A Grain of Truth (S02E01)

Solid opening. The main line of the story continues exactly where the first season left off. The first episode of Season 2 has atmosphere, visual depth and great production design. In barely 50 minutes, we get a mix of Prisoner of Azkaban and Beauty and the Beast, after which nothing much actually happens. As a technically dainty dark fantasy appetizer OK, but the next episodes should bring something more. (06.01.2022)

If the series stuck to Sapkowski's short stories, it would be on a whole other level. Unfortunately, along with the saga, we've got this intrusion of dark Slavs into the plot, whom I find quite distracting. I'm also struggling to get used to the altered appearances - the ugly Yennefer, the overly pigmented Fringilla Vigo - and the dialogues felt a bit weak at times. However, the majority of the episode focused on the short story part, which I appreciated. So, with a clear conscience, I give this episode four stars. (29.01.2022)

The first episode picks up exactly where the previous season left off. Choosing as the central story in the pilot episode one of the most famous tales from the Witcher universe, A Grain of Truth, was a perfect move by the creators. The costumes were excellent, the atmosphere started to build nicely towards the end, culminating in a well-shot final battle with the bruxa. I didn't mind the altered ending of the story; in fact, I welcomed it. However, I'm a bit unsure about the direction they’re taking with Yennefer’s storyline—it doesn’t sit well with me. We'll see. Episode 01 did a great job of setting up anticipation for more from this unforgiving world. 8.5/10 (18.12.2021)