by Iesha Fluellen
Staff Writer
It usually takes a lot for me to get involved in a television show. I rarely follow most shows due to the fact that there’s so many to choose from, and if I ever get behind a few episodes, it’s always a chore for me to get caught up. I personally know quite a few people in the same boat as me when it comes to this, but I’ve got to say that the newest series on The CW, Riverdale, has certainly gained my undivided attention.
When I first heard that this show was going to be made, I honestly thought it would be cheesy and ridiculous because the show revolves around the famous characters from the Archie comics. They’ve been around and revamped throughout the years for new generations before I was even born, a lot like the Scooby-Doo characters. I didn’t think the show would be as intriguing as it actually is.
In the show, we follow the protagonist, Archie Andrews, played by KJ Apa, as he deals with conflicts while living in the town Riverdale. Some of Archie’s daily obstacles involve his childhood friend, Betty Cooper, who is portrayed by Lili Reinhart. Betty has an interesting story arc in the show surrounding her overprotective mother and her mysterious sister Polly.
Another girl in Archie’s life that has created an impact is Veronica Lodge. She is played by Brazilian actress, Camila Mendes. Veronica comes from a wealthy and sneaky family, but is humble at heart.
One character that has certainly been a standout among the rest of the cast is Archie’s good friend Jughead Jones. He is played by Cole Sprouse of The Suite Life of Zack & Cody fame. Not only does he give a great performance as Jughead, but Sprouse also narrates the show.
In the classic Archie comics, the town of Riverdale is thought of as a perfect place where there are no troubles. This television series is changing everything you think you know about the town. The show begins one summer when a tragic and mysterious death occurred to one of Archie’s classmates.
As the new school year begins, bits and pieces of the mystery are starting to emerge causing every one of the characters to become a suspect. Truths come to the light and skeletons are revealed from closets in every episode of the series. As this all happens, you begin to realize that Riverdale was never a perfect town. In fact, you discover that the town is full of characters with dark secrets and questionable behaviors.
I will admit that I initially didn’t even bother to tune in on the night of the premiere, but once I started hearing the buzz about the show it sparked my interest. I mean, who doesn’t love a good mystery? By the second week of the show, I downloaded The CW app and watched the first two episodes. From what I saw, I was one hundred percent sold. Each episode will have you on the edge of your seat and will leave you wanting more.
The show is still early in its first season, so there’s plenty of time to catch up if you are interested. I’d highly recommend downloading The CW app, like I did, or just go to their website and watch the episodes there. This is one of those shows that I can’t help but recommend to everyone I know. I judged it way too soon. Riverdale is truly a gem.