Tim Miller, the producer of Amazon’s new animated anthology series Secret Level, understands the challenges of appealing to gamers. The show comprises 15 episodes, each inspired by different video game franchises, ranging from classics like Pac Man to contemporary titles such as Honor of Kings. In an interview, Miller expressed a unique concern: “We’re not afraid of the companies. We’re afraid of the fans.” This insight highlights the pressure creators feel when engaging a passionate and often vocal gaming audience.
Secret Level follows the success of Amazon’s Fallout adaptation and taps into the lucrative trend of transforming video games into television content. Recently, Amazon and Games Workshop partnered to develop films and series based on the Warhammer universe. One episode of Secret Level is dedicated to Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2, which is noted for its rich lore spanning 40 years. Director Dave Wilson emphasizes the balancing act required in adapting such deep narratives for television, stating that translating a character’s fearlessness into compelling storytelling poses unique challenges.
The series features well-known actors including Keanu Reeves, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Kevin Hart, while also spotlighting voice actors like Laura Bailey and Clive Standen, who bring added depth to the gaming universe. Wilson notes that fans appreciate seeing their favorite performers reprise roles across different mediums, creating continuity that resonates with them.
Despite mainly positive initial reviews, Miller and Wilson acknowledge the fear surrounding audience reactions. The online discourse surrounding gaming can be intense, as highlighted by the backlash faced by the team behind Concord, Sony’s brief online shooter that was canceled shortly after launch. Miller expresses a hope for more constructive discussions within the gaming community, wishing that toxicity would lessen, allowing for better communication about creative endeavors.
Overall, Secret Level represents a bold exploration into the intersection of gaming and television, showcasing the passion of both creators and fans. As the show continues to roll out, there’s hope that it will foster a more positive dialogue surrounding adaptations and the shared love for video games.
In summary, Secret Level aims to bridge the gap between gaming and television while acknowledging the unique challenges posed by a passionate fanbase. Its creators are optimistic about the potential for respectful engagement in discussions about the series and hope that audiences will embrace the heartfelt efforts put into this adaptation.