“Percy Jackson and the Olympians” is a lightning bolt of excitement for Disney+ and Hulu viewers alike, proving that Greek myths from more than 2,700 years ago and family drama are a binge-worthy combination. Not only does the plot deliver a message with care and sensitivity, but it also honors Rick Riordan’s beloved book series which it is based upon, being the screen adaptation fans were waiting for, especially after the infamously underdeveloped Percy Jackson movies of the 2010s.
Viewers follow the journey of 12-year-old Percy Jackson (Walker Scobell) as he dives into the intersection of the modern world with demigods and monsters. Within a week, Percy’s life radically changes after he discovers that his father is Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea. He is soon forced to embark on a quest to prevent an impending war among the gods, forging unlikely friendships with Annabeth Chase (Leah Jeffries) and Grover Underwood (Aryan Simhadri).
Throughout the series, the growing chemistry between the characters draws audiences into the storyline, with relationships playing at the forefront of the narrative. Initially, the trio is distant from each other, with Percy only choosing to pursue his quest with Annabeth and Grover as a calculated move to increase his chance of survival. However, the characters soon dismantle their emotional guards, revealing their true identities.
Scobell perfectly captures Percy’s witty attitude and sassy quips, bouncing off of Annabeth’s calm composure and Grover’s lighthearted naivety. By the end of the series, the trio displays moments of genuine emotion and comic relief, creating a seamless blend of seriousness with a dash of light-hearted fun as if they had known each other forever.
Percy’s introduction to the mythical world of Greek mythology allows the viewers to learn about the rules of his world without being overwhelmed, and the show examines the morals of old legends through the contemporary lens of today’s society without excessive expository dialogues. This delicate balance of context showcases a respect for the audience as the series neither over-explains into tedium nor leaves any essential details unexplored.
Furthermore, the series elevates the fantastical elements of the original books with CGI effects that bring the seemingly impossible descriptions to life on screen. These visuals enhance the action scenes, adding intensity and immersing the viewer in the wonder at the heart of the series.
Many book-to-show adaptations typically have stark differences, as directors omit details or add scenes that deviate from the novel. However, within the TV series, the few scenes that were inserted only build on the narrative, giving insight into multiple perspectives and the motivations of each character.
Overall, the new series exceeds the fervent wishes of many Percy Jackson fans by bringing justice to a long-awaited screen adaptation. The series captures the essence of the original books, preserving the incredible storyline, while also adding nuance to enhance the entertainment factor. The result is a masterful adaptation that satisfies the fandom and elevates the beloved tale for new audiences’ enjoyment.
