Cursed, Netflix’s upcoming new fantasy action-drama, will offer a different take on the Arthurian legend, a new perspective on a story we think we know. However, the show’s intense first full trailer also promises famous figures from the classic tales. As well as a classic battle between religion and the people it sees as the enemy.
From the official Netflix synopsis:
“Based on the New York Times bestselling book, Cursed is a re-imagination of the Arthurian legend, told through the eyes of Nimue, a young woman with a mysterious gift who is destined to become the powerful (and tragic) Lady of the Lake. After her mother’s death, she finds an unexpected partner in Arthur, a humble mercenary, in a quest to find Merlin and deliver an ancient sword. Over the course of her journey, Nimue will become a symbol of courage and rebellion against the terrifying Red Paladins, and their complicit King Uther. Cursed is a coming-of-age story whose themes are familiar to our own time: the obliteration of the natural world, religious terror, senseless war, and finding the courage to lead in the face of the impossible.”
Those familiar with Arthurian legend know the story of Nimue, also known as the Lady of the Lake. Cursed will turn her tale on its head. Nimue (Katherine Langford, 13 Reasons Why) will be the one who picks up the famed sword. But as the trailer for this “coming-of-age story” reveals, wielding Excalibur comes at a price. It drained Merlin of his magic, and it places a curse on whomever possesses it. Rather than save a kingdom it could help destroy everything.
But the sword’s power might be the only way to save Nimue’s people from religious zealots. That and the woman who holds it. Her enemies hope to destroy all traces of magic from the world.
NetflixFrank Miller (Sin City, 300), created the series with Tom Wheeler (Puss in Boots, The Cape), who also serves as showrunner and writer. Wheeler wrote the series’ companion book of the same name, which Miller illustrates. The show also stars Devon Terrell (Barry), Gustaf Skarsgård (Westworld), and Daniel Sharman (Fear the Walking Dead). As well as Peter Mullan (Ozark), Lily Newmark (Pin Cushion), Shalom Brune-Franklin (Our Girl), Sebastian Armesto (Broadchurch), Emily Coates (Flack), Catherine Walker (The Delinquent Season), and Billy Jenkins (The Crown).
This story might be a re-imagining. But what this trailer makes clear is that even new heroes often have to fight familiar enemies.
Cursed debuts at Netflix on July 17.
Featured Image: Netflix
