Sinbad

Sinbad is a sprawling adventure-based television show produced by Impossible Pictures and created by Jack Lothian. This action-packed series first aired in July 2012 on the British television station Sky1 and was later televised broadly, gaining a worldwide audience. Sinbad only lasted one season, ending in 2013, yet during its short run, it captured the imagination of viewers who appreciated the tantalizing blend of myths, legends, and action-adventure.

Sinbad, quite fittingly, focuses on the protagonist of the same name, a well-known figure in Middle Eastern folklore and renowned adventurer. The show takes a fresh approach to the depiction of this classic character while remaining true to the adventurous spirit and captivating storytelling that has made Sinbad an enduring favorite in folk culture. Sinbad is portrayed by Elliot Knight, who brilliantly brings the character's nuances to life, adding depth and emotional complexity to the clever, charismatic adventurer.

At the start of the series, viewers are quickly thrown into the thick of the action in the bustling city of Basra. Sinbad, our daring protagonist, struggles with his life of petty crime. His life takes a dramatic turn when an altercation results in a curse befalling on him, requiring him to remain at sea, forcefully sending him into an incessant journey. This curse becomes the driving force behind the many adventures of Sinbad, and, in many ways, sets the stage for the epic narrative to unfold.

Sinbad gathers a motley crew of outcasts and misfits as he embarks on his grand adventure. This ensemble of characters, each with their own distinct background and unique storyline, serves to provide a rich tapestry of sub-plots and interpersonal dynamics. Naveen Andrews stars as Sinbad's nemesis, Lord Akbari, whose obsessive quest for revenge against Sinbad adds a thrilling element of conflict and danger to the series. Additionally, characters such as the agile thief, Rina, portrayed by Marama Corlett, and the Norse warrior Gunnar, played by Elliot Cowan, assist in diversifying the show's thematic elements, including friendship, loyalty, betrayal, and survival.

As the series progresses, audiences witness the transformation of Sinbad from a local street rat to a valiant hero, drawing viewers in with his personal growth and exciting escapades. The show handles fantastic elements such as magic, mythical creatures, and curses with a deftness that adds layers of intrigue without overwhelming the core narrative.

The visual aesthetic of Sinbad deserves specific acclaim. Filmed in Malta, Sinbad offers breath-taking views of picturesque landscapes and vast oceans that lend authenticity and grandeur to the show. The enchanting settings, combined with top-notch CGI effects, make the mythical creatures and supernatural beings all the more believable and enhance the overall viewer experience. These aspects, together with the creative costume design and impressive set pieces, make Sinbad an absolute visual treat.

Underneath the abundant fantasy and adventure, Sinbad is essentially a story about personal redemption and the continuous struggle between good and evil. It successfully weaves themes of self-discovery, courage, and brotherhood into its unfolding storyline. It also presents an entrancing exploration of different cultures and civilizations, making Sinbad's world feel all the more real and multi-dimensional.

One must not overlook the show's commitment to diversity, a trailblazer in its own right. Sinbad stands out due to its multicultural cast, positioning people of different races in major roles, a feature not frequently seen in many fantasy series of that time. This emphasis on diversity adds an extra level of authenticity to the show, given its setting and the cultural gamut of the original Sinbad stories.

Despite being cancelled after just one season, Sinbad was successful in offering an engaging, action-filled spectacle with an attractive plot and a well-rounded cast. Viewers are drawn into a world of mythical beasts, magic spells, high-seas adventures, and epic quests, complete with the backdrop of a beautiful and diverse historical world.

In summarization, Sinbad provides a fresh, relatable interpretation of the legendary sailor's character and his exciting quests, offering viewers a valuable, albeit short-lived, addition to the fantasy-adventure genre. Whether you're a fan of classic folklore or just someone looking for an enjoyable journey full of suspense, action, and charisma, Sinbad is a must-watch series.