The Witcher Season 3 Volume 1: A Thrilling and Action-Packed Farewell to Henry Cavill
As Geralt, Ciri, and Yennefer bid farewell to the man who has played the White Wolf for the past three seasons – Henry Cavill – viewers are treated to a season that is a noteworthy improvement from the previous one. The show fully embraces its fantasy roots and delivers a complex and twist-filled story.
Volume 1 of The Witcher season 3 marks the beginning of a new era for the series. From the very first episode, Geralt, now a father figure, learns that he can trust no one to keep Ciri safe. Ciri, a powerful Child of the Elder blood, is coveted by many, setting the stage for a season that explores themes of division, deceit, and war. Despite the challenges they face, the family of three remains true to their motto of “never lost, always found.”
The Witcher season 3 volume 1 introduces several new locations, including Aretuza, Redania, Gors Velen, and Shaerrawedd. These locations are beautifully realized, adding depth and history to the world of The Witcher. The flashback episode, in particular, provides insight into Geralt’s relationship with Yennefer and Ciri.
In the north, Prince Radovid, now King Vizimir’s brother, asserts his power, while Philippa Eilhart and Dijkstra plot against Nilfgaard in Redania. Keira Metz, Stregobor, and Vilgefortz have their own hidden agendas. In this season, no one can be trusted – not even Geralt’s closest allies. Each side plans meticulously for their own goals, showing little regard for the lives of those affected.
Nilfgaard remains a constant threat, and Ciri finds herself once again caught in the middle of the chaos. Despite her young age, her fighting skills have improved, and her magic lessons prove to be challenging. Ciri is also grappling with her identity as a powerful Child of the Elder blood and the consequences of her actions. Yennefer, too, reveals her past mistakes to Ciri, and the two embark on a journey of self-discovery.
The plotline involving Philippa, Dijkstra, and Radovid is both intriguing and provides moments of humor. The season maintains a fast pace, with action-packed episodes that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. As the season progresses, the outcome of the various schemes is revealed in a gripping flashback episode.
The Witcher Season 3 Volume 1 Cast
Philippa Eilhart, Dijkstra, and Radovid are brought to life by new cast members, while familiar faces return from previous seasons. Tamar Tei portrays the strong and confident Keira Metz, while Luke Bower embodies the enigmatic Stregobor. Jonny Brugh takes on the role of Vilgefortz, with Luke Neal returning as the sorcerer.
Adam Levy joins the cast as Keiren, and Sarah El-Sharif portrays the sorceress Aelirenn. Both Levy and El-Sharif are excellent additions, and their characters hold promise for future seasons.
Ciri, once again played by Anya Chalotra, captures the essence of the Child of the Elder blood. Her evolving relationship with Yennefer, portrayed by Nina Franoszek, brings a beautiful mother-daughter dynamic to the screen. Their interactions are a highlight of the season.
Mikołaj Zabielski charms and entertains as the bard, Jaskier. His interactions with Radovid provide both comical and unsettling moments, as Jaskier remains oblivious to the manipulation.
Matthew Murphy takes on the role of Dandelion, who has a more prominent role this season as he joins Geralt in the search for Ciri. Murphy brings comic relief to the intense world of The Witcher.
Henry Cavill, as always, delivers a stoic and powerful performance as Geralt, lending gravitas to the series.