Ragnarok

Ragnarok, launched on Netflix in January 2020, is a suspenseful Norwegian fantasy drama that seamlessly blends everyday high-school life with ancient mythology to tell an atmospheric and engaging narrative. This innovative series was created by Adam Price, produced by SAM Productions, and filmed in Norway.

Ragnarok boasts six vivid and tightly-woven episodes in its first season, each palpable with teenage emotions and supernatural elements. It revolves around the storyline of two veritable worlds- one of a quaint and tranquil town marked by its stunningly beautiful landscapes and seemingly ideal lifestyle, and the other, a hidden sphere of myth and magic, grand in both its historicity and its power.

The series is set in the fictitious town of Edda, a picturesque backdrop painted with lush mountains and limpid fjords, in rural Norway. However, Edda, despite its serene exterior, struggles from the environmental devastation caused by industrial pollution. Recurrent climate changes, melting glaciers, and warm winters speak to this silent crisis, and this precise environmental concern forms the crux of the series.

The show introduces audiences to the main protagonist, Magne, portrayed with compelling talent by David Stakston. Magne is a quintessential introvert, dyslexic, who recently moved back to Edda with his mother and brother. However, Magne isn't a typical teenager. The series hints to this from the start when Magne experiences a strange incident upon arrival in Edda. His character gradually develops, revealing a transformation that links him to the ancient lore of the Norse gods.

As episodes unfold, Magne discovers his peculiar abilities, hinting that he's not an ordinary teen. He struggles to comprehend his powers while navigating the choppy waters of high school, dealing with upstart bullies, complicated relationships, and caring for his family. His mysterious powers and the supernatural occurrences following his arrival suggests a catalyzing role for him in the fight against the environmental disaster unfolding upon Edda, thus, unboxing the concealed dynamics of the town and the destructive forces that lurk beneath its placid surface.

Another central character defining the series's narrative is the local Jutul family, who appears to be the epitome of perfection - wealthy, influential, and attractive. However, as the plot unravels, the family proves far more ancient and powerful than anyone could have imagined. The Jutul family's true identities provide an intriguing subplot to the story that converges with Magne's transformative journey.

The creators skillfully intersperse the narrative with small-town drama and themes clearly influenced by Norse mythology; references to gods, cosmic battles, and sagas subtly build a bridge between the past and the present, the real and the mythical. The series, with its nuanced storytelling, closely examines social issues, focusing on the impact of corporates on the environment, laying subtle emphasis on our collective responsibility towards the planet. Integral to the show, the allusions to Norse mythology are skillfully crafted and serve as an enticing exploration for those unfamiliar with such tales.

Ragnarok enjoys a well-rounded ensemble of characters, each with unique arcs and objectives. This variation in characters adds depth and substance to the series. From a dyslexic hero perspective to a family seemingly perfect but actually veiling dark secrets, every character adds to the overall suspense and intrigue of the series.

The makers and crew of Ragnarok have done a commendable job with the CGI and special effects to depict superhuman powers and supernatural elements. They enhance the plot without overwhelming the narrative. Captivating cinematography accentuates the bleak environmental reality and starkly contrasts the small-town charm of Edda, adding a visual spectacle to the compelling storyline.

Despite its captivating blend of teen drama and Norse mythology, the show doesn't shy away from addressing relevant social and environmental issues, drawing a direct correlation between ancient mythological beliefs and prevailing environmental conditions and making it relevant for the contemporary viewer.

In conclusion, Ragnarok is much more than a series about teens and gods. It is an ecological thriller that carefully wraps the ancient myths of godly feats and battles in the setting of a modern high school. If you are a fan of Scandinavian dramas and narratives drenched in mythology, Ragnarok should indeed be on your watch list. With its compelling plot, intense emotions, and layered characters, this series paints a portrait of the formidable power of nature, the alarming consequence of human greed, and the possibility of redemption through righteousness and courage.