Merlin Complete BBC Series 5 [Blu-ray]

ARTHUR'S BANE - PART ONE: A strong opener with amazing visuals. Liam Cunningham (Game of Thrones) is a great guest star and steals most of the scenes he is in. Gwen has come far in the three-year gap between Series Four and Five. She appears to be much stronger and confident in her role as Queen - at one point even proving that she can make tough decisions when Arthur is away from Camelot. The episode ends on a great cliffhanger which leads nicely into Part Two. (4/5)ARTHUR'S BANE - PART TWO: This episode follows on from the previous and like episode one, does not disappoint. The visuals are just as good and in some parts better than the first and the fight scenes are great. This episode also sees the return of Aithusa (from Series Four) and also another character who plays a huge part in Arthur's fate... Morgana appears to be slightly psychotic and in one particular scene shows how much she despises Arthur. There is no going back for her character, who appears to be a cat with nine lives. The ending is a huge surprise and will get viewers excited for the rest of the series. (4/5)THE DEATH SONG OF UTHER PENDRAGON: Whenever a TV series has a really strong opening story, the following episode sometimes seems to be a little bit of a letdown. Episode Three however proves that this never has to always be the case. Anthony Head (Uther Pendragon) obviously returns as a guest star and proves that just because his titular character is dead, doesn't mean he cannot be a threat. Arthur, being a very different king to his father, has brought more peace to Camelot and even allowed men who are not born noble to become knights. This would always have shocked Uther and viewers are able to see his disgust. Uther's words at times are truly harsh to the son he craved so much. Certain scenes feel slightly like Poltergeist and as such may not be suitable for young children. Like the previous two episodes the ending is almost the best part. For those waiting for the big reveal this will surely come as a nice surprise. On the other hand, with this only being the third episode, the truth is not revealed just yet. But how much longer can it be? (5/5)ANOTHER'S SORROW: Not as good as the previous episode but not terrible. Princess Mithian returns (Series Four), and is being used (and at times tortured) by Morgana. Morgana appears to have advanced her magic in this episode as she spends the majority of it under the effects of an ageing spell. Viewers will know that Merlin is also able to do this but in the beginning needed a potion to reverse it. Morgana on the other hand does not - proving she is moving ever closer to being Merlin's equal. (3/5)THE DISIR: This episode, in my opinion, was a slight improvement on episode four however was again not as good as episode three. This episode appears to be borrowing from Shakespeare, as the enemy feels like Macbeth's three witches. Unlike the previous two episodes we finally get an episode that focuses on Mordred. He has a huge scene half way through and will make viewers question just whose side he is on. If it's not Arthur than Mordred is a great actor. This episode also has a twist similar to that from "The Crystal Cave" (Series Three) which has huge concequences on Arthur's fate. There is also a moment in this episode that will shock the viewers and possibly make them go "what????". (4/5)THE DARK TOWER: Finally! An episode as good as, or possibly better, than episode three. This appears to be the darkest episode of Merlin yet and shows why the show is now being shown only slightly before the watershed. This is a very dark episode which at times is too dark for younger viewers. This episode belongs to Angel Coulby (Gwen) who gives her best performance yet. Having been kidnapped by Morgana, she spends the majority of the episode locked inside the titular "Dark Tower" which strikes fear in the hearts of knights. This episode sees the return of psychological torture in the form of the mandrake root. Like most of the series so far, this has an ending which is totally unexpected - in lots of ways. (5/5)A LESSON IN VENGEANCE: This episode was not quite as good as last weeks but was not terrible either. With Morgana determined more than ever to kill Arthur, darkness settles itself into the very heart of Camelot. Morgana finds herself in a unique position of power when the character she brainwashed last week hatches a sinister plan to murder the King. But when stable hand Tyr Seward becomes caught in the crossfire, he threatens to ruin everything. There is one particular scene featuring Tyr which will certainly shock fans. The creator's didn't lie when they said this will be the darkest series yet. Unlike "The Dark Tower", this episode has more humour. This episode also sees the return of Old Merlin - however I feel it was slightly a waste of time seeing as he was only used in a comedy scene. Overall an enjoyable, if slightly predictable, episode. (4/5)THE HOLLOW QUEEN: A young Druid named Daegal (guest star Alfie Stewart, who some could say looks like a younger Merlin) arrives at Camelot seeking out Merlin's help. After a moment of reluctance, Merlin eventually heads out on a lengthy journey to the Valley of the Fallen Kings, where events take a much more sinister turn. Back in Camelot, Arthur prepares for the arrival of Sarrum of Amata (guest star John Shrapnel, who puts in a brilliantly sinister performance). Colin Morgan shows why he is perfect in his role as Merlin, especially in one shocking moment of the episode when he truly shows the pain and anguish that he is going through. Like most of the episodes from this series, Mordred is almost entirely missing. Morgana's storyline, however, does make some progress this week, when we finally discover more information about her two-year captivity between the fourth and fifth series. These facts include learning how she was caught in the first place and also how white Dragon Aithusa became so deformed. A good episode which continues to make this a truly magical series. (4/5)WITH ALL MY HEART: Since the announcement that Series 5 will be Merlin's final ever series, I have been wondering whether it was a smart idea to end it so suddenly, simply because it raises many questions. Can the show conclude everything while still satisfying the loyal fans? Will we ever see Merlin reveal his magic? Well this episode sees the end of the "puppet queen" and finally brings Mordred back into the action. The plot wastes no time in getting Arthur to see just what his "evil" wife has been up to and after asking Gaius if he knows of a cure, Merlin goes to see the Dochraid (seen in Series 4). Unlike a previous episode in this series, old Merlin is not shown in a comedic way but instead sees Colin Morgan portray him as a force to be reckoned with. As the Mordred plot hasn't really been seen since the first two episodes, it's nice to see some development this week. We also see a moment in this episode which may pinpoint exactly who his allegiance is with, however, Vlahos still plays him in a way that you never can tell whose side Mordred is really on. With this series being, in my opinion, the darkest yet, it seemed a bit of a let-down that the ending was so silly. This series has had quite a few episodes where the situations seem impossible and a magic reveal would not only have saved the day but also captivated the audience. Overall this was an average episode that moved the plot forward slightly. Originally I was going to give this episode 3 stars but after seeing Merlin in a dress, it has to be slightly higher. (4/5)THE KINDNESS OF STRANGERS: With the `Puppet Queen' arc finally done and dusted it is essential for the creators to now begin setting up the finale and also tying up any loose ends. For this episode they do just that. Merlin's secret is now so dangerously close to being exposed it surely is only a matter of time before the big "reveal" comes. "The Kindness of Strangers" begins with immediate confrontation as within the first minute Morgana hunts down one of the few people who know the true identity of Emrys and also where to find him. Long term viewers will recognise him as Alator of the Catha (Gary Lewis - Series 4). Many will remember him as the man who tortured Gaius in "The Secret Sharer". However, in a reverse of fortune, he has become the one being tortured with some truly shocking actions from Morgana. Alator insists that Morgana is wasting her time as he will not break, but Morgana has other ideas. Fans that have waited desperately for a Merlin-centric episode will be very satisfied with this one as Arthur and Gwen are pushed aside for Merlin's story to develop further. After discovering a strange amulet, Merlin decides to investigate which leads him to a strange and mysterious hooded woman who goes by the name of Finna (Sorcha Cusack). Once again Colin Morgan puts in another amazing performance as the titular character. Merlin is not only at risk of being exposed but also ends up fighting for his life (especially in one tension building moment). Katie McGrath plays Morgana wonderfully and it really is surprising that before `Merlin' she had very little training or indeed roles in anything else. In two particularly shocking moments, Morgana becomes more ruthless than ever as her search for Emrys intensifies. Overall there are a few larger plot developments this week and despite not being quite as revelatory as some would prefer it is still a strong instalment that will leave viewers desperate for more. (5/5)THE DRAWING OF THE DARK: This is an episode Merlin fans will not want to miss. It's a powerful story that sets-up the epic two-part finale brilliantly. The episode opens with Arthur, Merlin and the Knights coming across a Saxon camp that is full of dead bodies. Mordred receives a shock after he notices a hooded figure fleeing from the site. It soon transpires that this woman is a druid girl from his past called Kara. He knows that if Arthur discovers her she will be executed and as such orders her to leave immediately. Unfortunately for Mordred, Merlin has seen them both together and, knowing Mordred is destined to kill Arthur, is more suspicious of his actions than ever. Kara is later caught and imprisoned testing Mordred's loyalty to Arthur. Like all of series five this is another dark episode, however, with very little humour. Unlike last week's episode, which was focused mostly on Merlin, this episode finally gives Mordred a chance to shine and develop him as a character. This is an essential development that is needed in order for viewers to believe Mordred's motive as to why he would go against Arthur. This is an amazing motive because it will make the viewer question if they should be siding with Merlin... One could assume that with Merlin being the titular character we should side with him without question; however this episode proves that he can be a little harsh and may have actually shoved Mordred into this dark path. Overall this was an amazing instalment into what has been a truly brilliant and strong series so far. The episode ends on such a good cliff-hanger that the week between this and the finale will be excruciatingly long. Without a doubt the best episode of the series and will leave you desperate to see how it all ends. As for the finale - don't miss the preview... (5/5)THE DIAMOND OF THE DAY - PART ONE: After last week's episode, it is only natural for fan's expectations to be extremely high. The story begins with Morgana and Mordred (who is immediately forgiven for his past attempts on Morgana's life due to the secret he revealed last week). They are organising the most evil of plans to strike Arthur in a way that may hurt him more than any sword ever could. For anyone who may have questioned Merlin in the last few series' all I can say is - watch this episode! It truly is one of the best so far and some could argue the best of series five. Knowing exactly who Emrys really is, Morgana is now armed with the knowledge that should she remove Merlin first, Arthur will be more vulnerable than ever. As such her final and most elaborate plan is put into action... It is not all doom and gloom with the story having Merlin and Arthur taking a trip to the tavern and having a game of dice. This is a moment of calm before the storm but with the die cast events soon take a turn for the worse. In a vicious attack, Merlin is left truly defenceless when his magic is removed, therefore leaving Morgana free to launch a merciless attack on Camelot's borders. Having Morgana remove Merlin's magic is reminiscent of "The Sword in the Stone" as it looks as though she is returning the favour. Arthur prepares for war but Merlin has no choice but to leave him to go into battle alone. Unlike the third series, both series four and five have hardly used Gwaine, so it's nice to see Eoin Macken get a bit more screen time. In this episode we meet his love interest Eira (Erin Richards "Being Human"), but is there more to her than meets the eye? Colin Morgan truly gives an amazing piece of acting with one scene being truly powerful. Morgana gets a long-awaited confrontation with Merlin however this is annoyingly cut short. I like to think of this as the starter course with the main course being in Part 2 (Christmas Eve). For fans since the earlier series', there are some nice flashback scenes and a face from Merlin's past returning. Overall, it's a captivating set-up for the final ever episode - let's hope it proves to be magical. Look out for a wonderful ending which will certainly leave you desperate for the big reveal - especially with the voiceover in the "Next Time" preview... (5/5)THE DIAMOND OF THE DAY - PART TWO: This is it. After five wonderful series' of Merlin we've made it to the final ever episode. This episode picks up immediately where Part One finished with the greatest battle in Camelot's history proving deadly on both sides. Knowing this is the battle which will ultimately lead to Arthur's death, Merlin races to help the friend he has fought so hard to protect. We finally get a look at the true might of his powers when he effortlessly defeats the majority of Morgana's soldiers. The fight scenes are of a truly epic scale and it really is impressive that the BBC managed to pull this off on a much smaller budget then Hollywood would have given had this been a film. The battle, however, is soon over and leads straight to the moment fans have been waiting for - Mordred vs. Arthur. I will not spoil the outcome for viewers who haven't seen it but let me just say it may just shock you. I would have preferred if it was young Merlin defeating Morgana's men but I suppose it looked more epic with older Merlin. Everyone in this show upped their game for the final outing and Colin and Bradley truly shone. After Eira's treachery is discovered, Gwaine and Percival try to kill Morgana, which I thought was stupidity at its greatest. How could they possibly defeat her? However, this was simply a way for Morgana to track Emrys down for a final confrontation. Despite how evil she has become I still love Morgana's character so credit must go to Katie McGrath. And that brings us to the ending. It truly is divisive - some will love it and others may not. Overall, this was a satisfying finale - one that hopefully gives all fans the ending they wanted. Goodbye Merlin and thank you for four magical years! (5/5)Camelot's great trial has begun and with the die cast, expect the unexpected. This series has been truly amazing and after the final episode is easily the best yet. With the fifth series confirmed to be the last - complete the collection with this amazing DVD!

I had all the other series. Series 5 did not disappoint. Was expecting a used item, but was brand new :)

Great thanks I love Merlin just as much as Harry potter film,s.

This completed the boxset of what was a very well done and thought out series. Will remember it for years to come. Won’t reveal spoilers but it is a great take on the King Arthur legend and a twist with the protagonist, Merlin’s role in all of this. Refreshing cast, settings and plot. Highly recommend.

Great set of dvds all good will buy adgain

It was a decent series: yes there were various problems but to be fair, its a family show and its tendency toward pantomime was fine; in that context. The end was fine too, though perhaps an hour long episode would have provided it with greater opportunity to fully develop the ideas because it did feel a bit rushed. The main actors were all decent to good with Colin Morgan, as usual, being stand-out. If Colin is not at least offered the role as the next Doctor something is seriously wrong.The only real negative in what was otherwise a solid affair was episode 5 which saw Merlin going entirely against what he believed in, Arthur being far too much like his father and the whole episode had me questioning if I wanted to finish the series - it made no sense whatsoever, if it had been left out it would have been better.Overall then, apart from Colin Morgan (who was great) no fireworks but a good workmanlike series, enjoyable: a decent end to decent series.

Where do I begin?I came across Merlin at the start of season 4 and from then on I was hooked. In a land where the use of magic is outlawed & punishable by death, Merlin is destined to bring unity to Camelot - Simple eh? Allow me to break down what I think makes the series great!Arthur, Merlin & Morgana - As a prince, Arthur can not be responsible for cleaning his own clothes, preparing his own food & clothing himself - enter Merlin! Merlin is assigned to Arthur as his servant (The worst servant in the world) & it is from here that their friendship flourishes. What Arthur doesn't know is that Merlin is a sorcerer - but not just "a" sorcerer - possibly the most powerful sorcerer that has ever lived! As for Morgana, all is not as it seems...Gaius & Gwen - As well as being Arthur's servant, Merlin is also a physician (In learning) tutored by Gaius. On the many adventures Merlin undertakes he wouldn't get very far without Gaius.... Gwen is Morgana's servant - Sweet & innocent as she may be she soon becomes integral to the plot.The Knights Of Camelot - This is one aspect of the show that really surprised me - The knights are not dull & boring but instead have their own individual stories and personalities. As the story progresses and darkness descends, the bond between Arthur and his knights becomes key.Simplicity - It's hard to explain but the way magic is handled is very simple & because of this its believable to the characters. As the episodes progress you get a sense that characters are becoming more "powerful". To me this gives a sense of progression and depth which really adds to the atmosphere.Plots within a Plot - As episodes progress you begin to get a sense of what Merlin is trying to achieve & just as you think he is making progress the story will take a U-turn. Someone may die, Camelot may be attacked or perhaps there are dangers within the walls of Camelot itself.... Each episode brings something new to overcome..The Final Episode - This is what we have been waiting for! How does it all end? Who lives and who dies? For me this was exactly what was needed - when this was aired on TV I became so engrossed in the moment I felt like I was actually there. The acting was simply superb.If you're unsure or considering purchasing the series then I would definately recommend it - Easily 10/10!

this was amazing to reach the end of the series. it was also heart breaking and the actor who plays merlin. acted a brilliant part. was an ending i didnt really expect but superb series. im a pensioner would reccomend it to any one. the special effects are out of this world.

I ordered a used because it was a lot cheaper than new and the disc's were in good quality. There were no dents in the casing and the disc's themselves played flawlessly. No scratches at all.

Brilliant, and works great.Waiting for seasons one to three be released on Blu-ray.

Qualità eccellente, molti extra, eccellente prodotto per una serie senza tempo e per tutti. In inglese con sottotitoli in inglese, ma questo è scritto ovunque, quindi inutile lamentarsi dopo. Arrivato alla data stabilita, forse un giorno prima, come sempre.

First off a friendly warning:Disc 3 only has 3 eps on it, though it's labeled Episodes 9-12. Do not worry. The last disc, 4, has the missing ep... the final two parter, though it is labeled Episode 13. Have no clue how this happened, but it's the only thing I had a problem with.*SOME SPOILERS: BEWARE!*The final series of Merlin, in my opinion, left very few questions to be answered, namely the fate of the younger dragon Aithsu. Did Merlin ever go back to Camelot after sending Arthur's body on its way? (Of course there's really no spoiler here, we all know how the legend ends, it's just 'how' it ended for this show that's the mystery, and I'll keep it as such, with the exception of saying keep a box of Kleenex or even a paper towel by your side. I should have used a paper towel. The Kleenex did little to absorb all the tears I shed. Colin and Bradley's performances in their final scenes was what defines the word 'Bromance'. This relationship, above all others in the story line, was the central focus and remained so until the very end. Be prepared. If you are wrapped up in this series, you WILL sob your eyes out.)I have not been so involved in a television show in a very, VERY long time. It was the Bromance that drew me in and kept me riveted. As the producers/creators said, "It is a love story", but obviously between two clearly straight men. Merlin's love for Arthur is incredibly profound, Arthur's changing from a king who will not listen to his servant into a king that finally does, is as beautiful and breathtaking as the final battle scene when the sorcerer Dragoon makes his appearance. (For those who do not know who Dragoon is, watch the series from start to finish. Trust me, Colin has fun with this version of himself and it's quite evident. ;D)I am very sorry there will be no more of this story-line, but all good legends must come to an end, and sometimes it's as gut-wrenching an ending as it is satisfying (clue here: any show that brings me to a sobbing point is worthy of the 5 star rating I give it).Others who complain about the ending I know are only doing so because of the sorrow it caused. Others who have dissected this series and offered their complaints have missed certain elements within the plotting. I had the advantage of watching the series from start to finish within the span of 2 months, not five years, so I was able to keep fresh all the former hints and clues that were given to us. Watch it again straight through and you'll see what I mean.My only two complaints with the writing and acting was 1) Katie's bad habit of dropping her last syllables during her dialogues. Her acting was superb aside from that, but it was that little annoyance that, from the beginning,kept niggling at me and continued to do so throughout the series. Also her inability to maintain the British accent. She fell into and out of it more times than I would bother to count. Other than her speech/vocal mishaps, she played a fantastic Morgana. Her expressions were spot on, her sense of betrayal, even her compassion for Aithsu was compelling. Just wish she'd had a vocal coach to keep her on track.And 2) Gaius's constant pulling his knowledge of 'the Old Religion' out of his hat, as though he were a walking encyclopedia of all things mystical, and his constant refusal to accept Merlin's misgivings at his word. After 10 years of being at the boy's side, and having Merlin's 'funny feelings and suspicions' constantly verified, Gaius still cannot seem to grasp it that Merlin may just know what he's talking about. Arthur's (supposed) inability to do that is understandable... he has no idea Merlin is a sorcerer(Or does he??? see my view on this below), and looks upon him as just a servant. But Gaius? However, that being said, I love the character dearly as when he finally sees Merlin has grown up, he comes across as a father figure who doesn't want to see that happen. Those two things were my only complaints with the series. As for Arthur's being oblivious to Merlin's sorcery, I choose to believe on the side of 'plausible deniability'. He 'knows' Merlin is special, hence his constant need to keep his servant at his side, but if he allows himself to believe that Merlin is of magic he would be forced to deal with him. Yes, in the final magic reveal he shuns Merlin, but only for a while as he tries to wrap his head around the fact. Of course, this is all supposition on my part, nothing to really base it on fact, but I've been a victim of denial myself, so I keep wondering, does Arthur suspect anything at all about Merlin and is he just going into severe denial about it? It's possible. Then again, I'm a hopeless 'bromantic' and never want to see the boys at odds to the point of ripping their relationship apart. So I choose to believe for the best. It's my nature, sue me. ;DI will no doubt watch the entire series again and again. Bromances of this quality are hard to come by, and I seek them everywhere. This one delivered in spades!

Dernière saison 5 de la série Merlin composée de 13 épisodes en VF (sauf le bonus toujours en anglais et oui !). La qualité d'interprétation des acteurs n'a pas changé toujours excellente sauf que ceux-ci ont mûri dans leur rôle et laisse entrevoir un avenir plutôt sombre pour Arthur et son règne.Tout empire ou royaume a une fin et celle-ci n'y déroge pas hélas. Néanmoins Camelot pourra renaître de ses cendres et le mal sera vaincu tout du moins pour une bonne période mais il aura auparavant réussi à faire des ravages chez nos chevaliers. La scène où Merlin tient Arthur dans ses bras est mémorable, pour les âmes sentimentales et sensibles attention sortez vos kleenex !Dommage qu'il n'y ait pas une suite on ne s'en lasse pas !