Nicholle Fenstermaker

I reread the book last week to prep for this, I've been waiting for a faithful adaptation for almost 15 years. This show so far is a disappointment. The pacing focuses too much on conversations that either didn't happen or happen out of order and negatively impact implications of character motivation. Some of the casting choices are a bit strange to me; I think all the actor performances are fine for the scripts they were given. However. Why is Gabe just some guy? I wanted to hate him, but he's just, there. He doesnt strike me as someone who has an odor so pungent that it would cover Percy's demigod smell. Luke does not give off the charisma I wanted him to have on first impression. I liked Mr. D but wanted him to be meaner. There are small details that I just don't understand, especially with costuming. Why does Grover's opening shot show him wearing shorts? In the books it's stated that he ALWAYS wears pants. Small detail that is so easy to fix. Why does every camper have the same number of beads on their necklace? Annabeth is supposed to have more than any other camper, but every camper has the same number and same amount of beads. Why has there been no mention of a prophecy, besides Annabeth's desire to go on a quest? Why is capture the flag by the lake and not a stream? Why does Percy have possession of Riptide so long so early on? Why are we having these long conversations in the middle of what I'm supposed to believe is a life or death scenario (aren't we supposed to be running from a Minotaur?)? Why did Luke tell Percy about Thalia so early? Why does Grover encourage Percy to take up the quest to save his mom? In the books, this is a secret motivation of Percy to show him grappling with the stakes of a war amongst gods and trying to save his mother. The show paints complete disregard of the war from Percy's perspective, which lowers the impact of the implications of the lightning bolt theft. I anticipated some creative liberties, but I don't understand what any of these add to the show. I never thought I'd say it, but the show is making me appreciate the movies a lot more. I don't buy into the counter argument of "it's just a kids' show"; kids' media can be lighthearted AND still be well-made (hello, Avatar: The Last Airbender). I'm hoping I feel differently in the next couple episodes, but as it stands now I anticipate not watching the full season.