Does Love Still Suck?
The Vampire Diaries Season 1 Episode 4 - Family Ties
A common theme in vampire stories revolves around questions of the monster versus the man. Does the vampire always consume the former human being? If not, which side is more powerful? Which one takes over? Is there humanity left within vampires?
The Monster Vs. The Man in The Vampire Diaries
The brothers on The Vampire Diaries provide the manifestation of this struggle between the monster and the man. However, their juxtaposition on screen is limited to their actions and verbal claims of difference since on camera they sport identical wardrobes and apparently fell for the same girl. This appearing interchangeability would suggest that despite the brothers' different philosophies they're cut and created from the same blood-sucking mold. A mold that defines them rather then just simply being a factor. In other words, the monster who wants to be a man (Stefan) and the man that is a monster (Damon) are one and the same.
The brothers provide the center of this week's episode as they toy and tangle their women in front of each other. As Wesley's Stefan moves, mostly steadily, along with Dobrev's Elena, Somerhalder's Damon continues to throw his high school flirtation, Caroline (Candice Accola) around. To the point that the only word to use is, abuse. And although, this abuse is founded within his vampire tendencies, their manipulative and male-centered relationship hints at modern issues young couples face in and out of youth.
In fact, the entire series so far has delved into not only sexual abuse, but verbal and substance abuse, topics that should be applauded as they are issues this generation and others to come will face. Additionally, with Somerhalder's relationship to women as expendable, usable arm candy provides another strong contrast to his brother's worshiping view of Dobrev. It will be interesting to see, as the series develops, if this juxtaposition will continue to be as central as it is now.
It's Weekly Posh Party Time on the CW
In contrast to this abuse storyline, this episode naturally sports in true CW fashion, a posh party that allows all this young talent to play dress up, this fourth episode hints at class differences and perceptions that exist with Mystic Falls. The usual girl from the wrong side of the tracks wants the pretty momma's boy, while the cop's daughter attempts to rebel against convention and her parent by dating the mysterious older guy. These typical story lines are what is holding back this series from venturing into new territory or re-charging the CW in any way. Of course, the party gave the Wicca girl a chance to try her magic, a storyline that will certainly be used to bridge the male vampire world and the female world in Mystic Falls.
And although this episode sports a fancy ending twist that would suggest ulterior motives behind the history of Mystic Falls, audiences will have to wait and see if this pans out. Will it just be another glossy aspect to the show? Will it change the plot chemistry once the vampires presence might become common knowledge? And now will the adult community of the city be involved? Next week will hopefully bring these answers.
Last, but certainly not least for the tweens, this episode finally breaks out some references to Twilight and miss Anne Rice as Somerhalder continues to get the bad boy laughs as bad ass Damon. Of course, it is moments like these that remind audiences of the true potential of vampire lure and the show itself.
What do you think about this article?
More in Film & TV
Latest Articles