Dungeons & Dragons: Series in Development at Netflix
The series is called "The Forgotten Realms"
Another "Dungeons & Dragons" project is on the way! After the financially rather moderately successful film from 2023, Netflix is now devoting its attention to a series adaptation of the popular pen & paper game. Behind the series is "Deadpool & Wolverine" director Shawn Levy.
2023 was a good year for many "Dungeons & Dragons" fans. Despite its financial failure, the movie is still very popular with fans. The cast, including Hollywood star Chris Pine, "Fast & Furious" actress Michelle Rodriguez and "Bridgerton" actor Regé-Jean Page, was also impressive. Fans are still hoping for a sequel, but this is not necessarily becoming any more realistic as time goes on.
However, as the trade magazine Deadline reports, a series adaptation from Netflix is now in the pipeline. This time it's a live-action series called "The Forgotten Realms". For die-hard "Dungeons and Dragons" fans, this title already gives a first indication of the plot, as it is a popular setting of the game.
Who Is Involved?
Shawn Levy will be involved in the series adaptation as a producer. With "Stranger Things", he has already been able to make a hit series as a director and producer. So Levy remains a busy man: he is soon to direct a stand-alone "Star Wars" film, possibly with Ryan Gosling in the leading role.
Newcomer Drew Crevello, however, has the main creative responsibility as a showrunner for "The Forgotten Realms". Crevello is the creator of the Apple series "WeCrashed" with Jared Leto and Anne Hathaway.
Nothing is yet known about the cast of the series. Due to the early development phase of the project, it is currently not possible to predict when we can expect the release of "The Forgotten Realms". But we will, of course, keep you up to date! And if you haven't seen "Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves" yet, you can take a look at the trailer here.
The Fantasy Adaptations From Netflix
Netflix has adapted a number of fantasy originals in recent years. After the huge series success of the last decade (Game of Thrones), the streaming giant is trying to produce the next big fantasy hit. Here we present some of Netflix's fantasy series.
The Witcher
"The Witcher" is one of the most successful fantasy series on Netflix, based on the book series of the same name by Andrzej Sapkowski. The series takes viewers into a dark and magical world that is riddled with monsters, wizards and political intrigue. At the center is Geralt of Rivia, a "witcher" who lives as a monster hunter in a world where magic and human greed are inextricably linked.
Geralt, played by Henry Cavill, is a lonely and cynical hero who has his own moral standards as he fights his way through a world characterized by violence and chaos. The series not only follows Geralt, but also other important characters such as the sorceress Yennefer of Vengerberg and the princess Ciri, whose fates are intertwined. The complex narrative structure should also be emphasized, which jumps between different time levels and gradually reveals the connections to the viewer.
Over time, however, the series has lost some of its popularity. For many fans, the third season of the series was disappointing and the change of the lead actor also caused resentment. Audience favorite Henry Cavill will be replaced by Liam Hemsworth as Geralt for the fourth season.
Shadow and Bone
This series is based on the "Grishaverse" by Leigh Bardugo and is set in a world steeped in magic and characterized by political and military tensions. "Shadow and Bone" follows Alina Starkov, a young woman who discovers that she possesses a powerful magical ability that could change the fate of her world. The series offers an exciting mix of magic, power struggles and an evolving love story. It is particularly suitable for fans of dark fantasy worlds and strong female protagonists.
The Dragon Prince
"The Dragon Prince" is an animated series aimed at younger viewers, but also offers entertaining fantasy enjoyment for adults. The story is set in the magical world of Xadia, where magic comes from the six elements - sun, moon, star, earth, fire and water. When war between the nations threatens, two princes and a warrior discover that the last dragon survived. Their journey to restore peace is marked by impressive animation and humor.
The Umbrella Academy
Although "The Umbrella Academy" cannot be strictly classified as a classic fantasy series, it offers a unique blend of superpowers, time travel and dark humor. The story revolves around a group of adopted siblings who all possess extraordinary abilities. Together, they must prevent the mysterious end of the world and come to terms with their chaotic family history. The series shines not only with its creative superhero elements, but also with its humorous and often absurd approach to the genre.
