adaptations of video games into movies and shows
Chronology
This animated anthology series features original stories set in the world of iconic video games. Video games have made their way onto the big screen, and we’re celebrating over 50 genres up close. Clive Standen reprises his role as Demetrius Titus, the protagonist of the video game Space Marine 2.
The episode takes place after the events of the game
Aside from a few cool episodes, Secret Level feels like a monument to mediocrity. The writing is painfully average, dragging the show down despite the undeniably stunning visuals—though even they feel like warmed-over remnants of a decade of excellent video game cinema. Honestly, what is this show trying to do or say that the last 10 years of video game marketing haven’t done (and done better)?
Where are the big names?
The list of titles is impressive. The lack of heavy hitters screams one thing: the creators didn’t want to be part of a train wreck, or they were waiting to see if Season 1 would stick the landing. Spoiler alert—they didn’t.
Short-form storytelling seems to have completely eluded its creators
What should have been taut, effective, and memorable comes across as disjointed and uninspired. Variety called it a “banal snoozefest.” and for once, Variety wasn’t challenging enough. The Secret Level proves that flashy visuals can’t hide a lack of vision, heart, and originality!