Overview of The Pendragon Cycle: Rise of the Merlin
The Pendragon Cycle: Rise of the Merlin is a seven-episode, cinematic reimagining of the Arthurian mythos that streams exclusively on Daily Wire+. Set before King Arthur and Camelot, it focuses on the rise of Merlin and a myth treated with "weight"—faith, duty, and brotherhood are central. The production took three years, spans two continents, and aims to deliver a serious, large-scale epic from an independent media company.
Key points and main takeaways
- Format: Seven-part epic cinematic series; episodes released weekly.
- Now available: Episodes 1 and 2 are streaming now (early-access audience received first two on Christmas Day).
- Release schedule: New episodes drop every Thursday on Daily Wire+.
- Production scope: Three years in the making, filmed across two continents, emphasizes practical sets and tangible worldbuilding.
- Tone and themes: Serious, consequential fantasy—faith, duty, brotherhood, and earned outcomes are emphasized over spectacle without substance.
- Positioning: Marketed as a premium, ambitious project distinct from other contemporary fantasy on streaming platforms.
What sets it apart
- Practical production design (practical sets rather than solely CGI).
- A focus on narrative weight and consequence; every episode builds toward something "earned."
- Ambitious scale for an independent media company—described as their most ambitious project to date.
- Early audience reaction highlighted intensity, visual impact, and a unique tone compared to other fantasy shows.
Notable quotes from the promotional transcript
- "This is what premium is supposed to look like."
- "Set before King Arthur, before Camelot, before the legend you think you know."
- "Seven episodes, one legend."
Who should watch
- Fans of serious, myth-driven epic fantasy that prioritizes story and thematic weight.
- Viewers looking for a different take on Arthurian/mythic origins (pre-Arthur focus).
- People who prefer tangible production values (practical sets, location work) over heavy CGI spectacle.
Where and how to watch (action items)
- Platform: Exclusive to Daily Wire+.
- Start: Episodes 1 and 2 are streaming now.
- Schedule: New episodes released every Thursday.
- Recommendation: Subscribe to Daily Wire+ to stream the series from episode one.
Final takeaway
The Pendragon Cycle: Rise of the Merlin is presented as a bold, large-scale, and thematically serious retelling of pre-Arthur legend—designed to feel earned and substantial, and positioned as a standout in current fantasy offerings.