Netflix has released the first look at “Maya and the Three,” a new fantasy series from “The Book of Life” filmmaker Jorge R. Gutiérrez that blends Aztec, Maya, and Inca mythology, with modern-day Caribbean culture. While this original series is told in nine-episodes, one can’t help but notice the big budget feel it has. And it is surprising considering how its not based on some successful IPs like the “Fast and Furious” or “Jurassic World” franchises. So it is refreshing to see that the streaming service is willing to take a few risks on something new.
Here’s the official plot synopsis for “Maya and The Three:”
In a fantastical world, where magic turns the world and four kingdoms rule the lands, a brave and rebellious warrior princess named Maya is about to celebrate her fifteenth birthday and coronation. But everything changes when the gods of the underworld arrive and announce that Maya’s life is forfeit to the God of War — a price she must pay for her family’s secret past. If Maya refuses, the whole world will suffer the gods’ vengeance. To save her beloved family, her friends, and her own life, Maya embarks on a thrilling quest to fulfill an ancient prophecy that foretells the coming of three great warriors who will help her defeat the gods and save humankind.
And such a series that celebrates the Carribean culture and mixes it with Aztec, Maya, and Inca mythology deserves a star-studded casting. As such, the voice talents include Zoe Saldaña, Gabriel Iglesias, Allen Maldonado, Stephanie Beatriz, Diego Luna, Gael García Bernal, Alfred Molina, Kate del Castillo, Danny Trejo, Cheech Marin, Rosie Perez, Queen Latifa, Wyclef Jean, Sandra Equihua, Isabela Merced, Chelsea Rendo, Joaquín Cosío, Carlos Alazraqui, Eric Bauza, and Rita Moreno.
Though “Maya and The Three” may resemble some aspects of Disney princesses stories that we’ve seen before, never has it been shown through this kind of lens. As such we will see a princess tired of being confined by overbearing parents and adhereing to tradition by breaking free and going out on an adventure. But at the same time, Maya will realize that there is a place where you can challenge the patriarchy while still honoring family and traditions.
“Maya and The Three” is also written by Gutiérrez, Silvia Olivas, Doug Langdale, and Candie Kelty Langdale, with Jeff Ranjo serving as Head of Story. It debuts on Netflix later this fall.
