There's something about our culture and society today that gravitates toward the fantasy world. Books, movies, and TV shows have been consistent in helping people destress from the real world for decades, centuries even.
In my generation, the millennial generation, there has been an influx of Young Adult literature and film entertainment that has become so popular it is almost a living thing itself. One that will most likely outlast me and other people my age because, let us face it, written and recorded words are timeless.
One popular theme that I've witnessed in my generation is a love of the supernatural. Witches, werewolves, hunters, and the ever-present vampire.
Vampires have been around for quite a while (since the 1600s, or possibly before for that matter), but ever since Stephenie Meyer's Twilight Saga popped onto the scene in 2006, my generation has been under the vampire spell. And I'll admit, I'm just as enthralled by the magic and folklore surrounding them.
As I was sitting at home for most of my winter break, it fell to me to decide what I wanted to do every day. And, like the entertainment junkie I am, most of those days consisted of endless Netflix binging. One of the shows I chose to start binge-watching again just so happened to be The Vampire Diaries (TVD), a television show from the CW Network that centers around two vampire brothers and their return home 145 years after their transition in 1864.
Part of the reason I love the show so much is because of the rich history and folklore talked about throughout the show. Even though they ALWAYS seem to be dealing with a new evil antagonist, the show does an amazing job at explaining as it goes along.
I also think that TVD is way better than Twilight.
Don't get me wrong, I was totally a Twilight fan. Team Edward and everything. But after watching The Vampire Diaries, I have my reasons:
1. The characters in TVD are so much richer.
They all have backstories that are explained in depth as the show progresses. Also, the plot line is ever-changing and progressing with the times and what the audience wants. And it's not predictable. It's about real-life problems in a supernatural setting and more than just trying to avoid your S.O. being killed for four books.
2. Not everything is wrapped in a tight little bow to look pretty.
Like life, TVD recognizes that things can't always end perfectly.
3. It's realistic.
The special effects department really outdo themselves. Things don't look overly edited and the makeup put on the actors when their vampire characters are hungry is dark and scary, as vampires should be. Also, all supernatural characters keep their natural eye color and none of them sparkle.
If you haven't given The Vampire Diaries a shot yet and you're into folklore and drama, you definitely should! All eight seasons are now available on Netflix to binge and you'll be glad you did, trust me!
And if you've seen TVD and you still like Twilight more, that's okay! Everyone has different preferences. Although, for depth purposes, TVD does delve into the rest of the supernatural world more than Twilight.
