User Reviews

The second season of Wheel of Time has undoubtedly evolved into a remarkable improvement when compared to its inaugural season. As a viewer who hasn't delved into the source material, I find myself thoroughly engrossed in this epic fantasy world. It's somewhat perplexing to witness the discontent among book enthusiasts concerning the adaptation. From where I stand, even if the series deviates from the original plot or tinkers with characters, it remains a highly enjoyable and immersive viewing experience.

One of the standout aspects of Wheel of Time's second season is its exceptional cinematography. The visuals are nothing short of breathtaking, as the show effortlessly transports us to the mesmerizing and complex world created by Robert Jordan. Each frame is a visual treat, and the attention to detail in bringing this intricate universe to life is commendable.

Moreover, the main cast's acting prowess shines through in every episode. They have breathed life into their respective characters, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. The chemistry and camaraderie among the central characters are palpable, making it easy for the audience to invest in their journeys. It's a testament to the skill and dedication of the actors involved.

The dialogue in the second season is another aspect that deserves praise. It strikes a balance between the mystical and the relatable, keeping viewers engaged and emotionally invested in the characters' struggles and triumphs. The intricate web of relationships and allegiances is skillfully woven into the narrative, making for some compelling and thought-provoking conversations.

The direction of Wheel of Time's second season is a testament to the show's commitment to delivering a high-quality fantasy experience. The pacing feels more balanced, allowing for character development and plot progression to occur organically. The world-building is expansive, and the storytelling is captivating, drawing viewers deeper into the rich tapestry of the series.

In conclusion, Wheel of Time's second season is a fantastic continuation of the saga. While book enthusiasts may have their reservations about the adaptation, it's important to appreciate the series for what it brings to the screen. The breathtaking cinematography, outstanding acting, well-crafted dialogue, and skillful direction make it a standout fantasy series in its own right. As someone who hasn't read the books, I can confidently say that I'm thoroughly enjoying the journey, and I eagerly anticipate what the future holds for this enthralling tale.

Since the two previous episodes were such great adaptation in terms of writing, execution and acting, this episode was kinda hard in the first watch for a book fan. It still managed go get the characters where they needed to be, and it built a specific arc that will come later to season 3 in a really good way. Sophie Okenedo and Rosamund Pike and Natasha Okeeffe are my most favorite casting choices ever made in the show. You can't help but fall in love with their scenes even though some of them are deviating so much from the books.

The girls arc is still faithful to the books, but I really wishes they showed Rand's power. He was already robbed in the finale of season 1 and now 7 episodes have passed and a single aes sedai managed to shield him, that bugged me a bit. Everyone is showing so much strength and power yet the most powerful one still seems weak.

I originally rated this episode 7, but on a rewatch it grew more on me and I came in terms with some of the changes. Great season so far. I really hope they stick the landing with the finale, and I really hope it has a longer run time because this episodes was way too rushed at some places.

This episode is such a highlight for me. It is slower than the last two episodes, but it does so much groundwork and takes time with the characters. I'll admit, I'm still not a huge fan pf the Mat storyline, but I wasn't in the books either. This episode made me really excited to see where he's going. We also finally have incrEDIBLE payoff fo the Lan storyline that I felt really dragged the other episodes. What else to say... Lanfear is always such a delight. The meeting between Siuan and Moiraine and Rand were some gripping moments. Sophie Okonedo is one of the show's greatest assets, utilised perfectly. Absolutely STOKED for the finale.

"Is this a sex thing or a murder thing? Cause either way, I'd prefer you skip the talking." When I heard Mat say this, I busted out laughing. GREAT script writing. The screenwriters truly need to be heralded. Just think what they need to accomplish: 14 books which cover approximately 2 1/2 years and the writers are trying to compact it all into what? Three, Four seasons? We'll be lucky to get five seasons in the current TV series landscape and so far, the writers have delivered in spades. Yes, the series has been restructured to accommodate the medium's time frame and they have successfully pushed the plot line forward along a path that faithfully follows the essence of the book while condensing (and rewriting) plot lines to reveal a true "Wheel of Time" world. I am MORE than happy with this series. I especially love the addition of Moraine's background and her sister, Anvaere Damodred (Lindsay Duncan) is a bonus which I didn't know I needed. One more episode to go. And I'm still wondering of the Horn of Valere will come into play with a big battle .... hopefully so. The big question is: Who will blow the Horn?

After the last two truly outstanding weeks of television offered to us by 'The Wheel of Time' S2 (which demonstrated its clear ability to genuinely become the next 'Game of Thrones'; a beautifully written & realised fantasy series - brimming with rich history & lore - capable of balancing emotional depth with creative ambition & scope), the programme returns with its penultimate episode of the season under a different director... And although it's not particularly bad, it's just not particularly good (in comparison to what it was, only 7 days ago) either - & thus, I did find that incredibly irksome. By all means, Sanaa Hamri is a competent filmmaker - but following on from someone who unequivocally elevated the quality so noticeably (I began to view Amazon's franchise as potentially superior to all other current rivals, in the same genre - including HBO's 'House of The Dragon'), only to struggle in maintaining that aforementioned improvement in the absence of Maja Vrvilo (arguably to the show what Alan Taylor & Miguel Sapochnik were to 'Game of Thrones'; rare visionaries who revivified the installments they were tasked with bringing to life, establishing themselves as immediate fan favourites amongst viewers in their opening blocks by ensuring a certain unparalleled brilliance throughout etc.)... Does lead to a somewhat disappointing viewing experience, when I'd began to hopefully expect something better than just "decency" in execution.

Hence, audiences are presented with satisfying developments, tying all the loose narrative threads together, building up to the finale... The way in which the numerous sequences do so is merely a little messier, unfortunately. Still, I'm excited for what's to come - simply wish someone arguably stronger was at the helm, to see it through to the end.

Episode 7 of The Wheel of Time season 2 is a memorable moment between characters Moiraine and Lan, who find themselves at odds with each other. This episode showcases the best of the fantasy series, with emotional grounding and machinations. The episode's title, "Great Game" in the Old Tongue, also translates to the Game of House, where various players try to maintain control. The prophesied bald boy Rand, who is the potential savior of the world, is caught in the middle of this chaos. He plans to find Egwene in the Falme but is intercepted and brought to Mother Siuan. The Amyrlin Seat, leader of the Aes Sedai in the White Tower, shields Rand from the One Power, ensuring he cannot channel it. The episode highlights the power of emotional grounding in the fantasy series. The introductory flashback to 20 years prior in "Daes Dae'mar" is an engaging scene that showcases Moiraine and Siuan together in a simpler time, unaware of the heavy burden that will define their futures and create a schism. Written by Justine Juel Gillmer and directed by Sanaa Hamri, this small peek into the past feels natural yet tragic. Pike and Okonedo draw us in just enough to show what their characters' lives could have been before crashing back down to the present. However, there are moments where the exposition is ungracefully delivered and threatens to swallow up the emotional notes. Egwene's training under duress feels like a setup for what's next, rather than a successful storyline in its own right. The gagged character is part of the series' mythology but provides an unintentionally revealing visual metaphor for her character's being held back. The episode ends on a high note with a promise made by Egwene. The Wheel of Time is a captivating fantasy epic that explores the mental states of its evolving characters, with strong performances and one-on-one scenes that allow the actors to work on their characters. The episode features Moiraine discussing her power loss with Lan and sparring with Siuan, who have grown distant from their former close friends. Their disagreements are strategic but also deeply emotional, giving them real weight. Each character believes their actions are right to save the realm from falling into the hands of the Forsaken, but the coming deceptions make them more devastating. The ne'er-do-wells are mostly in the background, but Lanfear's explosive entrance makes a significant difference in the film. The camera is briefly sent hurtling through the fire she conjures, providing a kinetic disruption and making the combination of visual and practical effects hit harder. The Wheel of Time's smaller scale is one of the most significant differences between it and other fantasy epics, but this moment of flair manages to give it more of a punch. In episode 7, The Wheel of Time's central storyline involving Moiraine, Siuan, and Lan serves as a pivotal turning point, with key flashbacks serving as plot and bookends. The emotional blaze of "Daes Dae'mar" is the highlight, despite feeling a little left behind. The episode's thrilling bursts of flair are balanced by the emotional depth of the story.

After episodes 5 and 6, what has happened? I have absolutely loved this season and felt each episode was building in quality and story, and I've rated most of them a 10, only for episode 7 to happen. Very confused about Lan's countryside retreat the entire season only to find out that key events have happened off-screen and he suddenly has all of this knowledge about Age of Legends male shields? At least show some of the threads here because it just doesn't make sense otherwise. Donal Finn is wonderful but seriously did someone in the writing department have a stroke the day that decision's about Mat's arc were made? And Siuan... ahh this felt so completely 'off' for her character compared to the Siuan we were introduced to in season 1. Way off. Almost as bad as when Brienne of Tarth slept with Jamie Lannister just 'coz'. The dialogue and directing and key character moments in this episode had none of the magic from earlier episodes sadly.

A big step backwards, such a poorly written episode in a season which was finally finding its feet.

Lan's entire arc this season has been terrible, starting from that forced conflict with Moiraine, to roaming aimlessly with the warders, all for the negligible payoff in this episode. Lan still cannot fight fades with his sword, but instead he knows more about One Power in the age of legends than Moiraine. What a terrible take. Lan is unrecognisable from the books & its not a casting issue.

In this episode, a lot of scenes felt rushed. The Gitara cold open could have & should have been epic, but was flat. The Aiel scenes felt like a fanfic cosplay on youtube.

5/10 & I'm being generous. A pity, since I rated the last 2 episodes 9/10.