Lauren Sellman, Arts and Entertainment Editor
“Percy Jackson and the Olympians” on Disney+ promotional poster. Photo// IMDb
The highly anticipated Disney+ adaptation of “Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief,” directed by James Bobin, has finally graced our screens after its announcement in May 2020. Premiering on December 19, 2023, the show has captivated audiences, satisfying existing fans and accumulating new ones.
The series stars Walker Scobell as Percy Jackson, Aryan Simhadri as Grover, and Leah Jeffries as Annabeth Chase. Set in a world of demigods and danger, Percy discovers a significant twist in his family history, propelling him into an impossible adventure to restore peace in Olympus.
The show not only revisits the magic of Rick Riordan’s original book series but does justice to the first Percy Jackson movies released in 2010 and 2013. Fans are able to relive a nostalgic journey, witnessing their favorite childhood adventures over a decade later.
Despite its original target audience being younger viewers, “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” manages to appeal to all ages. The familiarity with the characters and their motivations from the books adds an extra layer of satisfaction as the cast fits their roles perfectly. The audience may be aware of what is going to happen next, but what sets it apart is the excitement of seeing how the show portrays certain scenes from the books.
As a long-term fan, the series has been a delightful watch, and the creative choices throughout are appreciated. While there are minor differences in how certain scenes unfold compared to the books, they don’t detract from the overall storyline. Despite knowing the story, the show manages to unfold iconic scenes in unexpected ways.
For those hesitant about binge-watching, the entire series will be fully available on Disney+ by January 30, 2024. So, whether you’re a devoted fan or a newcomer to the Percy Jackson universe, the show promises an enchanting and adventure-filled experience for all.
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