V-WARS Season 1: A Mediocre Induction Into Vampirism

Being a huge fan of The Vampire Diaries, and the vampire genre in general, I was ecstatic to hear that Netflix would be bringing V-Wars from comic book to screen. While not as familiar with the text as previous adaptations, the idea of an Arctic virus reborn in the wake of climate change was a fascinating, yet eery, possibility that yearned to be seen. While there is plenty to entertain, the series as a whole was mediocre in the face of adaptations, as well as those inductions within the genre that have come before.

Resurrecting Vampires

V-Wars starts off much like The Day After Tomorrow, a man proficient on potential threats to the world if climate change continues speaking on the exact topic that is about to bring permanent change to mankind as we know it. While there is intrigue to see how the downfall will occur, the age old setup drains some of the excitement from the beginning right off the bat.

The series moves quickly from this brief introduction of Dr. Luther Swann (Ian Somerhalder), an inability to contact one of his research facilities in the Arctic pulling him away from his lectures and throwing him into action. Though, where theoretical predictions and hypothetical fear run rampant within lecture halls, Swann and his friend Michael Fayne (Adrian Holmes) become patient zeros, setting off a change reaction of evolution, genetic modification and bringing the entire darkness of humanity to full light.

As genetic markers in specific individuals begin to active and transform, mankind faces extinction as it never has before and a new society of bloods rises. In the face of extinction, mankind shows its true colors – both as human and as Vampire.

Humanity at its darkest

While the series left much to be desired, there was a strong focus on the down fall of society and the darkness of humanity. It was not just the typical darkness that the vampire gene typically represents – the brutality and violence – but also the inability of society to accept that which is different and the intense need for survival.

It is an interesting examination as well as to how mankind’s need for survival contrasts those who seek brutality, who go out specifically with the intent to do harm. There is an indulgence in the ability to take a life on both sides, an entitlement to what is yours and how the status and hierarchy should be.

Though V-Wars also takes a moment to look at those who would fight back against the darkest depths of humanity, giving those who would fight there nature a platform to do what is right. They fight the vampires. They fight misguided anger and violence from humans – no matter what side they belong to. It is an interesting curve ball into the series, throwing the argument of nature vs. nurture into a new light.

What V-Wars Does Right

While I wish I had read the comics before taking the dive, the concept surround V-Wars was truly a fascinating one – especially as it potentially mirrors our present society. While there are not vampiric prions frozen within the Arctic ice, the idea of prehistoric viruses being rereleased into the world is a terrifying thought. The immunities we have built through generations would be potentially powerless to sustain and survive, and the ability of just a fever alone changing active and inactive genes in modern day society lends itself to a possible drastic change in society should an ancient virus every be released.

The unpredictability of who would live and who would die not only further mirrored a possible future, but for the series alone was a pleasant surprise. Some characters I thought would be around for at least a little while were gone in an instant. Attachment to any character is futile. Sometimes you see it coming, though others you will find yourself gasping in shock.

While V-Wars can not boast mind blowing casting, there were some undeniable standouts. Peter Outerbridge was one of these. Having showcased his strength with questionable characters throughout the years (for this writer specifically The Pretender Movie), it was a real treat to see him slip back into darkness, encompassing two worlds of villainy. He exudes true danger, always lurking in the shadows, waiting for the time to strike.

While Netflix did not end up saving Shadowhunters before the series concluded earlier this year (though no one can say fans didn’t try), it was astonishing to see how much of the cast appeared here. Fans will find the familiarity pulling them in to the series. This casting choice, whether intentional or not, worked well for the series and for Netflix to bridge a gap from Freeform to themselves, pulling in fans who love the fantastical and their beloved series.

What Went Wrong

Sadly, on the flip side of casting, there were definitely performances that will leave viewers wanting. There is an immediate disconnect with Dr. Swann, played by Somerhalder – and unfortunately, this has nothing to do with his performance. Viewers will find themselves struggling to see Swann rather than Damon Salvatore. I found myself waiting for a quip remark, or the Damon smile, some sass remark that would never come. Instead, viewers are left with pre-Vampire Damon Salvatore, scared and kind hearted. While strong, Somerhalder is unable to shake his previous type cast within a familiar setting.

Casting aside, V-Wars is definitely entertaining but far from ground breaking, I had expected something more from the series – from Netflix. There was a potential for a greater story, many times pandering to its audience – and if you are paying attention, you will know how the season will end long before you get there.

Each episode opening was catchy, yet as the episodes progressed if felt many times like filler, like a basic storyline we have all seen before. It moves along, and I was thankful for the pace, yet there was so much more that could have been delivered, so much depth that could have been reached. Unfortunately, this all culminates into a hokey conclusion, one that will satisfy Somerhalder fans, yet leave a bad taste in your mouth.

V-Wars Season 1: Conclusion

While mediocre, there are some intriguing aspects to V-Wars. It is a light show that falls into the ranks of YA adaptations that encourage guilty pleasure, yet do not require to much commitment and devotion from its audience. Will there be a Season 2? I would be remised to admit that I would watch, yet I wouldn’t be devastated if the series did not return.

Have you seen Netflix’s latest adaptation? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below!

V-Wars is currently available now!