The New Legends of Monkey

The New Legends of Monkey is an enchanting Netflix series that takes its inspiration from the classic 16th-century Chinese novel, "Journey to the West," expertly adapted into a delightful family-friendly, adventure-fantasy hybrid series. Premiering in 2018, the show is a reimagining of the timeless tale and features an exciting and gripping narrative that skillfully blends elements of the supernatural, comedy and kinetic action sequences that captivate from episode to episode.

In the leading role of the Monkey King, audacious and gregarious in equal measure, is Chai Hansen who imbues the character with charm and power, lending a fresh eccentricity. His charisma and physical prowess shine through his expertly choreographed fight scenes, while his comedic timing lightens the more intense moments, helping to set a balanced tone throughout the series.

Luciane Buchanan stands out as Tripitaka, a novice monk who embarks on an epic journey to release the Monkey King, imprisoned for 500 years beneath a mountain after defying the gods. With a unique character arc that sees her transitioning from a timid young girl to a courageous warrior, Buchanan’s portrayal is both inspiring and compelling. The emotional complexity brought forth in her performance is a key piece that propels the narrative forward.

The show also stars Josh Thomson as Pigsy, a simple-hearted but strong character who provides comic relief while making valuable contributions to the team's success, and Emilie Cocquerel as Sandy, a water sprite attempting to find redemption from her past wrongdoings. The four protagonists form an unlikely crew, each with their distinct strengths and weaknesses that help create a cohesive team dynamic that intensifies as the series progresses.

The New Legends of Monkey creates a world teeming with magic and fantastical beings, joined by visually striking special effects that bring various deities, monsters, and mystical beings to life. The production value truly shines through not just in the vividly imaginative character designs, but also exceptional set pieces and intricately detailed costumes that imbue each frame with a rich and immersive aesthetic.

The plot weaves a fine balance between action-packed skirmishes, emotional conflict and moments of levity. Starting with a quest to free the Monkey King and retrieve lost sacred scrolls to restore balance in their world wracked by evil demons, the story introduces progressive steps that transform their journey into a far-reaching adventure. Each episode serves to further develop the characters and their relationships while sequentially unfolding a grander narrative.

The fantastical elements are grounded by the show's core themes of friendship, loyalty, self-discovery and redemption. It underscores the importance of teamwork and the power of unwavering faith in one's abilities. Moreover, it explores the dynamics of good and evil, questioning whether redemption is possible and if change can truly occur. The series does a commendable job of positioning these themes within an entertaining and engaging context without letting them overwhelm the whimsical appeal of the narrative.

The New Legends of Monkey promises entertainment for a wide audience with its compelling characters and journeys into the supernatural. The story walks the fine line that separates mature themes for adults and unimaginable fun for younger audiences. It is a thrilling mix of mythology, martial arts, and moral compasses, all wrapped up in a package that provides a fun viewing experience.

The directors and writers of The New Legend of Monkey successfully straddle the line between respecting the source material and making a series that speaks to a new generation of viewers. It's this successful balancing act, coupled with impressive performances, a captivating storyline, and high-quality visuals that make this series a must-watch for fans of fantasy, action, and adventure genres.

The New Legends of Monkey thus serves as a captivating reinterpretation of a classic tale, inviting viewers to lose themselves in an epic adventure filled with humor, heart, and breathtaking battles. It's an enchanting mix of complex characters, moral dilemmas, and a rich tapestry of mythology that consistently offers a reason to continue watching.