I’m the type of Netflix subscriber who clicks whatever Netflix hands to me. Even if that means 365 Days. But I’ve reached the age that I could decide to stop watching a series or a movie if I deem it unwatchable. Time is precious, my dears. Netflix just released the British series, The Bastard Son and The Devil Himself.
Spoiler alert for “The Bastard Son and The Devil Himself” pilot!
The Bastard Son and The Devil Himself
Caught between two warring clans: the son of a notorious witch responsible for a deadly massacre tries to find a place in the world – and his powers.
So this was the copy I read. I’m pretty sure that I first read something else but I can’t find it. Anyway. The show is an 8-episode fantasy series. Think Harry Potter x The Misfits x The Irregulars. I almost forgot the title of that last one. I’m sure I’ll forget the title “The Bastard Son and The Devil Himself” in the next month or so. It’s one of those algorithmic shows Netflix has been producing. Not complaining though. Just remind me when/if a new season is out. The show is based on a book called “Half-Bad.”
Side note: The episode starts with Amerie’s “1 Thing” playing. So sabi ko, bakit ang luma ng music!? Tapos flashback pala. HAHA.
Fairborns Witches vs. Blood Witches
The two warring clans are called Fairborns (the “good” witches) and the Blood Witches (the “bad” witches). “Muggleborns” are called Fains in this universe but I think they are pretty irrelevant to the story. So wag na tayo isali.
Nathan is the Bastard Son. He has a half-sister named Jessica who is more devious, in all honesty. I haven’t encountered a blood sister character that evil since the twins series, Echoes (I also had to google this since I can’t bloody remember the titles anymore!) Their mother was killed 10 years ago presumably by Nathan’s father, The Devil Himself.
Since Nathan is a suspected blood witch, he is regularly monitored by this tall lady from the Fairborn Witch Council with a cool haircut. She has a short Yes-or-No checklist, just like a regular wellness check in the office. She also cuts Nathan’s arms using a knife and times how quick he heals. A Blood Witch heals faster than Fairborns, FYI.
Sibling Rivalry
When a witch reaches their 17th year, a ritual will be performed. They will be given three gifts and will have to consume a family member’s blood to be granted one power. In Nathan and Jessica’s case, their only relative is their grandmother. Jessica got her power in the pilot. I won’t spoil it. I spoiled enough. HAHA. Okay fine, shapeshifting! This will come in handy when she decides to tie Nathan up to prove that he is indeed a Blood Witch. Bloody hell. I was rooting for Jessica’s redemption arc but I guess she’s pure evil!
Nathan still has less than a year before he turns 17. I guess his power will be revealed in Episode 8? I know my Netflix algorithm shows, I tell ya. This puts him in a predicament since a lot may happen especially to his granny. Nooooo. As I am writing this, I realized why can’t his sister give him blood? Is it because Jessica hates him? Or is it supposed to be someone who’s older by generation. Idunnaur.
The Pros
The Bastard Son and The Devil Himself’s pilot is actually pretty good. It quickly builds its universe without giving too much details that will hurt your brain. And since we are already familiar with wizards and witches. Thanks to who shall not be named. The themes of the show are relatable and interesting enough to binge-watch. Each witch also has a unique power making me curious enough to finish the series. This was the case for me in The Irregulars and Heroes, if you are a tita.
I also like the casting. I am not familiar with the book but the actors seem fit and credible as their characters. Nathan played by Jay Lycurgo is easily a protagonist I can root for. And I think more interesting characters will be introduced in the coming episodes. Ahem. Gabriel played by Emilien Vekemans.
I also like how the cinematography is similar to other British shows like Sex Education and Heartstopper. We get to see a bit of London! Netflix UK & Ireland shows are the best (next to Netflix España, of course!)
The Cons
I think the bad side is that the show is quite a lot of similarities with the Harry Potter Universe. Like Harry, Nathan will save the Fairborns from his father. Or at least be instrumental to it. HOWEVER, it is good that they acknowledge this by name-dropping Harry, Hermione and Ron in the pilot.
The pilot also doesn’t have any steamy scenes. This is a Netflix algorithm staple so let’s watch out in the coming episodes.
The Verdict
Recently, I find it difficult to watch a show and give my 100% focus, but The Bastard Son and The Devil Himself pilot got me to put my phone down and pause my Tiktok FYP. I do hope that it gets better until the end.
I like the plot and the characters are people I want to be invested in. So basing on the pilot episode, Netflix’s The Bastard Son and The Devil Himself is a GO!
All 8 episodes of the first season of The Bastard Son and The Devil Himself is streaming now on Netflix.
