Just completed watching His Dark Materials and it's very good indeed.
I watched as someone who hasn't read the books. My wife has - and she absolutely loved this TV series. SO, I'm conflicted.
As a retired teacher, I know that the three original books were written for the young adult reader: 12-16 years old - but still strongly appeal to all. I have it on good authority that Pullman is a brilliant writer.
His Dark Materials shows us alternative parallel universes. There is mystery & wonder, strong characters, young people coming of age through overcoming their pasts and discovering where they come from and who they are.
I love stories & characters that "move" a long way from a starting point to a completely unforeseen conclusion. His Dark Materials most certainly does this. The story lines are strong, acting strong, imagery strong. This is good stuff.
Pullman the writer clearly had it in for organised religion! He is taking a massive swipe at it. Watch and decide for yourself as Lyra, Will, Mrs Coulter and Asriel take their paths.
If His Dark Materials has any weakness, it is that sometimes we the viewer are left wondering about a few too many things. In books you wouldn't have this problem. TV adaptations can't give you every ounce. But this is a small point.
Overall, I thought this was excellent and I strongly recommend it.
I watched as someone who hasn't read the books. My wife has - and she absolutely loved this TV series. SO, I'm conflicted.
As a retired teacher, I know that the three original books were written for the young adult reader: 12-16 years old - but still strongly appeal to all. I have it on good authority that Pullman is a brilliant writer.
His Dark Materials shows us alternative parallel universes. There is mystery & wonder, strong characters, young people coming of age through overcoming their pasts and discovering where they come from and who they are.
I love stories & characters that "move" a long way from a starting point to a completely unforeseen conclusion. His Dark Materials most certainly does this. The story lines are strong, acting strong, imagery strong. This is good stuff.
Pullman the writer clearly had it in for organised religion! He is taking a massive swipe at it. Watch and decide for yourself as Lyra, Will, Mrs Coulter and Asriel take their paths.
If His Dark Materials has any weakness, it is that sometimes we the viewer are left wondering about a few too many things. In books you wouldn't have this problem. TV adaptations can't give you every ounce. But this is a small point.
Overall, I thought this was excellent and I strongly recommend it.