The Last Kingdom

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Season 1
Season #: 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
8.3

Universal acclaim- based on 211 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 179 out of 211
  2. Mixed: 20 out of 211
  3. Negative: 12 out of 211
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  1. Sedwick
    Jan 15, 2016
    10
    I was so annoyed by the reviews I read here that I made my own account to pitch in to the general public, so that no misconceptions about this show are distributed to you guys.

    First of all, there is a reason why this show is so highly rated elsewhere: 5/5 Netflix, 92% Rotten Tomatoes, 8.6 IMDB. It is because The Last Kingdom is a fantastic show. Just like the recent Marco Polo, Netflix    I was so annoyed by the reviews I read here that I made my own account to pitch in to the general public, so that no misconceptions about this show are distributed to you guys.

    First of all, there is a reason why this show is so highly rated elsewhere: 5/5 Netflix, 92% Rotten Tomatoes, 8.6 IMDB. It is because The Last Kingdom is a fantastic show. Just like the recent Marco Polo, Netflix managed to sponsor a real winner in the historical fiction television field. The characters are both likable and follow-able. There is no shiny hero to save the day in this show, only gritty fighting and smart strategies. The consequences of both rash and patient actions can be seen throughout this masterpiece as faith meets faith on and off the battlefield. The romance is not cringey, and you genuinely feel the ups and downs of Uhtred's love life. There is no clear good or bad side to this story. You can see the reasons for both sides and frequently find yourself cheering and hating characters on both sides (I see you Young Odda).

    I don't know the time period enough to comment on this fully, but I will make a few points as to the feeling of the show in general. One of the many things The Last Kingdom did right was the numbers in the armies. Many Hollywood medieval productions show armies of thousands just chillings around as garrisons. Not in this show. You can see the lack of effective manpower clearly in the settings. In the first episode we see a king of Northumberland leaving a garrison of just 30 men to defend his keep, to which he deems "enough to hold the keep". The battles are between hundreds, not thousands. It really helps you see how much more vulnerable a country is to being completely wiped out by one battle when almost all the men in a kingdom are in the same battle. Another point I'd like to make is the equipment we see in the armies of both the Saxons and the Danes. The armies are not fully clad in full plate and equipped with steel long swords and shields which seems to be the norm in medieval cinematography. The armies are equiped with light mail, helmets, rough iron swords, and wooden shields. And that is the most equipped soldiers get. In fact, we can see many soldiers equipped with basic farm equipment in some of the scenes.

    So, what you can gather from this is that The Last Kingdom is a very well thought out show. Now, why does this show only get 7.9 here? It is because 75% of mixed and negative reviews are basing their opinions on its likeness to the books. I don't see this as a fair review and should not be posted on a review site. I don't particularly care whether this series followed the books word for word. What I care about is that I really enjoyed this show from beginning to end. So, before anyone looks at the average review being shown here and dismisses this show, please consider the fact that many didn't watch past the first episode and are not judging it for its actual enjoyment.    … Expand
  2. quincytheodore
    Oct 12, 2015
    8
    The boy who walks with the Vikings.

    For a medieval adventure, The Last Kingdom moves at a strikingly fast pace with unhinged ferocity and undiplomatic cultural clash. Audience might be familiar with The Vikings and it does have similar characters. Both series sets in the same timeline and world, but this one is told from the perspective of an England boy. This is a fresh rendition of    The boy who walks with the Vikings.

    For a medieval adventure, The Last Kingdom moves at a strikingly fast pace with unhinged ferocity and undiplomatic cultural clash. Audience might be familiar with The Vikings and it does have similar characters. Both series sets in the same timeline and world, but this one is told from the perspective of an England boy. This is a fresh rendition of epic saga that creates solid characters in highly perilous time, relying less on stylish ambiance and more on gritty dusty violence.

    Uthred, son of Uthred, is a boy meant to inherit an earldom. Then a series of unfortunate events carries him from luxurious to eventual warrior life. All of which happen in far greater pace than most television series. It introduces characters and sends them off to whatever fate tomorrow may hold for them, it has no place and time for wallowing.

    Admittedly, this grants a much cinematic presentation, it also keeps the plot and characters very well refined. Script presents just the right amount of bantering for the personalities to be identifiable, establishing the relationship without wasting a moment. As its peers have done, it also brings skirmishes and brutality. Action is straightforward mayhem, grounded in presentably realistic warfare of the time. There's no shortage of carnage or blood here.

    However, it might encounter a few issues later on. The transition could feel too brief, audience barely has enough time to invest before it shifts the plot pretty significantly. While it doesn't gloss over details, some subplots could've been more thorough. There are plenty of characters passing by even in span of one episode, that it simply has no time to cover them all and this rapid pace might not match runtime of a series.

    The Last Kingdom is an intriguing epic tale. Granted, comparison could be made with Game of Thrones or The Vikings, be it a blessing or a curse, but it's strong enough to stand on its own and definitely a worthy foray to another medieval realm.    … Expand
  3. luni
    Feb 21, 2016
    10
    Now this is was unexpected, I somehow find myself preferring this to Vikings. History channel sorry, Netflix somehow did a better job at getting the raw epic element of Scandinavian beasts! In fact I am transported to a more focused and intimate version of game of thrones without the fantasy jump! I mean it's like Jon Snow was a bedtime story inspired by Uhtred! Though in my opinion UhtredNow this is was unexpected, I somehow find myself preferring this to Vikings. History channel sorry, Netflix somehow did a better job at getting the raw epic element of Scandinavian beasts! In fact I am transported to a more focused and intimate version of game of thrones without the fantasy jump! I mean it's like Jon Snow was a bedtime story inspired by Uhtred! Though in my opinion Uhtred does own a bigger set of balls! This show meshes all the perfect elements a war torn medival historically 'accurate' tv show needs. Great acting, great production, and great story line. Much recommended!… Expand
  4. Gothamguy
    Sep 11, 2016
    10
    The Last Kingdom is one of the most brilliant, gritty, moving, erotic, inspiring, and adventure-filled series I have ever seen in many years of tv. An astounding production with Cornwell's fantastic core story, an amazing believable cast, a powerful script, and beautiful direction.

    My wife and I were glued to it. PLEASE keep this series going forever!
  5. aa3IRAQI
    Nov 10, 2015
    9
    I have not read any of the books this series is based on, but from what I see in this show it is nothing short of amazing. To be perfectly honest the only people that are complaining about this series is people who read the book and are coming in with grand expectations. I think this show far superior to Vikings and gives Game of Thrones a run for its money in terms of intrigue andI have not read any of the books this series is based on, but from what I see in this show it is nothing short of amazing. To be perfectly honest the only people that are complaining about this series is people who read the book and are coming in with grand expectations. I think this show far superior to Vikings and gives Game of Thrones a run for its money in terms of intrigue and dialogue.

    This show took a while before it piqued my interest. It has all the makings to take this show to an epic show like Spartacus. It has perfect pacing and never really has a dull moment. The pilot episode is a little slow and is hard to understand that's why it gets a 9/10.

    Acting: 9/10
    Scenery: 10/10
    Story:10/10
    Soundtrack: 9/10    … Expand
  6. Tacostand23
    Nov 21, 2018
    10
    This is just one of those shows that keeps getting better and better and really makes you love the characters and the story and the fact that its loosely based on real life makes it even better. This to me is just as good as Game of Thrones and better than Vikings. I never cared about ANYBODY on the Vikings show. It's a nice time period piece but thats it. The Last Kingdom makes eachThis is just one of those shows that keeps getting better and better and really makes you love the characters and the story and the fact that its loosely based on real life makes it even better. This to me is just as good as Game of Thrones and better than Vikings. I never cared about ANYBODY on the Vikings show. It's a nice time period piece but thats it. The Last Kingdom makes each individual person special. The actors are incredible with their range, and the battles and action enthralling.… Expand
  7. Hrothgar43
    Dec 4, 2015
    9
    Well done historical action series. Captures the spirit of the Bernard Cornwell books, as well as the temper of the times, which were harsh. Particularly good at conveying the other-worldly determination of Alfred to create a Saxon England.
  8. sternblend
    Nov 23, 2015
    9
    Sick of people coming into these shows thinking about Vikings etc.
    Let the show stand on its own feet. This is actually quite brilliant and the lead character is very easy to watch.
    It isn't Vikings but quality and story line is very good and captivating.
  9. cappy2895
    Dec 2, 2018
    10
    Amazing show is every way, acting, storyline, cinematography, music and costume! Cant get enough!
  10. RogueRiver
    Feb 15, 2018
    9
    From beginning to end, the first season held me captive. Only just started season 2. So far, just as good. The whole series has sparked in me an interest in the actual historical period.

    Comparisons made to the Game of Thrones series that I have read that are floating around the internet are absurd. Comparing historical drama with fantasy fiction is comparing apples to oranges.
  11. Jackson10
    Mar 23, 2018
    9
    Season 1 was pretty darn good. My only complaint would be that having only 8 episodes rushes the story. They should either cover less material or add episodes, which would be my preference, but we know how the BBC hates to spend money. I'm not sure why reviewers are comparing this series with Game of Thrones. They are two different genres and Game of Thrones has 3 times the budget of TheSeason 1 was pretty darn good. My only complaint would be that having only 8 episodes rushes the story. They should either cover less material or add episodes, which would be my preference, but we know how the BBC hates to spend money. I'm not sure why reviewers are comparing this series with Game of Thrones. They are two different genres and Game of Thrones has 3 times the budget of The Last Kingdom. I'm also surprised that people think the TV series should follow the books more closely. As the author of the books, Bernard Cornwell, basically stated they don't write novels and he doesn't write TV scripts. He is happy with the series and has commended them for doing a great job. I've read all 10 books and yes, the series deviates from them, but so what? The novels are a good read and the TV series is great entertainment. Season 2 has already aired and I would rate it a 9.5. The TV series is getting better as it rolls along and I'm looking forward to season 3, which will have 10 episodes. It's about time they give the story the time it needs to be told well.… Expand
  12. AuthenticReview
    Oct 4, 2018
    8
    For all average movie goers and TV watchers who are looking for a breath of fresh air or you dont have a lot of time so you want to spend it watching an actual GOOD TV show that is worth your time I would recommend you watch the Last Kingdom. The last kingdoms gems are not only its beautiful and cinematic shots which are in fact always a treat to stale eyes but the characters along withFor all average movie goers and TV watchers who are looking for a breath of fresh air or you dont have a lot of time so you want to spend it watching an actual GOOD TV show that is worth your time I would recommend you watch the Last Kingdom. The last kingdoms gems are not only its beautiful and cinematic shots which are in fact always a treat to stale eyes but the characters along with the soundtrack. The soundtrack alone is beautiful as it fits right in with the incredibly fresh setting and carefully chosen time period while giving a beautiful take on the culture. The Celtic music is just beautiful and something that I would definitely take up listening to myself. The main character utred is such a remarkable character who you not only follow on an adventure but you yourself will find yourself on an emotional journey. At times you are crying with Utred and surprisingly a lot of the times you despise him yelling at the screen asking what on earth he is doing and why. I myself cannot deliver justice to this show, I truly do not know how to describe it. Its such a breath of fresh air from all of the mediocre and lazily written shows out there which are good but not GREAT. This show will have you entertained but it will leave you with something all those other shows will never deliver and that is an experience.

    The Last Kingdom is an incredibly unique and addicting show! Heed my advice, do yourself a favor and watch it, you will not be disappointed.    … Expand
  13. UhtredRagnarson
    Dec 15, 2018
    10
    One of my favorite shows of all time and for me, that is really saying something. This show has me entranced. I could not stop watching it. I love and hate the characters. I love the story, the fighting, the drama, the romance, the entire story is gripping and compelling. Anyone who loves historical shows or even just good old fashioned sword fights will really enjoy this show.

    If    One of my favorite shows of all time and for me, that is really saying something. This show has me entranced. I could not stop watching it. I love and hate the characters. I love the story, the fighting, the drama, the romance, the entire story is gripping and compelling. Anyone who loves historical shows or even just good old fashioned sword fights will really enjoy this show.

    If Netflix cancels this show, I will be extremely upset and may even cancel my sub. Right now, it is one of the only reasons I still have Netflix, that's how good it is. I don't write reviews for TV shows. Ever. So for me to take the time out to write a positive review for this show, is saying something. Love it. Absolutely love it. Well done to the cast and crew of this masterpiece and that is exactly what it is to me. A true masterpiece and work of art.    … Expand
  14. sethman1975
    Jan 5, 2019
    9
    I can't recall a show where every single character adds something to the overarching story and plot. I loved seasons 1 and 2 but season 3 has taken it to another level while still keeping it's feet on the ground. Uhtred has to be one of the most likable protagonists in modern TV. Long may this show continue with season 4 and 5.
  15. Al5421
    Oct 21, 2015
    10
    I've watched the first two episodes and the series so far is excellent. I think it is one of the most historically accurate (medieval) television shows out there ... more so than say 'The Vikings' etc.. I have only read one of Cornwell's novels (from the Sharpe series) so I am not familiar with this work ... but the filming, acting and story are excellent. I think out of all theI've watched the first two episodes and the series so far is excellent. I think it is one of the most historically accurate (medieval) television shows out there ... more so than say 'The Vikings' etc.. I have only read one of Cornwell's novels (from the Sharpe series) so I am not familiar with this work ... but the filming, acting and story are excellent. I think out of all the historical-fiction on television this is one of the best. I am giving 'The Last Kingdom' a 10.… Expand
  16. JennetP
    Oct 11, 2015
    10
    Making historical drama is like writing a sonnet: to do it well, you have to honor some traditions and break some. There’s no formula, though viewers tend to pile on when a show such as “Reign” or “The Bastard Executioner” treats history like a stripper’s bathrobe--to be worn for a moment then flung off. “The Last Kingdom” gets the balance right. Students of Anglo-Saxon literature, as IMaking historical drama is like writing a sonnet: to do it well, you have to honor some traditions and break some. There’s no formula, though viewers tend to pile on when a show such as “Reign” or “The Bastard Executioner” treats history like a stripper’s bathrobe--to be worn for a moment then flung off. “The Last Kingdom” gets the balance right. Students of Anglo-Saxon literature, as I was, will approve the general look of the production, though some specifics may perturb. And particular stories unfold within the large outlines of recorded history, raising issues contemporary to the 9th century and to our own.

    The series also balances ideas and action. For example, there’s spectacle in battle, in the large movement of troops and in particular moments of courage or brutality, but there’s also reflection about why battle is joined. Tone, too, is mixed and nicely balanced. In one scene, the Vikings feast to celebrate a victory while torturing and killing some of their captives. The way it’s presented, undifferentiated from the rest of the feast, mingles depravity and celebration--very cool in a show that’s essentially about dual loyalties.

    Writing, casting, and directing are all strong; if I could, I’d skip work tomorrow and binge-watch the whole series. The only thing I don’t like so much is the music, which tries too hard to amp up the tension when it’s already amped. Every time things get dramatic, we hear the same over-processed vocal wail, which I found annoying by the end of the first episode. Everything else, though, is beautifully balanced.    … Expand
  17. DWKeith47501
    Oct 11, 2015
    10
    I'm a pretty big fan of the Bernard Cornwell series of novels THE SAXON TALES that from the basis of this television series. The 9th novel just came out this month, Oct. 2015. I've read four novels so far and each one keeps topping the previous. I'm a pretty big reader, average over 100 novels a year. And Uthred is my current favorite on-going fictional series character. He's got some veryI'm a pretty big fan of the Bernard Cornwell series of novels THE SAXON TALES that from the basis of this television series. The 9th novel just came out this month, Oct. 2015. I've read four novels so far and each one keeps topping the previous. I'm a pretty big reader, average over 100 novels a year. And Uthred is my current favorite on-going fictional series character. He's got some very strong competition. Uhtred rocks. He's a Christian to Pagan convert and a complex figure. A hero. A warrior. Endlessly fascinating. Only seen the first episode but I think we're in good hands here and this will shape up to be one of the finest historical series on current TV. Cornwell's the best in the business. Now, the masses can learn why us readers eat him up.… Expand
  18. Neravarine
    Oct 11, 2015
    9
    Its a BBC tv show, so its good, they always do a good job when making stuff, it looks accurate enough and its realistic, unlike most of the tv shows now days. Its a medieval tv shows about Vikings and England, well I love Vikings and everything medieval but thats the only - for me, coz its to live on glory of tv show Vikings. Still it has a promise to be a gr8 tv show.
  19. TVJerry
    Nov 9, 2015
    7
    This show starts out slowly and somewhat confusing, but it gets more compelling with each episode. By #4 the plot has become wonderfully complicated and challenging. There's more dialogue and less action that I'd like, but it's still worth the time.
  20. wanna
    Nov 2, 2015
    10
    Avid reader of Bernard Cornwell books and think this TV version is excellent. Very easy to follow and catches a great atmosphere.
    I understand this series covers the first 2 books - which will take some doing!

    Hope they continue the series and capture all 8 books (and counting)
  21. Marcusmarcusn
    Nov 17, 2015
    5
    Trashy. But reasonably entertaining. The young actor who stars is very good. (It's not about Saxons its all about modern attitudes in old time drag shhhh!) Not really appropriate for kids, but then again neither are most video games.. My impression is that the characters behave like us, not like ancient Saxons, so the show resembles the "Tudors" in that way. I probably wont be a regular viewer.
  22. Knighthawk81
    Oct 12, 2015
    5
    This is clearly the BBC's answer to "Game of Thrones" and/or "Vikings." It's a period epic that traces a time when the English had to ward off the Viking invaders. The pilot was slow and dry, despite a lot of violent interludes. I thought the final segment of the show got better, but I'm still on the fence. To succeed on a Saturday night, you need to be compelling. This doesn't seem thatThis is clearly the BBC's answer to "Game of Thrones" and/or "Vikings." It's a period epic that traces a time when the English had to ward off the Viking invaders. The pilot was slow and dry, despite a lot of violent interludes. I thought the final segment of the show got better, but I'm still on the fence. To succeed on a Saturday night, you need to be compelling. This doesn't seem that compelling.… Expand
  23. tobijasz
    Oct 19, 2015
    2
    As an avid reader of all the books the casting is awful and the story isn't even close. I had such hopes for the show and it certainly isn't delivering.
  24. jazzythechef
    Nov 7, 2015
    7
    thought it looked a bit weak to start but im enjoying it after a few episodes. have tried cornwells writing in the past and really wasn't a fan, plays well enough on the screen though. am actually really interested to see how the story pans out for all the characters. brida has made me laugh a few times, funny girl.
  25. hedop
    Oct 11, 2015
    2
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Wow. So far (Episode 1) this adaptation is really bad. As an avid reader of all the novels I can say that there are already so many small things wrong with the first episode that apart from the names of the characters I fear this tv-show will have nothing in common with the source material first up and most glaringly:
    - Uthred is described as being light blonde -> his TV character has raven black hair

    - Ragnar is described as being light blonde hence why people always assume that he is Uthred's father

    - in the books Ragnar takes a liking to Uthred straight away and is described as a jovial man and lover of people --> in the TV show his counter part is so far rather sour and treats Uthred like a slave.

    - Ubba is described in the books as having a chest like a barrel, a big belly and raven black hair and being fiercely bearded --> the TV show has some tall lanky guy with light blonde hair and a red beard.

    - Ubba has a brother named Ivar who invades the British Isles with him and Ragnar. This person does not exist in the TV show yet.

    - Pater Beocca is described as being young, red haired and crippled -> his TV character is a man easily in his 50's (which at the time of the novels was considered ancient) and apart from that a normal looking priest

    - Ragnars younger son is said to be in Ireland when in the TV show he is apparently hanging around his fathers homestead

    - Ragnar has a son close to Uthred's age in the book called Rorik who is his main companion throughout the whole first book during his childhood

    - Uthred's father takes Uthred with him for the battle in Eoferwick --> in the TV show Uthred somehow escaped on his own, magically finds armor that fits and runs after his father on horseback

    - the main battle is described as taking place close to Eoferwick's city walls which the Danes have apparently lazily repaired, the Saxons take this as a sign of weakness and attack that section of the city in which they are then trapped because behind the bad walls the Danes had places fresh ones. --> in the TV show the battle happens in some kind of field which is completely flat (as Uthred's father points out) yet the Danes are somehow able to disguise half their army and attack the Saxons from the rear.

    - now at this point it is important to note that Bernard Cornwells is famous for the meticulous detail he uses when describing battle scenes and tries to get them as accurately as possible. Usually his research in this area is absolutely on par with a professional historian --> in the TV show the shield wall of the Danes is absolutely wrong, instead of forming a swine head to break the shield wall the Saxons simply storm onto it and bash on it with their swords flailing. These are all details that Cornwell describes very differently in his books because in real life that kind of behaviour would have gotten you killed. Furthermore the Saxons abandon high ground which again, in Cornwells books, would never happen. The Saxons also only need 2 minutes to decide what to do. In the book the process of going about it because there is no true king but 3 equal generals is described at length and in great details. Also in nearly every novel Cornwell takes great pains to explain to have Uthred explain to the reader that breaking a shieldwall and fighting in one is nasty business and requires a lot of mental toughness and takes time to get into Blood Rage. Yet in the TV show the Saxons simply storm onto a ready made shield wall (certain death) within 30 seconds or so.

    - Uthred's youth is spend invading the British Isles with the Danes yet after a cut Uthred is now apparently in his late 20's and still with the Danes althought in the books by then Ragnar has long been dead, Uthred has met Alfred, Brida, escaped the North and joined Alfred's fleet as it's commander and has had several assassination attempts behind him.

    - Uthread has a shaven chest... seriously... the guy who plays Uthred a guy living in 865 A.D. has a shaved chest and a finely cut and shaved goatee even though there were no razors per se about and no mirrors either.

    All in all this first episode has been so disappointing that I doubt I will continue watching it. The novels are so amazing and so great and I was so looking forward to a TV make but I should have expected it after what they did to the Sharpe novels. Why the hell can't they just simply take a well written and beloved novel as it is and don't tinker around and cast someone who actually looks the part? What the hell is so hard about not trying to make something better?

    It's a damn shame... this could have really been a realistic Game of Thrones but it looks like it's going to be the Tudors in 9th Century England.

    Oh btw. everyone talks about England in the tv show even though there was no England at the time and won't be for another 80 years. Furthermore why do all the Danes speak English? That's just weird.    … Expand
  26. OlivierPiel
    Feb 24, 2019
    7
    It vastly surpasses the shows it tried to emulate (GoT and Vikings). I found it by chance and was pleasantly surprised that the character arc was very refreshing and avoided most clichés of the genre. I didn't read the book it is based on but it lead me to educate myself on this part of the English history that was more complicated and compelling than expected. Of particular interest isIt vastly surpasses the shows it tried to emulate (GoT and Vikings). I found it by chance and was pleasantly surprised that the character arc was very refreshing and avoided most clichés of the genre. I didn't read the book it is based on but it lead me to educate myself on this part of the English history that was more complicated and compelling than expected. Of particular interest is the anthropological aspect of the mixing of different ethnic groups, a very relevant topic to today's Europe.
    Secondly, the acting was excellent. The most interesting and riveting character is Alfred, the King of Wessex; the actor in that role delivers a masterful performance. The lead character is also far more charismatic and believable than any John Snow plus the female actresses have better material to work with than that pathetic wet-dream of a show, Game of Thrones.
    Minus point for the cinematography and production though. It's not Hollywood sleek    … Expand
  27. roxannevictor1
    Oct 30, 2018
    0
    I cannot remember a series that pulled me in so quickly. The acting is outstanding in every role from small to star. The settings are realistic and the story is compelling. This is movie quality on television, one you cannot wait to see the next episode of. There are characters you love and ones you love to hate. You will be mouth agape or yelling at the screen. I hope this series runsI cannot remember a series that pulled me in so quickly. The acting is outstanding in every role from small to star. The settings are realistic and the story is compelling. This is movie quality on television, one you cannot wait to see the next episode of. There are characters you love and ones you love to hate. You will be mouth agape or yelling at the screen. I hope this series runs for years. There are enough books by the author, and it is just that good, camera, sets, acting.… Expand
  28. MacSteady
    Oct 23, 2015
    1
    I thought this was a terrible start to what I hoped would be a great TV conversion of the rich Cornwell books, I even thought the BBC was a good vehicle for this potentially epic journey into Saxon Briton. Alas from the casting of Utred Senior to the little or no background story of Utred Junior it is was a very poor attempt, very amatuer. One of the main villans from the books actuallyI thought this was a terrible start to what I hoped would be a great TV conversion of the rich Cornwell books, I even thought the BBC was a good vehicle for this potentially epic journey into Saxon Briton. Alas from the casting of Utred Senior to the little or no background story of Utred Junior it is was a very poor attempt, very amatuer. One of the main villans from the books actually had my sympathy, Kjartan, is potrayed in the episode as a wronged father rather than than the vicious individual the book potrays him as. No there was too much scrimping and cost cutting and a total lack of character casting in any of the main players to even raise interest. The climax was the hall burning at the end of the show because at least it was over. The Ravn character was the only highlight but alas he wasn't in it for long.

    ITV have a better track record with Sharpe and Hornblower under their belts. The history channels Vikings with all its flaws and Game of Thrones have nothing to worry about, this is a poor adaptation of an excellent story and I would be surprised if it gets a 2nd season. The viking sheild wall was ludicrous. The main Saxon Warlord also appeared to be wearing a wooden bowl on his head rather than a impressive battle armour Cornwell describes in the book.

    The Saxon's casting was well wide of the mark. No wonder the vikings invaded, all the saxon actors look like they couldn't fight their way out of a wet paper bag.

    Leave this well alone, watch History's Vikings or Game of thrones to get your Dark Age/ Medieval fix    … Expand
  29. thehawk
    Oct 22, 2015
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. After one episode, a fairly average garden variety BBC drama. We've just seen another historical series set in Scotland with high production quality, drama, action, good portrayal of military aspects, picturesque setting, effective utilisation of Britain's great scenery - but a shallow, a-historical plot and a slightly effeminate male lead. The recipe for success existed. So now take Cornwell's strong historical plot and how could you go wrong? But if anything this reminded me of a 1980's BBC historical production. Bung an actor with a modern hairstyle in a woollen outfit as the hero, bring in Brian Blessed to liven it up a bit, and head out into a farmer's back paddock for a bit of filming.
    Not a lot in common with the books. Historical flavour missing. Essential battle scene was fanciful - lightly armed (delusional) Anglo Saxons decide to charge a heavily armed Viking shieldwall - Hollywood stuff. (In comparison, Norman knights with lances couldn't break a shieldwall at Hastings. The continental relatives of the Anglo Saxons were able to give Charlemagne a tough fight.) And they kept the slightly effeminate male lead.    … Expand
  30. yyarin
    Nov 1, 2015
    6
    Well the first 20 minutes of the first episode are absolutely terrible. The story just doesn't make sense and the characters are one sided caricatures. The Vikings: simplistic savages. The Christians: desperate fanatics defending their faith. There is a father-son story in which the father gives him a task but the son is an idiot and doesn't do it right. We have no idea why and obviouslyWell the first 20 minutes of the first episode are absolutely terrible. The story just doesn't make sense and the characters are one sided caricatures. The Vikings: simplistic savages. The Christians: desperate fanatics defending their faith. There is a father-son story in which the father gives him a task but the son is an idiot and doesn't do it right. We have no idea why and obviously everything goes wrong as a result. Once this totally un-engaging story the storyline shifts to the King's other son who is kidnapped by the vikings. It becomes more interesting, but still utterly un-engaging.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

40
#40 Best TV Season of 2015
22
#22 Most Discussed TV Season of 2015
18
#18 Most Shared TV Season of 2015

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
78

Generally favorable reviews - based on 15 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 15
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 15
  3. Negative: 0 out of 15
  1. The New York Times
    Reviewed by: Neil Genzlinger
    Oct 9, 2015
    70
    The series has a sprawling cast and high production values, yet it starts off rather generically--bearded men playing with swords, battling over territory.... Hang around until Episode 3, though, and substantive themes begin to take shape that give this series a distinctive personality.
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  2. Wall Street Journal
    Reviewed by: Nancy DeWolf Smith
    Oct 9, 2015
    80
    The truthful background of this high-stakes history makes it thrilling on a deeper level. Along with the battle scenes and other entertainments, the series reflects many challenges of today’s world.
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  3. Uncle Barky
    Reviewed by: Ed Bark
    Oct 9, 2015
    91
    It all meshes together in enthralling fashion with a tale that’s understandable and a setting that’s tailor made for picturesque vistas. Last Kingdom livens up Saturday nights with Emmy caliber storytelling and oft-sumptuous production values.
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