Retelling old tales is not an easy feat, however, Blood of Zeus does that effortlessly. It is worthy of praise and applause for its animation and top-tier voice acting. But what sets it apart is its complexities and themes, represented splendidly through the characters.
Take Hera, for example, who is both a powerful Goddess and a wife. She is wronged by Zeus and his countless affairs that catalyze her quest for vengeance. But what tops it off is the rivalry between Heron and Seraphim, which might get ruined ultimately.
To give context, the series’ core theme may potentially hamper the dynamic between both characters. Yes, it is a driving force of the series, which adds more depth to the overall premise. Though some things are better left alone, there are many reasons behind that. Let’s unpack this now, shall we?
Family is the overarching theme in Blood of Zeus
Blood of Zeus is a rare gem that reimagines Greek mythology with a twist. Several factors contribute to its masterpiece status, including flawless animation, seasoned voice actors, and a compelling narrative. This is also reflected in the story’s themes.
Other than loss, longing, and suffering, redemption takes the centrestage in the series. This is true for Seraphim’s case, where he comes to terms with his humanity. His duality makes him a more fleshed-out and layered character, but there’s more.
As for Heron, Zeus’s son, he harbors mixed feelings toward his father, mainly because of his actions. The dysfunctional bond makes it real compared to a superficial portrayal of families. This is because the series depicts gods as more human and flawed than divine and perfect beings.
Besides that, the theme of family is far-fetched from a surface-level portrayal. This is also synonymous with the makers’ decision to diverge from the conventional approach of rewriting mythological tales. It’s one of the reasons why Greek drama and its elements work well with the Netflix series.
Interestingly, Charley Parlapanides shed light on familial themes in the series in an interview. He said:
Greek mythology is just one big family soap opera. We grew up in a very big, tight-knit Greek family. So, I think that was always, even subliminally, part of the draw for us making this show. It’s about families and it all just meshed.
Additionally, the side characters aren’t divorced from the events and upheavals occurring in the main characters’ lives. For example, Zeus’ feud with his sons exists alongside Hades’ unrest and difficulties. This also affects his relationship with Persephone since everyone is involved.
It is indeed a complicated and complex family drama where everyone and anyone is involved. But it is as interesting as it gets as the show proceeds. However, there’s a huge problem. While family dynamics are necessary, they might hinder Heron and Seraphim’s relationship.
How does it affect Heron and Seraphim’s dynamic?
Heron and Seraphim are similar yet different in many aspects. Both are Elektra’s sons and powerful characters who share enmity. They are modeled on Hercules and his twin brother Iphicles. However, there’s a major difference between them.
Heron in a still from the Blood of Zeus series | Credit: Powerhouse Animation
One stands for humanity, while the other sides with demons. They have their loyalties, but instead of demarcating the lines of good and evil, the show depicts them as flawed characters. Their enmity makes them different, in contrast to Hercules’ myth.
Their union would defeat the purpose of re-imagination itself. It would boil it down to nothing, which is why some things are better left untouched, and that includes these characters’ relationship with each other.
