While retaining the enjoyable cheesiness of the original Archie comics, the new series Riverdale loads its storyline with new characters and complications. The show has managed to capture the spirit of familiar characters – Archie, Betty, Veronica, and Jughead – within the atmosphere of a series that combines the classic story arc of a murder mystery with complex, layered portrayals of fictional young adults.
Between Romantic rivalries, Dramatic family issues, and fights for popularity and survival, this show is absolutely a must watch. The excitement for the new season was unbearable. “The wait for the very first episode of season two felt like years”. Says a student from San Lorenzo Valley high school. “The wait was almost unbearable,” says Tulsi Carroll. So many students and adults from around the world are very dedicated and into this spectacular and amusing show.
The quiet little town of Riverdale is turned upside down after it is stuck with the mysterious death of Jason Blossom, a popular high school student and a member of the most powerful family in town. A group of teenagers, the jock Archie, the girl next door Betty, the new girl Veronica, and the outcast Jughead try to unravel the evils lurking within this seemingly innocent town.
While the comics have changed quite a bit since the very first Archie issues, Riverdale really brings those changes to light. The names may be the same but everything in Riverdale is just a little bit darker and more complex, more suited to 2017 rather than 1942. Think fewer battles-of-the-bands and burger jokes and more murder and intrigue. The characters are quite different as well.
Archie Comics is also the title of the company’s longest-running publication, the first issue appearing with a cover date of Winter 1942. The flagship series was launched in July 2015 with a new look and design suited for a new generation of readers. Archie Comics characters and concepts have also appeared in numerous films, television programs, cartoons, and video games, including the hit 2017 television drama series Riverdale.
Riverdale does not feel like a complete spinoff or brand partnership – it’s a reboot. Archie Comics has chased whatever is popular, but it turns out teenage dramas were popular all along. They just needed to fit into 2017, not 1967. The shock and excitement of season two continues, and everyone hopes for a great outcome of the show and what is to come.
by Camryn Hipwell
The Claw 