Well, they finally did it! Hallmark Hall of Fame had brought many fine productions to the television for many years; then for some unknown reason they dried up. Suddenly they were back with a vengeance! The late nineties gave us four particularly fine mini-series:..."The Odyssey", "Gulliver's Travels", "Alice in Wonderland", and "Merlin".

This production was marvelous! The life and times of that mystical mage, were a wonder to behold. Sam Neill, gives another fine performance. Although, I felt he was an odd casting choice. Nonetheless, he pulled it off. Another odd casting is Martin Short. He plays an impish elf, who initially conspires against the mage. He eventually changes his loyalty, and becomes an unlikely hero. Here again, I was surprised. Short usually plays comedic roles, and the idea of him playing a relatively serious role was in doubt. He did fine.

This TV movie gave us far more than we had been expecting. Television films are almost always terrible! (Except for HBO, or SHOWTIME.) I was pleasantly surprised.

The tale revolves around the "secret" life of Merlin; Gand Vizier of King Arthur's Court. We are enlightened as to the Wizard's early years, and shown his motivations and "talents".

We follow Merlin's career, through his years with King Arthur, and the tragedy therein. His is a sad tale and despite his triumphs; there is also great loss.

A truly wonderful cast, and impressive special effects, should make this film a classic. I look forward to more from "HALLMARK". They have renewed my interest in made for TV movies.

SEE ALSO: EXCALIBUR & MONTY PYTHON & THE HOLY GRAIL

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