Critics Divided on Liam Hemsworth’s Debut in The Witcher Season 4

The fourth season of Netflix’s fantasy series, The Witcher, has sparked a mixed reaction from critics following the departure of Henry Cavill and the introduction of Liam Hemsworth as the new lead, Geralt of Rivia. As the show continues to evolve, fans are weighing in on whether this change enhances or detracts from the series that debuted in 2019.

With Cavill stepping down, expectations were high for Hemsworth’s performance. Critics have been vocal in their assessments, reflecting a broad spectrum of opinions about the new season, which consists of eight episodes.

Assessing Hemsworth’s Performance

The reviews reveal a stark divide. The Guardian rated the season just 2/5, stating, “The replacement that Netflix has chosen for lead actor Henry Cavill is utterly lacking in his predecessor’s likability.” The publication criticized Hemsworth’s portrayal as “a scowling lunk” and felt that he failed to capture the essence of Geralt, suggesting that viewers may find it jarring to adjust to the new actor in such an iconic role.

In contrast, Metro offered a more optimistic view, giving the show a score of 3.5/5. The reviewer praised the creative introduction of Hemsworth’s character through a romanticized retelling of Geralt’s adventures. They noted that the series successfully navigated the challenge of replacing its lead, providing a compelling viewing experience for fans of the fantasy genre.

Mixed Reactions Across the Board

Other critics voiced their concerns as well, with The Independent echoing sentiments of disappointment, rating the season 2/5. The review characterized the fourth chapter as a “tick-box exercise,” feeling that the series has lost its initial charm and coherence. The review lamented the degradation of quality since its inception, highlighting that no amount of imaginative swordplay can hide the show’s decline.

“It’s clear that Netflix’s flagship fantasy series has lost its magic,”

stated RadioTimes in a similar vein, also awarding the season 2/5. The publication criticized the inconsistent tone and uneven performances, suggesting that Hemsworth’s portrayal did not resonate well with the established fan base.

Conversely, GamesRadar took a brighter stance, rating the season 4/5. The review emphasized the brisk pacing and engaging storytelling, concluding that the series is “better than ever” with a setup that excites viewers for the final season.

Variety summarized the season as “action-packed and full of dazzling characters,” indicating that despite the cast change, the series has managed to reclaim some of its former magic. This publication highlighted that the fourth season is a “reset,” effectively addressing previous plot issues.

As the debate continues, viewers are encouraged to form their own opinions about Hemsworth’s debut as Geralt. The fourth season of The Witcher is now streaming on Netflix, inviting fans and newcomers alike to delve into its latest adventures.