The much-anticipated Disney+ series, “Percy Jackson and the Olympians,” has finally made its debut, embarking on a fantastical journey through a world of demigods and mythical beasts. Adapted from the beloved book series by Rick Riordan, the show marks a return to the magical realm first introduced in the 2010 and 2013 movies. With Riordan himself at the helm as an executive producer alongside Jonathan E. Steinberg, the series promises a faithful rendition of the original stories. However, it ventures into familiar “kid with a destiny” territory.
“Percy Jackson and the Olympians” launches with a vigour and intensity likened to “a raging minotaur” but soon finds its rhythm, drawing inevitable comparisons to the Harry Potter series, albeit with demigods replacing wizards. While it may not wholly revolutionize the genre, it is a coming-of-age tale that is “generally fun” and “isn’t half-bad.”
The series centers around Percy Jackson, portrayed by Walker Scobell of “The Adam Project” fame. Percy, a seemingly ordinary 12-year-old grappling with typical adolescent challenges, soon discovers his extraordinary lineage as the son of a Greek god, thrusting him into a world of unique powers and dangerous adventures. His journey is one of self-discovery and growth as he learns to navigate the complexities of his new reality.
The narrative is peppered with humour and wit, particularly in depicting the mythological, such as the portal to Hades being humorously situated in Los Angeles. However, the series’ pacing does experience some slowdown after its initial episodes, tempering the excitement for future developments.
Key to the story’s progression is the camaraderie and teamwork among Percy and his companions, Grover (Aryan Simhadri) and Annabeth (Leah Sava Jeffries), as they embark on quests and encounter an array of characters, including notable guest stars like Glynn Turman, Megan Mullally, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and the late Lance Reddick.
“Percy Jackson and the Olympians” arrives on Disney+ as part of the company’s expansion of teen-focused fantasy content, benefiting from the rich, mythological backdrop distinct from typical Disney Channel offerings. The show, fitting seamlessly into Disney’s catalogue, offers a fresh take on Greek mythology while exploring themes of destiny, friendship, and bravery.
As a new addition to Disney+’s growing library of fantasy series, “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” might not have captured “lightning in a bottle.” Still, it is a “solid addition” to the streaming platform. The series, weaving a tale of mythical adventures and teenage struggles, offers a compelling exploration of Greek mythology through the eyes of its young heroes. It may not be a groundbreaking masterpiece, but it is an enjoyable and engaging retelling of a demigod’s journey.
