Merlin Vol.1 [DVD] [2008]

The latest classic tale to be dragged up to date by the BBC, the decision to revive Merlin as primetime entertainment was just about rewarded, even if it does manage to ride roughshod over history in the process.

For just as it did with its updating of Robin Hood for Saturday nights, the legend of Merlin has undergone something of an overhaul here, and sticklers for authenticity will have plenty to pick at. The occasional narrative bumps don’t help, either, and the special effects clearly leave it thirsting for a Doctor Who-like budget.

And yet, warts and all, Merlin really is quite good fun. The BBC has wisely wheeled in some experienced thesps to work alongside the likes of Colin Morgan in the title role, with Richard Wilson and Anthony Head happy to join in the fun. Don’t knock the aforementioned Morgan, though: he carries the show well on his young shoulders, and has a blossoming career ahead of him.

This DVD pack contains the first six episodes of Merlin, and they gradually introduce us to the land of Camelot, and the mysterious characters that lie within. They also offer a solid amount of rounded family entertainment, that sets the scene for an intriguing second half of the series. What’s more, there’s just enough here to suggest that young Merlin may have further adventures even beyond then. --Jon Foster

Merlin, the BBC’s outstanding re-imagining of the Arthurian legend, comes to DVD in this 3 disc set containing six episodes plus a superb package of bonus features: 'Behind the Magic' feature, cast video diaries, audio commentaries and more.

Set in the mythical city of Camelot, in a time before history began, this magical adaptation of the Arthurian legend follows Merlin’s early adventures in the court of King Uther... and his enthralling encounters with the young Prince Arthur…

The Kingdom of Camelot is a realm of legendary beasts and mysterious peoples. In this dangerous world, magic has been banned by the ruthless tyrant, Uther Pendragon. Merlin, a young man gifted with extraordinary powers, arrives at the gates of the city. Though bright-eyed with wonder, the young sorcerer quickly makes enemies, including the headstrong Prince Arthur.

Guided by Gaius, the wise court physician, Merlin is soon using his talents to secretly defend the Kingdom and unlock Camelot's mystical secrets. Soon he discovers that his destiny and that of Arthur, the future King, are inextricably linked.

Starring Colin Morgan, Bradley James, Anthony Head, Richard Wilson, Katie McGrath and Angel Coulby

'Episode One'
Merlin, a young country boy, arrives at the great city of Camelot just in time to witness an execution – the result of King Uther outlawing magic in his kingdom. As Merlin makes his way to find Gaius, the Court Physician, he begins to realise that the world he has entered is full of danger.

Episode Two
Valiant arrives in Camelot intent on winning its renowned sword tournament. As a disgruntled Merlin gets to grips with his arduous duties as Arthur’s new servant, he notices the fighter has an unfair advantage. And, though Arthur is not exactly impressed with Merlin’s talents, he might just need his help before taking on Valiant in the final...

Episode Three
As a magical plague brings death to Camelot, Merlin takes pity on Gwen, whose father is dying of the disease. Evading a curfew, Merlin risks his life by using magic to cure her father. However, his delight soon turns to shock as Gwen is arrested for sorcery…

Episode Four
A mysterious servant girl tells Merlin that Arthur is about to be poisoned. Merlin seizes Arthur’s cup and drinks it himself. He falls into a coma and can only be saved from certain death by a flower that grows deep within the forest of Balor. Arthur is ready to defy the King and embark on the quest, but is he prepared for the trials and danger he will encounter?

Episode Five
A great fighter by the name of Lancelot arrives in Camelot but, despite his bravery and skill, his ambition to be a knight is thwarted by his low birth – only Arthur and Merlin appear to recognise his true worth. Meanwhile a terrifying winged beast approaches Camelot leaving the kingdom in desperate need of a hero…

Episode Six
When a new physician, the scarred Edwin, saves Morgana from a mysterious illness, Uther is impressed by his skills. Soon, Edwin is supplanting Gaius’s position in the court. But Gaius makes a shocking discovery about this mysterious stranger. Can a weak old man and his young apprentice prevent Edwin from committing the ultimate crime?