Sky Atlantic's Britannia debuts – is it the new GoT?
Sky Atlantic's lavish Britannia invaded primetime on Thursday (January 18), although the jury's definitely still out on whether it conquered or not.
The latest offering from the UK home for Game of Thrones seems to have everything going for it. For one, it visually compares to the grandeur of Thrones, with a cast that's every bit as impressive.
Britannia counts The Walking Dead's David Morrissey, Above Suspicion veteran Kelly Reilly, proper legend Zoë Wanamaker and Mackenzie Crook from actual Game of Thrones among its huge ensemble.
(Mackenzie Crook in Britannia)
Set in "the time before gods", Britannia has the scope and scale of the world of Westeros, only it's based on the actual Roman invasion of the British isles in 43 AD.
And yet, critics have basically been split on the show in the run-up to its premiere - with reactions ranging from Britannia being called "truly baffling" on the negative side to being praised for its "mad, earthy charm" on the positive tip.
Ultimately, it's the viewers who have the final say, and they do indeed have quite a lot to say. For some, Britannia is the perfect distraction during the long Game of Thrones drought:
Quite enjoyed the first episode of #Britannia. Found it very watchable. Not historically accurate at all so switch the brain off and have fun. Will definitely continue with it.
- Neil Jackman (@JackmanNeil) January 18, 2018
Throughly enjoyed the first episode of #Britannia
- Suzy Kerfoot (@pooch9440) January 18, 2018
Didn't mind #Britannia and I think it'll get better, but it is a bit Game of Thrones again...
- Ian Maclean (@IanMacleanMusic) January 18, 2018
#Britannia season 2 season 2 season 2
- Jonathan James Webb (@jonathanwebbuk) January 18, 2018