Spellbinder

a young boy is transported to a medieval-like world that is technophobic. it is ruled by a band of spellbinders who, while wearing specially built suits, can shoot energy bolts.

yes, it sounds corny and contrived, but the show has energy and a good cast. yes, it's predictable too since its kiddie fare, but its been a long time since good adventure show has been put out on a budget like this.

the show lacks infantile humor and shows plausibility in the interaction between the youngsters and their interaction with adults. no "home alone" here.

the story really takes off when the young hero makes it back to his world and discovers the spellbinders want to take over there as well.

i was shocked to see this on the disney channel. Of course, the network doesn't seem interested in airing it again. just goes to show you that anything without a cross-marketing tie-in or toyline is taken off television these days.

Plain brilliant. Quite well acted from most of the cast, especially the leads, kids and adults. Lost in a parallel world, Paul Reynolds must find a way home, while dealing with deepening crises in his new land. The key to the story is the way the plot builds, with Paul meeting various intriguing characters who constantly escalate the plot. It is at times nothing short of riveting. The downside is that it is a bit slow in the middle, with a basic dynamic of getting into some sort of trouble, then getting out through some clever ruse, and into the next snare. It begins to wander around in parts, going somewhere, but not all that quickly. Still, this is essentially brilliant writing. I love kids shows, and this was always a favourite. Constant cliffhangers and non-stop action.

I just got it on DVD direct from Australia, and I must say it was a wonderful sight / experience to watch the first season / 1st series again. I was stuck to the screen while I re-watched all 26 episodes in less than a week! Now... waiting for the next part. Spellbinder 2: Land of the Dragon Lord to come out on DVD. Some years ago the series went on Danish TV and that was something could get my attention. Funny thing is that now when I see when the series was made... the actors/actresses are about my age. This mix of current date (at the time) happenings and a parallel dimension where people live much more primitive is fascinating especially is this context. I can only recommend everyone to watch this series at the first chance you get!

It is definitely top entertainment. The people who thought up the plots/ideas were genius! If I were to compare this series to another series it would definitely be another Australien series "The Girl from Tomorrow".

I enjoyed Spellbinder as a kid, and I realize that most of its viewers are either children enjoying old shows, former children who loved it when they first saw it, or sci-fi lovers stuck with this program's world. Anyway, I recommend it to all of those who want to see an unforgettable, epic adventure. The leads (Paul and Rianna) are adorable (played by two young, unknown actors), and the main antagonist, Ashka, is mesmerizing. There is no other show like this, not even the spin-off "Land of the Dragon Lord". In fact, it is amazing the fact that it is a short, concise story with a heavy-storytelling style. Bottom-line: If you feel in the mood to watch a sci-fi show meant to take you to a parallel universe, or if you want your kid to stop watching the latest TV garbage, do not miss this show.

I watched this series when I was a kid. now watching it again 20 years later.