The fairly modern idea of teen supernatural dramas – of which I believe Buffy the Vampire Slayer was the first – brought forth an interesting concept of high school as the stage for metaphorical battles and issues which teenagers face every day (such as ‘fitting in’ and being accepted by peers, being popular, bullying and teenage romance). If you think about it's quite fitting - vampires are sexualised beings and adolescents have raging hormones of their own as they deal with puberty and, inevitably, sex.
Where Buffy began, others have followed and the Vampire Diaries is one of the most recent in this line of American teenage vampire angst dramas. I’ve come to this particular television show relatively late – its fourth season is about to begin on ITV2 tonight, while I’m still languishing in the midst of season one – but it’s an interesting one to watch.
I must admit, I wasn't sure what I would think about this when I sat down to watch the very first episode of season one. I felt it was piggybacking on the back of the popularity of the Twilight books and films and I wondered if it would be a case of style - and good looks - over substance. But, I'm pleased to say that I didn't really find that to be the case.
Yes, the Vampire Diaries is stylishly made, but you'd expect that from an American TV show. Yes, it is full of good looking characters and, while it would be refreshing to have more diversity in terms of body shapes, this again is to be expected from an American TV show. But, as I said, it does have substance.
Watching the first season, I can tell a lot of thought has obviously gone into developing its storylines. It's not just about present day, but features a storytelling style that allows us to discover the history behind the Salvatore brothers' relationship. It allows the viewer a glimpse into their background; to understand the viewpoint of both brothers; to empathise. There are twists and turns in the season's narrative, as you might expect, but it leads you to more intrigue rather than implausibility.
The issue of loss and grief plays a big part in the first season as Elena and her brother Jeremy adapt to life following the death of their parents. At various points throughout the series, other characters have to face these issues too. However, that doesn't mean the series is depressing and Damon's quips and eyebrow-raising in particular always seem to lighten the tone.
The Vampire Diaries has much in common with Buffy the Vampire Slayer; the vampire with a conscience who briefly turns malevolent before regaining his morals (Angel/Stefan); a witch (Willow/Bonnie); werewolves (Oz/Tyler); the appearance of a 'master' vampire (The Master/Klaus)*. However, the comedy element in the Vampire Diaries is rarer and more dark and subtle. It is a drama first and foremost and stays true to that type.
Will I continue to watch the Vampire Diaries? I may well do that. One thing I definitely won't be doing however, is moving to Mystic Falls.
* For the sake of transparency, the last two points made here do not happen in season one but in later seasons. I discovered these while reading up on the television show.
* For the sake of transparency, the last two points made here do not happen in season one but in later seasons. I discovered these while reading up on the television show.
Please note: I was sent The Vampire Diaries Season One DVD boxset to review. All opinions and views in this review are my own and are 100% honest.
