Phoebe Tonkin

Although The Secret Circle didn’t last very long, it did have a good run and a standout performance by Phoebe Tonkin, which fans of hers should definitely check out this show. Currently there are a fair amount of shows that feature vampires, zombies and even werewolves, but still very few that feature witches as the main focus. As far as supernatural shows featuring witches, this is one of the better ones that offers an interesting take on the idea of witches and covens. One of the best things to be said about the show is that it has genuinely good production value with well executed special effects.

There’s no fear of the sophomore slump here–The Originals is a show that clearly knows what it’s doing. The second season opener is just as intense, well-acted, and well-shot as the very best episodes of the first season. Even comparisons to sister show The Vampire Diaries are no longer relevant here, as The Originals is quickly becoming its own beast.

After introducing the seeds of war last week, The Originals wastes no time turning downright ugly. The brutality in “An Unblinking Death” reaches cringeworthy levels several times, and the tragedy never relents throughout the episode. At times, it’s almost hard to watch–for perhaps the first time, The Originals delivers an episode of pure horror and largely succeeds.

On this week’s The Originals, Rebekah arrives in New Orleans, Marcel gives Klaus a vamps-only tour, Klaus attempts to undermine his former protege, Hayley seeks help with her pregnancy, and Elijah remains missing.

The Vampire Diaries, Season 4, Episode 16: “Bring it On” Written by Elisabeth R. Finch and Michael Narducci Directed by Jesse Warn Airs Thursdays at 8pm (ET) on the CW This week, on The Vampire Diaries: Elena has fun, Hayley plays art critic, and Damon finds a friend The big question left after the intense, …

The Vampire Diaries, Season 4, Episode 3: “The Rager” Written by Brian Young Directed by Lance Anderson Airs Thursdays at 8pm (ET) on the CW After last week’s intense and character-driven episode, it was nearly inevitable that this week’s installment would feel like a downtick. While this turns out to be the case, “The Rager” …