Percy Jackson and the Olympians is a new series arriving on Disney+ on December 20, 2023. It is based off of the popular book series of the same name written by Rick Riordan. Following two disappointing films in the early 2010s, hopes are high for this second chance at an adaptation. Especially since Riordan is heavily involved this time around.
For those unfamiliar with the source material, the story follows the titular young teen who is bullied at school by his peers and at home from an unkind stepfather. Despite all the troubles, he has a kind soul thanks to his caring mother. His life turns upside down when he discovers Greek mythology is real with creatures and gods all around us.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians creates an ambitious world than meshes the modern day with classical mythology. It also cleverly utilizes iconic American landmarks as nexus points between regular society and the Gods. However, it’s such an extensive world that things become bogged down early on as we meet the different characters and the quest our heroes must set out on. The series benefits from a two-episode premiere which pushes through all that efficiently.
There is impressive production value, particularly with the special effects and various mythological monsters. In the four episodes available for review, there is a fun creature of the week feel. They are all fearsome in their own way, and sometimes the show flips things providing a level of levity and comedy.
The narrative really hits its stride once Percy (Walker Scobell) sets out on his voyage with the daughter of Athena, Annabeth Chase (Leah Sava Jeffries), and the satyr, Grover Underwood (Aryan Simhadri). It is then when we dive into these personal relationships that drive the story. These grounded moments between acquaintances turned friends provide much of the emotional weight, and prove that despite all the mythical grandeur around them, they are still kids with their own baggage.
Scobell gives Percy a level of self-doubt and isolation, but as he progresses on his hero’s journey, you can see the quiet confident inner strength and courage come out when needed. He has great chemistry with both Jeffries and Simhadri, and it’s a pleasure to watch the work-in-progress team they play grow and mature each episode. Their charm and likeability make it easy to get behind the main trio.
Another talented young cast member is Charlie Bushnell who plays Camp Half-Blood counselor Luke Castellan. The character’s warmth and compassion make the camp a place where Percy can finally feel he belongs. There’s a brotherly/mentor connection with Percy. Bushnell might not have the most screen time, but he makes his minutes count.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians has the makings of an exciting fantasy adventure that seamlessly blends the modern with the mythological, but delivers compelling grounded emotional relationships as well.
The two-episode premiere of Percy Jackson and the Olympians is Wednesday, December 20, on Disney+.
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