9 Reasons We Still Watch 'Once Upon A Time'
Start writing a post
Entertainment

9 Reasons We Still Watch 'Once Upon A Time'

Season six is finally underway.

1892
9 Reasons We Still Watch 'Once Upon A Time'
Kelsie Gibson via Popsugar

ABC's "Once Upon A Time" returned for its sixth season this Sunday, September 25th, which leaves many people wondering how on earth this silly show about fairytale characters has even lasted that long, especially after some of its most questionable plot lines occuring in the last couple seasons. However, despite the ridiculous plot lines, inconsistencies, and overall silliness, we OUAT fans keep tuning in every Sunday because, despite all its flaws, "Once Upon A Time" is still one of the best shows on TV. Here's why:

7. All your favorite characters from childhood in one place

In this case, the reason you start watching the show is the reason you stick with it. From Snow White and the Seven Dwarves to Elsa and Anna from "Frozen" all the way to Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, "Once Upon A Time" never disappoints in surprising us with all our favorites from classic Disney movies, age-old stories, and even Greek mythology. One of the most fun parts of watching this show is seeing what stories they'll bring in next and watching fairytale characters interact with the real world and with each other.

6. Family-friendly fun

... Well, for the most part. There is the occasional, literal ripping out of someone's heart and crushing it in front of them, but other than that, the show is pretty clean. In all seriousness, "Once Upon A Time" is definitely one of the most family-friendly shows on TV right now. Though the drama is usually at maximum level, the R-rated material is mostly non-existent. So, as far as guilty pleasures go, OUAT is a great option.

5. Pretty costumes

This show is blessed with the talented costume designer, Eduardo Castro, whose creations are always fairytale-worthy. The glittering ballgowns, fairytale gear, and, of course, Emma's iconic red leather jackets definitely add to the show's magical qualities.

4. Robert Carlyle as Rumplestiltskin

Love him or hate him, you have to admit Rumplestiltskin is the most interesting character on the show. Since season one, he's consistently been the show's number one villain, the one we can't figure out whether to hate or feel bad for. And it helps that he's played by Robert Carlyle, who brings a personality to this character that no one else could. The show would definitely be less fun without all his "let's make a deal"s and reminders that "all magic comes with a price."

3. Hook & Emma (a.k.a. Captain Swan)

Though at first they seem like an unlikely pair--the daughter of Snow White and Prince Charming with Captain Hook?--these two have an incredible love story. These bitter-enemies-turned-unlikely-friends-turned-lovers have captivated their audience since season two and continue to be the reason most of us tune in every week.

2. Emma Swan

But, of course, you can't have a lasting show without a phenominal hero(ine), and "Once Upon A Time" has that ten-fold. The show is full to the brim with strong leading ladies like Snow White, Red Riding Hood, and, of course, the Evil Queen, but the show's main protagonist, Emma Swan, is the driving character of the show. Not only does she provide a great role model for young audiences (see above quote), but she also breaks the unrealistic trope of a "strong female character" and instead embodies a realistic and emotionally complex female character, which television is in great need of. She can sword fight like any good hero, and she also possesses more feminine qualities not often seen in these types of characters. In this way, the complexity of Emma Swan and her journey keeps a hold on the show's viewers.

1. Hope

But the main reason this ridiculous show about fairytale characters has lasted this long and still reels in millions of viewers on a regular basis is its message. The show has an obsession with "happy endings" that can sometimes be annoying, but ultimately, it's part of its magic. On other shows (especially others on ABC), drama usually ends in tragic deaths or some other form of unbearable heartache, but "Once Upon A Time" likes to come back to that infamous "happily ever after." Tragic endings are never accepted on this show; the characters always fight (albeit, with magic) to make things right--and, usually, it works. Call it unrealistic expectations, if you want, but the show likes to call it "hope." And it's not a bad thing to have drilled into your mind every Sunday at 8/7 Central.

So, although "Once Upon A Time" will probably never be one of the most intellectual or complex shows on TV, it will always hold a special place in the hearts of its viewers because of its nostalgia, its heart, and, we'll admit it, its silliness. It's a guilty pleasure that doesn't make you feel guilty, and a little hope is always a great way to start the week.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

56097
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in Challah bread or Easter Bread?

36131
loaves of challah and easter bread stacked up aside each other, an abundance of food in baskets
StableDiffusion

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

Keep Reading...Show less
Adulting

Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!

There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer.

958099
Group of joyful friends sitting in a boat
Haley Harvey

The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.

Whether you grew up going to the lake, have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart, no matter how dirty the water may look.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Top 10 Reasons My School Rocks!

Why I Chose a Small School Over a Big University.

187609
man in black long sleeve shirt and black pants walking on white concrete pathway

I was asked so many times why I wanted to go to a small school when a big university is so much better. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure a big university is great but I absolutely love going to a small school. I know that I miss out on big sporting events and having people actually know where it is. I can't even count how many times I've been asked where it is and I know they won't know so I just say "somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin." But, I get to know most people at my school and I know my professors very well. Not to mention, being able to walk to the other side of campus in 5 minutes at a casual walking pace. I am so happy I made the decision to go to school where I did. I love my school and these are just a few reasons why.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments