It's an honor for Andrzej Sapkowski to be the author of The Witcher novels. However, deep within his heart, it's quite not fulfilling since Netflix, the streaming giant behind its TV adaptation did not listen to his ideas.
Netflix is Not Listening to The Witcher's Author
Sapkowski, the writer behind The Witcher series, which served as the foundation for CD Projekt Red's game series and Netflix's TV adaptation, recently shared his thoughts on the visual adaptations of his works.
Eurogamer picked up that during a conversation at Vienna Comic Con, Sapkowski expressed that seeing every visual adaptation of The Witcher was "strange" for him. Since he is a writer, he conveys his narrative through words.
The Polish author often finds it intriguing, noting, "Oh, this is the way they picture it. Interesting." This offers him a chance to witness various perspectives, sometimes welcoming the interpretations sympathetically, while other times, it may not align with his vision.
"My raw material when I work, it's only letters. I do not describe pictures. I don't see any pictures. I use the letters only because I know that my reader will see in the book the letters only, not the pictures. So I have to do with my letters to make the reader imagine the picture, not the other way around... so every [visual] adaptation, it's simply strange for me," he said.
Mixed Feelings on Netflix Series
The interview later shifted focus to the Netflix series, with Sapkowski sharing his experience visiting the set. While he commended the set as "tremendous," he disclosed that Netflix never considered or implemented any of his feedback.
Furthermore, he humorously remarked that, despite potentially offering ideas, Netflix's response was dismissive: it echoes a comical imitation of a Netflix executive saying, "Who's this? It's a writer, it's nobody."
As of writing, Netflix has not replied regarding the author's statement, according to Hollywood Reporter.
Henry Cavill's Departure and Source Material Fidelity
Sapkowski's choice of words gains significance in light of Henry Cavill's departure from the Netflix series.
While Cavill hasn't explicitly stated the reasons, speculation suggests his unhappiness with the deviation from the literary source material.
The Geralt actor, who is a devoted fan of the books, aimed for a portrayal faithful to Sapkowski's creation. His departure raises questions about the show's direction and its fidelity to the original narrative.
Meanwhile, Freya Allan, who plays Ciri, previously highlighted Cavill's dedication to the source material, referring to him as a "Witcher bible."
Future of The Witcher Franchise
With Netflix's fourth season introducing Liam Hemsworth as Geralt, fans anticipate a new interpretation. Hemsworth steps into Cavill's shoes, inheriting the role and the challenge of meeting fan expectations and staying true to the literary origins.
On the literary front, Sapkowski assures fans that he is actively working on the next installment of The Witcher book series, promising a release in the coming winter.
