Watch The New Legends of Monkey

The New Legends of Monkey is an iconic reimagining of the 1970s Japanese-Australian television series of the same name. A co-production between Netflix and the Australian and New Zealand broadcasters, the show features a talented ensemble cast led by Chai Hansen, Luciane Buchanan, and Josh Thompson.

The show is set in a fantastical world filled with magic, demons, and mythical creatures. Its protagonist is a young woman named Tripitaka (Buchanan), who embarks on a dangerous journey to find and retrieve sacred Buddhist scriptures. Along the way, she encounters three powerful and mischievous gods - Monkey (Hansen), Pigsy (Thompson), and Sandy (Emilie Cocquerel) - who agree to help her in exchange for their own freedom from imprisonment.

Monkey, who is a legendary warrior and a master of martial arts, is the most compelling character of the series. He is also impulsive, humorous, and a bit of a braggart, making him one of the most entertaining characters to watch. Tripitaka is his counterpart, calm, collected and always searching for a peaceful resolution to any conflict. They create an enjoyable dynamic, as Monkey's rash decision making often leads to dangerous situations for the group, which Tripitaka then has to handle.

Pigsy, on the other hand, is the clown of the group, providing comic relief during the more tense moments of the series. He's skilled at shape-shifting and disguise, making him invaluable during their travels. Sandy is a fierce warrior and the group's go-to fighter, she's powerful and usually the one to take down the harder foes in their path.

Throughout their journey, the group must fight their way through hordes of demons, navigate treacherous terrain, avoid cunning traps, and outsmart powerful sorcerers. Along the way, they learn new skills, acquire powerful weapons, and bond with each other. Their motivations for helping Tripitaka are different - Monkey seeks to regain his godhood, Pigsy hopes to woo Tripitaka, and Sandy wants to prove herself as a worthy warrior - but they eventually become a tight-knit family, willing to sacrifice everything for each other.

The show's production values are impressive, and the special effects are top-notch. The elaborate costumes, intricate sets and stunning landscapes all add to the immersive nature of the show. The visuals are a blend of Western and Eastern RPG aesthetics, with plenty of both colorful and muted shots that give the show it's unique vibe.

With a story set in a time far removed from anything resembling our present day, the showrunners have wisely chosen to anchor The New Legends of Monkey in relevant themes that resonate with modern audiences. The production explores themes like feelings of displacement, acceptance, and agency. The show addresses real issues while still being a fun adventure to watch, making it relevant to today's viewers despite the fantasy backdrop.

The show's pacing is a little uneven at times, with some episodes dragging or being filler, but the action sequences keep the show engaging overall. There's certainly enough action and adventure to keep you entertained throughout the thirteen-episode run.

In conclusion, The New Legends of Monkey is an enjoyable and entertaining series that is perfect for anyone looking for an adventure. With a talented cast, stunning visuals, and high production values, the show is sure to appeal to both young and old audiences. While the pacing may be a little uneven, the show remains engaging, and the themes explored within it are more than worthwhile. The show may take place in a mythical land, but its themes of family, redemption, overcoming fear, and unity are all evergreen concepts that make the show appealing for all audiences regardless of age.