Penelope Misceo
Exec Arts Editor
With a standout cast and beautiful cinematography, “Shadow and Bone” proves itself as a perfect book-to-screen adaptation.
The series provides its audience with an entertaining journey, and utilizes its complex characters and whimsical plot to leave viewers of all demographics wanting more. The passion behind the project is clear, and each step in the filming process is transparently displayed to have impeccable attention to detail.
Released on April 23, “Shadow and Bone” is based on Leigh Bardugo’s trilogy of the same name, as well as her Six of Crows duology set in the same universe. The series stars Jessie Mei-Lei as Alina Starkov and Archie Renaux as Mal Oretsev, and includes an equally-important B-plot starring Freddy Carter as Kaz Brekker, Amita Suman as Inej Ghafa, and Kit Young as Jesper Fahey.
“Shadow and Bone” is eight episodes long, and takes place in Bardugo’s fantasy world, referred to by readers as the GrishaVerse. The series follows Alina Starkov as she discovers her Grisha powers, and meets a mysterious general looking to weaponize them. Across nations, a group of three teenagers—Kaz, Inej, and Jesper—are sent on a job to kidnap her, and their paths eventually cross.
Most notably, the series’ biggest strength is its outstanding cast. Each actor, down to even minor characters, provides an impressive and moving performance. In addition to this general strength, the casting itself will leave fans of the books series riddled with impression at the accuracy and embodiment of the switch from book to screen.
Another faultless aspect of the series is its cinematography. Shot in Budapest, each still and sequence of camera movements are done with undeniable skill and provide beautiful angles that aid the series’ emotional depth.
“Shadow and Bone” is an entertaining watch for readers of the series and new viewers alike, but the show would be nowhere without Bardugo’s incredible world-building. Her involvement with the series truly shows, and fans of both the Shadow and Bone trilogy and Six of Crows duology alike will be impressed with how true to the literature each character is.
With an array of cinematic wins and an incredible cast and crew, “Shadow and Bone” is a must-watch for viewers of all demographics and backgrounds with the book series. Leaving its mark on the audience with personable characters and beautiful cinematography, viewers will be undoubtedly begging for a second season.
Released on April 23, “Shadow and Bone” is rated TV-14 and available for streaming on Netflix.
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