Alexander Dreymon makes a fierce comeback in Netflix’s epic sequel, Barbarians: Battle of the Teutoburg, and fans of the historical drama have every reason to be thrilled. The Germanic warrior Arminius, once again brought to life with Dreymon’s signature intensity and quiet power, reclaims the screen in this much-anticipated continuation of the brutal and gripping saga. Set against the bloody backdrop of Roman-occupied Germania, the sequel not only reintroduces familiar characters but also heightens the stakes with deeper conflict, fierce alliances, and emotional tension.
Dreymon’s return marks a defining moment for the series. Best known for his portrayal of Uhtred in The Last Kingdom, Dreymon has carved a place in the hearts of historical drama enthusiasts. In Barbarians, his portrayal of Arminius is markedly different—less brooding, more calculating, and fueled by a fire rooted in vengeance and identity. His performance is not just a return; it’s a full-fledged resurgence that solidifies him as one of the most compelling actors in this genre.
In the first season of Barbarians, viewers witnessed the seeds of rebellion sown between the Germanic tribes and the Roman Empire. The infamous Battle of the Teutoburg Forest—a real historical event—was just the beginning. The sequel expands on the aftermath, diving deeper into the complex political maneuvers and personal betrayals that arise when empires begin to crack. With Dreymon at the helm, Arminius emerges not only as a warrior but as a man conflicted by love, loyalty, and the haunting price of leadership.
What makes Dreymon’s performance in this sequel stand out is his emotional nuance. He brings layers to Arminius, making the character feel both larger than life and deeply human. Scenes of battlefield ferocity are balanced with quieter moments of introspection, particularly as Arminius struggles to unite rival tribes while wrestling with the moral ambiguity of war. Dreymon navigates this complexity with a controlled yet captivating presence that anchors the series.
The production value in Barbarians: Battle of the Teutoburg has noticeably escalated. The sequel spares no effort in delivering gritty, immersive set pieces. From the claustrophobic forests where ambushes spring like nightmares to the wind-swept tribal camps buzzing with distrust, the show constructs a world that feels raw, dangerous, and beautifully lived-in. Dreymon’s commanding presence adds weight to each setting, whether he’s rallying warriors or confronting treacherous allies.
One of the strengths of the sequel is how it deepens its supporting characters alongside Arminius. Relationships that were hinted at in the first season are now explored with sharper focus. The dynamic between Arminius and Thusnelda is particularly compelling. Their partnership, both romantic and political, forms the emotional core of the story. Dreymon and co-star Jeanne Goursaud share a magnetic chemistry that drives many of the show’s most intense scenes.
There’s a palpable sense of urgency that runs through the sequel. With Rome poised for retribution and the tribes barely holding their fragile alliance together, every decision feels like it could be the last. Dreymon’s Arminius is constantly on edge, carrying the weight of his people’s future on his shoulders. His strategic mind is a weapon, but it’s his ability to inspire loyalty that truly defines him as a leader.
The battle sequences, of course, are as brutal and unforgiving as ever. The choreography is sharp, the bloodshed unflinching, and the stakes unbearably high. Dreymon’s combat scenes showcase both his physical agility and his deep immersion in the role. He moves not just like a warrior, but like a man who has nothing left to lose. It’s this intensity that elevates every clash into something more than spectacle—it becomes character-driven storytelling at its most visceral.
What sets Barbarians apart from other historical dramas is its commitment to authenticity. The show’s use of native languages, historically accurate costuming, and attention to the customs of the time enrich the storytelling in subtle but powerful ways. Dreymon’s fluency in German lends even more credibility to his role and allows for performances that feel grounded and natural, even in heightened moments of drama.
As the series progresses, questions of identity become central. Arminius is a man caught between two worlds—raised by Romans, but born a Germanic prince. This internal conflict comes to a head in the sequel, and Dreymon’s portrayal captures the torment of a man who must betray a part of himself to save his people. It’s
