STORIES

Of all the characters from this popular English folktale, one of the most intriguing is Merlin, who often offers wise counsel to Arthur.

The character of Merlin has influenced many other popular fictional wizards and sorcerers in popular literature, including Gandalf in Lord of the Rings and Dumbledore of the Harry Potter series.

This character was also beautifully portrayed by Sam Neill in the highly-rated mini-series Merlin (1997), but other than that, not much is known about this enigmatic character who mysteriously disappears at a time when Arthur needs him the most.

Producers Julian Murphy and Johnny Caps came up with an idea to produce a series that revolve around Merlin during his younger days. BBC liked the concept and commissioned the series, which went into production in March last year. The first season boasts 13 episodes (shown in the UK on Sept 20) and the second season will begin production soon.

The difference in this series as compared to other Arthurian tales which have been adapted in the past is that Merlin is portrayed as a teenager and is about the same age as Arthur.

During a tele-conference interview, Colin Morgan and Bradley James, who play Merlin (top, right) and Arthur (left) respectively, shed some light about their roles.

The story begins with young Merlin arriving at the city of Camelot which is ruled by Uther Pendragon (Anthony Head) and where magic of any form is outlawed.

Taken in as an apprentice to the benevolent Gaius (Richard Wilson) who was once a sorcerer but now the court physician, Merlin later discovers from the last great dragon Albion (voiced by John Hurt) which has been imprisoned in the city, that it is his destiny to protect Uther’s arrogant son Arthur so that he may grow up and rule over a great kingdom.

Merlin is forced to hide his magical ability but manages to form a special bond with Arthur despite initial animosity.

Morgan, who had to master old English for the incantations of the spells, says he enjoyed a lot of freedom and was allowed to give his own interpretation of Merlin. "He was never presented this way before. We know him as an older man but not how he started out," he says.

As a young boy, Morgan was keen on magic and even had his own magic set. "I can still do a decent card trick," he enthuses.

Both actors were familiar with the Arthurian legends and playing the brash and athletic Arthur was a role James dove into easily. Brandishing a heavy sword and wearing heavy armour did not faze him as he is very much into sports and loves doing action.

At the same time, James has no qualms about the series portraying his character and Merlin as being about the same age. "You know their destinies are intertwined. When you make a series this way, it makes them both rivals," he explains.

He says that this aspect also adds elements of drama and turbulence in their relationship, not to mention some fun moments. "Being the same age also makes the relationship a bit of a brotherhood. As their relationship develops, they look out for each other and respect each other."

James also reveals that the way the character of Prince Arthur is depicted was initially inspired by Prince Harry and that he also added his own take to the role.

Many famous actors have played Arthur in the past, including Sean Connery and the late Richard Harris. When asked if he was initially intimidated, James says he was honoured at being given the role.

Other popular characters from the Arthurain tales such as Lancelot, Guinevere, Morgana and Modred will also be introduced in the series, which takes quite a few liberties from the original flow of the story.

Both Morgan and James are looking forward to season two and expect more drama as Merlin’s magical abilities are still unknown to Arthur.

Merlin boasts lots of CGI which will bring Camelot and its magic alive on the small screen. It will premiere on Hallmark Channel (Astro Channel 702) on March 1 at 9pm.