Zack Snyder and Jay Oliva reunite for this epic tale of love, war, and lore centered around Norse Mythology with Twilight of the Gods.
Grandiose Collaboration
Director Zack Snyder(Rebel Moon, Army of the Dead) re-teams with collaborator Jay Oliva (The Dark Knight Returns, Trise) for a new animated venture: Twilight of the Gods. Rooted in Norse mythology we follow Sigrid as she seeks vengeance on Thor, for decimating her entire clan on her wedding night. If you were expecting lighthearted banter, jokes, and jolly personas, this is not the Thor you’re looking for. Twilight of the Gods is brutal, harrowing, and explicitly coital in depicting the old Gods. This 8-episode series delivers an emotional and satisfying tale that also looks gorgeous in every frame.
An Animated Feast
The animation is reminiscent of Gennedy Tartovsky’s stylized series Samurai Jack. It offers a bloody edge that utilizes Zack Snyder’s prowess in slow motion and intense action. Other studios have been criticized for either stiff-looking animation or the overuse of 3D CGI character models in recent endeavors. Twilight of the Gods does not suffer from either of those pitfalls. The animation remains fluid, when characters speak the words come through clearly and, the action sequences are gloriously crystal clear.
Fierce Characters
The characters involved in Twilight of the Gods find themselves on a quest for retribution, led by Sigrid voiced by Sylvia Hoeks. Accompanied by the likes of John Noble (Odin), Peter Stormare (Ulfr), Pilou Asbæk (Thor), Paterson Joseph (Loki), Jamie Chung (Hel), Jessica Henwick (Sandraudiga), Jamie Clayton (The Seid-Kona) Rahul Kohli (Egill) and Stuart Martin (Leif) the cast gives this animated series a life unto itself. Sylvia Hoeks presents Sigrid as a confident warrior and a kindred spirit in the same performance, and it is stellar. Pilou Asbæk as Thor, is intimidating. Positioning Thor as an antagonist is a nice change of pace after seeing other incarnations as a hero. Overall, these characters feel lived in and authentic with each performance. The characters assembled are all unique, especially The Seid-Kona & Ulfr. Having a sorceress and a man in wolf skin adds a variety of identity to the lineup.
Gorgeous Background
The background of Twilight of the Gods looks just as luscious as the animation itself. Showcasing a Norse land before modern times filled with snow-dropped mountains, icy lakes, and some mesmerizing otherworldly imagery. The story itself dives deep into the conflict between two sets of gods with humanity caught in the center. A light is shed on the carelessness of beings like Thor, Loki, and Odin which later drives the motives of Sigrid and Andvari. On the other side, the arrogance of humans is also examined with Sigrid who is willing to ensure Thor will suffer for his actions. Overall, the story culminates in a large battle between old gods and new, with valkyries descending to bring fallen soldiers to Valhalla.
Delight and Deliverance
Twilight of the Gods is exciting, brutal, and sensual in all the right ways. With a stellar voice cast, excellent animation, and a compelling story, this series has the potential to be a staple in the Netflix catalog. Eight episodes filled with beautiful imagery and visceral action is bound to be a fun binge. Jay Oliva and Zack Snyder have crafted an epic tale worth the watch. If you are a fan of Norse mythology, this may be just for you.
All episodes of Twilight of the Gods are now streaming on Netflix.