Norsemen

The first season didn’t turn out bad at all. I was pleased by the occasional Monty Python-esque moments, too bad that the writers served just a diet version. It's lacking the right kind of enthusiasm, which is one of the reasons why my rating isn’t higher. Another reason is the character of the annoying Roman actor and versatile artist, Rufus, who didn’t appeal to me at all. Who I think is perfect, on the other hand, is the voluntary slave Kark, who is great in every scene. I hope he will be as good in Season 2. (22.02.2020)

In the opening scene, I got some serious Monty Python vibes, especially with that grumbling slave — it felt like a nod to their style, just like the way they solved the retirement issue and holmgang. Overall, it was good, but I held back from giving it five stars because I was hoping for even bigger laughs. (21.02.2020)

In the second episode, the Norwegian creators kept the momentum going from the first one. This time, they delved deeper into the dynamics between men and women, and it paid off. The scene with poetry and mead was a highlight for me. It showcased the Vikings' bravery — seriously, I wouldn't mess with someone who can cleave a pig in half with a single sword swing. (21.02.2020)

The third encounter with the Vikings left me feeling a bit underwhelmed. Rufus, the new character, didn't quite hit the mark for me. Overall, the episode felt too settled and safe. Sure, there was a funeral ceremony, but I was hoping for something more daring. (21.02.2020)

What's a Viking series without a good old plundering raid on foreign lands? Well, Norsemen delivered just that, and it was a blast. Orm leading the charge made for some entertaining moments, though that pesky Roman did put a damper on things. Still, the construction of the amphitheater to scale was a standout. As they say, "The sea giveth. And the sea taketh away." (22.02.2020)

The fifth episode, much like the third, fell a bit flat for me. I can't shake the feeling that Rufus is the main culprit here. While the creators intended him to be funny, he just rubs me the wrong way. Thankfully, the final attack on Norheim and Orm, facing a fate worse than death, injected some excitement. But that Rufus... 3*+ (22.02.2020)

The finale managed to lift my spirits after the lukewarm previous episode. This time around, I was entertained throughout. Rufus took a bit of a backseat, and the whole concept of public humiliation turned out to be a risky but effective narrative tool. The creators really nailed the conclusion this time. (22.02.2020)

I feel almost the same way about the second season as the first one. Yet again, the creators were constantly balancing on the edge between humor and awkwardness, and I’m pleased to say that humor was mostly winning. Although I’m an atheist, I thank God that the annoying Roman did not get as much screen time as before. On the other hand, I'm delighted that Kark could fully express his unique worldview. I was worried that the second season would be worse than the first one. Fortunately, it wasn’t, so I can look forward to Season 3 and to how the creators will manage to bring Freja back to the game. (27.03.2020)