The Wheel of Time

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Season 1
Season #: 3, 2, 1
User Score
6.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 459 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 290 out of 459
  2. Mixed: 21 out of 459
  3. Negative: 148 out of 459
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User Reviews

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  1. Lukerion
    Nov 20, 2021
    8
    I am a long time fan of the books. After the first episode I was apprehensive, but by episode 3 I was thoroughly enjoying it, and I am looking forward to watching more.

    This show is NOT like Game of Thrones, and it is also not really like Lord of the Rings. It's a classic fantasy tale, following a bunch of young people on an adventure. Yet the world is more complex than LotR. The show,    I am a long time fan of the books. After the first episode I was apprehensive, but by episode 3 I was thoroughly enjoying it, and I am looking forward to watching more.

    This show is NOT like Game of Thrones, and it is also not really like Lord of the Rings. It's a classic fantasy tale, following a bunch of young people on an adventure. Yet the world is more complex than LotR. The show, like the books, takes the notions of good and evil at face value. There is a dark ultimate evil, there will be a savior for humanity. The books give them depth and interesting wrinkles, but if you want the cynical approach of Game of Thrones then this is not for you. If you want the very simple (yet very compelling) contrast of Lord of the Rings, then this show is also not for you. If you are interested in exploring the in between spaces, then you might like this.

    Some things on the show in particular:

    - the first episode goes by at breakneck speed, this subsides as the show goes on
    - cgi is very good but has moments of notable wonkiness
    - acting is on point, but can come across as very understated, pay attention to the details    … Expand
  2. alfredaden
    Nov 20, 2021
    10
    First episode of the show felt rushed. But other episodes was magnificent. I havent seen a show that has so many good actors for a lobg time. The music is very good, the sets and atmosphere is great. I cant wait to see more episodes.
  3. Adamhh
    Nov 20, 2021
    5
    A vast disappointment. Like somebody just read the cliff notes of the series.
  4. Shendy
    Nov 19, 2021
    9
    Wonderful although a few uncertain moments. As a book reader I accept that a straight to TV adaption would be really boring the changes that are here help the back story and set up the character story arcs for this epic adventure.
  5. Ehllem
    Nov 19, 2021
    9
    On the whole, a very promising start to the season after the first three episodes. The (necessarily many) changes from the book are, for the most part, well-thought-out and productive. There are some pacing issues and a few clunky scenes in the first episode, but it's enjoyable nonetheless, and the later episodes improve considerably. The acting is solid throughout, with Zoe Robin'sOn the whole, a very promising start to the season after the first three episodes. The (necessarily many) changes from the book are, for the most part, well-thought-out and productive. There are some pacing issues and a few clunky scenes in the first episode, but it's enjoyable nonetheless, and the later episodes improve considerably. The acting is solid throughout, with Zoe Robin's Nynaeve, Barney Harris's Mat, and Rosamund Pike's Moiraine standing out particularly as of episode three (and Michael McElhattan's Tam is excellent, albeit too rarely seen).

    Some of the dialogue feels a little stilted at times, but on the whole, there is an abundance of good things about the series: the sets and scenery are beautiful, the musical score is great, the practical effects are good, and perhaps most importantly for book fans, the spirit of each of the characters as individuals, as well as the overall spirit of the plot and metaplot of the Wheel of Time books, are faithfully and effectively captured. The show seems to be getting better as it goes on, and there is enormous potential for the series to blossom into something truly sensational as the season progresses.

    Ignore reviews from the crowds claiming the show is trying to be "woke" or that it deviates drastically too far from the books; the latter claim is vastly overstated (only a few plot/character changes even rank as having "questionable merit" considering the realities of TV production, and those are minor ones), and the former claim is utterly laughable and patently untrue, as even the briefest viewing of the show can confirm.

    Lastly, complaints that the show's fantasy elements feel "clichéd" or "bland" are not entirely wrong (though perhaps overstated); however, it's essential to understand that the emphasis of certain well-known tropes in the beginning of the series is a reflection of the same phenomenon in the books, where the familiar trappings of fantasy are meant to ease first-time readers/viewers into a seemingly familiar fantasy setting before taking the fantasy rulebook, tearing it to pieces, setting said pieces ablaze, and dancing on their ashes. In short, if something feels clichéd, it's almost certainly by design, and the ultimate payoff should be more than worth it when the delightfully shocking true nature of the Wheel of Time fantasy universe is revealed.

    Strongly recommended to book readers and non-book readers alike.    … Expand
  6. crawfordje
    Nov 19, 2021
    10
    It's not possible for a TV show to be exact to a book or book series, but I'm impressed with how smart and faithful this adaptation is, and if everyone gives it a chance they'll end up hooked
  7. Tin_Foil
    Nov 19, 2021
    10
    Long-time fan of the books. I’m excited for a new take on the classic story. The characters are shining through.
  8. JMichaelW28
    Nov 19, 2021
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Creaky first episode, but episode 2 and 3 really take off! Enjoying the actors, music, and character development. Shows character development through actions in a very satisfying way. Would highly recommend!… Expand
  9. pedroenrico
    Nov 19, 2021
    10
    Absolutely fantastic, an excellent adaptation, the characters are completely faithful
  10. Scrotard
    Nov 19, 2021
    10
    Scratches the itch for fantasy in a way that most shows miss the mark these days.
  11. samichsupernova
    Nov 19, 2021
    2
    As someone who grew up on Robert Jordan's book series, this poorly-written adaptation is not only wholly unworthy, it thinks that it can improve on some of the most well-thought-out lore in all of fantasy fiction. That it lacks faithfulness to the source material is not its only sin, however. The poor acting, poor action, shallow characterizations, eye-rolling misandrism, genericAs someone who grew up on Robert Jordan's book series, this poorly-written adaptation is not only wholly unworthy, it thinks that it can improve on some of the most well-thought-out lore in all of fantasy fiction. That it lacks faithfulness to the source material is not its only sin, however. The poor acting, poor action, shallow characterizations, eye-rolling misandrism, generic soundtrack, and a generally cheap look and feel really sink this ship. Amazon has more money than many small countries. They should have been able to do far better than this. I refuse to watch anymore of this crap. I can't get the mental image of Robert Jordan rolling in his grave out of my head. They should have brought Brandon Sanderson in as a script doctor. Fools!!!… Expand
  12. Jm65701
    Nov 19, 2021
    10
    There are many people I see angry claiming the show is "woke" and not faithful to the books. As a book reader of the series I have found that this show captures the spirit of the books and does so in a way that makes me hungry for more.
  13. JamesB454
    Nov 19, 2021
    10
    I genuinely enjoyed the first few episodes of The Wheel of Time. As a book reader, the changes made for functionality of the show does not bother me at all. I have a few small criticisms but I honestly think they will be addressed by the end of the season and I am more than willing to tone patient and let the show runner tell Robert Jordans story on tv. It is an adaption and if you reallyI genuinely enjoyed the first few episodes of The Wheel of Time. As a book reader, the changes made for functionality of the show does not bother me at all. I have a few small criticisms but I honestly think they will be addressed by the end of the season and I am more than willing to tone patient and let the show runner tell Robert Jordans story on tv. It is an adaption and if you really think about translating the book to the screen, things need to be changed. I am pleasantly surprised so far! Can't wait for more!… Expand
  14. omaracarn
    Nov 19, 2021
    10
    Great so far and the episodes are getting progressively better. Each of the main characters embody the book equivalent or even in some cases improve and enhance the familiar. The pacing of the first episode was a bit off, but all first three episodes taken together make for a great trajectory towards the Eye of the World in episode 8
  15. LiquidPony
    Nov 19, 2021
    10
    The opening is a bit clunky but it really heats up after that.

    Excellent acting. Beautiful cinematography. Gorgeous costumes and set design. Absolutely amazing practical effects.
  16. Tonysteiner
    Nov 19, 2021
    9
    I'm a big fan of the books, and think this show is well executed and really enjoyed watching it. There are some haters who will downvote because the show is feminine-focused (part of the story) and very diverse in its casting (also a plot point), but I never felt it was forced or caused poor quality. I think both fans of the books as well as new fans can enjoy the show. Just don't expectI'm a big fan of the books, and think this show is well executed and really enjoyed watching it. There are some haters who will downvote because the show is feminine-focused (part of the story) and very diverse in its casting (also a plot point), but I never felt it was forced or caused poor quality. I think both fans of the books as well as new fans can enjoy the show. Just don't expect it to be a copy of Game of Thrones or Lord of the Rings (although the early story does remind of LOTR a lot). Casting is very strong, and I hope they can continue making more seasons because the story is great and I would love to see it told on television!… Expand
  17. Ctnapier
    Nov 19, 2021
    9
    A few growing pains here or there in the first episode give way to an expansive series.
  18. Gaggy
    Nov 19, 2021
    9
    First class character, plot and world building with a fast moving plot and gripping action. Great CGI from episode one onwards is a big help in this fantasy setting!
  19. meskus123
    Nov 19, 2021
    2
    This show would be fairly good if it was made by itself, but as a series made based on a Wheel of time books it is total mess. Simply said this IS not Wheel of time. So much was changed from source material, even some basic ideas, characters and ground rules of Wheel of time universe, that it simply can not follow basic story of books. In the books even some minor details in world orThis show would be fairly good if it was made by itself, but as a series made based on a Wheel of time books it is total mess. Simply said this IS not Wheel of time. So much was changed from source material, even some basic ideas, characters and ground rules of Wheel of time universe, that it simply can not follow basic story of books. In the books even some minor details in world or characters have great impact later on. Even how characters, beasts or monsters look, talk or interact , minor things about their families or birth places figure heavily later on in story. Starting with breaking of a rule that only male can be Dragon reborn that undermines so much of basic source material mechanics and lore to totally destroy basic plot lines. Like the difference between male and female source of magic and reason for man going mad from using theirs. Trolocs are somewhat "wrong" too. Actors are actually good and filming is also ok, even more from time to time. For someone who didn't read Wheel of time, doesn't remember or mind its story and lore ( and they are overwhelming and complicated) to much its great . But as an adaptation of a legendary book series it's totally off. To much was changed from the start to allow for the story to follow story of the books in any meaningful way and stay logical or possible.… Expand
  20. GuapoGrande
    Nov 19, 2021
    0
    Literally the only character who looks the way they should is Moiraine. Effects look cheap. Story doesn't work as a show. Get some new ideas hollywood!
  21. BarronOfDune
    Nov 19, 2021
    0
    Was a big fan of the books in high school, this is a complete travesty, won't be watching any further
  22. BabeRuthless38
    Nov 19, 2021
    0
    Horrifically bad and cheap-looking, do not watch. Pathetic attempt at stealing valor from the books.
  23. TomvanDK
    Nov 19, 2021
    2
    One of the worst adaptations I've had the displeasure of watching.

    The show has dumbed down its source material to the point that one almost wonders whether it's intended as a deliberate insult to the audience. Mustache-twirling villains are shown giving dastardly monologues, characters have been stripped of all sensibility, and the plot trudges forward without the slightest concern    One of the worst adaptations I've had the displeasure of watching.

    The show has dumbed down its source material to the point that one almost wonders whether it's intended as a deliberate insult to the audience. Mustache-twirling villains are shown giving dastardly monologues, characters have been stripped of all sensibility, and the plot trudges forward without the slightest concern for reason and logic.

    Worse still, Amazon's Wheel of Time somehow manages to feel both overly hurried and overly slow at the same time, sacrificing character development and plot in favor of grand speeches that invariably turn out to be as dull as they are insipid.

    The tone, too, has taken a turn for the worse. Where Robert Jordan maintained a careful balance between danger and adventure in The Eye of the World, the show takes pains to excise every last bit of levity from the source material, leaving behind only bland self-importance and hokey dialogue.

    The only bright spots in this mess of a show are the actors, whose efforts to salvage the stilted lines they are given are admirable if ultimately fruitless.

    Perhaps the best thing that can be said about Amazon's Wheel of Time is that it is marginally better than the Shannara Chronicles adaptation, but even then, the gap is a frustratingly small one.    … Expand
  24. pmacc
    Nov 19, 2021
    1
    What a complete failure. Just poor decisions all over and the special effects look like they were done by interns. One of the most important parts of a fantasy adaptation is capturing the audience in an immersive way. This will be cancelled in no time.
  25. Perseus69
    Nov 19, 2021
    3
    The Human Resources team is now in control of casting and scripting, with no respect to logic, source material or acting skills. Most shows are now just politics for the consumption of adults with the brain of a 5 years old, with stories artificially restrained by the suffocating cage of non-offensive material. Add to the mix a bad director, and the result is Wheel of Time.
  26. AGrey
    Nov 19, 2021
    9
    A strong start to what promises to be a great adaptation of Robert Jordan's massive epic fantasy.

    Episode 1 definitely could have been longer - the ending in particular feels rushed, but there isn't a moment wasted, and it sets a strong foundation for the series moving forward.

    This is fantasy that isn't afraid of being fantastical.
  27. dreamgoat11
    Nov 19, 2021
    10
    So so good. Been waiting two decades for this and it absolutely cleared expectations!
  28. acehawk
    Nov 19, 2021
    10
    Amazing high fantasy show based on the legendary books by Robert Jordan. Comparisons will be made to Game of Thrones (understandably), but this story is it's own entity and (if given the chance) will actually get stronger and stronger as we reach the end (opposite of GoT)

    Even if you are not a fantasy-inclined viewer, stick with it; there are so many relevant and complex themes this    Amazing high fantasy show based on the legendary books by Robert Jordan. Comparisons will be made to Game of Thrones (understandably), but this story is it's own entity and (if given the chance) will actually get stronger and stronger as we reach the end (opposite of GoT)

    Even if you are not a fantasy-inclined viewer, stick with it; there are so many relevant and complex themes this show will explore (Is pacifism actually wrong if your people are being killed and abused? Is ending suffering a justification for destroying everything? Should females seek gender balance instead of dominance?)

    Do yourself a favor and check it out, you won't regret it!    … Expand
  29. daneken
    Nov 19, 2021
    10
    I thought they did a great job with the adaptation. I've read all the books. Some changes I don't like, but my expectations were still surpassed. My score is slightly pumped because some of these reviews are so ridiculously low for no reason.
  30. Dee-Jay_Deli
    Nov 19, 2021
    6
    Decent, but "by the numbers" interpretation of Robert Jordan's epic novels.

    In 2009, this would have been a ground-breaking show. It has good production quality, beautiful scenery and solid acting. But in 2021 it feels a bit lackluster in the writing department. The characters seem bland with little personality beyond what the plot requires of them. And in general, it all feels a bit    Decent, but "by the numbers" interpretation of Robert Jordan's epic novels.

    In 2009, this would have been a ground-breaking show. It has good production quality, beautiful scenery and solid acting. But in 2021 it feels a bit lackluster in the writing department. The characters seem bland with little personality beyond what the plot requires of them. And in general, it all feels a bit "by the numbers".

    But just like the Witcher, it might just need to hit its stride....    … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

3
#3 Most Discussed TV Season of 2021

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
55

Mixed or average reviews - based on 24 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 24
  2. Mixed: 14 out of 24
  3. Negative: 2 out of 24
  1. i
    Reviewed by: Emily Baker
    Dec 3, 2021
    40
    For such a potentially rich series, The Wheel of Time is curiously flat. Little time is spent on character development or exploring the politics, social hierarchy and cultural touchstones of its world. Instead, there are many beautiful, but unnecessary, sweeping shots of scenery and overdramatic, overextended fight scenes.
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  2. Slate
    Reviewed by: Rebecca Long
    Dec 2, 2021
    85
    Wheel of Time succeeds in retaining the earnestness and hope that characterize the novels, and which Game of Thrones lacked. But it also offers viewers something new. ... Wheel of Time is more soft touches and sweeping landscapes.
    Read full review
  3. TV Guide Magazine
    Reviewed by: Matt Roush
    Nov 22, 2021
    50
    While the lavish first season is eventful, it's burdened with clunky exposition, a deficit of whimsy and wonder, and thinly developed characters. [22 Nov - 5 Dec 2021, p.9]
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