Why Henry Cavill's Warhammer Show Misses the Mark (Learn from The Witcher)

Henry Cavill's upcoming Warhammer TV series with Amazon Studios has generated a lot of excitement among fans of the game. However, looking at the actor's previous work, it seems that the proposed adaptation of the 40k universe may not be the best starting point. The Warhammer franchise is vast, spanning across various forms of media such as tabletop miniatures, video games, and novels, providing ample material for Cavill and Amazon to work with. Despite this, focusing on the futuristic 40,000 setting might not be the ideal choice.

It is clear that the Warhammer TV series is a project close to Cavill's heart. The Superman actor, who has been a fan of the hobby since childhood, continues to collect and paint figurines for battles. In an interview with the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Cavill expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, stating, "It is the greatest privilege of my professional career to have this opportunity... There is no greater reason that I joined the industry than doing something like this." However, there is another Warhammer TV project that may better showcase Cavill's talents as a performer.

Henry Cavill Should Make A Warhammer Fantasy Show, Not 40k

a heavily armored Warhammer warrior alongside an image of Henry Cavill in Argylle - Henry Cavill Should Make A Warhammer Fantasy Show, Not 40k

Cavill's plans for a live-action Warhammer show are already exciting, considering the groundbreaking nature of the project. Instead of opting for a futuristic setting like Warhammer 40,000, a better choice for Cavill and Amazon would be to explore the original fantasy world of Warhammer. This world, predating 40k by four years, draws inspiration from iconic authors like Tolkien and Michael Moorcock, focusing on massive armies, powerful heroes, and magic. The rich history of Warhammer Fantasy, coupled with its surge in popularity, makes it a promising setting for a new series.

Despite the official discontinuation of the original fantasy game by Games Workshop in 2015, the legacy of Warhammer Fantasy lives on through the successful Warhammer: Total War video games. These games, spanning three releases, have introduced a wider audience to the lore and allure of the original game. Additionally, the return of the fantasy setting with Games Workshop's upcoming 2024 game, The Old World, signifies a resurgence in interest. With this renewed popularity, a Warhammer Fantasy TV show would be a strategic move to captivate audiences – and Cavill is well-suited to lead the charge.

The Witcher Proves Cavill Is Perfect For Warhammer Fantasy

Henry Cavill Discusses Warhammer 40K Movie - The Witcher Proves Cavill Is Perfect For Warhammer Fantasy

Cavill's connection to Warhammer 40,000 is evident, but his success in a Fantasy TV show is undeniable. As Geralt of Rivia in Netflix's popular series The Witcher, he has already shown his ability to lead a high-fantasy show loved by many fans. His portrayal of Geralt was so well-received that he is now viewed as the definitive Geralt, making his potential departure disappointing. This experience clearly demonstrates his capability to lead a Warhammer Fantasy show.

While Amazon's focus on Warhammer 40k may seem logical due to the popularity of Games Workshop's Space Marine range, there are other factors to consider. The success of Warhammer: Total War games, the upcoming release of The Old World, and Cavill's perfect fit for a leading role suggest that not creating a fantasy Warhammer show could be a significant missed opportunity.

Source: Happy Sad Confused

Editor's P/S:

The article presents a compelling argument for why Henry Cavill should prioritize a Warhammer Fantasy TV show over a Warhammer 40k adaptation. It highlights the vast potential of the fantasy setting, which boasts a rich history, iconic characters, and a large fan base. Cavill's proven success in leading fantasy TV shows, as evidenced by his role in The Witcher, further supports the case.

While Warhammer 40k may have gained popularity in recent years, the article suggests that the fantasy setting offers a more suitable starting point for Cavill and Amazon. With its grounding in classic fantasy tropes and its resurgence in popularity, a Warhammer Fantasy show could tap into a wider audience and showcase Cavill's strengths as a performer. Overall, the article makes a strong case for reconsidering the focus of the upcoming Warhammer TV series and embracing the potential of the fantasy setting.