Dealing with a pre-existing legend can be a blessing and a curse for writers. On the one hand you want to retain the familiar icons, on the other why bother if you’re not going to impart something fresh? Merlin sits deftly between these two aspects managing to feel new yet familiar at once. The third season is bolder than its predecessors, more fluid in its themes and confident in their delivery. From the energetic two part opener to the thrilling finale it reaps the rewards of what has sometimes seemed like too careful an approach. On reflection we can definitely see a three year game plan that pays off in every department. Perhaps the most surprising thing- though those of us who’ve watched since the start shouldn’t be too surprised- is how well it has done in the ratings. Latter season three episodes were getting 6 to 7 million viewers despite being scheduled against The X Factor. You suspect even Simon Cowell might raise an eyebrow over that.
