HBO Max’s 3-Part ‘Harry Potter Meets Stranger Things’ Series Is One Of Its Best Fantasy Shows

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Truly great fantasy TV shows are rare, and even rarer are those that deliver a satisfying conclusion. The most memorable series in the genre blend compelling emotional stories with surprising plot twists, often challenging traditional fantasy tropes. And, if fans are fortunate, these shows get a proper ending instead of being cancelled prematurely. Three examples of series that achieve this are Stranger Things, Harry Potter, and His Dark Materials. Although His Dark Materials might seem different, it actually shares several core themes with the other two, but explores them in a unique way.

Both Stranger Things and His Dark Materials feature fantastical alternate worlds – a terrifying ‘Upside Down’ in one, and multiple universes in the other. Harry Potter uses magical creatures called patronuses to show what characters are like, and His Dark Materials does something similar with daemons – companions that are almost characters themselves. However, despite their differences, all three series ultimately focus on characters learning about themselves and finding their place in the world.

His Dark Materials Pits Scrappy Heroes Against Cold Academia

The story begins with Lyra, a clever but unconventional girl living at Jordan College in Oxford. She prefers exploring and playing with her friends to attending classes. However, when a serious problem arises that the scholars at the college can’t solve, Lyra unexpectedly steps up, possessing the unique ability to read the alethiometer. Throughout the series, the characters are generally either independent and rebellious or dedicated scholars, and it’s often the rebels who achieve the most.

As a huge movie and TV buff, I’ve noticed a really interesting pattern in shows like Stranger Things and Harry Potter. In Harry Potter, Hermione is basically the brains of the operation, but she, Harry, and Ron constantly have to go up against adults who should know better, but often can’t be trusted. It’s similar in Stranger Things – you’ve got these really dedicated scientists, but then someone like Dr. Brenner comes along, and it’s a chilling reminder that even smart people can lose their way when they get too focused on progress. It’s like, knowledge and experience aren’t always enough to make someone a good person, you know?

The series His Dark Materials really emphasizes this idea, and features characters like Brenner who embody it. For example, Dr. Cooper works at the Bolvangar research station and seems completely unfazed by “intercision” – a cruel process of separating children from their souls. She’s employed by the cold and cruel Mrs. Coulter, the show’s main villain, who uses her intelligence to oversee these horrific experiments on children.

His Dark Materials Succeeds Where Harry Potter And Stranger Things Failed

All three stories – His Dark Materials, Harry Potter, and Stranger Things – were once considered fantasy classics. However, His Dark Materials has maintained its quality over time, while Harry Potter and Stranger Things haven’t aged as gracefully. Though Stranger Things season four was particularly intense and emotionally resonant, its final season felt hurried and awkward, introducing new characters at the expense of established ones. While Stranger Things was initially innovative, its ending didn’t quite live up to expectations. In contrast, His Dark Materials concluded its story with a powerfully moving finale.

While J.K. Rowling initially appeared supportive of the LGBT+ community, her outspoken opposition to the rights of transgender people and financial support of groups working against them have made it difficult for many fans to enjoy the Harry Potter series without considering her views. Although the original books may not have reflected modern diversity standards, Rowling’s recent controversial stances have had a far greater impact on how the series is perceived.

The three seasons of His Dark Materials
Season Episodes Year Rotten Tomatoes Critics’ Rating Rotten Tomatoes Audience Rating
1 8 2019 77% 82%
2 7 2020 84% 85%
3 8 2022 90% 78%

The TV series His Dark Materials is a remarkably faithful adaptation of Philip Pullman’s books. While it’s hard to ignore the creator’s personal views – Pullman recently shared on social media that he opposes bullying, abuse, and transphobia – the show successfully tackles complex themes within its three seasons. It never feels rushed or lets the author’s issues overshadow the story, which suggests His Dark Materials will remain a standout fantasy series from HBO for years to come.

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2026-04-26 04:19