By TANIA PHILLIPS
IT SEEMS historical drama is still in vogue in a big way.
First came Rome and then The Tudors and Spartacus and now we have Vikings (it was only a matter of time, right?)
The Canadian-Irish production has already been renewed for a second season in North America but makes it free-to-air debut on SBS tonight.
Premiering with the first two episodes back to back, the dramatic untold story of the fiercest warriors of all time comes to life in the new drama series, Vikings.
Direct from the US, this top rating series stars two Australians (of course) – let’s face it, it is hard to find an American show that doesn’t have a Brit, an Aussie or a Canadian as it’s stars.
In this case it’s model, actor and former Calvin Klein model Travis Fimmel and actress Alyssa Sutherland.
While Vikings is filled with conflict, warfare and bloodshed there is also a family saga at its heart.
It follows the adventures of Ragnar Lothbrok (Travis Fimmel), a curious, compelling man who is always looking to break through barriers and discover new worlds to conquer on his quest to become King of the Vikings.
A young farmer and family man, Ragnar is deeply frustrated by the unadventurous policies of his local chieftain, Earl Haraldson (Gabriel Byrne).
Tonight’s double-header begins with the first episode – Rites of Passage at 8.35pm and continues at 9.30pm with Wrath of the Northmen.
Set in eighth century Scandinavia, Ragnar Lothbrok (Fimmel) is a warrior and a farmer who dreams of finding riches by bucking the tradition of raiding to the east. Ragnar has been working in secret on a project that will turn the Viking world on its head.
But first he must convince the leader of his community, the powerful Earl Haraldson, of the project’s potential.
Filmed in Ireland, Vikings is inspired by the tales about the Viking Ragnar Lodbrok, one of the best-known Norse heroes and notorious as the scourge of France and Britain.
What: Vikings
When: Thursday, 8 August from 8.35pm
Channel: SBS One (nine-part series).
