As a previous reader of the series, I must say the first episode did not really entice me to continue watching. I felt like they hinted at way too many plot points in a single episode. At this rate, I do not see how they can have reoccurring seasons without going beyond the material covered in the books. For viewers without prior reading background, like the friend I watched it with, the show left confusion and slight intrigue. This intrigue may be enough to keep viewers coming back for a few more episodes, but I doubt at this rate that the show will produce any long term fans.
The episode started out close to where the books began. We get reminded earlier than necessary that this is a vampire tale and they enjoy sucking the life out of humans, preferably teenagers (that of course look like adults in their late 20s). The main vampire (played by Paul Wesley) is slightly introduced in all his hotness and glory and we get to meet the object of his affection, Elena (played by Nina Dobrev). Personally, I think more attention should have been paid on explaining Elena's background, but it seems like the show is reserving that for future episodes. The crow and appearance of Damen (played by Ian Somerhalder) is wayyyyyyy too early. The drama of the crow and fog appearances really should have been drawn out over at least two or three episodes. The references to this Katherine character and the rings really needed to be divulged later on, when they could be explained, not just thrown in as "oh you think that is kinda cool huh, keep watching to find out wink wink." Maybe now that they have developed some hype/viewer base they will slow their roll, but that remains to be seen in future episodes.
I predict a short lived probably one season or hurter second season of this show. It really is a shame since the books are really great. Readers of the series will lose interest fast and non readers will be curious but I don't think it will be enough to keep the show on the up and up.
Comments about how this show is a rip-off of Twilight really tick me off. The Vampire Diaries came out in 1991, so if anyone can be accused of leeching off someone else's ideas, it is definitely NOT in this case.
~Helena
