Netflix's new show Ragnarok is not a Marvel spinoff so don't expect Chris Hemsworth to flash across the screen as Thor.

Yes it shares the same source material (centuries-old Norse mythology) and both deal with the end of the world (known as Ragnarok). There is also lightning in the trailer.

But this is a totally new take on those myths with a storyline set firmly in the modern day that puts young people front and centre.

The lines between fiction and reality are blurred as high school students battle a hidden enemy to stop climate change bringing an end to the world.

And the hero of this tale is Magne, a teenager who doesn't seem to fit in but becomes the focal point of a far bigger clash. Sound familiar?

Magne moves to the fictitious Norwegian town of Edda, where a thousand years ago the gods battled the giants in a final clash.

He and his brother Laurits arrive at their new school and find some of their fellow students are not who they claim to be.

Laurits says his brother has "other talents" that come to the fore now that he has moved to Edda.

The scenery on show is spectacular, full of Norwegian mountains, glaciers, lakes and forests. This natural beauty is part of Magne's quest as melting poles, warm winters and violent downpours threaten Ragnarok.

He also the hero who can save the "sheep from the wolves".

The series was created by Adam Price, who wrote the Danish drama Borgen, and produced by the company who created The Killing.

Netflix has has great success with non-English language shows and this coming-of-age drama looks set to follow on this path.

Ragnarok is on Netflix from January 31. It is a six-part series in Norwegian.

Gavin Stone