Vampire Academy S01 takes the audience to the glamorous but dangerous world of the vampires where the high school drama is mixed with the dark mysticism and prohibited love story. Although it is not a very innovative contribution to the vampire genre, the series is a good combination of supernatural danger and emotions that made me want to keep watching during long hours. The intrigue and the rebelliousness of the youth gives the show a very engaging setting, making it a light and entertaining yet mind draining show.
The base of the emotional component of the series is the friendship of Lissa and Rose, the strong bond between the girls is shown in detail and in truth. Their common past and psychological contact provide a feeling of intimacy and tenderness, touching the theme of trust, sacrifice, and the general human need of belonging. This emphasis on friendship at supernatural turmoil brings the story to the next level, and we indeed feel like we are exposed to their struggles. Moreover, the fact that Rose and her tutor Dimitri are forbidden lovers serves as another source of conflict that makes the series even more emotionally straining.
On the visual level, the show is supported by upright cinematography and design, as dark lighting and sumptuous environments create the impression of traditional vampire fairy tales with a contemporary spin on it. These performances are natural, and show the confusion and extreme loyalty of the characters as young people. Not all the dialogue and plot are surprising or original, but they are saved by sincerity in the roles and interesting character development. All in all, Vampire Academy S01 is touching with its resilience, love, and identification themes and gives you the impression of people struggling to belong in a dangerous magical universe.
