"The Magicians" is a Syfy channel show about... wait for it... magicians. If you're a fan of Harry Potter, you're probably going to be interested in it. While these magic users don't whip out wands, they do go to a magic college and get up to crazy hijinks. There are some funny and interesting characters that make me wonder where the show is going next. It also deals with mental illness in an interesting way. I am a fan of the show's approach, but your mileage may vary. I would describe the tone as semi-serious, not as emotionally exhausting as "Breaking Bad" but a lot more plot than "The Office." Here's a taste of "The Magicians":
1. Harry Potter.
This show is very aware of its inspirations. There are lots of fun little digs at the Potter franchise.
2. Eliot.
Eliot is a really fun character. If I ever feel like the show is getting a little slow, I stick it out for more Eliot.
3. Penny.
Penny is another great character. You find out pretty quickly that there's more to him than meets the eye.
4. Magic Rave Parties!
The spell gestures in this show are... hit or miss. They went with an idea and stick to it, I can respect that. Although now I wonder if all those kids dancing to "house" are actually magicians...
5. Battle Magic!
As a kid, I always wanted to see more of the wizard dueling in Harry Potter, but never really got my wish. Well, now the magicians have plenty to offer.
6. Mundane Magic!
The battle magic is cool and all, but a lot of the spells in this show give me fantasies about how much more productive I could be with magic.
7. Quentin.
The lead of the show. I don't always love his character, but he definitely has his moments. I've warmed up to him a lot.
8. Mind reading shenanigans!
Penny has very strong opinions about his music.
9. More Quentin.
He does have his moments. Also, I'm a straight male, but Jason Ralph (Quentin) is a damn good looking dude.
10. Drama!
The show has its heavy moments, too. There are some deliciously evil characters that you love to hate.
11. More drama!
And sometimes, evil gets even eviler.
