Tim Miller, the producer of Amazon’s new animated anthology series, Secret Level, acknowledges the challenge of pleasing gamers. The show features 15 episodes, each inspired by different video game franchises, spanning from timeless classics like Pac-Man to modern favorites such as Honor of Kings. While Miller feels confident about working with game companies, he admits to a certain apprehension regarding fan reactions.
Launching after the success of the Fallout adaptation earlier this year, Secret Level taps into the growing trend of Hollywood deriving material from video games, which often come with passionate fanbases. Recently, Amazon partnered with Games Workshop to produce films and series set in the Warhammer universe, including an episode of Secret Level based on Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2—a game that has greatly impressed audiences this year.
The series struggles to balance existing lore from expansive game narratives with the storytelling needs of a television show. Director Dave Wilson highlights this tension, using the example of the space marines from Warhammer who embody the motto “they shall know no fear.” He explains that adhering too rigidly to such concepts can hinder character development and narrative depth.
Featuring high-profile actors like Keanu Reeves, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Kevin Hart, Secret Level also includes renowned voice actors from the gaming world, such as Laura Bailey. Clive Standen, who voiced the main character in Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2, reprises his role in the relevant episode. The increase in recognition for voice actors reflects fans’ desire to support the talents behind their beloved characters and fosters a sense of continuity across different media.
As reviews for Secret Level have varied, the creators remain anxious about the audience’s reception. They recognize the potential for heated discussions surrounding video games, exemplified by the backlash faced by the developers of Concord—a game that Sony discontinued shortly after its launch. Miller expresses a desire for healthier dialogue within the gaming community, wishing for less toxicity and more constructive communication: “I would love to see that go down a little bit,” he says, emphasizing the earnest efforts of creators in the industry.
In summary, as Secret Level continues to capture the interests of gamers and viewers alike, there is hope that the conversation surrounding it, and gaming in general, can shift towards positivity. The merging of gaming and mainstream media provides an exciting opportunity for diverse storytelling, allowing fans to engage with their favorite franchises in new ways while appreciating the dedicated efforts of both creators and talent.