in season 1, yet she remained idealistic and believed in the Empire's goals. The sorceress Triss Merigold (played by Anna Shaffer) was witty and sweet - she later proved to be a significant team-player. The mage Stregobor (played by Lars Mikkelsen) brought good screen presence. Vilgefortz (played by Mahesh Jadu) gave a good support performance. Istredd (played by Royce Pierreson) was compelling. Cahir (played by Eamon Farren) was getting his comeuppance whilst in the custody of the mages he'd gone up against - Eamon's performance was consistent and good, more so after his escape. King Foltest of Temeria (played by Shaun Dooley) gave a steady performance. It was also interesting to see King Vizimir of Redania (played by Ed Birch). The race of Elves played a prominent role this season. Their theme was well crafted and reminded me of the "Witcher" books. As for the Nilfgaardians, they were doing much more in season 2, waging wars and shattering livelihoods, just like in the books and games. Representing the Dwarven race was Yarpen Zigrin (played by Jeremy Crawford) and his hunting convoy. A small multi-verse of noteworthy 'new characters' made their appearance in this second season of "The Witcher". Geralt's mentor Vesemir (played by Kim Bodnia) played a major role - I loved what he brought to this season. The Elven Queen Francesca Findabair (played by Mecia Simson) took my breath away with her intense performance. The elf warrior Filavandrel (played by Tom Canton) was good, and so was Gage (played by Kaine Zajaz). Rience (played by Chris Fulton) gave a nice 'cool-cat bad-guy' performance that was chilling at times and intriguing at others - Chris's acting was, in my opinion, quite under-rated in this season. It was an immensely pleasant surprise to see Geralt's fellow Witchers Eskel (played by Basil Eidenbenz), Lambert (played by Paul Bullion), and Coen (played by Yasen Atour) coming into play - they were amazing, poor Eskel though. High Priestess of the Temple of Melitele, Nenneke (played by Adjoa Andoh) brought refreshing balance - I still can't get over how good Adjoa was in "Bridgerton". An old wayfaring buddy of Geralt's Nivellen (played by Kristofer Hivju) was yet another superb addition to the cast this season. His 'wild boar' appearance was only one small part of his character, Kristofer's performance behind the CGI being the primary appeal. Vereena (played by Agnes Born) was the resident Bruxa in season 2, and she was amazing - Agnes gave a deceptively frightening performance. Book- and game-franchise favourite Sigismund Dijkstra (played by Graham McTavish), the Redanian spymaster, was an outstanding inclusion who, together with the others, exalted season 2 of "The Witcher". Codringher (played by Simon Callow) was wonderful, and so was Fenn (played by Liz Carr) - they both divulged key information to Istredd that he wouldn't have learned otherwise. The ancient history of Lara Dorren and Ithlinne's Prophecy were thus grazed - powerful whispers linking the show to the lore contained in the books and games. All other cast - especially a small town's worth of extras - did good work on this project. I would be a poor gamer if I didn't mention Roach, Geralt's mare. Hats off to the writers for making Roach a valid character in his own right in season 2. I felt as though I was watching Artax in "The Neverending Story" again when I saw Roach die in S02 "The Witcher". It was a necessary plot-element, though, sad as it was. The Voleth Meir (played by Ania Marson) was one of the most enigmatic characters this season - she was quite good. Some bone-chilling 'Baba Yaga' vibes. More was revealed about her as the show progressed. I believe much more will be revealed next season concerning this 'Deathless Mother'. She was, to all intents and purposes, one of the core villains in "The Witcher" Season 2. Their exploration of Ciri's 'Elder' bloodline added to the wealth of possibilities portrayed in this season. A magically induced gene-memory exploration exposed some dark truths. A good performance in this dream world came from the elf Lydia van Bredevoort (played by Aisha Fabienne Ross), and Ciri's late parents Duny (played by Bart Edwards) and Pavetta (played by Gaia Mondadori). Andrzej Sapkowski has much to be proud of as the original author of the books that inspired this wonderful show. "The Witcher" Season 2 on Netflix was based on a select few titles in his series of novels, namely "A Grain of Truth" short story taken from "The Last Wish", then "Blood of Elves", also the first few portions of "Time of Contempt". All these books contain meaty story elements, and it was great to note that the writers chose excellence over convenience. The world of the Northern Realms - its traditions, superstitions, fears, people, culture, and more -breathed new life in Netflix's "The Witcher" S02. The sequences involving Kaer Morhen were outstanding and nostalgic. They explored the 'Witcher mutagen' prepared using Elder Blood, obtained from Ciri. All of this drew from the lore in the books, and the games that followed. I enjoyed every episode in S02 to the point that I grew disappointed they had only eight. This season was a lesson in 'quality improvement'. The finale epi was plot-perfect. The sorceress Phillippa Eilhart (played by Cassie Clare) was a superb 'surprise entry' in the finale. However, the most shocking surprise was the identity reveal of Emhyr var Emreis (played by Bart Edwards), aka The White Flame, formerly Duny, now Emperor of Nilfgaard, the biological father of Ciri (!). All the pieces were coming together, yet there was so much still left to piece. As if all that wasn't enough to stoke volcanic excitement, Lauren Hissrich appended a post-credits trailer for "The Witcher: Blood Origin" mini-series starring the fantastic Michelle Yeoh in a leading role. Exact date TBA 2022. With immense anticipation do I now await season 3 of "The Witcher". After that cliffhanger finale, only someone consumed by one of the creatures that came from the 'Conjunction of the Spheres' wouldn't be twitching with excitement at the sheer excellence that prevailed in "The Witcher" S2.

Not what expected, but still great

[nemerlis · 10/10 · 19 December 2021]

I have been and will always be fan of books and games. I see many things were changed in tv adaptation, but it was good. Honetly, I dont see too many problems as more a chance in expanding whicher universe. Games also changed story😊 I eager to see season 3 and see were it will go from here😊

I was on the edge of my seat.

[moviesfilmsreviewsinc · 10/10 · 1 January 2022]

As Season 2 draws to a close, it feels in some ways like we've finally reached the starting line. If Season 1 was our introduction to the characters via a series of short stories, then Season 2 was about getting them together so their story could truly begin in earnest. I've criticized The Witcher's characterization, pacing, and worldbuilding throughout this season, but I'll grant that the board is now set. To that end, the final episode of Season 2 is split into two parts: dispensing with the Deathless Mother, and previewing Season 3. The former is handled through a large battle at Kaer Morhen, juxtaposed against a dream sequence in which Ciri is forced to confront her painful relationship with Calanthe, her racist and genocidal grandmother, as well as her lingering survivor's guilt from Cintra. The latter broadly canvasses Nilfgaard, Redania, and the rest of the Witcher's world, all of whom now have their own designs for Ciri. It makes me wonder if I might be thinking too hard about The Witcher, a show that makes broad gestures toward intrigue and emotional complexity, but is more content being a pulp fantasy series with magic and monster fights. It's reflected again in this episode, which sees a possessed Ciri unleash a clutch of basilisks within Kaer Morhen, forcing the Witcher into a bloody battle while she wanders through her dream world. Yes, there's some pretty heavy subtext about Ciri emotionally leaving her biological family behind to join her found family in Geralt and Yennefer. But also, a CG basilisk chews a Witcher's head off in Kaer Morhen. Cool, right? This eight-part season is effectively a prologue for the show's main story, which has only just begun in the finale's last scene. And while that does mean that these hours do feel somewhat inconsequential and exposition-heavy, they do establish a fascinating world worth exploring. Indeed, as the credits roll you'll almost certainly reach for a copy of The Last Wish or boot up the games to continue that adventure. But if you do, you'll likely discover that Netflix's The Witcher has a bit of work to put in before it hits the high quality bar set by the story's other mediums.

I like to have fun here, but I simply want to go home to another dimenson

[Balatoff · 6/10 · 18 December 2021]

This episode is really a cherry on the cake; a fitting end for a season behind it. First of all, it wraps up pretty much all the hidden motivations behind the season's stories. Sadly, these hidden motivations are non-canonical inventions, and therefore they are just as low in quality as they deny immersion to those who are acquainted with the titular universe. Second, it gives a perfect hindsight on what has happened during season two. And by that, I mean mixed feelings.

We begin with Yennefer yelling at Geralt on the ride. They are arriving to Kaer Morhen, the hidden fortress that became a casual meeting spot for adventuring dwarves, random mages and even more random harlots. It doesn't need further explanation that the distance between Kaer Morhen and Cintra is... big. In any decent fantasy universe, we have eagles. Or dragons. Something! We have magic here, but the only thing we know is that the pair is incapable of opening portals.

For this show, time and space don't exist anymore. Pun intended.

The next thing we see is a demon-possessed Ciri, who has visions in her mind and a dagger in her hand. She starts to slit throats of sleeping witchers, who, by now are obviously a degenerate bunch of brutes with alcohol problems and antisocial behaviour. There is no other logical explanation why they could be sneaked upon and slaughtered in this fashion. Note that Geralt deems this castle ruin as "safe" for Ciri. Apparently, the witchers can't even look after themselves.

The next thing Geralt does is the obvious. He is a golem by now, programmed to do two things. Rule number one: Save Ciri, hug Yennefer. Rule number two: the names can be changed, if it does not conflict with rule number one. Rule number three: save yourself from extradimensional monsters. If it does not conflict with either rule number one or rule number two.

So first, he tries to save Ciri without the means. Basically his plan is to talk the demon out of Ciri - with kind words. He keeps Yennefer by his side, so he could hug her. He also has his sword, in case of something went wrong.

Things go wrong. The demon decides to fully shatter the otherwise dead medallion-tree through Ciri's screaming ability. However, the work Ciri started on the tree and the monolith hidden inside (?!) it in episode 5, will now be complete. The monolith shatters, a portal to another dimension opens. What will happen now? The demon starts to slay witchers, who die like flies in the background. It's good we don't even know their names.

In the meantime, Geralt suffers a brain block. He can't digest the only reasonable solution (ie to kill Ciri). Yennefer comes to his aid. She gives a gem to Jaskier, that doesn't do anything. And she brews a potion that she will not use. However, when she sees Geralt's mental breakdown, she decides to absorb the demon herself, so Geralt could save Ciri (rule number one), and then, in order to hug her, he has to free her from the demon. So they go to the other dimension, where the demon departs. She only wanted to go home to another dimension.

Questions like "Why didn't she do that while in control of Ciri?" and "Why did she travel to Kaer Morhen in the first place?" or "If she wanted to go home but before that kill those who imprisoned her, then why did she leave Geralt alive?" are all pointless. The logic behind this show has slipped away so seamlessly as two scarves of the finest silk slide on each other.

Of course, after five minutes, no one feels to reflect on the recent events. Most of the irreplaceable witchers have died. No question whatsoever is asked, no deep feelings are expressed, just sad faces and a short remark that we are not a happy family.

By the end of the show, the viewers became the witchers. It's better if we don't ask questions, don't search for logic. We are injured, sad and somewhat stoic of what lies ahead. Expect our ranks to be depleted as well.

PS: Dear screenwriters, who think you can do better than actual writers, and who think you can deviate from an excellent source material and invent your own stories under the umbrella of an epic brand, I'd like to quote your own words and beg you to decide which type you really want to be.

"If you were to return, you'd need to plead your case. Apologize as well. For believing you could have any impact there at all. There are those who are obsessed with finding power and those who know their place."

Poor result considering the source material...

[bruno-costa · 3/10 · 4 January 2022]

This is not a claim for purity, for faithful use of the source material or anything like that. My point here is a bit different... Besides the fact that the writers had several books, games and other materials, they simply spent a whole season with new arch and plots... that would be fine by me if their writing was better than the source, or at least equal in quality... but this is not the case.... even worst: the original material has solid character development and the history archs all have a proper closure.... those new arch and plots those writers gave us really doesn't seems to have pra possible proper closure, and clearly were implemented by the price of loose character coherence... So I repeat: it is not a question of respect or about fidelity in relation to the source material, but about how those changes made by the writers are poor when compared to the source.... I gave 3 stars only because Cavil is clearly.

WHAT??

[astonw96 · 19 December 2021]

That ending destroyed it all!

OMG What where they thinking?

The biggest plottwist from the last book and they just made it the last scene for season 2?

Great season, great finale

[LoBeholder · 10/10 · 19 December 2021]

Lo and behold: I've read the books, and yet I enjoyed the new season immensely. (Oh, by the way, I also liked the new Star Wars trilogy and Rey Skywalker, although GoT's last few seasons were pretty crappy and rushed. Then again, better rushed than never finished, because that is what ASOIAF the book series is gonna be.)

The season finale was just as epic and emotional as it should be. It also provides a very satisfying stepping stone to the next season. I hate it when too many plotlines are left dangling and too many secrets left unexposed, because there's a need to create some ultimate cliffhanger; here, instead, the finale does what a proper season finale should do: it caps a season with style, and provides more answers than new questions.

It's been great to watch the chemistry between the actors. It works brilliantly, especially between the dysfunctional family members of destiny's child, and even if the storylines deviate from the source material (as they should in any good adaptation BTW), the characters are still the ones from Sapkowski's universe. Character development has also been great, and all in all, actors have been doing stellar job this season, really starting to grow into their roles like a mutated leshy in a witcher.

If there's one complaint, it's that there is no tune quite as catchy as Toss a coin in this season. But quantity triumphs quality this time: we get not just one but three Jaskier ballads, and while they lack the simple catchy hook of the first season's hit piece, they still deliver excellent entertainment and some witty insights and reflections.

Hopefully S3 is not too far away in the future. Even though I know how things go in the books (and in the games), I love to see a new, fresh take and this show caters.

This is the Witcher

[agentsofsword · 10/10 · 19 December 2021]

Great Fantastic Finale

action packed, emotional and great teases I didn't expect that Twist at the end.

I'm so excited for the third season The Wild Hunt i hope it turns out GREAT.

Great ending

[jaqmeister · 10/10 · 20 December 2021]

I watched the finale twice just to soak it in more.

Ciri's inner battle about holding on to her family's memory against accepting the fact that theyre gone.

The monsters look really good too. The fights was awesome.

I really like the Wild Hunt so im glad they got introduced this early.

To book-readers

[erkenkadze · 10/10 · 20 December 2021]

Oh, myy good will you just shut up with your whining, if you love that idiot Sapkovski so much go and just read the books.

As a Game-based witcher fan, I loved both seasons, apart from that Eskel mishap, but I guess they are replacing him with Cohen, and I'll allow it.

I hope they play more with the Portals and Wild Hunt, lets get on the Witcher 3 vibe on!!

Season 2 Arc Middle of a Story

[polsixe · 8/10 · 30 December 2021]

So Season 1 was a loopy, sexy, violent anthology of sorts but S2 is a more defined Ciri - arc with associated political intrigues, one short Gerald battle per episode and a lot fewer "mature" situations. Not being a Gamer and having a hard time with the just the first of the novels I'll take it for how it's presented on Netflix with no preconceptions. Decent medieval fantasy series, checks off the boxes; magic, British accents, broadswords, crosses and double crosses. Not as grand a scale as GoT though. Who are the good guys the Southern Nilfgaards or the Northern Allied Nazis? Elves are treated like Jews, not very deep layering. Couple of big reveals in E8 hint at seasons to follow. And what's with the Michelle Yeoh prequel trailer?

Concluded perfectly!

[gokussaiyan4 · 10/10 · 29 December 2021]

First of all I don't understand what people were expecting and what they didn't understand.

In the first season some people who couldn't or didn't have enough brain to understand different timelines rated it below 1-5. The first season was so beautifully done and everything was connected pretty well.

In the second season some people who haven't even played game or read books are giving low ratings claiming, "it was dull and uninteresting". It's not the fault of series, it's just you like to watch marvels..

Finally, some people are are showing anger because they didn't like the addition of new monster/demon Voleth Meir character in the show. I can accept that but you can't just go and give 2 stars out of frustration.

Last but not the least, I will say season 2 was really well put. All the witcher politics, character choices, acting, cinematography, witcher actions, witcher lore, witcher vs human and monster fights, witcher signs, a little talk about witcher alchemy and herbs and finally the introduction of wild hunt. Everything was so well done.

The only thing I did not like was the fate of Eiskel.

Amazing

[castinosharon · 10/10 · 25 December 2021]

I really enjoyed watching for this season and so glad that Gerald and Yennefer helping to each other to protect Ciri. Yennefer changes a lot and she becomes a much more warm and loving person. And I just curious what Geralt of Rivia ask for his last wish from the Djinn to save Yennefer. Geralt and Yennefer has chemistry and they both outstanding performance. In season 1 series Geralt and Yennefer have broken up and not seen each other for years and season 2 three are reunited I'm so glad. And we looking forward to see that the of three are together and Geralt and Yennefer hope that no ending of their love.

Fantastic!

[Spondodge · 10/10 · 24 December 2021]

Fantastic, loved it. Ciri really came into her own this season. Can't wait for season 3 and the preview of the mini series with Michelle yeoh. Omg so excited!

Uninteresting finale

[isabellacheng · 6/10 · 22 December 2021]

This is more of a review of the second season of The Witcher. For the record I have neither read the books nor played the games.

This season started out strong. I still couldn't shake off the aftertaste of the first episode. I was rooting for Nivellen and Vereena all the way. It echoed well with the moral of the excellent first episode of season 1, the fight with Renfri. It makes you question, who are the real monsters here?

Throughout the rest of the season, the plot moved forward, but at a slower pace than the first season. It took me three sittings to "binge" through the eight episodes. The intensity and excitement simply wasn't there anymore.

Thereafter we have to wait till the 6th episode for some well-choreographed fights comparable to the intensity of the first season's. Elsewhere we have CGI fights.

Music-wise, the theme "Linked by Destiny" is so overused and misused in scenes. Jaskier's "Burn, Butcher, Burn" is such an obvious rip-off of Hamilton's "Burn". There are no memorable new tunes.

Then comes the season finale. It is my opinion that it is genuinely poorly written. Elements of it are childish, like watching Chilling Adventures of Sabrina (also Netflix). The main confrontation was simply people standing around and CGI happened. A group of witchers with potions could not do what Geralt could without potion. The gore of tragic deaths turned out to be comedic, even though I would suppose that wasn't the writers' intentions. Sacrifices have no stake, actions have no consequence. Everything was dumbed down intellectually.

Lastly, if the final reveal is true, then the entire series is pointless. The protagonists and the antagonists could have just talked, and there would be no conflict.

Nonsensical = S2

[wolfeE-leet · 3/10 · 27 December 2021]

Many reviewers have chimed in about the apparent inconsistencies between the book and show. However, having not played much of the games and read none of the books I offer my unbiased, low-expectations review.

Plot: Season 2 focuses a lot more on Ciri and her travels to the safety of Kaer Morhen. Along the way seemingly out of nowhere, a subplot develops towards three different female characters and their apparent enslavement by a demon who seeks to return to their world using them. In exchange, these women are granted certain powers or beneficial world events. To my recollection it's never really explained why this demon wants to return to their world, or how this demon can make a sterile elf woman pregnant again. The story culminates in the demon taking possession of Ciri at random, and there's cartoon-villain level fight at the end which sees everything miraculously wrapped up. Between it all, there are visually appetizing but ultimately pointless monster fights to remind the viewer it's The Witcher. The nonsensically abrupt story elements raise a lot more questions to the viewer than answers.

• Why was Jaskier even in S2? His only role was providing Geralt clues to Yen's behavior. Beyond that, he is utterly useless.

• The demon witch had no contact with Ciri for all 7 episodes. Why was Ciri suddenly possessed in E8?

• How can Geralt figure out major plotlines on a whim or with extremely minimal information? He's a monster fighter, not God.

• Why didn't Yen, who was personally invovled with Geralt, and who obviously knew Geralt was a monster fighter, confide in him about her contact with the demon witch? Surely that was a better move than killing your lovers daughter.

• How did Yen's sacrificial wounds magically heal, and her powers return, after absorbing the demon into her own body? How was Yen not possessed just as Ciri was? Where's the explanation on how she's able to contain it?

• Why was Vesemir, the supposed elder leader of the wolf school, reduced to a bumbling fool who was sometimes equal, sometimes inferior to Geralt?

• Geralt claims at the end he hasn't forgiven Yen, but a few scenes later its implied that he, Ciri, and Yen are a close-knit family unit that can trust one another. Ciri is seemingly okay with this and says nothing to Yen. I guess Yen's sacrificial act.

And those are just off the top of my head.

Technical:

Cinematography was adequate. Sound/music was adequate. A lot of the costumes looked low budget. Many times you see Geralt's armor look like it just came from the dry-cleaners. Hair and makeup are perfectly done, and it often looks like the actors are ready for a night out on the town rather than surviving in harsh/tense environments. Pacing was all over the place. Characters are saved in the nick of time every time for no other reason than to hurry the plot along. Very sloppy.

Conclusion: Season 1 was average and Season 2 was way below that. Too contrived, too cartoon-like, too implausible and nonsensical. For non-book readers, it did a terrible job at explaining anything that was happening. Even small details such as when the show is setting the scene in a different city, there's no fading in text telling us what city we're headed into. Instead the viewer is supposed to figure out what city it is, and it becomes especially frustrating when you return to a previously visited city but it's dark, and it's hardly recognizable during the CGI panning shot.