KAOS TV Series Review: A Unique Perspective on Greek Mythology

KAOS TV Series showing Greek Gods Zeus Poseidon and Hera

Netflix’s KAOS TV series is an extraordinary artistic creation that enthralls viewers with its unique storytelling. An impressive standout is Jeff Goldblum’s mesmerizing portrayal of Zeus, which infuses the show with an extra touch of enchantment. In this review of KAOS, you’ll gain a fresh perspective that will hopefully enhance your appreciation for the series, which puts a unique twist on Greek mythology and the soap opera lives of the Greek Gods!

While the KAOS TV series might be the latest entry in the arena of reimagined Greek mythology, it’s far from the trailblazer. Oh no, this isn’t the first TV series to twist our beloved ancient Greek myths!

Cast your minds back to the British gem Atlantis (2013-2015), which took viewers on a whimsical adventure through the legendary city while giving a cheeky twist to heroes and monsters alike.

In addition, let’s not forget the slightly obscure but equally ambitious Olympus (2015) TV series, a Canadian-British venture that tried its hand at reworking of Greek mythology into a new, fantastical realm. Somewhat understandably, OLYMPUS has slipped into the depths of forgotten lore, but it’s still worth checking out.

There is also Disney’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians (TV Series), with season one (eight episodes) having premiered on December 19, 2023. It’s definitely another must-see TV series for fans of Greek mythology and adventure.

Each of these TV shows danced with the stories of old, remixing Greek mythology in an attempt to suit modern tastes. While they might not all have hit KAOS levels of buzz and excellence, they certainly sparked the imagination of anyone longing for a fresh spin on age-old legends.

Now it’s time to get your popcorn ready for another thrilling adventure with the Olympian Gods, whose captivating allure has enchanted audiences for centuries! KAOS is truly a must-watch TV series, so if you haven’t experienced it yet, make sure you check it out!

First, have a sneak peek at the exciting KAOS trailer for an enjoyable glimpse of what to expect. You can also find more interesting details and reviews about the KAOS TV Series (2024) by visiting the KAOS IMDb page.

KAOS TV Show Review: Greek Mythology Insights

Picture this: the thunderous Zeus, king of the Gods, comes to life on screen as none other than the legendary Jeff Goldblum in KAOS. But here’s the kicker — originally, it looked like that charming rascal Hugh Grant was going to grace us with his own version of the lightning-wielding deity. Cue the dramatic music: the deal fell through faster than you can say “Hugh Who?” and suddenly, like a magician pulling a rabbit out of a hat (or possibly a whole thundercloud), Jeff Goldblum swooped in to claim the crown.

Now, while Goldblum may be best known for his iconic performance in The Fly (1986) where he transformed from a quirky scientist into a nightmarish insect hybrid, let’s not forget his forays into Jurassic Park. Those dino-dodging escapades left audiences in total awe at his undeniable charm.

So, is Jeff Goldblum the right choice to don the toga of Zeus? Absolutely! With his unique blend of wit, wisdom, and just a sprinkle of whimsical eccentricity, he offers a refreshingly laid-back portrayal of the mighty god, preferring to swap the majestic toga for comfy tracksuits and soft-textured clothing that scream “divine leisurewear.” It’s as if Zeus decided that ruling the universe (and throwing lightning bolts) could be done while lounging in ultimate comfort!

KAOS Cast: The Greek Gods of Olympus

In the zany world of the KAOS TV series, Zeus isn’t flying solo in his celestial antics! Like everyone, you probably expect a whole cast of Olympian heavy-hitters to stroll in and strike a pose, but the actual line-up is a bit more exclusive. Sorry, Greek God fans — no Apollo strumming his lyre, Athena delivering wisecracks, Aphrodite giving beauty tips, or Hermes zipping around with his winged sandals. It seems those gods couldn’t make it for this divine KAOS party!

Instead, the KAOS TV series shines the spotlight on some of the more heavy-hitter deities, starting with the incomparable Zeus himself, portrayed by the ever-charismatic Jeff Goldblum.

Next up is Poseidon, played by Cliff Curtis, who must have a thing for cool sea breezes and ocean waves — because let’s be honest, this God of the sea would also be perfectly cast as the King of Tonga!

Then there is Hades, portrayed by David Thewlis, who defies the typical image of a brooding underworld ruler. Instead, envision him as a misunderstood deity, skilled at evoking sympathy for his often harsh and miserable role in the grand scheme of things!

And wait, there’s more! Hera, portrayed by the fierce Janet McTeer, isn’t just the Queen of the Gods — she’s the one trying to keep the chaos in check (good luck with that). Hera even seems to have her own agenda of stirring up some chaos.

In addition, we can’t forget about Dionysus, the ultimate party boy, played by Nabhaan Rizwan. You just know he’s the god who loves to show up at a massive rave party!

Rounding out this God/Titan ensemble is Prometheus, played by Stephen Dillane, who is basically the people’s champion — think of him as the god who’s always ready to lend a hand (or a gift of fire) to humanity, no matter the cosmic consequences.

The fact is that while the Greek Gods may sometimes stray from their divine duties, they are true maestros when it comes to orchestrating mayhem and they’re absolute masters of KAOS!

KAOS TV Series: Greek Mythology Themes Reimagined

There are seven main Greek myths that have been reimagined for the KAOS TV Series such as:

KAOS TV Series: The Immortality of Zeus

In Greek mythology, Zeus is the king of the Gods, reigning over Olympus with a thunderbolt in one hand and possibly a crown of clouds on his head.

In KAOS, he’s still the king, but there’s just one tiny hiccup — he’s developed a wrinkle on his forehead that’s causing him all sorts of existential dread! It seems as if nothing says “divine rule” like a midlife crisis wrinkle!

This wrinkle is no ordinary line, it’s a vertical mark of doom according to the Fates, which they’ve cryptically informed Zeus about. It’s a prophecy that could bring Olympus crashing down faster than a poorly made temple. Naturally, instead of indulging in some self-healing, Zeus jumps straight to the most drastic solution: he secretly decides to obliterate the Fates!

But wait — destroying the Fates isn’t just a quick way to smooth out his forehead. It comes with its own set of consequences that could turn Olympus into a cosmic sitcom. In trying to erase his problem, he might just end up creating an even bigger mess, leading to even more divine disasters and chaotic events. Who knew that the king of the Gods was just one wrinkle away from a full-blown divine disaster?

KAOS and the Prometheus Myth

Seeing Prometheus in KAOS was an unexpected highlight that just makes everything better! Here’s the Titan God who played the ultimate buddy to humanity, gifting everyone fire and a whole lot of trouble in the process.

Meanwhile, Zeus, that fickle father figure with a penchant for throwing tantrums, is a completely different kettle of fish. But here’s the twist: in the chaotic little universe of KAOS, Zeus and Prometheus are pals! Yes, friends, despite the fact that Zeus has him chained up on a rocky vertical cliff face — with an eagle pecking at his liver for all eternity!

In the KAOS TV series, Prometheus is the brilliant voice-over artist, narrating the wild escapades that unfold. It’s a delightful twist in the show. Picture it: here’s Prometheus, the titan of wisdom, calmly spinning tales from the confines of his eagle-infested prison. You’d think he’d be a little more frazzled, but instead, he’s got all the chill of a beach day while Zeus bounces around like a toddler who just downed a bowl of sugar cereal.

Of course, Zeus has to give his good buddy Prometheus some time-out in Olympus on occasion when he needs a sage opinion — or, you know, when he’s just bored. But let’s be real: this little arrangement isn’t exactly how the traditional Greek myths go.

Traditionally, the only time Prometheus gets a break is when Hercules finally swoops in, like a muscle-bound superhero with a serious case of hero complex, to rescue him from his perpetual rock and eagle routine.

KAOS: Dionysus, the Party God

In the whimsical world of Greek mythology, Dionysus was the ultimate party animal, throwing the wildest bashes you could imagine! His love for revelry was matched only by his shenanigans with his best buddy, the wild and playful God Pan.

Picture this: Dionysus, the God of Wine and Ecstasy, armed with goblets of the finest vintage, rallying his followers with an infectious spirit. And then there’s Pan, half-goat and all mischief, piping away on his flute, drawing in woodland creatures and nymphs for the merriest of gatherings.

Together, they’d turn the mountainside into a frenzy of laughter, dancing, and spontaneous debauchery! So, the next time you sip a glass of wine, raise it high in honor of these two party gods and their legendary escapades — the ultimate duo of divine fun!

Ah, but in KAOS, things take a delightfully unexpected twist! While Dionysus is still the life of the party — champion of wine and merriment — he’s also got a new agenda: a craving for responsibility!

KAOS: King Minos and the Minotaur Myth

One of the most famous Greek myths revolves around the Minotaur, a fearsome half-man, half-bull creature who dwelled in a labyrinth on the island of Crete. But in KAOS, while the basic premise is reminiscent of the original tale, things take a thrilling twisted turn! Forget about feeling indifferent to the Minotaur’s plight; in this reimagining, you’ll find yourself practically sending the poor beast a care package!

In this KAOS version of events, the plot thickens like a good bowl of Greek yogurt when we learn that President Minos — a rather dramatic character, if there ever was one — hides his own son in the labyrinth to keep him safe from… well, himself!

Ari (short for Ariadne), his daughter, is blissfully unaware of the family drama until the Fates decide to throw her a curveball, showing her a juicy TV recording of her father plotting to eliminate her twin brother. Talk about a shocking family reveal!

Why does Minos want to bump off his own son? Well, it turns out that a prophecy predicts the child will bring about his own doom! So, instead of a nice family vacation on Crete, we are treated to a suspenseful episode of The Real Households of Olympus, where bad decisions and anti-heroic antics take center stage.

As Ariadne learns the truth, she suddenly finds herself wrapped up in a labyrinthine mess of family secrets, prophecies, and a very misunderstood Minotaur just trying to cope. Who knew that behind the fearsome exterior of a half-bull monster was a tragic backstory worthy of a daytime soap opera?

Buckle up, because this quirky retelling is here to remind you that in the world of Greek myths, it’s the Minotaur that really deserves your sympathy — and maybe a few therapy sessions!

KAOS: Orpheus and Eurydice: Journey to the Underworld

The famous love story about Orpheus and Eurydice is definitely among the top 10 most inspirational love stories in Greek mythology — right up there with Cupid and Psyche. But in KAOS, things take an unexpected turn that would make even the gods raise an eyebrow!

Picture this: Enter Cassandra, the Prophetess of the Trojans, who bursts the romantic bubble of Riddy (short for Eurydice) by predicting her impending heartache. Talk about a spoiler alert!

But here’s where it gets even more entertaining: in KAOS, Cassandra is portrayed… well, let’s just say her looks aren’t winning any beauty pageants.

In the original myth, poor Apollo was head over heels for her, but in this version? He must have taken one look at her and thought, “Yikes! I’ll stick to the heavenly choir.” That’s probably why we don’t find Apollo hanging around in this zany series — who wants to woo someone who looks like they just emerged from a particularly rough monster truck rally? Or maybe her looks altered for the worse after the Trojan War tragedy.

Now, as for Orpheus in KAOS, he’s determined to rescue Riddy (Eurydice) from the Underworld — a classic tale of love and determination, right? But hold onto your lyres, because KAOS flips the script! Instead of the dreary dark realm of Hades, Orpheus has to walk through a harsh sandy-desert landscape, in a somewhat chaotic version of entering the Underworld.

Before he can reach Riddy, he must navigate a series of weird tests that feel like a bizarre game show. Gone are the days of trembling in fear upon meeting Charon and then taking a boat ride on the gloomy River Styx to the Underworld. In KAOS, Orpheus just needs to open a door as if he’s stepping into another universe!

But here’s the unexpected part — while he’s battling through sandy deserts and questionable challenges, Riddy over in Hades is having quite the time herself. She’s not just moping around — she’s fallen for someone else!

Yes, poor Orpheus is now competing for her affection just as he’s trying to save her. Talk about a tangled web of love!

KAOS: Cassandra and the Trojans

Ah, Cassandra! The eternal over-sharer of doom! What on earth is she doing hanging out in KAOS? One moment she’s predicting the fall of Troy, while in this Greek myth TV show, she’s also standing in a supermarket isle next to Riddy!

You see, poor Cassandra wasn’t just any run-of-the-mill seer; she had the unfortunate distinction of being a Prophetess and an honorary Fate — with a sprinkle of unrequited love from Apollo thrown in for good measure.

Imagine being cursed by the god of prophecy himself for rejecting his advances! Instead of a charming love story, she ended up with a lifelong gig of delivering bad news to a bunch of folks who really didn’t want to hear it. “Hey, Trojans, bringing that massive wooden horse inside the city of Troy is a really bad idea. Also, I must warn you, Troy is about to be destroyed with flaming arrows!”

You’d think with such a shining résumé, she’d be taking meetings with the likes of Hermes. But nope! Here she is — more of a glorified intern for the Olympians — dropping hints about impending doom.

And so, instead of strolling through the grand halls of Olympus, shaking her head at fate’s folly, she’s stuck navigating the labyrinthine chaos of KAOS in a twisted Crete setting, forever relaying prophesies with all the enthusiasm of someone who just stepped in gum. Ah, the irony!

KAOS: Hades and the Underworld

In the KAOS TV series, Hades is masterfully portrayed by the ever-charming David Thewlis. Here he comes across less like the fearsome god of the underworld and more like that overly meticulous clerk who works in a drab tax office. You know the type: always ready with a stapler in one hand and a stack of never-ending paperwork in the other.

When you line up the three brothers — Zeus, Poseidon, and Hades — in KAOS, it’s like seeing a family photo and realizing all of them are an entirely different species. Zeus, with his thunderous ego, looks like he’s just walked off the set of a comedy movie. Poseidon is all swagger with his ocean-blue hair and a trident that practically screams, “Look at me, I’m fabulous!” Then there’s Hades, who seems more suited to discussing depreciation schedules and overdue taxes than ruling the Underworld. If he had a name badge, it would surely read, “Hades: Your Friendly Neighborhood Tax Accountant.”

Ah, the Underworld itself is KAOS personified! It’s like a gloomy yet stylish underground lounge, done up in shades of black and white, with just enough ambiance to make you feel tragically hip. It’s reminiscent of a concentration camp, but not quite as grim — more like a really strict fraternity where the initiations are eternal, and the food is questionable at best. You might not be able to frolic in the sunshine, but at least you can curl up with a decent cup of coffee while contemplating your past mortal existence.

So there you have it: in the vivid world of KAOS, Hades might not be your classic portrayal of the lord of the dead, but with a little help from David Thewlis, we get a glimpse of the eternal struggle between running an underworld empire and managing the paperwork of a lackluster office job.

But then again, when your brothers are Zeus and Poseidon, the real challenge isn’t ruling the underworld — it’s just trying to keep up with their over-the-top theatrics!

KAOS: The Affairs of the Greek Gods

Many mortals know that Zeus has had a goodly number of affairs with mortal women — after all, he practically wrote the playbook on romance gone wrong.

In KAOS, however, they’ve cranked up the drama to Herculian proportions. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, enter the plot twist of the century: Hera, the Queen of the Gods, has decided to take a page from Zeus’s playbook and engage in a scandalous affair of her own! Shock! Horror! Cue the dramatic music!

Hold onto your togas, because the real punch in the face comes when you find out that her romantic escapade is with none other than Poseidon, Zeus’s own brother! Yes, you heard that right! The realm of divine relationships just reached unprecedented levels of awkward family gatherings. It’s an even more shocking affair compared to that of Hephaestus, who discovered his wife, Aphrodite, in bed with Ares, the god of war.

There is bound to be scandal in Olympus as a result, since Hermes delivers gossip faster than the speed of light! Oh wait, this can’t happen in KAOS because Hermes isn’t in the TV series — but you get the point.

Where was KAOS filmed? KAOS Film Locations Revealed

The most stunning film locations in KAOS draw inspiration from the legendary Olympus and the picturesque landscapes of Crete — but here’s the twist: KAOS wasn’t filmed in Greece at all! That’s right! Most of KAOS was shot in sunny Spain! Who would have thought our beloved Greek Gods would be prancing around the Iberian Peninsula?

It turns out, the Spaniards have a deep-seated admiration for Greek mythology, as detailed in the insightful post titled “The Greek Gods of Spain.” So, next time you’re watching KAOS, remember that those majestic backdrops are brought to life by the passionate fans of myth right in the heart of Spain!

Olympus Scenes in KAOS

Zeus and Hera’s residence on Mount Olympus was captured across three picturesque locations. In essence, the grandeur of Zeus and Hera’s world was beautifully brought to life with a blend of stunning historical locations and modern cinematic techniques.

The Beautiful Gardens in KAOS

The enchanting gardens for this magnificent setting were filmed at Villa d’Este in Tivoli, near Rome, Italy. Renowned for its intricate terraces and the central Neptune Fountain, this 16th-century Renaissance villa served as a summer retreat for a Roman cardinal and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Grand Staircase in KAOS

The grand staircase featured prominently in the mansion scene was sourced from the Royal Palace of Caserta in southern Italy. Commissioned by the King of Naples in the mid-1700s, this opulent palace was designed to rival the magnificence of Versailles, showcasing breathtaking architecture and vast grounds.

Olympus Home in KAOS

The interiors of Zeus and Hera’s opulent domicile were filmed at Villalís Palace in Alcobendas, near Madrid, Spain. Although the mansion appears historic, it was constructed only two decades ago by a journalist who amassed wealth in the 1980s and 90s. Spanning approximately 2,500 square meters, the residence boasts nine bedrooms, fourteen bathrooms, and five halls, and is available for rental as a filming location or for various events.

KAOS: Fictional Crete Film Locations

The establishing shots of Heraklion, Crete, were filmed at La Malagueta beach in Málaga, Spain. Local reports indicate that the palm tree-lined street in Heraklion was also shot along the Alameda de Colón Avenue in Málaga.

Iconic film scenes, including Orpheus’ performance on Olympia Day, took place in the semicircular Plaza de España in Seville, a striking square built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition featuring a captivating mix of Renaissance Revival and Moorish architectural styles.

One missed opportunity for KAOS was not featuring at least one real-life beach from Crete. Just imagine how fantastic that would have been! If you’re eager to explore the breathtaking shores of the island, check out this list: 12 Best Beaches in Crete: The Ultimate Beach Guide to Crete!

The captivating beach scene at the conclusion of the first episode wasn’t filmed in Crete, instead it was filmed at Santa María del Mar beach in Cádiz, Spain.

President Minos’s Palace in KAOS

President Minos’s palace in Heraklion, characterized by its colonnaded courtyard, is aligned with the adjacent Plaza de España. This structure has served as the headquarters for the Spanish army’s ground forces since the Fascist military took power during the Civil War.

The Temple of Hera in KAOS

For Hera’s temple, the production team utilized the Sant Miquel dels Reis monastery on the outskirts of Valencia. The façade was digitally integrated with that of the Casón del Buen Retiro, an annex of the Museo del Prado in Madrid, facing one of El Retiro Park’s primary entrances.

The interior scenes of Hera’s temple were filmed within the 16th-century church of the Sant Miquel dels Reis monastery, with a giant statue added digitally to the altar.

The Chapel of Hera serves as the charming Torregarcía Chapel, or Ermita de la Virgen del Mar, which is located on the eponymous beach in the Cabo de Gata region of Almería.

More Memorable Film Locations in KAOS

In an intriguing twist, the secret hideout featured at the start of the fifth episode is actually a stock footage image of Al Suwgra village in Jabal Akhder, Oman, nestled along the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula.

A brief scene in the sixth episode was shot in the courtyard of this historic Renaissance complex, which now hosts the Valencian Library.

The Cheste Educational Complex near Valencia provided the backdrop for the black-and-white “Asphodel and the Underworld” segments. This complex housed several key areas within the show, including the Centre for the Unresolved, the Lethe building, and the dining hall.

Another memorable filming location is “The Cave,” which was formerly the Alfaro restaurant situated near a gas station in Tabernas, close to Almería, Spain.

Aerial shots capturing the essence of Troytown were filmed in the vibrant La Palmilla neighborhood of Málaga.

Some scenes were captured on-location as early as 2021, which showcased Marbella’s Calle Parras adorned with vibrant murals depicting Poseidon and other elements of Greek mythology. These visually striking artworks were quickly painted over shortly after filming to conceal the production’s presence.

Collectively, all of these diverse and stunning locations vividly brought to life the themes and narratives of the KAOS TV series, hugely enhancing its scenic appeal and visual richness.

KAOS Review: Is KAOS worth watching?

KAOS TV series reimagines Greek mythology through the lens of humor and drama, presenting a world where Zeus is a tasteless, egotistical, and paranoid ruler.

On the other hand, Prometheus is his long-time prisoner and best friend, who secretly plots his downfall. This clever retelling is possibly as good as you could hope to see.

The imagination and world-building shown in KAOS is nothing short of phenomenal! The amazing 8-episode season of KAOS unfolds with a blend of rich storytelling and stunning visuals, contrasting the vibrant Olympus with the gritty mortal world and a stark, black-and-white Underworld. Each episode transports viewers into a richly crafted universe where every detail, from the intricately designed landscapes to the well-developed characters, contributes to an immersive experience.

The creative vision behind KAOS seamlessly blends myth and reality, drawing audiences into a vibrant tapestry that is as thought-provoking as it is visually stunning. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling, leaving us eager to explore the depths of its fantastical realms and the myriad possibilities they hold.

As soon as Dionysus (Nabhaan Rizwan) enters the picture, he embodies the emptiness that comes with a carefree lifestyle, yearning for deeper connections and acceptance from Zeus.

Then when the KAOS series introduces a mortal named Riddy (played by Aurora Perrineau), who symbolizes Eurydice from classic Greek mythology, the narrative takes an intriguing turn. In this modern retelling, Riddy finds herself trapped in an unfulfilling marriage to her rock star husband, Orpheus (Killian Scott), in contemporary Crete. Amidst her husband’s burgeoning fame, she grapples with a profound sense of emptiness, until a prophetic encounter in a supermarket prompts her to reevaluate her relationship. It just gets more and more interesting…

Whether you’re a fan of Greek mythology, a novice, or an expert, the engaging KAOS storyline captures your attention until the very end. Viewers definitely don’t need prior knowledge of Greek mythology to enjoy the KAOS television series, which makes it accessible to everyone.

KAOS: TV Cast Review

Jeff Goldblum delivers an outstanding performance as Zeus, perfectly capturing the character’s flawed yet larger-than-life persona.

The supporting cast also excel in their roles, showcasing a diverse range of characters whose intricate relationships drive the story forward. Each character, from the ambitious Prometheus to the disenchanted Riddy, adds depth to the narrative, making their struggles and triumphs resonate deeply with the audience.

KAOS: A Unique Perspective on Greek Mythology

KAOS is essentially about Zeus who senses a threat to his divine supremacy, as he believes he is at the mercy of a prophecy foreshadowing the downfall of the Olympian Gods.

Overall, the KAOS TV series emerges as a fascinating exploration of the dynamics among the Olympian Gods that skilfully intertwines ancient themes with contemporary issues. By reimagining classic mythology through a modern lens, the series not only entertains but also invites viewers to reflect on the timeless nature of power, ambition, and human connection.

With its rich storytelling, engaging characters, and stunning visuals, Kaos is a triumph that revitalizes the Greek myths we think we know, offering a unique perspective that is both thought-provoking and entertaining.

The Divine Plan of KAOS

Another impressive thing about the show is the very intriguing story twist in KAOS regarding human souls? This fascinating bold plot not only adds an unexpected layer to the storyline but also prompts everyone to ponder its deeper implications. Is there a kernel of truth hidden within this fantastical premise?

The show invites viewers on a whimsical journey through the delicate dance between humanity and mythology, poking fun at various ideas of the soul’s adventures after death. As we untangle the delightful enigmas of existence presented in KAOS, we might just find ourselves scratching our heads and pondering, “What on Earth is the point of life anyway — especially when the Gods seem to have a greater say?

And speaking of pondering, here’s another head-scratcher for you: 12 Greek Myths that Prove the Bible is Fake.

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KAOS TV Series Review