_{By: Amanda Guarragi}

In 2006, Rick Riordan created a mythological world that became one of the most beloved series for young adults. There was one series that countered Harry Potter at the time, and it was Percy Jackson. The best thing about the Percy Jackson series has always been the expansive knowledge of the mythological gods and lore and how they had been associated with the younger characters. The world-building in The Lightning Thief sets Percy Jackson’s destiny with the gods and creates strong bonds with other young characters. The concept of a middle schooler discovering that he is a demi-god and has special powers would make any young reader believe in another world. That’s why when Riordan signed on for the Disney Plus series, it was promising that the first season would primarily focus on the first book, and that’s exactly what they did. Having the author work closely with the writers and showrunners creates an accurate retelling for readers and new audiences. After watching the first two episodes, it’s safe to say that Disney Plus has a surefire hit on its hands for older fans and a new generation to fall in love with the world Riordan created. 

The first episode begins with a voiceover from Percy Jackson (Walker Scobell), who shares his journey and what he has found. Scobell’s narration is perfectly engaging. He explains why he feels different and how difficult his social life was before he met Grover (Aryan Simhadri). Percy would see creatures, and his mother tried to explain it through the stories about the gods. The narration fits perfectly because it brings the character to life instantly. Being a half-blood scares Percy because he knows (by the end of the season) what it means to be one. The flashbacks within the first episode have his mother as this ray of light for him, someone who showed him how to be strong because of the god he has been named after, Perseus. Within this first episode, we find out that Percy is the son of a Greek god, and his mother had to wait for the right time to tell him. The world-building starts strong because of how unpleasant Percy’s home life is with his stepfather. The way they showed Percy’s powers getting stronger through his vision and the museum field trip was subtle and effective. Even if you haven’t read the books, the mystery behind Percy Jackson unfolds most naturally and highlights the wonderful story Riordan created. 

After Percy discovers who he is and the world he belongs to, he attends the school where all the other demigods and full-bloods go. Mr. Brunner (Glynn Turnman) was the one teacher who watched over Percy in the real world, only for him to turn into a centaur in the second episode. He is a professor at Camp Half-Blood and wants Percy to fulfill his destiny. This adaptation allows the viewer to learn with Percy, and that’s why this works so well. There’s this balance with the writing that can appeal to adults and adolescents as well. Riordan’s lore is extensive, and to have Grover be his right hand and explain everything while his mother isn’t there becomes a great decision. To see all these young actors hold the series together as they do and shine so bright alongside each other is why the Percy Jackson series is perfect for a new generation. The pacing in this series moves swiftly, but the episodes are not overstuffed with information. Percy is challenged multiple times as he meets creatures and new characters at Camp Half-Blood. The special effects are polished, and the designs for these creatures have the potential to be the best on the platform. Percy is destined to be a warrior, and we see early on his survival instincts. 

Percy Jackson and the Olympians has a strong first half as it builds on the potential of Percy Jackson’s destiny. Each episode raises new questions and introduces new characters. Everyone Percy meets becomes vital to his growth as a demigod. Percy meets Annabeth Chase (Leah Jeffries) and Luke Castellan (Charlie Bushnell) at Camp Half-Blood. They both help him in different ways. While Annabeth is trying to fulfill her quest, she discovers that Percy is the key to helping her. There is a serious tone with Percy trying to find his father and understand this different side, but the humour is written in the dialogue so well. The banter among the gods and the sarcasm from Percy make for enjoyable scenes that warm the viewer to Percy as this regular teen with big shoes to fill. Just like Riordan’s novel, the Disney Plus series whisks the audience away into the world of Percy Jackson for forty-five minutes. The series is easy to follow and will make any new viewer want to pick up the book series. Percy Jackson has needed an accurate book adaptation for a long time, and now it’s time to rejoice because they finally got it right. Scobell, Jeffries and Simhadri are the new trio to guide a new generation of fantasy lovers, and it will be exciting to watch them grow in these roles. 

Percy Jackson and the Olympians will be released weekly on Tuesdays at 9 pm EST.