Twilight of the Gods is an adult animated series created by Zack Snyder (together with Jay Oliva and Eric Carrasco) and released on Netflix on 19 September 2024.
The plot follows half-giant heroine Sigrid and Viking king Leif: on their wedding day, Sigrid’s clan is wiped out by Thor, pushing her to swear revenge against the gods. In this ATN review, we analyse the series from thematic, stylistic, mythological, and editorial perspectives, with a particular focus on European and Nordic audiences.
Strengths
1. Impressive mythological atmosphere and visuals
The series succeeds in bringing Norse mythology to modern visual storytelling. Realms such as Jötunheim, Asgard and Hel are rendered with striking detail and scale. Critics note: “While many will come for the series’ R-rated brutality, the tenderness at the core …” The design and animation — produced by French studio Xilam Animation in collaboration with Stone Quarry Animation — show real craftsmanship. For Nordic-minded viewers, the blend of Viking imagery, symbolism, and human-divine tension is particularly appealing.
2. Themes of vengeance, love, and divine power
The narrative pivots around Sigrid’s thirst for revenge, her bond with Leif, and the complex relationships among gods, giants, and humans.
Reviews highlight its focus on “grief, revenge, love, and fate,” giving the story more emotional weight than many straightforward fantasy series.
3. An adult tone with mature storytelling
This is not a children’s show: violence, nudity, and brutality are central elements. As one reviewer put it: “Drink deep.” For adult viewers — especially those seeking darker interpretations of Norse myth — this is a strong point.
Weaknesses
1. Style sometimes outweighs substance
Despite its visual impact, several critics argue that the series occasionally prioritises spectacle over narrative depth, sticking to Snyder’s signature style. Some note that it “fails to explore the most exciting aspects of Norse mythology.” Those hoping for strict mythological accuracy or deeper philosophical exploration may feel underwhelmed.
2. Pacing and episodic structure
With only eight episodes per season, character development and subplots often feel rushed or under-explored.
One critic even commented that with “12 more episodes, there would be far more emotional weight and depth.”
3. Creative liberties with Norse mythology
This is a modern reinterpretation, and it plays fast and loose with traditional sources. If you’re expecting a faithful retelling of Norse myths, you might find this more “epic pulp” than “mythological canon”. Revenge, sexual tension, and violence are amplified for dramatic effect.
Who It’s For — And Not For
Recommended for:
Fans of Norse mythology open to bold, modern reimaginings
Adults seeking a dark, mature animated fantasy
Viewers who enjoy Zack Snyder’s trademark epic style
Less suitable for:
Purists looking for accurate, source-faithful mythology
Viewers who prefer slower, introspective storytelling
Families with children or teenagers (the content is decidedly adult)
Nordic Relevance for ATN
For All Things Nordic readers, the series is noteworthy as an example of how Norse mythology continues to shape global entertainment. It also opens interesting questions such as:
Which mythological elements are preserved, altered, or reinvented?
How does the visual language mix authentic Norse aesthetics with pop-culture influences?
What does the theme of “revenge against the gods” say about myth reinterpretation today?
Overall rating: ★★★/★★★★★
Twilight of the Gods is visually spectacular, emotionally charged, and a significant entry in the “adult Norse-mythology animation” niche.
Not flawless — but undeniably compelling.
Read more on AVClub.com, Decider.com, Rottentomatoes.com
