Riverdale Episodes 1-4 Reviews: "Riverdale" Is Surprisingly Entertaining!

"Riverdale" is not my typical kinda show but, after hearing a lot of positive reviews, I gave it a try. The show, despite being based on an almost eighty year old comic strip, is surprisingly fun. If "Twin Peaks" and the CW had a baby, it would be "Riverdale". Adding to the excitement is "Peaks" alum Madchen Amick. She plays Alice Cooper (no-- not the heavy metal singer) who is Betty's mother. Madchen is excellent in everything she does. I'm still irrationally hoping for a "Witches Of East End" reunion. WE MISS YOU AUNT WENDY THE CAT!

There are lots of secrets to go around in the small town of Riverdale. The main mystery involves the disappearance and murder of twin Jason Blossom. His sister Cheryl is an uberbitch whose idea of mourning is to throw a pep rally. The other main characters are Archie Andrews, long time friend who has feeling for him Betty Cooper, her gay BFF Kevin Keller and new girl in town Veronica Long. Jughead Jones, Archie's pal and the show's narrator, also rounds out the cast. We also learn that Betty's sister Polly and Jason had a thing. Polly went bonkers and is currently in a group home (read mental asylum). Josie and the Pussycats are also in the house.

Other adults include: Archie's father Fred (played by Luke Perry), Veronica's mother Hermione Lodge and Blossom parents Penelope and Cliff. There's also music teacher Geraldine Grundy. She and Archie make a secret love connection over the summer.

Grade: 4 1/2 Monsters (out of 5) Yes, "Riverdale" has CW written all over. There are lots of beautiful, angsty young people. But "Riverdale" manages to be darker... and surprisingly watchable. Give it a chance. If you're like me, you'll be hooked.