Netflix’s "The Witcher" returns for its fourth season, ushering in a new era with Liam Hemsworth taking over the role of Geralt of Rivia. While the season has been met with a range of opinions, from surprisingly positive to critical, it grapples with significant cast changes and a noticeable shift in viewership dynamics. The series continues its adaptation of Andrzej Sapkowski’s saga, but the departure of Henry Cavill has undeniably cast a long shadow.
A New Geralt, A Familiar Saga
The most significant change in Season 4 is the recasting of Geralt. Liam Hemsworth steps into the iconic role, a decision that has divided fans. While some critics note that Hemsworth brings a different energy to the character, with one review suggesting he might even be "better than Henry Cavill" in certain aspects, others find him lacking Cavill’s charisma. Freya Allan, who plays Ciri, admitted the transition was difficult, even contemplating leaving the show after Cavill’s departure. Despite the challenges, Allan has committed to continuing the mission of staying true to the books, a sentiment previously championed by Cavill.
- Liam Hemsworth takes over as Geralt of Rivia.
- Freya Allan found the cast change difficult and considered leaving.
- The season adapts "The Witcher" book "The Fire Within" and borrows elements from "The Tower of the Swallow."
Shifting Tides and Critical Reception
Reviews for Season 4 are notably mixed. Some critics have found the season to be surprisingly enjoyable, even better than previous installments, attributing this to a more focused narrative and a return to the source material. The season is praised for its more straightforward adventure-driven plot, moving away from the political intrigue that some felt didn’t suit "The Witcher" as well as it did "Game of Thrones." The action sequences, particularly the large-scale battles, are highlighted as a strong point, showcasing dynamic choreography and visceral combat.
However, criticisms persist. The show is still accused of straying from the literary original, with some fans feeling the writers haven’t fully grasped the essence of Sapkowski’s work. The handling of certain character arcs and plotlines from previous seasons is also a point of contention. Despite these critiques, there’s a sense that the show is attempting to course-correct, possibly influenced by fan feedback and the impending conclusion of the series in its fifth season.
Looking Ahead: The Final Season
With Season 5 set to conclude the saga, Netflix is already casting for new characters. Reports indicate that seven new actors will join the cast for the final season, including Georgia Goodman, known for her role in "Wednesday." These additions suggest that the remaining storylines, particularly those involving Ciri, will be further developed. The series faces the challenge of wrapping up complex plotlines within a limited timeframe, aiming to provide a satisfying conclusion to Geralt and Ciri’s journey.
The reception of Season 4 suggests that while "The Witcher" may have lost some of its initial momentum and fan base, it’s still capable of delivering engaging content. The success of the final season will likely depend on its ability to reconcile past criticisms with its new direction and provide a fitting end to the beloved fantasy epic.
Źródła
- Wiedźmin Sezon 4 (2025) – recenzja serialu, Filmweb.
- Action » „Wiedźmin”: sezon 4 jest całkiem niezły, ale i tak już za późno, Netfliksie [RECENZJA], CD-Action.
- Aktorka z Wednesday w 5. sezonie Wiedźmina. Siedem nowych postaci, Gra.pl.
- Freya Allan chciała odejść z "Wiedźmina" z Henrym Cavillem. "Płakałam", Filmweb.
- "Wiedźmin" sezon 4.: Recenzja. Liam Hemsworth jako Geralt lepszy niż Henry Cavill? | Netflix, Filmweb.
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