After the fun build-up in the pilot episode, the second episode, ‘Chapter Two: The Dark Baptism,’ takes the situation at hand and raises the stakes to an entirely new level.
The episode starts off where the last one ends with Sabrina face-to-face with Faustus Blackwood (Richard Coyle). After their informative conversation, she then contemplates her tough decision ahead of choosing to be either mortal or a witch, which fuels the entire episode since she has to pick one by its end.
The one aspect of the show so far that I thoroughly enjoy is the runtime of each episode. With each one being roughly an hour in length (thank you, Netflix), it allows the show to breathe a little more and feel like more of a complete chapter. Besides, I’m all for more content within each episode.
As for the episodes themselves, they are structured in a meticulous way that allows certain elements to unfold slowly while making Sabrina feel like her decision is approaching too rapidly. The unseen juxtaposition is marvelous.
Yes, it was confirmed that Riverdale exists in the same universe as Greendale. The idea of a shared universe is fun to think about in regards to future crossovers. They would be crazy not to explore a crossover, right? Can you imagine Sabrina, Betty, Veronica, Harvey, Jughead, and Archie sharing the screen together? Talk about an hour of fun!
Just within this story unfolding in Greendale, though, the attention to detail and exploration of the lore is, in itself, the strength of the show. Sure, the same types of characters exist in Greendale that exist in Riverdale and other Greg Berlanti shows (which is neither a good or bad thing), but Chilling Adventures of Sabrina make this take on the Archie Comics’s adaptation stand out in its own way.
Because this show is aimed at a younger audience, there are moments of cliches, stereotypes, and cheesiness. Part of what makes it stand out is the standout protagonist in Sabrina Spellman. She fights for what she believes is right and is unwavering in her support for those close to her. She is also relatable due to her being torn between two worlds and needing both in her life. The way the character is written and portrayed resonates with me and brings believability and credibility to the show.
I’m a little torn, however, with the creative choices in regards to cinematography. I am not a fan of the distorted view showcased when the supernatural aspect of the witches comes into play. It looks cheaply done and, if improved, could add more to the effect they are going for. Having said that, I can forgive that shortcoming because I thoroughly enjoy the dark scenes as well as the high school ones during the day. The dark and ominous backdrops set the mood and feel of the show and we have barely felt a taste of what is to come.
Whether it is a killer good time in a dark mine shaft or a skull-bashing dance party at a high school Halloween party, this episode is full of twists, turns, ups, downs, and surprises – including references to Smallville and Stephen King. Chilling Adventures of Sabrina’s sophomore chapter feels cinematic in scope and much like a season finale. I can only imagine how fun it will be to watch the dominoes fall the rest of the season.
Rating: 9/10
-Daryn Kirscht
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