The new historical drama Vikings is set in medieval times. But usually for modern audiences, whenever we see anyone with a sword, we immediately have to add magic and curses and "answer me these questions three."
The story of the Vikings is interesting enough without dressing it up with too much otherworldly nonsense. Yes, the main character has the odd "vision," but that could exist only in his own mind, so I can live with it.
I know there's obviously a big audience for all that mystical mayhem. But we don't have to go there every time, do we?
Vikings is compelling as an earthly adventure, both narratively and visually. A Canadian-Irish co-production with a strong international cast, Vikings makes its debut Sunday on History.
Created and written by historical story-teller Michael Hirst (known for the TV series The Tudors and the film Elizabeth), Vikings focuses on Ragnar Lothbrok, played by Travis Fimmel.
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