'Merlin' splits Digital Spy readers

Digital Spy readers have given the opening episode of Merlin a mixed reaction.

The new BBC One Saturday evening show launched to a respectable 6.6 million viewers against ITV's X Factor, but the viewers' verdict was split.

Andrew Norris from London hailed 'The Dragon's Call' as "great fun, perfect for Saturday night viewing", with Jim Birkett branding the episode "pleasant, escapist entertainment" and many others praising Colin Morgan's performance as the young sorcerer. "It will undoubtedly take a little time to become established viewing," stated Nick from Plymouth, "but it undoubtedly has potential to become a Saturday night audience winner".

However, other readers criticised Merlin on a number of counts. "Was the dialogue written by the EastEnders team?" blasted Gary from North England. "It's just like Sabrina The Teenage Witch - but not as funny," wrote Mary from Chesterfield. Fee from London surmised that the episode was "a waste of the talent and money. The script was dull and badly written, and some really brilliant actors were poorly directed."

> Click here to read our review of Merlin and share your views