So, what did you think? I read some rough reviews of this so I was truly and pleasantly surprised by the episode. With some notable exceptions (McQueen, Ellwell, Somerhalder) the cast has yet to sink their teeth deep down in their roles, but that's generally the case at the beginning of a new drama. The story is pure cheese, but so, to my mind, that's the level upon which it should be judged. No comparing it to lobster, you know? The fog and the crow? This is a gothic (teen) romance. They have their place here, even though I'm slightly confused by the fact that Damon seems to have these powers, rather than Stefan. The narration -- well, I know some of you hate any and all of it, but in theory, it's okay with me. Look, in addition to this show and Lost, I also cover How I Met Your Mother, which uses narration regularly, but like Pushing Daisies and the Veronica Mars voice-overs before it, HIMYM's narration is never too heavy. There was too much in The Vampire Diaries, tonight. I'm giving the writers a pass, because that's the premise, but it's not an unlimited pass. They should watch the "Passion" episode of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, if they want to know how to do it right. And when all else fails, less is more. In sum, I'm looking forward to episode two, because I think all the ingredients are here. They just need time to macerate. Everyone's pretty, and none of the cast members seem like they'd be stuck in a paper bag if acting were their only way out. The dialogue had some high points and I want to know what happens next. All in all, I've been sucked in. I'll see you next week. 'Til then, my fingers are crossed, so make room for the cheese slices.

Cindy McLennan is a fang hag from way back. Feel free to e-mail her with your comments or questions at CynthiaMcLennan[at]gmail.com She doesn't bite. Much.

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