With cinematic universes like Marvel and DC, it’s evident that this particular genre is popular, and as someone who enjoys these movies and shows, I never thought I would find anything else like them. Now enter Riverdale, a spin-off of the classic Archie Comics. The serious tone of the show sets it apart from the light-hearted comics and immerses the viewer into the world of teenaged drama. The show opens with the death of the town’s golden boy, Jason Blossom, and the arrival of the new girl, Veronica Lodge. Upon these circumstances, the town is sent into a turmoil, slowly unraveling Riverdale’s darkest secrets.
To me, the most important thing in a show is the people who play the characters, and I believe that Riverdale did an amazing job in casting. The array of actors and actresses defines the show and draws in viewers with The Sweet Life Of Zach and Cody star Cole Sprouse as one of the leading characters, Jughead Jones, and A Dog’s Purpose actor, KJ Apa, as Archie Andrews. Another important note is how the show displays a diverse cast with Camila Mendes as Veronica Lodge and Ashleigh Murray playing Josie McCoy, who is a lead singer in her band Josie and the Pussycats. The show’s many amazing actors and actresses have drawn in a wide demographic of fans and has earned the show many awards. The show is a wonderful example of the struggle with self-worth, and learning how to overcome it.
The storyline itself is something of critical acclaim as well. The story being told through narrative by Riverdale’s own Jughead Jones, who recounts the summer and the circumstances surrounding Jason Blossom’s death at Sweetwater Ridge on July 4 through his dark humor, unapologetic honesty, and opinion. Amongst this you see Betty Cooper and the story of her estranged sister whose relationship with Jason ended on an ugly note before his death. In the beginning, Betty seems to allow her parents to control every aspect of her life, but as secrets unveil themselves she begins to question her parents and the story they’ve spun.
Archie Andrews, the leading character of Archie Comics storyline has been completely downsized to make room for the other characters and plot lines the show features. Despite being the namesake of the publishing company, his character has almost no effect on the overall plot, and seems to be there only to increase the drama. Alongside this, there are a few other plot holes, like how Veronica’s personality completely changes from being the meanest girl in New York to being nice in Riverdale. These plot holes may only bother the most strict of Archie Comics fans, but regular watchers may not mind quite as much.
Overall, the show received great response, but the ending of the first season left fans, including myself, hungry for more. Thankfully, fans won’t have to worry, as the second season airs on October 11 on the CW. Even if viewers aren’t fans of the original comic series, the show is unique enough to appeal to a wide audience.
