Merlinated: How I Became Bewitched

From the moment when Richard Wilson begins by dramatically saying, in a land of myth and a time of magic.... until John Hurt concludes the episode by whispering, Merlin, I am absolutely hooked.
Described elsewhere as a show that "adults love despite themselves", I'd rather describe Merlin as something of a poorly missed and desperately needed anomaly in modern television shows.  I believe that it's cheesey, with a purpose.

Casting a spell on the viewer.  Perhaps it is...
A LOVE SPELL????

Ahhh I just love you.

The show so cleverly satisfies every pillar of nerdom.  It's camp at it's finest.  Admittedly there are rare moments, due to an otherwise blissfully awkward dialogue, that are slightly unbearable to watch.  However, in every episode I find myself deeply caring for these characters.  Perhaps the success of Merlin is that while the show doesn't take itself so seriously, the audience is surprised when they find themselves doing just that.
I've been personally surprised by a lot of the performances as well.  Obviously Anthony Head (Giles!!!) commands the screen, but the pluckiness of the lead character (Colin Morgan) and his innocent and honest portrayal of a young Merlin is one of the reasons that I keep coming back to this show.  Additionally, I've really been impressed with the way that the Powers that Be have portrayed Morgana and Mordred as well.  The battle over magic is one that continues to develop with the question of what is right or ethical in a world full of persecution and secrets.

And let's be honest.  Prince Arthur really is just beautiful.