ITV's latest TV series, "Beowulf: Return to the Shieldlands", has all the trappings of "Game of Thrones", but is also quite different. The TV show is an adaptation of the epic poem "Beowulf', written anonymously between the 8th and 11th centuries. The fantasy series follows the life of fabled warrior Beowulf. If greed, betrayal and lust for power are themes you want to watch, perhaps you've found a temporary replacement for "Game of Thrones", which also explores these concepts in equal, if not full measure. 

According to actor Kieran Bew, who plays the role of Beowulf, the series is heavy on action and one can expect to find several fight scenes with beasts that are fantastical. Kieran Bew said in an interview: "There's conflict, love interest and almost a Wild West feel in some respects."

"Beowulf: Return to the Shieldlands", set in the mythical land of Shieldlands, will capture Beowulf's life when the Vikings raid England. The titular character embarks upon a journey to help Herot, where the natives are terrorised by Grendel.

In the first episode of the 12-part series, Beowulf returns to Shieldlands after a long time as a mercenary. The lead character, struggling with demons from his past, stops to pay his respects to his deceased mentor and thane of the village, Hrothgar (William Hurt). The protagonist also tries to undo his past and attempts to rectify his mistakes.

However, Beowulf antagonises his old rival, Slean (Edward Speleers), who is angry that his mother Rheda (Joanne Whalley) is the new thane of the village. Meanwhile, Slean's girlfriend Elvina (Laura Donnelly) is interested in Beowulf.

"Beowulf: Return to the Shieldlands" airs on Sunday, 3 January at 7 pm on ITV. You can live-stream the episode via ITV Player.

Watch the trailer here: 

 
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