Netflix has done it again with the release of “Shadow and Bone,” an action packed, magic-filled series that would satisfy the fantasy cravings of any frequent binge watcher. 

Based on “Shadow and Bone” and “Six of Crows” by Leigh Bardugo, the eight episode series combined the trilogy and duology into one storyline. As someone who never read “Shadow and Bone,” only “Six of Crows,” the meshing of the plots was well done and made the story move along and stay interesting. 

Set in the fantasy world of Ravka, “Shadow and Bone” centers around Alina Starkov (Jessie Mei Li, “All About Eve”), an orphan mapmaker who discovers she is a Grisha, or someone who can use magic. Alina’s gift is light, and she is immediately swept into a new world of luxury as she learns to use her power. 

Alina’s power is so important because of the Shadow Fold, a dark, dangerous piece of land covered in black mist and full of flesh eating monsters called Volcra. Created by The Dark Heretic centuries before, the myth of the Sun Summoner who could destroy the Fold and save countless lives was known by all. Declared a saint, Alina must learn who to trust while managing her new fame and power. 

One reason “Shadow and Bone” was such a success was the use of many plotlines and characters. While Alina’s journey was a major part, the story of The Crows contributed heavily to the overall enjoyment. 

From the city of Ketterdam on the other side of the Fold, Kaz (Freddy Carter, “Free Rein”), Inej (Amita Sunman, “The Outpost”) and Jesper (Kit Young, “Endeavour”) lead a life of crime in the worst parts of the city. With Kaz as their leader, Inej as their spy and “wraith” and Jesper as their sharpshooter, the gang makes a living stealing and doing jobs for the wealthy. 

Their banter and overall chemistry together makes any scene gripping and delightful to watch, as they scheme their biggest job yet. Though The Crows are main characters in the series, the only backstory we get is Inej’s, but even hers is limited. Knowing each of their stories from “Six of Crows,” it would have added more to the characters to see someone else’s past other than Alina’s. 

The third story follows a Grisha woman and a Fjerdan soldier, a race of people dedicated to exterminating all Grisha. Their story is very minor and is a classic “enemies to lovers” trope, and though it is cute and funny, does not add much to the overarching plot. 

“Shadow and Bone” also stands out due to the diversity of its cast. Mei Li, who played Alina, was born to an English mother and Chinese father and experienced racism while growing up in England. Alina throughout the series also experienced racism because of how she looks, despite being raised in the same place as her caucasian bullies. The cast overall is made up of lesser known or first-time actors and fully represents the diversity Bardugo originally wrote.

Even with the three plotlines moving at once, the story does slow and become predictable in some parts. That being said, there are still plenty of gasp moments and plot twists to keep any fantasy lover hooked until the very end. 

“Shadow and Bone” is another huge success for Netflix . Though the series has yet to be renewed for a second season, its incredible cast, sets and production will assuredly prompt audiences to beg for more from Alina and The Crows.

Image from Netflix via YouTube