I am a huge fan of Archie comics so I’ve always wished to see these characters come alive on television or movie. There was a cartoon show about Archie and the gang before but I don’t think it was ever made available in the Philippines. So imagine my delight when I found out the CW was making a series called Riverdale as inspired by the comic book.
I have to admit it wasn’t what I expected. In fact, when I first saw the trailer, I was shocked. And was not very thrilled on CW’s take. I mean, where was the beloved freckled faced boy who’s such a klutz even though he doesn’t mean to be? Where was the love triangle of Betty and Veronica with Archie? Where was the comedic, asexual Judghead who’s got a bottomless pit for a stomach? Why was Riverdale so dark and gloomy?
But like I said, I’m an Archie fan so I gave the show a try. For instance, this is Archie Andrews. He’s far from the comic book character even the modernized Archie. But he’s a hotter version of Archie – he’s got a six pack abs in the show. Also I think he does have the boyish charms which comic book Archie possesses. This Archie though is more of a brooder than happy-go-lucky which I think adds to his charm. He’s also having an affair with an older woman aka Miss Grundy – who’s now a hot, young and single teacher at Riverdale! *Gasps!*
But like I said, I’m an Archie fan so I gave the show a try. For instance, this is Archie. He’s far from the comic book character even the modernized Archie. But he’s hot, don’t you think? This is KJ Apa. He’s relatively new in Hollywood. He’s originally from New Zealand.
This is Veronica Lodge aka Camila Mendes in real life. Like the character from the comics, she’s gorgeous. In the TV series, she’s the daughter of a disgraced Hiram Lodge who’s supposedly in jail for embezzlement. Her mom, Hermione used to date Archie’s dad, Fred Andrews and is now back in Riverdale, working as a waitress in a diner. In this show, she’s nice. Well, trying to be it seems. And seemingly supportive of Betty’s feelings for Archie. She’s also a Latina.
Betty Cooper is played by Lili Reinhart. In the comics series, Betty’s always been my fave girl. She’s nice, responsible, dependable and definitely very sweet. I’ve always rooted for her to win Archie’s heart. Well, actually even Reggie’s heart – I loved their love story on Archie Comics The Married Life. Betty in Riverdale though pining for Archie’s affections, is so much more complex. She’s also nice in the series but she seems to be struggling with the expectation that she’s supposed to be perfect. She also seems to have a relationship with Adderall.
And Jughead! I will say Cole Sprouse from the Suite Life of Zack and Cody is the perfect loner-drink-coffee-all-day-while-writing-a-novel Jughead of Riverdale. He grew up cute too, didn’t he? His role in this series sure is very far from the comedic Disney show he was once known for.
The CW series also gives fresh new roles to Kevin Keller, the first gay Archie Comics character. He’s got a bigger role in the series as Betty’s best friend which I like! Kevin is played by Casey Cott.
Josie and The Pussycats are all black women: Ashanti Bromfield, Ashleigh Murray and Irie Hayleau.
And the new queen bee of Riverdale, Cheryl Blossom aka Madelaine Petsch.
Riverdale’s story kicks off with the death of Cheryl Blossom’s twin, Jason. I do believe Season 1’s plot is going to center on the WhoDunnit? question and of course I would want to know why.
Riverdale is like Gossip Girl meets Pretty Little Liars. It’s edgier and sexier for sure than the comics version and actually after watching the first two episodes, I have to say I’m hooked! It’s refreshing to see these characters come to life on the small screen with fresh new personalities and new histories. I’m excited to keep watching this series and get to the bottom of things.
Whether you’re a fan of the comic book series as I am or not, I think it’s safe to say you’ll enjoy Riverdale too.
P.S. This show is available on NetFlix so start streaming!