When I first heard that HBO was creating a television show based on Philip Pullman’s book series, I was skeptical at best. I had loved Pullman’s alternative universe, with all of its adventures and political allegories, when I read the series in elementary school, but I had been disappointed by the 2007 film, which had changed a lot of key details about the plot. However, the newest live-action interpretation of the series, which premiered November 4th, promises to take the trilogy to a whole new level of live-action magic. Therefore, here are five reasons you should watch the newest tv series!
- The Plot
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The opening scene of His Dark Materials sums up the setting of the show in two quick sentences: “This story starts in another world. One that is both like, and unlike, your own.” His Dark Materials may take place in an alternate universe, but it also contains locations and issues—such as abduction, corruption, and secrecy—that are all too familiar and relatable for modern viewers.
- The Score
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His Dark Materials’ soundtrack, created by Lorne Balfe, sounds like something out of a Harry Potter movie. The beautiful music matches every intense scene and helps transport viewers into the magical alternate world.
- Dafne Keen
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The young protagonist, Lyra, is played by none other than Dafne Keen. You may recognize her from her role as Laura in Logan, and the spunky 14-year-old continues to prove that she is an adorable and amazing actress.
- The Daemons
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After I first read The Golden Compass, I spent days imagining what form my Daemon—basically a spirit animal—would take. While my wish of having a Daemon of my own has yet to come to fruition, the spirituous animals add a fun element to the story of the show.
- The Cast
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In addition to Dafne Keen, His Dark Materials features actors Lin-Manuel Miranda, James McAvoy, and Ruth Wilson, all of whom perfectly fit every role they fill. Ruth Wilson especially shines as the (secretly) evil Mrs. Coulter, who tricks Lyra into leaving her home with promises of finding her lost friends.
His Dark Materials airs Mondays on HBO at 9 pm EST. Watch it, love it, and let me know what you think, so I finally have someone to talk to about it!
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