10 Best British Fantasy TV Series

As a self-proclaimed connoisseur of supernatural series, I must say that these three TV shows have left quite an impression on me – especially considering my own experiences with the mystical and enchanting world!

British television has produced numerous iconic series across various genres, and it’s not behind when it comes to fantasy productions. Although British fantasy films and literature sometimes overshadow them, there have been many British fantasy TV series that have resonated with viewers throughout the years. Even if a series doesn’t last long, it can still garner a dedicated fanbase.

I’ve found myself captivated by tales spinning around witches, magicians, angels, and demons that have left quite an impression on viewers. Some of these stories delve into British legends and folklore, while others are adaptations of both timeless and contemporary fantasy novels. Remarkably, many of these series are joint productions from various countries. It’s noteworthy how Britain, with its rich history and stunning landscapes, serves as the muse for numerous stories. In fact, even American fantasy series often recruit British actors and crew to bring their stories to life, like in the case of Game of Thrones.

10 Sapphire and Steel (1979)

Sapphire and Steel is centered around two enigmatic figures from other dimensions, whose purpose and identity remain shrouded in mystery. Armed with a range of extraordinary abilities, such as telepathy and time manipulation, this title duo displayed remarkable talents like Sapphire’s ability to grasp information by merely touching objects or people, while Steel demonstrated his psychokinetic skills. They are among the many “elements” capable of assuming human form, tasked with addressing anomalies in the world.

Before Scully & Mulder, There Was Sapphire & Steel

The series, categorized as science-fiction with elements of fantasy, is said to have originated from creator Peter J. Hammond’s mind while he resided in a castle rumored to be haunted. Interestingly, the initial concept was designed for a children’s fantasy audience; however, it underwent a transformation for mature viewers when it became apparent that the scripts were quite frightening. The series garnered attention for its deliberate use of minimal special effects.

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9 The Storyteller (1998)

Jim Henson, renowned for his work on “Sesame Street” and “The Muppet Show,” crafted the character known as The Storyteller. This character, accompanied by his faithful dog, would share captivating European folktales in a warm, fireside setting. To bring these stories to life, Henson utilized some of his most intricate and imaginative puppets.

“The Best Place by the Fire Was Kept for… The Storyteller.”

Many tales unravel: One heroine rescues the man she adores from the clutches of a troll queen with the aid of a magical lion. Another princess liberates her three siblings from their wicked stepmother’s enchantment. A child blessed by fortune outsmarts both a griffin and an evil monarch without even knowing it. A prickly creature cursed in love experiences loss and rediscovery.

Initially, the original show gained legendary status and subsequently sparked not only a graphic novel but also a string of comic books. Interestingly, some unproduced episodes were incorporated into these adaptations as well. Additionally, for a short while, there was a spin-off titled “The Storyteller: Greek Myths,” where Michael Gambon took on the role of a different Storyteller in this series.

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8 The Worst Witch (1998)

The tale based on Jill Murphy’s book series with the same name, titled The Worst Witch, revolves around Mildred Hubble, a somewhat clumsy witch who is striving to perfect her magical abilities at Miss Cackle’s Academy for Witches. She has companions like Maud Moonshine and faces adversaries such as school rival Ethel Hallow and Miss Cackle’s wicked twin sister.

The Series Saw a Few Spin-Offs & Even More Books

Similar to the novels that preceded it, the UK-Canadian series presented a pre-Harry Potter tale of magic schooling on screen. Notably, this show served as a catalyst for several spin-offs, such as “Weirdsister College,” where Mildred continued her magical studies, and “The New Worst Witch,” which focused on the adventures of Mildred’s cousin.

Due to the success of the series, Murphy ended up writing and publishing an additional three books in the same series. Later on, these books were transformed into another series titled the same, which was a joint production between the UK and Germany, and ran from 2017 through 2020.

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7 Merlin (2008)

In this telling, Merlin narrates a tale featuring characters from Arthurian folklore, but they may differ from the versions you’re familiar with. Instead of an old wizard, Merlin is a young man, Prince Arthur is a pampered prince, and Guinevere goes by “Gwen” and serves as a maid despite being fated to become a queen. The story unfolds with young Merlin being dispatched to Camelot, where he assumes the role of Arthur’s servant. However, due to a prohibition on magic at court, Merlin must conceal his magical abilities to avoid the penalty of death.

“Magic Is His Destiny.”

As a cinema enthusiast deeply immersed in the realm of King Arthur, I can’t help but be drawn to the captivating tale of “Merlin”. This series takes us on an extraordinary journey where Merlin serves as my mentor, guiding young Arthur towards his destiny as the legendary king. Though some traditional Arthurian legend purists might balk at the modifications made to the original storyline, this show has undeniably garnered a dedicated fanbase, particularly due to its exceptional casting choices.

6 Ashes to Ashes (2008)

In “Ashes to Ashes,” fantasy merges with crime investigation, continuing the storyline from the well-known “Life on Mars.” Detective Alex Drake is a member of London’s Metropolitan Police, who mysteriously finds herself transported back in time to 1981 after being injured in 2008. While delving into events related to Sam Tyler, a character from the original series, Drake eventually meets the individuals she had studied through her research.

David Bowie Fans Might Recognize the Clown

Throughout the series, viewers are left wondering if Drake is truly alive or deceased due to conflicting information presented by Tyler. Furthermore, the plot thickens as the show takes a bizarre turn when Alex starts being tormented by the clown from David Bowie’s “Ashes to Ashes” music video, enhancing its dreamlike quality.

The last episode suggested that the world depicted in the show functions as a sort of limbo or purgatory, with certain characters potentially being good or evil entities. It’s said that the creators thought about multiple conclusions for the series, ranging from it all being a dream to an ending akin to “Life On Mars.

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5 The Chronicles of Narnia (1988)

Regarding “The Chronicles of Narnia,” C.S. Lewis’ timeless novels have been transformed into different versions throughout the years. For instance, there was a 1979 animated special and films by Walden Media. In the late 1980s, a BBC adaptation of the first four books in the series was produced. The initial adaptation focused on “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” while subsequent adaptations combined “Prince Caspian” and “The Voyage of the Dawn Treader.” Lastly, another series brought “The Silver Chair” to life.

A Good Introduction to the Books

Readers of the book often admire the series for its authenticity. Many viewers find that while “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” is the most popular book and an excellent starting point, the later series are considered superior in terms of quality, particularly with regard to acting. Notably, Warwick Davis makes appearances in both the second and third series.

In the course of the show, actors frequently took on various roles, leading to discussions about whether the White Witch and the Green Lady were intended to be sisters or a single character, given that Barbara Kellerman portrayed both. The production had its detractors; reportedly, Lewis’s stepson Douglas Gresham strongly disliked it.

4 Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell (2015)

The intriguing historical fantasy miniseries titled “Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell” is based on Susanna Clarke’s book of the same name. Set during the Napoleonic Wars, this unique narrative offers a reimagined history where magic exists but is rarely used.

The British Film Institute Rated It One of the Year’s Top Programs

This series, known for its mystical elements, provides a fresh take on traditional British period dramas. It has garnered acclaim for its impressive special effects. The BAFTA Awards honored the series with four nominations, and it was also acknowledged by the British Film Institute as one of the ten most significant television shows in 2015.

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3 The Bastard Son & The Devil Himself (2022)

The series “The Bastard Son & The Devil Himself” is based on the Sally Dreen novel “Half Bad”. In this narrative, we follow Nathan Byrne, a young man who uncovers his true identity as the illegitimate son of Marcus Edge, a formidable and treacherous witch. For the initial 17 years of his existence, he has been under the guardianship of the Council of Fairborn Witches, who are apprehensive that he might be just as perilous as his father. Eventually, Nathan finds himself entangled among rival witch clans in a fierce conflict.

The Series Proved to Be a One-Season Wonder

Despite running for just a single season, the show made a lasting impact on viewers thanks to its intricate world development and compelling character progressions. While sticking faithfully to its origins as a young adult novel, it delivered a remarkably grim and intense television experience.

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2 A Discovery of Witches (2018)

Following the narrative of the book titled “A Discovery of Witches,” our story unfolds as a distinguished American scholar, Diana Bishop, finds herself in Oxford. In this historic city, she encounters a book brimming with hidden knowledge. As a witch who has distanced herself from magic for quite some time, her reconnection to the magical realm is unavoidable. This newfound power could make her the most formidable witch globally, but it also poses a significant threat to her, given her struggle with self-control. In due course, she forms an alliance with the enigmatic Matthew Clairmont, a vampire.

“It Begins With Absence & Desire…”

Fundamentally, this show revolves around a romantic tale of two characters from opposing factions – witches and vampires. Matthew Goode and Teresa Palmer beautifully portray these leading roles. Additionally, it stands out by transporting its audience through various historical periods.

1 Good Omens (2019)

The story “Good Omens,” co-written by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman, centers around two unlikely friends: an angel named Aziraphale and a demon called Crowley. Though they are forbidden from interacting with each other, they have formed a bond. As Armageddon looms close, their friendship compels them to work together to halt the emergence of the Antichrist, in order to preserve their tranquil existence on Earth.

“The End Is Nigh…”

Viewers have taken a particular liking to the portrayals of David Tennant and Michael Sheen as Crowley and Aziraphale. Moreover, the series’ intricate themes have allowed for multiple interpretations among its audience. Remarkably, the show garnered enough popularity to secure a second season, further developing the initial narrative. Interestingly, discussions about a sequel had been ongoing since 1989, long before the original book was even published.

2024-09-15 18:33