Never read the novel, but was curious enough to watch the 1st episode due to the involvement of Neil Gaiman + Ian McShane + Gillian Anderson.
I suppose the word I'd use is . . . . ermmmmmmmmm . . . . different
Visually AMAZING, episode 1 had elements of gore that reminded me of "300" (the movie), and a plot that developed slowly, being complex, clever & shocking.
The acting is also premier league - VERY well cast, directed and executed.
I'll certainly stick with it for a while to see how things (ahem) gestate.
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