As winter's grip tightens on our communities, fantasies and legends call to us from the warmth of our living rooms. There's no better time to explore epic tales of heroism, magic, and mystery. For those longing for escapades to distant realms from the comfort of their couch, here are some fantasy series you should binge before December.
1. "Game of Thrones" (2011-2019)
The song of ice and fire resonates deeply in this tale of power, politics, and dragons. The Westeros saga, spanning eight seasons and now a spin-off (House of the Dragon), is a masterclass in epic storytelling. This groundbreaking tale set expectations high for future endeavours into the fantasy genre. As December looms, what better phrase to echo in your halls than "Winter is Coming"?
2. "Merlin" (2008-2012)
A unique spin on Arthurian legends, "Merlin" explores the adventures of a young wizard and his friendship with Prince Arthur. Set in the magical city of Camelot, the series beautifully juxtaposes magic with mediaeval realism.
3. "The Legend of the Seeker" (2008-2010)
Based on Terry Goodkind's "Sword of Truth" fantasy novels, this series follows Richard Cypher, a young woods guide who discovers he's the prophesied Seeker, a destiny that he is forced to come to grips with. With dark forces at his heels, Richard embarks on a quest to defeat the villain Rahl.
4. "Xena: Warrior Princess" (1995-2001)
A mix of myth, fantasy, and drama, "Xena" is an action-packed tale of redemption. Watch as Xena transitions from warlord to heroic ally, facing gods, kings, and villains along the way. This action packed fantasy series is bound to trigger some nostalgia for those of us that enjoyed this show during the original run.
5. "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" (1997-2003)
While Sunnydale may seem like a typical town, it hides a hellmouth teeming with supernatural beings. Buffy Summers, the chosen one, battles vampires and demons, all while navigating the challenges of high school and young adulthood. With the help of her friends, known as The Scooby Gang, the forces of evil never stood a chance!
6. "Charmed" (1998-2006)
The Halliwell sisters discover a family secret: they're powerful witches destined to fight against evil. Each episode combines elements of fantasy, family drama, and romance, making it an enduring favourite. Now we won’t dare compare this series to the modern reboot, but members of the cast and crew sure did! It’s probably worth checking out both versions and deciding for yourself!
As the nights grow longer and chillier, these fantasy epics await to transport you to worlds of wonder. From battling dragons in Westeros to fighting demons in modern-day San Francisco, these series offer escapism at its best. So, pop in a DVD or Blu-ray, snuggle under a blanket, and embark on a fantastical journey.