'The Storyteller: Greek Myths' "Theseus and the Minotaur" (1987)
Opening thoughts: Was a big fan of 'The Storyteller' as a child and still do consider it a timeless classic. Didn't even know that 'The Storyteller: Greek Myths' even existed until it appeared as a recommendation when working my way through reviewing all the episodes of 'The Storyteller'. It immediately interested me, as someone who has always really liked Michael Gambon and who loves Greek mythology. While loving the original story, "Theseus and the Minotaur" was not quite as highly anticipated as the other three, having seen some very badly designed and characterised minotaurs in film and television.
Luckily, that was the complete opposite in "Theseus and the Minotaur". In fact, the minotaur is the main interest here in another truly excellent episode of 'The Storyteller: Greek Myths'. "Theseus and the Minotaur" may not have "Perseus and the Gorgon's" creepiness (or at least quite in this case) or "Orpeheus and Eurydice's" poignant emotional impact, but everything that is so great about the show is obvious here and it is a great accessible introduction to the story.
Good things: It still holds up incredibly well, it is beautifully and atmospherically shot and has the standout setting of the show with the genuinely creepy maze. Also notable is the look of the minotaur, was honestly expecting it to look cheap and goofy considering the show's age but it is actually pretty imposing and scary. The minotaur is also genuinely sinister in characterisation.
Music is rousing in parts and haunting in others, in a way that never jars. Writing never came over as awkward or cheesy and is always intriguing and thought provoking. The storytelling is also spot on and truly arresting, mixing rousing adventure and dark suspense adeptly sometimes in a way reminiscent od something like 'The Dark Crystal'.
Everything in the maze is suspenseful in a nail biting way and the climax thrills. Theseus is a strong, heroic and relatable hero and the minotaur as said is very memorably sinister, one of the creepiest minotaurs seen for me actually. The acting is fine from all, though actors in the other episodes stood out more. The minotaur comes off best.
Closing thoughts: Overall, excellent.
10/10.
