TV Review: The Originals – The Complete First Season
2 min read
You’ve got vampires, werewolves, witches, and hybrids (that’s a genetic mix of a werewolf and vampires, for those unaware), what could possibly go wrong?
The spinoff of the highly successful TV series The Vampire Diaries, The Originals continues the mythology and of course, drama of the first ever vampires, the Mikaelson siblings Elijah (Daniel Gilles), Rebekah (Claire Holt) and Klaus (Joseph Morgan). Set in New Orleans, the series highlights the violent yet dramatic exploits and interactions of the Mikaelson siblings with werewolf vixen Hayley (Phoebe Tonkin), Klaus’ former protégé vampire Marcel (Charles Michael Davis), local witch Sophie (Daniella Pineda), mysterious human bartender Camille (Leah Pipes) and young witch Davina (Danielle Campbell).
While teen/supernatural-centered TV shows are not everyone’s cup of tea, what consistently excels from the series are the formidable relationships between family and the constant battle for power. The characterisation of Klaus is sensational as Morgan excellently depicts his struggle between his power hungry nature and his concealed love for his siblings. This is further enhanced throughout the series by the unexpected discovery of Hayley’s pregnancy, to which he is the father of the unborn child.
Of course, relationships are a heavy element to the progression of character storyline, particularly with evolvement of Hayley and Elijah. As the show progresses, their relationship takes a pleasant maturation, albeit bittersweet, considering she is carrying Elijah’s brother baby. Nonetheless, it will be entertaining to see how all three characters interact with each other, given the recent circumstances. Alluring bartender Cami is certainly one to watch, with her story not yet entirely revealed, she is primed for a big reveal that undoubtedly be an exciting display.
Executive producer Julie Plec, writer of both The Originals and The Vampire Diaries impressively creates a successful formula for both suspense and drama, having no issues with keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. Flashbacks play a heavy role in the formation of the series, and whilst it can be provide interesting back stories, frequent use can be tedious and overplayed. However, effective story lines prove to be successfully utilised for significant dramatic effect.
Like many backdoor pilots, The Originals could have easily been rejected and shelved, however, with a built-in audience from The Vampire Diaries and strong performances from lead Joseph Morgan and Daniel Gilles, the freshman series proved to be a compelling drama.
Noteworthy episode: “From a Cradle to a Grave” (Ep. 22)
Blu-Ray Extras:
Pilot Commentary
5 New Featurettes
Unaired Scenes
