When I was younger, I wanted to be a demigod.
This was the truth of many of my friends — all a part of the thousands who read and loved the “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” series. Author Rick Riordan had set up a world full of humor and adventure, one that was ruined when the books initially transferred to the big screen.
After years of accepting the series would never get more than two half-attempted, inaccurate films, Disney+ announced their eight-episode adaption. An incredible journey of love, courage and comedy, “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” is the must-watch show fans have wished for.
The last episode was released Jan. 30, concluding season one and wrapping up the events of “The Lightning Thief.” The series follows self-proclaimed “troubled kid” Percy Jackson (Walker Scobell), who learns of his godly heritage as the son of Poseidon (Toby Stephens), while he embarks on a quest to return Zeus’ lightning bolt.
Every character was perfectly casted. Though straying from the way they looked in the books, the main trio acted as if they walked straight from Riordan’s pages. Every small character lived up to their legacy, with heartfelt moments from Poseidon and enrapturing scenes from Luke Castellan (Charlie Bushnell).
Disney’s adaptation stayed true to the book’s plot, a sharp contrast from the failed movie duology. With direct involvement from Riordan, the few changes made in the show were small and only added to the story. It felt like I walked straight into the books in each episode. Camp Half-Blood — the main setting of the series — was brought to life on screen. The show kept the fantasy vibe fans grew up on, but was not afraid to show darker tones through muted shades — a perfect aging-up of the storyline that proves Riordan knew his audience.
The only flaw in this show was the lighting. While most of the scenes took place during the day and kept a lighthearted, sun-washed vibe consistent, the darker moments were too dark to see clearly and left me wishing I could turn up the brightness.
Overall, this show was everything I wished for. A mix of perfect casting, flawless storyline and engaging scenes, “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” is an adaptation I am desperate to see a second season of.
