Netflix has just dropped the official trailer for Echoes of Time, a powerful new documentary chronicling the life and career of actor Joseph Morgan.
Known to millions for his haunting portrayal of Klaus Mikaelson in The Vampire Diaries and The Originals, Morgan’s story goes far beyond the supernatural drama that made him a household name. This upcoming film offers a raw, reflective, and deeply personal look at the man behind the character, tracing his evolution as an actor, creator, and human being.The trailer opens with atmospheric piano notes layered over grainy behind-the-scenes footage, pulling viewers into the world of Joseph Morgan before the fame. From early auditions to theatre rehearsals in London, Echoes of Time sets the stage for a story about persistence, transformation, and the power of storytelling. Morgan’s distinctive voice narrates part of the teaser, offering an introspective tone that hints at the emotional depth to come.Directed by Emmy-nominated filmmaker Ava Torres, the documentary blends archival material, dramatic reenactments, and new interviews with castmates, directors, and longtime collaborators. Torres’s approach is intimate and immersive, bringing viewers closer to Morgan’s journey without glamorizing it. Instead, she paints a portrait of a dedicated artist wrestling with identity, fame, and legacy.Fans of The Originals and The Vampire Diaries will be thrilled to see never-before-seen footage from the sets, table reads, and candid cast moments. But Echoes of Time isn’t simply a tribute to Morgan’s breakout role. It follows his transition into directing, writing, and producing independent projects, revealing a passionate storyteller with a vision far larger than television.A key theme in the documentary is artistic reinvention. After becoming synonymous with one of television’s most iconic antiheroes, Morgan faced the daunting task of escaping typecasting. The film chronicles his decision to step away from mainstream roles and take creative control of his narrative through short films, stage work, and experimental cinema.The trailer also gives a glimpse into Morgan’s life off-camera—his marriage to actress Persia White, his advocacy for mental health awareness, and his love for painting and poetry. These quieter, more contemplative moments reveal a multidimensional man navigating life’s complexities with vulnerability and grace.What makes Echoes of Time stand out is its structure. It doesn’t follow a traditional chronological order but instead moves thematically, reflecting on key moments of Morgan’s life and career through a lens of memory, emotion, and introspection. This nonlinear approach adds a dreamlike quality, reinforcing the idea that time, much like identity, is fluid.In one poignant moment, Morgan reflects on fame: “You become an echo of yourself—amplified, distorted, and somehow always just out of reach.” That single line captures the emotional heart of the documentary and resonates throughout the trailer like a haunting refrain.The film also features commentary from co-stars like Daniel Gillies and Claire Holt, as well as directors and producers who worked with Morgan on various projects. Their testimonies not only praise his talent but also highlight his empathy, work ethic, and unyielding passion for the craft.Visually, Echoes of Time is a stunning work of art. Cinematographer Kira Dorsey uses warm tones, intimate close-ups, and layered lighting to create an aesthetic that feels both nostalgic and timeless. Combined with an original score composed by Michael Suby, the film achieves an emotional resonance that lingers long after the screen fades to black.Netflix has slated Echoes of Time for a global release later this year, with an exclusive premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. The platform is positioning the documentary as a cornerstone of its fall slate, promising a viewing experience that’s as inspiring as it is introspective.In a media landscape often focused on surface-level fame, Echoes of Time digs deeper. It’s a celebration of artistic courage, personal growth, and the quiet strength it takes to forge one’s own path. For longtime fans of Joseph Morgan—and anyone seeking an authentic story about finding your voice—it’s an unmissable journey into the soul of a modern artist.
