The Witcher TV show adaptation has received even more controversy following its Season 3 release on Netflix. Many viewers have sworn off the show after this installment, either due to changes to the source material or because Henry Cavill will no longer play Geralt of Rivia.
If audiences can look at the show as a separate storyline not bound to the exact specifications created in the source material, there are some good reasons to keep watching. As a fantasy show, The Witcher has everything from fascinating creatures to detailed lore. Season 3 was an intense turning point for the plot, promising dedicated viewers an exciting series worth giving another chance once Season 4 is released.
10 The Witcher Started Including Much-Needed Representation
The Witcher has gotten better at representing a diverse cast. In Season 3, the first LGBTQ couple was introduced, beginning a romance with fan-favorite Jaskier and newcomer Prince Radovid. Despite this not aligning with the source material, it was a positive change to the storyline.
The Witcher's source material is a beloved novel series, but like many medieval-inspired fantasy stories, it is lacking in diversity. While it's understandable that fans of the source material don't like unnecessary changes, diverging from canon to be more inclusive isn't a sign of disrespect for the original, but respect for the diverse audience.
9 Liam Hemsworth Could Surprise Viewers
A main reason audiences have decided to quit The Witcher adaptation after Season 3 is the departure of Henry Cavill as Geralt of Rivia. Despite the controversy of the show, viewers love how Cavill portrayed the character and believe no one else can do as excellent of a job.
It's disappointing to see Cavill go, but it's hasty to judge how Liam Hemsworth will perform as Geralt before he's had a chance. Getting over the change to Geralt's physical appearance is a challenge, but one that can be bearable if Hemsworth performs well as the titular character.
8 Exciting Exploration of Lore
Die-hard fans of The Witcher novels and video games have called the show out on not portraying the lore accurately. However, fans of the show can't deny the great lore present in the adaptation. Some interesting inclusions to the worldbuilding include the Djinn in Season 1, The Deathless Mother in Season 2, and the Jackapace in Season 3.
Since the Witchers in this world are tasked with fighting and killing monsters for profit, it goes without saying that the show needs to continue to introduce fantastical beasts. While it may not be all according to the canon version, the Netflix series has succeeded in creating a magical, dangerous place that makes for an incredible binge-watch show.
7 The TV Show Is Developing Its Own Canon
There will never be an end to debates when a TV show is based on widely popular source material. Though every fan is entitled to their own perspective, screen adaptations changing things in the storyline is not an unusual occurrence. Many times, the reasoning for this is simply that creating and producing a series is far different from writing a book world.
The creators of these shows often seek to appease fans of the source material, but they also need to appeal to the screen audience. This leads to necessary changes, such as The Witcher fleshing out Yennefer's backstory to give the character more depth than she received in the novels. The canon of the novels is undoubtedly rich, but that doesn't mean the TV show canon can't deviate from it without also having its merits.
6 Strong Feminist Themes
The Witcher is named after the male protagonist who is often in the spotlight. However, in many ways, the women in this world have stolen the show. Geralt may be a focal point of the story, but he isn't the central piece of the show's main plot.
Despite Geralt of Rivia capturing the interests of viewers, Princess Cirilla is at the heart of the plot. Though there are subplots that focus on various characters, every other main protagonist has Ciri's interests in mind. This dominant focus on a young woman with a powerful gift and captivating personality places this fantasy show at the forefront of strong female representation.
5 Found Family Trope
There are many strong aspects of the show that make it a fun watch. One trope that has grown increasingly popular in recent years, especially relating to fantasy stories, is found families. This plot device focuses on a group of people that are as bonded as any other family despite not having a blood relation.
In Season 3, the most endearing moments were between Geralt, Yennefer, and Ciri. The two adults have taken on the parental role of raising and protecting Ciri, not just out of obligation or morals but because of their love for her. This wholesome dynamic is at the heart of the storyline and an enticing reason to see what becomes of the family in Season 4.
4 Many Unfinished Plotlines
After Season 3, there are questions The Witcher needs to answer in the upcoming plot. Since the season did not leave off at a point where a viewer would be satisfied with a believable ending, quitting the show now means there are many plotlines left unfinished.
In the finale, Geralt is once again separated from Ciri and is on a mission to find her before Emperor Emhyr. The King of Redania was murdered by Philippa, leaving a distraught Radovid at the hands of his brother's murderers. Istredd was kidnapped by the diabolical Vilgefortz and his location remains unknown. This past season was a turning point in the plot, promising several storylines to come.
3 Milva Has Finally Been Introduced
Milva is a beloved character from The Witcher source material that was recently introduced in Season 3, Part 2. She is a human war refugee who was living with the Dryads while Geralt was being treated for his injuries. In the finale episode, she joined Geralt and Jaskier on their journey to find Ciri.
In The Witcher Season 4, Milva will likely get more screen time. As a strong female character admired for her previous representation in this universe, her TV adaptation has a lot of potential. While fans are angered by the changes to the canon, introducing this iconic character is a good reason to see what happens next.
2 More Thrilling Battles To Come
Nilfgaard has been a formidable enemy to the heroes since Season 1. There have been some epic battles throughout the plot, from the Battle of Sodden Hill to the Battle of Aretuza. These are thrilling moments from previous seasons, which have likely been foreshadowing more epic battles to come.
Emperor Emhyr seeks to use Ciri's powers to take over the world and rule all the kingdoms. Now that he has a fake Ciri at his side, his efforts could grow more intense. The last scene with Ciri also hints that the princess is finally ready to step out of hiding and use her skills in battle. The first few seasons of this show have been building up to an intense war that may come to fruition in Season 4.
1 Ciri's Storyline Is Getting More Intense
As previously stated, Ciri truly is the focal point of this show. Her unique gifts have made her a target and caused her immense pain. However, her character arc has also been fueled by determination and passion, building up to a young adult character that has the ability to change the world.
Throughout the seasons, Ciri has not only become physically stronger and skilled but has also learned to control her magic. In Season 3, the viewers watched her go through a challenging ordeal that resulted in her showcasing just how impressive she's become as a warrior. Now surrounded by strangers and away from her protectors, Season 4 will capture Ciri in her independence with all the skills she's acquired throughout her journey.