I think the appropriate subtitle for this article is: the day Clarissa opened up a can of worms that was better left closed. Mostly because I’ve seen how passionate Twilight fans can be. Are Vampire Diaries fans as passionate?
I would like to begin by saying that I have read each and every Twilight book, as well as the entire Vampire Diaries series. I also saw the first Twilight movie and have religiously followed the Vampire Diaries episodes each week. In fact, I love them (TVD, that is…..). This article is meant to be a comparison between the two series on a variety of factors that they both share, not necessarily an attack on one or the other.
The Sparkle Factor
I simply cannot say this enough times: vampires should not sparkle in the sun. The fact that the Twilight vampires do is an out (since Meyer chose to have her characters live in a perpetually cloudy town) and removes the danger factor. Vampires are DANGEROUS. They kill people and suck their blood. So when Edward walks into the sun and gets all shiny I simply cannot take him seriously. I don’t care if he can stop a fast-moving van with his bare hands. He shouldn’t twinkle like Christmas lights.
“Oh, but the Vampire Diaries vampires have rings that protect them from the sun”, some of you will argue. “Isn’t that an easy out?” Yes, it is. But so far only Damon and Stefan have these magical rings, so if other vampires show up (and presumably they will) there’s no guarantee that they will have the same protection, which still allows for potential danger. It’s a plot device, but it’s still better than sparkling.
How I long for the Buffy days when the vampires only came out at night. What was so wrong with that? It featured high school students too. It’s like they’re trying to make vampires into these ridiculously pretty boyfriends instead of the evil undead. The sparkle thing just tramples on great historical vampire literature (like Bram Stoker’s “Dracula”), when vampires feared the sun.
The Sex Factor
You know how hot the vampires are in both series? They’re HOT (more Paul Wesley with no shirt, please!). With bodies built for sin. So the fact that the sex quotient in Twilight is so low is kind of ridiculous. Yes, I understand that Stephanie Meyer is a Mormon and doesn’t believe in sex before marriage and that’s perfectly fine, but there’s a reason that shows like True Blood are so popular. The vampires there are hot and passionate and sensual. Which is what vampires are supposed to be. They don’t kiss their girlfriends chastely on the cheek.
And please do not talk to me about the sex scene in Breaking Dawn. I don’t want to discuss broken headboards and ripped pillowcases as proof of Twilight sensuality. It’s difficult, of course, to compare either Twilight or TVD to True Blood, because True Blood is very adult-oriented, whereas the other two are more focused on teens and girls in their early 20s, but I think there’s still something to be said for the comparison.
We’ve already seen more hot make-out sessions in Vampire Diaries than in the first three Twilight books. It’s fun. And sexy.
ADDED: I didn’t think about this until the morning after I posted the article, but from what I recall, there isn’t a lot of vampire feeding or exchange of blood in Twilight. A lot of people have likened vampire feeding to a pseudo-sexual act (and I agree with this), so I wonder if that was a deliberate slight by Meyer because of the lack of sex in Twilight, particularly the first three books.
The Leading Man Factor
I’m almost afraid to write this, but I feel the Salvatore brothers are much more interesting characters than Edward. RELAX. I’m not saying anything about Robert Pattinson and his portrayal of Edward, I’m talking about the characters. In the books Edward always struck me as rather bland. Oh, he’s so tortured, isn’t he? So tortured and so in love and a bit of a hero and one-dimensional. You could probably say the same about Stefan on The Vampire Diaries, but Damon (played to perfection by Ian Somerhalder) is so delightfully wicked that he makes up for that.
I think that Stefan has potential to become something more than just a brooding hero who’s in love with a human girl. If they stick close to the books, he might remain a bit one-dimensional, but if they deviate a bit (which they have done), then they can give Stefan a purpose beyond the tortured leading man who resents his current state as a vampire. Angel showed that you can have a brooding vampire who hates what he’s become and still be a complex character.
The Leading Lady Factor
A lot of people have bashed on the Bella characterization in Twilight. Many people have talked about how she’s weak and really exists for no purpose but to love Edward. I personally don’t have a much better opinion of her. I think it’s wrong for young women to idolize a character like Bella (and I say this as a woman). There is absolutely nothing wrong with love, but the Bella-Edward story takes it to a whole new tragic level that is not particularly healthy. And why does Bella have to fall down so much? I’m a klutz too but I can generally get around.
Elena as portrayed in the Vampire Diaries books is a lot different than the Elena on the show. In the books she was very selfish and superficial. Completely different from Bella. In the series she’s more grounded and less concerned with popularity. And, frankly, she’s a much stronger girl and character. In the most recent episode she told Stefan that she couldn’t be with him because he was a vampire and had all sorts of vampire problems. Yes, we ALL know that she’s going to go back to him, but at least she wasn’t as blindly accepting. And she fights back. She was horrified to learn that Stefan was a vampire. She wasn’t just saying “Oh, neat! Can we make out?” Elena is no Buffy, but she’s not a tragic heroine. And, frankly, I’m digging her alter-ego (Katherine) in the show. She’s definitely got a mean streak that I want to learn more about.
The Evil Factor
Yes, I’m mentioning Buffy a lot, but Twilight, the Vampire Diaries and the vampire genre in general owes a lot to that show. It showed that the vampire genre can combine elements of drama and comedy (and musicals!). So, as Buffy liked to say: “I like my evil like I like my men….evil!”
The danger factor in Twilight is not big. There’s always soooo much build up in the books and then very little payoff (especially in the last one, where I can’t recall if anyone important even died despite the fact that Renesmee was supposed to start some sort of clash of civilizations just by being born – in fact, I think there was a face-off in a field without bloodshed, but I could be wrong, so tell me if I am). Frankly, the first Twilight movie did a much better job of portraying the ‘James wants to kill Bella situation’ than the book did. The fight in the ballet studio was kind of cool. But there’s just so much talk in the Twilight books. Even the Volturi don’t feel that dangerous (maybe it’s the hair?)
I like how Damon kills without regard in the Vampire Diaries. I love how he isn’t conflicted at all about murder and revels in his evilness. I want even more danger. I want people to die. This is not me being sick. But vampires have been portrayed as evil for a reason. They’re not teddy bears. At the same time, Damon is capable of love, which is always an interesting twist.
There are more opposing forces in the Twilight series: the vampires versus werewolves scenario. But even then….even with the whole “vampires and werewolves will NEVER be friends”, there’s still a truce. Despite some near misses, the deep-seated hatred between the two clans is focused more on Edward and Jacob’s fight over Bella than any real examination of conflict. Again, that potential gem really goes nowhere. And ends with Jacob imprinting on a vampire’s daughter. A baby daughter. Kind of pervy.
Other Factors
My friend Lanford had this to say when I told her I was writing this article: “Bonus to Twilight – Taylor Lautner’s sick (underage) body. Damn, kid.”
Yes, truer words were never spoken. Points to Twilight for that.
Comments
There will be a lot of people who disagree with this post and that’s fine. We all don’t have to like everything. Obviously people like Twilight. I’m more than happy to hear your arguments about the above factors or others. But making a comment about how “Edward is hot” is not going to advance anything (because I will childishly counter with the fact that both Stefan and Damon are hot too, so nah, nah, nah). I’m happy to be proven wrong or to listen to the other side of the argument. Also, I’m not hating on Robert Pattinson and/or Kristen Stewart. Nor do I have any particular opinion about their possible/definite relationship. That’s not the point of this article.
Anne Rice & True Blood
A lot of people have asked me why I didn’t talk more about Anne Rice and True Blood in this article and the reason for that is two-fold: (1) I honestly haven’t read much Anne Rice beyond Interview with the Vampire and that was very long ago. I didn’t want to start making assumptions about her work and comparing it to others that I was much more familiar with. However, I will say that I believe Anne Rice created very complex and interesting vampire characters and had a big impact on the genre in general. (2) I don’t make many comparisons between Twilight and True Blood because I really feel that True Blood is a much more adult story than Twilight (or even TVD). Furthermore, True Blood is much more mystical. In that sense, it has more in common with Buffy than with either Twillight or TVD. I love True Blood, so the slight isn’t meant to exclude it, I just don’t think that it’s necessarily meant to target the same audience or deal with the same themes.
Email me at clarissa @ tvovermind.com
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I enjoyed reading this .. no arguments on either side of it from me :-)
Thanks! Glad you liked it.
i think you lose it, irina is not a great character, and all the suspence about the big fight in break down is lost in the last chapters, 'couse if you look at it, you never really have a fight in Twilight, the autor never gets to the end of any fight, james is killed before he can do any real damage, laurent does nothing, victoria is 3 meters near to bella and never ever hurts anyone even with her newbornes, not to talk about the volturi, they come from europe with all their army and wifes (never know the reason), to say oh! Renesme is great, sorry. I loved this article, maybe i dont write english quite well but i wanted to give my opinion, i love Twilight, this is a good love story at this moment, i can lose myself wishing i have an edward to myself, love Edward/Rob, love Kristen but hate Bella, really i think the movies make it better for these characters, bella is sooo desperating! you have the most handsome man in the world and instead ejoying him, you fail!!! damn girl enjoy him like we can't!!!! I'm agree, i love Buffy i don't know why people forget them, and i really think new generations are turning the concept of those great vampires into a blue prince bloodsucker or whatever. Just I loved your article, i saw TVD and love it, i think it is what i was hopping from Twilight, hope they dont lose it. Thanks for your great courage to wrote something like this, just told that to my friends and they didnt heard me, i will show them this, even if i have to translate (well or wrong but the idea)
sorry about the first part, is just for someone that wrote there are some deaths in twiligt, i just made a mistake with the message
I enjoyed reading this .. no arguments on either side of it from me :-)
Thanks! Glad you liked it.
i think you lose it, irina is not a great character, and all the suspence about the big fight in break down is lost in the last chapters, ‘couse if you look at it, you never really have a fight in Twilight, the autor never gets to the end of any fight, james is killed before he can do any real damage, laurent does nothing, victoria is 3 meters near to bella and never ever hurts anyone even with her newbornes, not to talk about the volturi, they come from europe with all their army and wifes (never know the reason), to say oh! Renesme is great, sorry. I loved this article, maybe i dont write english quite well but i wanted to give my opinion, i love Twilight, this is a good love story at this moment, i can lose myself wishing i have an edward to myself, love Edward/Rob, love Kristen but hate Bella, really i think the movies make it better for these characters, bella is sooo desperating! you have the most handsome man in the world and instead ejoying him, you fail!!! damn girl enjoy him like we can’t!!!! I’m agree, i love Buffy i don’t know why people forget them, and i really think new generations are turning the concept of those great vampires into a blue prince bloodsucker or whatever. Just I loved your article, i saw TVD and love it, i think it is what i was hopping from Twilight, hope they dont lose it. Thanks for your great courage to wrote something like this, just told that to my friends and they didnt heard me, i will show them this, even if i have to translate (well or wrong but the idea)
sorry about the first part, is just for someone that wrote there are some deaths in twiligt, i just made a mistake with the message
You are entitled to your opinion, of course. I do disagree. I found Vampire Diaries to boring and rather trite. I am sorry but if anyone is just eye candy with no visible depth, I would be voting on Damon and Stefan. I loved Dracula, Buffy, Angel, and Twilight. I have always enjoyed the different storylines to vampire folklore. It is fun when the vampire story changes and to see how a writer reworks it. If you have no problem with some lame rings allowing them to be in sunlight, or a vampire whose soul pops in and out whenever the storyline needs it too, then the argument against sunlight sparkles seems rather ridiculous. Sparkles is very minor to the entire Twilight storyline (just another reason for vampires to stay out of sunlight). I just don't get the uproar for sparkles which really was about his skin being like granite. No, I do not need my heroes to sparkle in sunlight but I do like depth and sincerity in a character whether it be sincerely evil, tortured or good. And it is cool to have the vampire be a good guy, different and fun. And, if evil beefcake is what does it for you then more power to you. I am looking for something else.
I find it interesting that you think there is more depth to the characters in Twilight. Could you send me an email to explain why that is? I might do a follow-up article with more people's opinions.
I should clarify, it's not just about evil beefcakes that do it for me. That's actually why I liked the vampires in Buffy and Angel a lot more than anything that came after, because they were very complex characters.
You are entitled to your opinion, of course. I do disagree. I found Vampire Diaries to boring and rather trite. I am sorry but if anyone is just eye candy with no visible depth, I would be voting on Damon and Stefan. I loved Dracula, Buffy, Angel, and Twilight. I have always enjoyed the different storylines to vampire folklore. It is fun when the vampire story changes and to see how a writer reworks it. If you have no problem with some lame rings allowing them to be in sunlight, or a vampire whose soul pops in and out whenever the storyline needs it too, then the argument against sunlight sparkles seems rather ridiculous. Sparkles is very minor to the entire Twilight storyline (just another reason for vampires to stay out of sunlight). I just don’t get the uproar for sparkles which really was about his skin being like granite. No, I do not need my heroes to sparkle in sunlight but I do like depth and sincerity in a character whether it be sincerely evil, tortured or good. And it is cool to have the vampire be a good guy, different and fun. And, if evil beefcake is what does it for you then more power to you. I am looking for something else.
I find it interesting that you think there is more depth to the characters in Twilight. Could you send me an email to explain why that is? I might do a follow-up article with more people’s opinions.
I should clarify, it’s not just about evil beefcakes that do it for me. That’s actually why I liked the vampires in Buffy and Angel a lot more than anything that came after, because they were very complex characters.
there was a ring in buffy too, remember? spike hunted it down in buffy and then she gave it to angel – crossover warning. it allowed them to be out in the sun as well. good article. good luck with twi-kids cracking it :D
I absolutely remember the Ring of Amara from Buffy and Angel and debated mentioning it in this article, but chose not to because it only appeared in a few episodes before it was destroyed.
Yeah, I was so pissed when Angel destroyed that ring, or when he gave up being human. Honestly everything that could go wrong for him and Buffy, did! But it's still my favorite love story *.* Even thought I wish Buffy ended up with Spike as well.
there was a ring in buffy too, remember? spike hunted it down in buffy and then she gave it to angel – crossover warning. it allowed them to be out in the sun as well. good article. good luck with twi-kids cracking it :D
I absolutely remember the Ring of Amara from Buffy and Angel and debated mentioning it in this article, but chose not to because it only appeared in a few episodes before it was destroyed.
Yeah, I was so pissed when Angel destroyed that ring, or when he gave up being human. Honestly everything that could go wrong for him and Buffy, did! But it’s still my favorite love story *.* Even thought I wish Buffy ended up with Spike as well.
I wasn't sure whether to give The Vampire Diaries a chance but I'm glad I did. Elena is developing into a great female character, she's sensible, strong-willed and shows a lot of concern for others. Stefan could be one-dimensional but they're starting to show more sides to him, particularly by way of his relationship with Damon. I also hope they continue to develop his tentative friendships with Bonnie, Matt, and Vicki. I'm also really interested to see where they're taking Damon. It was quite a risky decision to have a main character responsible for killing all these people but it brings an element of suspense and unpredictability to the show.
I wasn’t sure whether to give The Vampire Diaries a chance but I’m glad I did. Elena is developing into a great female character, she’s sensible, strong-willed and shows a lot of concern for others. Stefan could be one-dimensional but they’re starting to show more sides to him, particularly by way of his relationship with Damon. I also hope they continue to develop his tentative friendships with Bonnie, Matt, and Vicki. I’m also really interested to see where they’re taking Damon. It was quite a risky decision to have a main character responsible for killing all these people but it brings an element of suspense and unpredictability to the show.
Clarissa, while I may not agree with everything in your article, I have to commend you on a fantastic job with this in-depth analysis of two very popular aspects of pop culture right now. I do consider myself a Twilighter (I promise that while most of us are very passionate about the series, not all of us are addicted simply because of the fact that Edward Cullen/Robert Pattinson is 'hot'), but I have also been avidly watching The Vampire Diaries and also consider myself a huge fan of that show. Haven't read the books yet because I'm scared they'll ruin the show for me.
I think what I love most about the Twilight series is that it is unrealistic, way over the top on some things, and provides a complete escape from the real world. I love getting lost in the movies, the books, and fan fiction (where there are very few authors that believe in that whole marriage before sex thing) ;) and I love the characters.
But I do get what you're saying and some of the stuff about it all bothered me to (i.e. Reneesme) and I completely respect your opinion and you're willingness to put it out there, despite what backlash it may cause from rabid Twilight fans.
And I completely agree with you about Damon Salvatore. Yum, yum, and yum. Ian Somerhalder has charmingly wicked down to a perfection. Definitely my second favorite leading vamp out there, following Eric Northman (Alexander Skarsgard) from True Blood who will always be number one for me, ALWAYS. :)I'm actually waiting for a comparison article about those two (as well as Stefan and Bill).
I was a bit surprised that you didn't include more True Blood within the article, as it seems to have a lot of the stuff that it sounds like you would enjoy from reading your opinions on the other two. For me, if I absolutely have to choose a favorite, True Blood and the Sookie Stackhouse series beat the other two day on any day of the week.
Clarissa, while I may not agree with everything in your article, I have to commend you on a fantastic job with this in-depth analysis of two very popular aspects of pop culture right now. I do consider myself a Twilighter (I promise that while most of us are very passionate about the series, not all of us are addicted simply because of the fact that Edward Cullen/Robert Pattinson is ‘hot’), but I have also been avidly watching The Vampire Diaries and also consider myself a huge fan of that show. Haven’t read the books yet because I’m scared they’ll ruin the show for me.
I think what I love most about the Twilight series is that it is unrealistic, way over the top on some things, and provides a complete escape from the real world. I love getting lost in the movies, the books, and fan fiction (where there are very few authors that believe in that whole marriage before sex thing) ;) and I love the characters.
But I do get what you’re saying and some of the stuff about it all bothered me to (i.e. Reneesme) and I completely respect your opinion and you’re willingness to put it out there, despite what backlash it may cause from rabid Twilight fans.
And I completely agree with you about Damon Salvatore. Yum, yum, and yum. Ian Somerhalder has charmingly wicked down to a perfection. Definitely my second favorite leading vamp out there, following Eric Northman (Alexander Skarsgard) from True Blood who will always be number one for me, ALWAYS. :)I’m actually waiting for a comparison article about those two (as well as Stefan and Bill).
I was a bit surprised that you didn’t include more True Blood within the article, as it seems to have a lot of the stuff that it sounds like you would enjoy from reading your opinions on the other two. For me, if I absolutely have to choose a favorite, True Blood and the Sookie Stackhouse series beat the other two day on any day of the week.
Honestly i'm just glad someone is dissecting the lack of any true reason to read and/or watch twilight. I commend what the actors have tried to do with their source materials, as there's not much they could do with it.
I agree the Buffy/Angel characters were much more complex. Joss Whedon made sure to do this. He, and the actors, needed round villans and heroes to play. The story wouldn't advance otherwise.
Also someone trying to pull the Ring of Amara out and say it brings Buffy/Angel down to the Twilight level was kind of weak. That's like saying because both have a 'tortured' vampire they're the same as well. That's like comparing apples to oranges and saying they're the same because they're fruits.
I long for the day of complex, dramatic, and somewhat funny tales of horror. Now we get Dawson's Creek with shiny skin and a craving for rare meat.
I know I have left the Vampire Diaries out from my comment, that is because I have yet to watch or read it, and I don't think I will.
"I long for the day of complex, dramatic, and somewhat funny tales of horror. Now we get Dawson's Creek with shiny skin and a craving for rare meat."
HA! Craving for rare meat! Love it! Vampires have sort of lost their edge, haven't they?
What's funny is I never would have given The Vampire Diaries the time of day if I hadn't known it was from the creator of Dawsons!
Honestly i’m just glad someone is dissecting the lack of any true reason to read and/or watch twilight. I commend what the actors have tried to do with their source materials, as there’s not much they could do with it.
I agree the Buffy/Angel characters were much more complex. Joss Whedon made sure to do this. He, and the actors, needed round villans and heroes to play. The story wouldn’t advance otherwise.
Also someone trying to pull the Ring of Amara out and say it brings Buffy/Angel down to the Twilight level was kind of weak. That’s like saying because both have a ‘tortured’ vampire they’re the same as well. That’s like comparing apples to oranges and saying they’re the same because they’re fruits.
I long for the day of complex, dramatic, and somewhat funny tales of horror. Now we get Dawson’s Creek with shiny skin and a craving for rare meat.
I know I have left the Vampire Diaries out from my comment, that is because I have yet to watch or read it, and I don’t think I will.
“I long for the day of complex, dramatic, and somewhat funny tales of horror. Now we get Dawson’s Creek with shiny skin and a craving for rare meat.”
HA! Craving for rare meat! Love it! Vampires have sort of lost their edge, haven’t they?
What’s funny is I never would have given The Vampire Diaries the time of day if I hadn’t known it was from the creator of Dawsons!
You make several fine points here, and your arguments are extremely lucid. I liked that you mentioned the extremely anti-climactic ending to Breaking Dawn, very disappointing (you were right, btw, Twilight has no body count at all, no major characters get killed). I also liked your concern that Bella has become something of a role model to young readers, and I agree with you that as a character, she lacks self-identity, and seems not to know who she is if she's not with someone (be it Edward or Jacob).
The Vampire Diaries is turning into a very strong show. Elena is developing well, Stefan is becoming more interesting by the episode and Damon, well I like Damon just like everyone else. Speaking of Damon, I can't wait to see him finally drive Stefan to drinking humans again. Elena's reactions to finding out the truth about the Salvatore's was exactly right, and the fact that she broke up with Stefan shows that she will be a strong lead for the show.
Buffy is the gold standard of vampire TV. Nothing in Twilight or Vampire Diaries is even close to that level of brilliance. True Blood has its moments where it is close, but it's inconsistent. It's just a different type of show than Buffy and Angel were tonewise, so it is hard to compare the two.
Nice work!
Actually, about the face-off in the last Twilight book, there was a death. Irina sees Renesmee from a distance and mistakes her for an "immortal child" and reports it to the Volturi. This is the cause for the big gathering in the field, and when the Volturi learn that Irina made a false report of an immortal child, they kill her.
Major character? Not really. But, still a death, for what it's worth …
You make several fine points here, and your arguments are extremely lucid. I liked that you mentioned the extremely anti-climactic ending to Breaking Dawn, very disappointing (you were right, btw, Twilight has no body count at all, no major characters get killed). I also liked your concern that Bella has become something of a role model to young readers, and I agree with you that as a character, she lacks self-identity, and seems not to know who she is if she’s not with someone (be it Edward or Jacob).
The Vampire Diaries is turning into a very strong show. Elena is developing well, Stefan is becoming more interesting by the episode and Damon, well I like Damon just like everyone else. Speaking of Damon, I can’t wait to see him finally drive Stefan to drinking humans again. Elena’s reactions to finding out the truth about the Salvatore’s was exactly right, and the fact that she broke up with Stefan shows that she will be a strong lead for the show.
Buffy is the gold standard of vampire TV. Nothing in Twilight or Vampire Diaries is even close to that level of brilliance. True Blood has its moments where it is close, but it’s inconsistent. It’s just a different type of show than Buffy and Angel were tonewise, so it is hard to compare the two.
Nice work!
Actually, about the face-off in the last Twilight book, there was a death. Irina sees Renesmee from a distance and mistakes her for an “immortal child” and reports it to the Volturi. This is the cause for the big gathering in the field, and when the Volturi learn that Irina made a false report of an immortal child, they kill her.
Major character? Not really. But, still a death, for what it’s worth …
This is a great read. I enjoyed it a lot. I admit, I was a Twilight fanatic before, but I think it died down a little (the fandom). When I saw TVD, I was like: "This actually make pretty sense that Twilight." And I have to agree with you, I like how vampire's should stay dangerous. =)
This is a great read. I enjoyed it a lot. I admit, I was a Twilight fanatic before, but I think it died down a little (the fandom). When I saw TVD, I was like: “This actually make pretty sense that Twilight.” And I have to agree with you, I like how vampire’s should stay dangerous. =)
I'm a HUGE TWILIGHT FAN but I still respect your views on it. I've read both series and I just adore the Twilight books more and that's just me. I thought Edward's character was way more interesting than the Salvatore brothers in the books. That was one reason why the Vampire Diaries books turned me off you couldn't relate or feel connected to any of the Vampire Diary characters.
What's wrong with Sparkling ? The effects of the movie made it seem cheesy but it was written beautifully in the books. Everyone's different and likes different things which in my opinion is a good thing.
I'm sorry but Vampire Diaries isn't close to becoming what Twilight is and how passionate the fans are in the Twilight fandom.
Vampire Diaries wouldn't be on if it wasn't for Twilight. Yes Buffy was huge and had a following but COME ON TWILIGHT HAS BROUGHT on a huge resurgence of vampires. A lot of people don't like vampires and Twilight has brought those people to actually appreciate it more. So called vampire know it all's might not like it but it's nice to have something different for a change.
I 100% completely agree with you! Thank you for standing up for Twilight since its obvious that the author of this article and all the other people who left comments have not stood up for Twilight. Twilight is much better then any other thing that is vampire-related. I do watch the Vampire Diaries but I still like Twilight a lot more. Just my opinion.
I thought the sparkling was a little interesting and different. I didnt think much about it. I usually allow the author to paint me a picture and I usually accept it for what it is. I dont know where i read it, maybe on Stephanie Meyers' website, but i found something that described why the Twilight vampires sparkled. All of their cells hardened into metal-like pieces which prevents them from getting hurt and also creates the metal ripping sound when a vampire is torn to shreds. When the sun hits them, it reflects off of these metal cells, creating sparkles. I thought that was so creative and it made the sparkling work for me
I enjoyed this article. Just as long as we all understand that The Vampire Diaries books predate even Buffy. So the original storyline, complex characterizations, and mythology–which the TV show is more or less following–don't owe squat to Buffy the Vampire Slayer. :)
You're right that the VD books predate Buffy. I should have been more clear….I think that the Twilight movies and the VD television show owes something to Buffy, which I think help popularized vampires again (along with movies such as Interview with the Vampire).
I think that Buffy really showed that vampires don't just have to be villains or one-dimensional characters. Of course, I could be wrong! Something generally owes something to a thing that came before it.
I enjoyed this article. Just as long as we all understand that The Vampire Diaries books predate even Buffy. So the original storyline, complex characterizations, and mythology–which the TV show is more or less following–don’t owe squat to Buffy the Vampire Slayer. :)
You’re right that the VD books predate Buffy. I should have been more clear….I think that the Twilight movies and the VD television show owes something to Buffy, which I think help popularized vampires again (along with movies such as Interview with the Vampire).
I think that Buffy really showed that vampires don’t just have to be villains or one-dimensional characters. Of course, I could be wrong! Something generally owes something to a thing that came before it.
nicely written.
i agree with the Bella factor, she makes a terrible heroine, especially for a book aimed at teenage girls. There are way more books you can read with strong heroines, that don't become infatuated with the first hot guy she lays her eyes on. There was no real development between them in the book. He was pretty much stalking her and she just went with it xD
I don't watch the vampire diaries, (i don't think it airs where i live) but after reading your article i really wanna watch it haha
on another note, the acting in the movie was so terrible, it was actually so hilarious, but i suppose they couldn't really do much about their character's, they weren't that greatly written out in the book. but, i can't wait for the next movie.. you're so right about Taylor Lautner xD
nicely written.
i agree with the Bella factor, she makes a terrible heroine, especially for a book aimed at teenage girls. There are way more books you can read with strong heroines, that don’t become infatuated with the first hot guy she lays her eyes on. There was no real development between them in the book. He was pretty much stalking her and she just went with it xD
I don’t watch the vampire diaries, (i don’t think it airs where i live) but after reading your article i really wanna watch it haha
on another note, the acting in the movie was so terrible, it was actually so hilarious, but i suppose they couldn’t really do much about their character’s, they weren’t that greatly written out in the book. but, i can’t wait for the next movie.. you’re so right about Taylor Lautner xD
I’m a HUGE TWILIGHT FAN but I still respect your views on it. I’ve read both series and I just adore the Twilight books more and that’s just me. I thought Edward’s character was way more interesting than the Salvatore brothers in the books. That was one reason why the Vampire Diaries books turned me off you couldn’t relate or feel connected to any of the Vampire Diary characters.
What’s wrong with Sparkling ? The effects of the movie made it seem cheesy but it was written beautifully in the books. Everyone’s different and likes different things which in my opinion is a good thing.
I’m sorry but Vampire Diaries isn’t close to becoming what Twilight is and how passionate the fans are in the Twilight fandom.
Vampire Diaries wouldn’t be on if it wasn’t for Twilight. Yes Buffy was huge and had a following but COME ON TWILIGHT HAS BROUGHT on a huge resurgence of vampires. A lot of people don’t like vampires and Twilight has brought those people to actually appreciate it more. So called vampire know it all’s might not like it but it’s nice to have something different for a change.
I 100% completely agree with you! Thank you for standing up for Twilight since its obvious that the author of this article and all the other people who left comments have not stood up for Twilight. Twilight is much better then any other thing that is vampire-related. I do watch the Vampire Diaries but I still like Twilight a lot more. Just my opinion.
Great article. I agree with everything. I love True Blood, Vampire Diaries and Buffy and I hope more people will give VD a chance because it develops into a pretty good and addictive show.
Great article. I agree with everything. I love True Blood, Vampire Diaries and Buffy and I hope more people will give VD a chance because it develops into a pretty good and addictive show.
clarissa
you left out Ann Rice's "Lestat"
i read the entire Vampire Chronicles—
Lestat is the quintisential Vampire
true and true
he upstages
all of the above
Angel is a second close behind him
i read the entire Twilight series
and it's really unfortunate that Stephenie Meyers
didn't acknowledge Fangs in her vampire character
it's an essential characterization of what a Vampire is
i was very very surprised it was omitted
the clash at the baseball scene and the Ballet studio
scene-really required fangs to be exposed to add a bit more true drama to the genre movie-it was too bad
but i'm still a Twilight follower-(new actors that i never knew existed -intriguing to follow their carers)
so what do you think-Lestat he was the man
they may do "Lestat" it's in the talks i believe or re-do
"Interview with the Vampire"
You're right, I did leave out Lestat and Anne Rice. I'll be honest with you….I read and saw Interview with the Vampire and while I very much enjoyed the book and the movie I'm really not as familiar with Anne Rice as I am with the other books/shows/movies I discussed in the article. I didn't want to start a discussion on issues that didn't turn out to be true because I had a hazy recollection of them.
But Anne Rice did create complex vampire characters and did a fantastic job with them.
thank you for your reply
i just fell in love with Lestat
he's not really a complicated vampire-he's a very lonely
vampire- and never asked for any of it-
all he wanted was companionship-and did it his way
and respected the code of the vampire community
but he was watched through out the series by what they called the Telemasca-like a Human cia
his journeys through out were very adventurous
Clarissa
give it a shot someday
he's great
I will definitely give it a shot. Like I said, I haven't read much of Anne Rice, though not for lack of interest in her work. But from what I recall, Lestat and her other vampires were great characters.
clarissa
you left out Ann Rice’s “Lestat”
i read the entire Vampire Chronicles—
Lestat is the quintisential Vampire
true and true
he upstages
all of the above
Angel is a second close behind him
i read the entire Twilight series
and it’s really unfortunate that Stephenie Meyers
didn’t acknowledge Fangs in her vampire character
it’s an essential characterization of what a Vampire is
i was very very surprised it was omitted
the clash at the baseball scene and the Ballet studio
scene-really required fangs to be exposed to add a bit more true drama to the genre movie-it was too bad
but i’m still a Twilight follower-(new actors that i never knew existed -intriguing to follow their carers)
so what do you think-Lestat he was the man
they may do “Lestat” it’s in the talks i believe or re-do
“Interview with the Vampire”
You’re right, I did leave out Lestat and Anne Rice. I’ll be honest with you….I read and saw Interview with the Vampire and while I very much enjoyed the book and the movie I’m really not as familiar with Anne Rice as I am with the other books/shows/movies I discussed in the article. I didn’t want to start a discussion on issues that didn’t turn out to be true because I had a hazy recollection of them.
But Anne Rice did create complex vampire characters and did a fantastic job with them.
thank you for your reply
i just fell in love with Lestat
he’s not really a complicated vampire-he’s a very lonely
vampire- and never asked for any of it-
all he wanted was companionship-and did it his way
and respected the code of the vampire community
but he was watched through out the series by what they called the Telemasca-like a Human cia
his journeys through out were very adventurous
Clarissa
give it a shot someday
he’s great
I will definitely give it a shot. Like I said, I haven’t read much of Anne Rice, though not for lack of interest in her work. But from what I recall, Lestat and her other vampires were great characters.
All I can say is that I'll never take any Twilight fans seriously, because they truly believe those books are good. I've seen fanfiction written on livejournal with more depth than any single paragraph in any of those "novels", so the moment I see a Twilight fan who thinks those books are good writing, I immediately scoff. Pick up some classic literature, for goodness' sake. Or admit you like the movie because there are a bunch of vacant, pretty people running around on the big screen. It's more respectable.
I never read the Vampire Diaries when they came out, mainly because I read half of Anne Rice's work by the time I was twelve, and the Vampire Diaries was too Young Adult for me, but I do watch the show. I was wary about giving it a chance, simply because of how awful Twilight is, but I was ridiculously pleased. It's become one of my favorite shows on television, mainly because Ian Somerhalder's portrayal of Damon is insanely brilliant. He's Spike times ten, and I can only hope they don't do to that character what they did to Spike.
I did enjoy your article, though.
All I can say is that I’ll never take any Twilight fans seriously, because they truly believe those books are good. I’ve seen fanfiction written on livejournal with more depth than any single paragraph in any of those “novels”, so the moment I see a Twilight fan who thinks those books are good writing, I immediately scoff. Pick up some classic literature, for goodness’ sake. Or admit you like the movie because there are a bunch of vacant, pretty people running around on the big screen. It’s more respectable.
I never read the Vampire Diaries when they came out, mainly because I read half of Anne Rice’s work by the time I was twelve, and the Vampire Diaries was too Young Adult for me, but I do watch the show. I was wary about giving it a chance, simply because of how awful Twilight is, but I was ridiculously pleased. It’s become one of my favorite shows on television, mainly because Ian Somerhalder’s portrayal of Damon is insanely brilliant. He’s Spike times ten, and I can only hope they don’t do to that character what they did to Spike.
I did enjoy your article, though.
Bella is vapid… Robert Pattinson did a great job with Edward, but he's still to "tame" to meet my standards of a vampire.
What do you picture when someone says vampire, pale skin, fangs and a lot of blood. Twilight has the pale skin but is lacking some of the essential attributes of a vampire story.
Buffy is Buffy, it was great while it lasted but its over and the only good that came of it was something to watch on cable thats not re runs of MASH or Gilmore Girls.
True Blood is my favourite of all its got the scandal of betrayal, "undying" love and hot bad guys. Including Fangs, blood, sex and danger. But my favourite character so far would have to been Queen Sophie-Anne Leclerq.
As for Vampire Diaries the books were a 6/10 better than Twilight but I think its too soon to tell if the series will be any good. Since its already strayed so much from the book, to attract Twihard viewers.
I loved Interview with a vampire, but I hope they dont remake it.
Thanks
Bella is vapid… Robert Pattinson did a great job with Edward, but he’s still to “tame” to meet my standards of a vampire.
What do you picture when someone says vampire, pale skin, fangs and a lot of blood. Twilight has the pale skin but is lacking some of the essential attributes of a vampire story.
Buffy is Buffy, it was great while it lasted but its over and the only good that came of it was something to watch on cable thats not re runs of MASH or Gilmore Girls.
True Blood is my favourite of all its got the scandal of betrayal, “undying” love and hot bad guys. Including Fangs, blood, sex and danger. But my favourite character so far would have to been Queen Sophie-Anne Leclerq.
As for Vampire Diaries the books were a 6/10 better than Twilight but I think its too soon to tell if the series will be any good. Since its already strayed so much from the book, to attract Twihard viewers.
I loved Interview with a vampire, but I hope they dont remake it.
Thanks
Loved the article. I actually read Twilight before Vampire Diaries and thought it was alright UNTIL I read the Vampire diaries. I honestly believe Stephenie Meyer has read all the L.J.Smith books and been heavily influenced e.g. in one book in the nightworld series, there's a girl who falls in love with a vampire and has a best friend who fixes her stationwagon who also likes her and is a werewolf…and this was before Twilight. I'm a huge Buffy and Angel fan and think they're really the best. However, Vampire Diaries is getting better every episode – Damon's character is brilliant. Mostly because it's written by Kevin Williamson – the writer of scream and I know what you did last Summer.
I hate how needy Bella is and was soo angry after reading the 4th book where the Volturi turned up and left without doing anything – what a waste of time?!
I personally loved the vampires most from the movies 'Near Dark' and 'The lost boys' – they were excellent and scary!
I get what you mean about borrowing from the Vampire Diaries. I think that there are a lot of common elements among all of these series – from Twilight to Buffy to True Blood.
TVD is so getting better and better. I like how they are deviating from the books and bringing in even more interesting scenarios. I would have actually liked the Twilight movie to venture further away from the source material.
I also dislike how needy Bella is. It's like she has no identity but to be loved by Edward and/or Jacob. Seeing how there are so many terrific strong female heorines in the vampire genre (and in other genres), I think that Bella does a disservice to them.
Vampirediariesfan, I think that it is so funny that you mention LJ Smith's book, "Daughter of Darkness" because I distinctly remember the first time I saw the trailer for the first Twilight movie–I apparently had been living under a rock and had never heard of the Twilight books or Stephenie Meyer–I honestly thought for a minute that it was an adaptation for "Daughters of Darkness." Funny.
Loved the article. I actually read Twilight before Vampire Diaries and thought it was alright UNTIL I read the Vampire diaries. I honestly believe Stephenie Meyer has read all the L.J.Smith books and been heavily influenced e.g. in one book in the nightworld series, there’s a girl who falls in love with a vampire and has a best friend who fixes her stationwagon who also likes her and is a werewolf…and this was before Twilight. I’m a huge Buffy and Angel fan and think they’re really the best. However, Vampire Diaries is getting better every episode – Damon’s character is brilliant. Mostly because it’s written by Kevin Williamson – the writer of scream and I know what you did last Summer.
I hate how needy Bella is and was soo angry after reading the 4th book where the Volturi turned up and left without doing anything – what a waste of time?!
I personally loved the vampires most from the movies ‘Near Dark’ and ‘The lost boys’ – they were excellent and scary!
I get what you mean about borrowing from the Vampire Diaries. I think that there are a lot of common elements among all of these series – from Twilight to Buffy to True Blood.
TVD is so getting better and better. I like how they are deviating from the books and bringing in even more interesting scenarios. I would have actually liked the Twilight movie to venture further away from the source material.
I also dislike how needy Bella is. It’s like she has no identity but to be loved by Edward and/or Jacob. Seeing how there are so many terrific strong female heorines in the vampire genre (and in other genres), I think that Bella does a disservice to them.
Vampirediariesfan, I think that it is so funny that you mention LJ Smith’s book, “Daughter of Darkness” because I distinctly remember the first time I saw the trailer for the first Twilight movie–I apparently had been living under a rock and had never heard of the Twilight books or Stephenie Meyer–I honestly thought for a minute that it was an adaptation for “Daughters of Darkness.” Funny.
Loved your article and could not agree more with you. The Salvatore brothers are much more complex and interesting characters. What girl can't help but love bad boy Damon? And of course it helps that he's portrayed by the gorgeous Ian Somerhalder! Breaking Dawn was a disaster as well as a complete let down, with the birth scene and the huge showdown (where no showdown occured) need I say more? But of course my loyalties will always lie with Buffy. Joss Whedon did an amazing job with the series, between the witty dialogue and tragic love story especially through out season two. All the "wanna-bellas" out there should watch Buffy and see what a true heroine in a vampire series really looks like.
Loved your article and could not agree more with you. The Salvatore brothers are much more complex and interesting characters. What girl can’t help but love bad boy Damon? And of course it helps that he’s portrayed by the gorgeous Ian Somerhalder! Breaking Dawn was a disaster as well as a complete let down, with the birth scene and the huge showdown (where no showdown occured) need I say more? But of course my loyalties will always lie with Buffy. Joss Whedon did an amazing job with the series, between the witty dialogue and tragic love story especially through out season two. All the “wanna-bellas” out there should watch Buffy and see what a true heroine in a vampire series really looks like.
Nice article.
Well, Twilight has received much backlash from vampire fans… and still is. Stephenie Meyer apparently isn't into the horror genre and unlike LJ Smith, she never researched on vampire lore. So, no wonder about the type of vampires she created. I think the sparkle skin idea is supposed to make it look, ya know… beautiful. AND, I'm surprised there's no 'The No-Fangs Factor' here…
And why are so many people disgusted by whatshisname and Jacob imprinting on kids? I mean, it's not like they're hitting on them or something. Say, you travel back in time and witness the love of your life when (s)he was still a child and get to watch him/her grow and spend some time with him/her? It's not like you're going to think of them in some pervy way… unless you're sick, like REALLY sick.
Anyway, I'm no Twilight fan. The books I could go through them to the end, although many parts had me gritting my teeth and rolling my eyes. Also, definitely not a fan of Bella and her obsession with Edward. And I thought the movie was so bad it was hilarious! Still, I didn't find the books that bad, BAD. I enjoyed some. And, I don't see any girls idolizing Bella (relating to her maybe but not looking up to her), they're all over Edward ;) but yeah, I don't think that exactly healthy too.
I prefer The Vampire Diaries myself. Just wished though that LJ Smith expanded more on the vampire lore and everything else in her books. So, I'm kinda glad they have adapted them for TV.
Honestly? I completely forgot about the whole "no fangs" factor. I was much too distracted from the light glistening off Edward's bare chest, I suppose. But yes, you're absolutely right. The sparkling and the no fangs factor really serves to debase a vampire into more of a "bad boy" than a real evil creature.
I see what you're saying about the imprinting thing, but people were also saying that it was kind of weird in the Time Traveler's Wife. It's a bit odd to go back in time and see the love of your life and be in love with them (as a child). I don't know, it just rubs me the wrong way. But you're right, obviously Jacob's not thinking about the baby "like that". Although, it's awfully convenient that he can't have Bella but just so happens to imprint on her daughter.
Finally, your last point about girls not idolizing Bella…..you may be right. I think my point is more that it's dangerous for girls to relate to Bella or behave like her (as opposed to idolize).
Nice article.
Well, Twilight has received much backlash from vampire fans… and still is. Stephenie Meyer apparently isn’t into the horror genre and unlike LJ Smith, she never researched on vampire lore. So, no wonder about the type of vampires she created. I think the sparkle skin idea is supposed to make it look, ya know… beautiful. AND, I’m surprised there’s no ‘The No-Fangs Factor’ here…
And why are so many people disgusted by whatshisname and Jacob imprinting on kids? I mean, it’s not like they’re hitting on them or something. Say, you travel back in time and witness the love of your life when (s)he was still a child and get to watch him/her grow and spend some time with him/her? It’s not like you’re going to think of them in some pervy way… unless you’re sick, like REALLY sick.
Anyway, I’m no Twilight fan. The books I could go through them to the end, although many parts had me gritting my teeth and rolling my eyes. Also, definitely not a fan of Bella and her obsession with Edward. And I thought the movie was so bad it was hilarious! Still, I didn’t find the books that bad, BAD. I enjoyed some. And, I don’t see any girls idolizing Bella (relating to her maybe but not looking up to her), they’re all over Edward ;) but yeah, I don’t think that exactly healthy too.
I prefer The Vampire Diaries myself. Just wished though that LJ Smith expanded more on the vampire lore and everything else in her books. So, I’m kinda glad they have adapted them for TV.
Honestly? I completely forgot about the whole “no fangs” factor. I was much too distracted from the light glistening off Edward’s bare chest, I suppose. But yes, you’re absolutely right. The sparkling and the no fangs factor really serves to debase a vampire into more of a “bad boy” than a real evil creature.
I see what you’re saying about the imprinting thing, but people were also saying that it was kind of weird in the Time Traveler’s Wife. It’s a bit odd to go back in time and see the love of your life and be in love with them (as a child). I don’t know, it just rubs me the wrong way. But you’re right, obviously Jacob’s not thinking about the baby “like that”. Although, it’s awfully convenient that he can’t have Bella but just so happens to imprint on her daughter.
Finally, your last point about girls not idolizing Bella…..you may be right. I think my point is more that it’s dangerous for girls to relate to Bella or behave like her (as opposed to idolize).
Best article I've read concerning these two series. I've forwarded it to many of my friends.
I read Twilight long before Twilight was cool. I love all four books. I really, really do. But now the franchise has been cheapened. A beautiful love story has turned into cheesy merchandising fodder for Hot Topic, and happy meal prizes at Burger King. (Team Jacob and Team Edward crowns? Are you kidding me?) Grown women spend hours Twitting about the movies, seemingly incapable of a single day passing without getting in at least one Twilight/Robert Pattinson-related Tweet. Oh, this fandom…
And at the risk of further exacerbating the ire of die-hard Twilight fans the world over, I'm gonna just put this out there: Paul Wesley is exactly how I imagined Edward Cullen. In my head. When reading the books. Long before there was a Robert Pattinson–whom I love, don't get me wrong. But when I read these books three years ago…"my" Edward looked exactly like Paul Wesley. Abs and all.
I love The Vampire Diaries…the tv show is actually more enjoyable than the books, and I'll say the same for True Blood. Alexander Skarsgard's portrayal of Eric Northman actually replaced James Marsters' Spike in my heart. Then again, there's room for both. Amen!
p.s. In the movie version of Twilight, I don't know which bothered me more–Edward's craft-store bedazzled form, or its accompanying sound effect. I almost left the theater because of it.
Oh LORD! There are crowns?! What a sad, sad thing.
I'm with you on the abs. The morning after that first episode when we saw Paul Wesley's abs I wrote to my friend and asked if she had seen them – and then promptly informed her that I wanted to start a whole religion just devoted to those abs.
Oh, well then you MUST know of my favorite hashtag on Twitter, which was started by a fellow friend/Vamp Diaries lover: #paulwesleyabs
Yes, it's kinda juvenile & ridiculous…but it's also oh-so true. And fun. And well…his abs are real. Not painted on. Cough-cough, Italy, cough-cough.
(The Burger King Crowns will be available next month. If you're wondering if I'm avoiding BK at all costs, because of this marketing stupidity, I am.)
Best twitter hashmark. Ever.
Best article I’ve read concerning these two series. I’ve forwarded it to many of my friends.
I read Twilight long before Twilight was cool. I love all four books. I really, really do. But now the franchise has been cheapened. A beautiful love story has turned into cheesy merchandising fodder for Hot Topic, and happy meal prizes at Burger King. (Team Jacob and Team Edward crowns? Are you kidding me?) Grown women spend hours Twitting about the movies, seemingly incapable of a single day passing without getting in at least one Twilight/Robert Pattinson-related Tweet. Oh, this fandom…
And at the risk of further exacerbating the ire of die-hard Twilight fans the world over, I’m gonna just put this out there: Paul Wesley is exactly how I imagined Edward Cullen. In my head. When reading the books. Long before there was a Robert Pattinson–whom I love, don’t get me wrong. But when I read these books three years ago…”my” Edward looked exactly like Paul Wesley. Abs and all.
I love The Vampire Diaries…the tv show is actually more enjoyable than the books, and I’ll say the same for True Blood. Alexander Skarsgard’s portrayal of Eric Northman actually replaced James Marsters’ Spike in my heart. Then again, there’s room for both. Amen!
p.s. In the movie version of Twilight, I don’t know which bothered me more–Edward’s craft-store bedazzled form, or its accompanying sound effect. I almost left the theater because of it.
Oh LORD! There are crowns?! What a sad, sad thing.
I’m with you on the abs. The morning after that first episode when we saw Paul Wesley’s abs I wrote to my friend and asked if she had seen them – and then promptly informed her that I wanted to start a whole religion just devoted to those abs.
Oh, well then you MUST know of my favorite hashtag on Twitter, which was started by a fellow friend/Vamp Diaries lover: #paulwesleyabs
Yes, it’s kinda juvenile & ridiculous…but it’s also oh-so true. And fun. And well…his abs are real. Not painted on. Cough-cough, Italy, cough-cough.
(The Burger King Crowns will be available next month. If you’re wondering if I’m avoiding BK at all costs, because of this marketing stupidity, I am.)
Best twitter hashmark. Ever.
Oh yes I agree Stefan and Damon for that matter should be shirtless more. I do wonder if that certain character will be a werewolf on the show. I do like Twilight but I do like The Vampire Diaries more. And of course I want more flashbacks after all I did enjoy seeing the boys in suspenders porn. Yes I'm that nuts. Sorry but I'm still unsure why people go all crazy about Robert who just doesn't do it for me not that I'm calling him ugly. All hail the mighty abs.
Oh yes I agree Stefan and Damon for that matter should be shirtless more. I do wonder if that certain character will be a werewolf on the show. I do like Twilight but I do like The Vampire Diaries more. And of course I want more flashbacks after all I did enjoy seeing the boys in suspenders porn. Yes I’m that nuts. Sorry but I’m still unsure why people go all crazy about Robert who just doesn’t do it for me not that I’m calling him ugly. All hail the mighty abs.
I left a comment above regarding the death in the final "showdown" in Breaking Dawn. As I read the other comments it became clear that people seem to think that nothing happened in that scene. For those who don't know, or forgot, the lack of a fight was not for lack of trying. The Volturi knew they couldn't risk a physical fight with the werewolves there, but they kept throwing their "mental" attacks at the Cullens and their friends, however they were thwarted by the shield that Bella cast over the entire group.
In any case, I've always been a fan of vampires and have been fascinated by the various takes on the legend. I've followed Twilight, Buffy, the Angel spinoff, Anne Rice, the various Draculas … Not choosing sides, because I think each is its own unique interpretation.
I now remember what you're talking about for the "showdown" in Breaking Down. You're right that there was a death (though not major, as you admitted) and a mental fight. Honestly, the whole shield thing seemed very convenient and a way to avoid any sort of violence. I'm not saying it needs to be all violence, all the time, I'm just trying to make a point that the level of evilness or confrontation in Twilight is fairly minimal compared to the other examples we've been discussing.
I completely agree. In fact, I just started watching Vampire Diaries (only through episode 4 thus far), and I'm kinda bored by Stefan's character. He reminds me (to some extent) of Twilight's Edward, and Buffy's Angel (when he has his soul).
Damon, on the other hand, is an unexpected delight! Much like Angel without his soul. To finally see a vampire with violent tendencies again is very refreshing. :D
I left a comment above regarding the death in the final “showdown” in Breaking Dawn. As I read the other comments it became clear that people seem to think that nothing happened in that scene. For those who don’t know, or forgot, the lack of a fight was not for lack of trying. The Volturi knew they couldn’t risk a physical fight with the werewolves there, but they kept throwing their “mental” attacks at the Cullens and their friends, however they were thwarted by the shield that Bella cast over the entire group.
In any case, I’ve always been a fan of vampires and have been fascinated by the various takes on the legend. I’ve followed Twilight, Buffy, the Angel spinoff, Anne Rice, the various Draculas … Not choosing sides, because I think each is its own unique interpretation.
I now remember what you’re talking about for the “showdown” in Breaking Down. You’re right that there was a death (though not major, as you admitted) and a mental fight. Honestly, the whole shield thing seemed very convenient and a way to avoid any sort of violence. I’m not saying it needs to be all violence, all the time, I’m just trying to make a point that the level of evilness or confrontation in Twilight is fairly minimal compared to the other examples we’ve been discussing.
I completely agree. In fact, I just started watching Vampire Diaries (only through episode 4 thus far), and I’m kinda bored by Stefan’s character. He reminds me (to some extent) of Twilight’s Edward, and Buffy’s Angel (when he has his soul).
Damon, on the other hand, is an unexpected delight! Much like Angel without his soul. To finally see a vampire with violent tendencies again is very refreshing. :D
OK,so I am a fan of Twilight not so much The Vampire Diaries. I see where your coming from but I look at this way Vampires like other myth stories. (ex. Bloody Mary) point is their are several different types and ways of telling these stories and people don't necessarily need to stick to same rules but at the same time can't necessarily stray to far from them. (ex.None of the vampires can go in the sun but for different reasons.) As for the lead guys and who is hotter I actually don't find the guys of the vampire diaries that hot and Twilight saga Has Robert Pattinson, Kellen Lutz, Jackson Rathbone, and even though he is not vampire can't forget Taylor Launter. As for the leading ladies I have read the vampire diaries and I hated the female always worrying about being popular. I like Bella because she seems more like she wants more to life then being a human can offer. And for the evil factor I think Twilight saga Was to Focus more on the Romance then anything else, where as TVD wanted kinda focus on both. As for the sex Factor I think twilight was to focus be more for a younger audience but when it attracted older teens she tried make breaking dawn focus more on towards that ranger (Hints the weird way of the birth)
Anyway if you want to watch something that follows more of the vampire rules well watch True Blood. But if you want to watch something that doesn't exactly follow all the rules for vampires watch Twilight or The Vampire Diaries
OK,so I am a fan of Twilight not so much The Vampire Diaries. I see where your coming from but I look at this way Vampires like other myth stories. (ex. Bloody Mary) point is their are several different types and ways of telling these stories and people don’t necessarily need to stick to same rules but at the same time can’t necessarily stray to far from them. (ex.None of the vampires can go in the sun but for different reasons.) As for the lead guys and who is hotter I actually don’t find the guys of the vampire diaries that hot and Twilight saga Has Robert Pattinson, Kellen Lutz, Jackson Rathbone, and even though he is not vampire can’t forget Taylor Launter. As for the leading ladies I have read the vampire diaries and I hated the female always worrying about being popular. I like Bella because she seems more like she wants more to life then being a human can offer. And for the evil factor I think Twilight saga Was to Focus more on the Romance then anything else, where as TVD wanted kinda focus on both. As for the sex Factor I think twilight was to focus be more for a younger audience but when it attracted older teens she tried make breaking dawn focus more on towards that ranger (Hints the weird way of the birth)
Anyway if you want to watch something that follows more of the vampire rules well watch True Blood. But if you want to watch something that doesn’t exactly follow all the rules for vampires watch Twilight or The Vampire Diaries
u haven't read somethin REALLY sensual till u read "the black dagger brotherhood" by Jr Ward…that is one hot book
i love my edward and my twilight things…but that's one thing…
the BDB are much more complex vampire books and i recommend those to everybody!
Thanks for the suggestion! I will check it out.
u haven’t read somethin REALLY sensual till u read “the black dagger brotherhood” by Jr Ward…that is one hot book
i love my edward and my twilight things…but that’s one thing…
the BDB are much more complex vampire books and i recommend those to everybody!
Thanks for the suggestion! I will check it out.
As a big fan of Buffy and The Vampire Diaries, I really liked this article. The first thing I thought of after viewing TVD was of Buffy. They are in many ways completely different and I realize that it's going to be awhile before Vampire Diaries even come close to Buffy standards but they do have one great major thing in common that makes them what they are: evil vampires. It doesn't get better than Spike or Damon in my opinion.:)
https://twitter.com/lacyduckie
THANK YOU!!!!! Someone who's finally brave enough to post such a sensitive topic, and I mean Twilight (haven't read any of the books. I just hope to hell they're better than the movie). Let ME say, Edward Cullen is not hot by MY standards. Robert Pattinson, meh. I like guys who look like they've taken a shower within the past 48 hours at LEAST. Edward is as emotional as a 16 year old when she surfs the crimson wave day before prom. "You smell, I'm gonna run away and make you feel REALLY awkward. Let me leave you cryptic messages and walk away. Let me save your life and tell you to shove off. But wait…I can't 'live' without you." The only one who's torturing him is HIMSELF. Didn't eight year olds do this back in the day when they had a crush on you? Are you sure he said he was 17 for a while and not 7??! And don't you get me started on Bella…Lord help me if I was that child's parent (I'm 24, fyi). To fall for a boy you just met and fall so hard knowing he wears permanent glitter on his body?…for reals? But hey, if she wants to go out with a "vampire" who's a walking disco ball, by all means (come to think of it, that would have been really funny to see at their dance if he took his shirt off. Bwahahaha!!). So yeah, you know what, two peas in a freaking pod. Go ahead, burn my house down and do a rain dance over my remains. I said it.
You know, I was between the ages of 8 and 10 when I got the first Vampire Diaries from the library. Do I remember what it was about? Yes. Did I buy them later in life? Yes. Did I read them? Not yet. I might, to start comparing TV Stefan to book Stefan just to see how boring he really is. Honestly, crack a joke or smile more for God's sake! At this rate, he's looking like an Edward clone, always so serious, foreboding, and sensitive!! Who the hell wants a sensitive vampire?! Angel was all tortured at first but he lightened up slowly but surely and before you knew it, he was the smart mouth of the whole team! Also, I don't mean to sound violent but to be killed by Ian Somerhalder's Damon is an HONOR!! At least he knows he's evil and he has a sense of humor about it (a la Angelus. So much more fun when they're evil…)! I still have high hopes for this show because I do remember what happened in the opening of the…third book, I wanna say? (Someone gets turned.)
…I have nothing bad to say about True Blood (other than the Maryann story dragged out a bit longer than necesasry). But I am growing impatient for Amnesia Eric's appearance. Deeeeeelicious shower scene!
I have been telling everyone who is blinded by this sudden phenomenon that this isn't the first time that vamps have fallen for humans. I mean, have we all forgotten about Buffy and Angel so quickly? Hard to believe they ended over five years ago but if you have the ability to read this, you have the ability to watch some damn good Joss Whedon programming on DVD. They sell them dirt cheap at Wal-Mart!!!
Well…that's MY take on things. Bash me all you want but I just had to get that all out there. Okay! I'm gonna go watch "Fright Night"!
lol permanent glitter….that was hilarious
THANK YOU!!!!! Someone who’s finally brave enough to post such a sensitive topic, and I mean Twilight (haven’t read any of the books. I just hope to hell they’re better than the movie). Let ME say, Edward Cullen is not hot by MY standards. Robert Pattinson, meh. I like guys who look like they’ve taken a shower within the past 48 hours at LEAST. Edward is as emotional as a 16 year old when she surfs the crimson wave day before prom. “You smell, I’m gonna run away and make you feel REALLY awkward. Let me leave you cryptic messages and walk away. Let me save your life and tell you to shove off. But wait…I can’t ‘live’ without you.” The only one who’s torturing him is HIMSELF. Didn’t eight year olds do this back in the day when they had a crush on you? Are you sure he said he was 17 for a while and not 7??! And don’t you get me started on Bella…Lord help me if I was that child’s parent (I’m 24, fyi). To fall for a boy you just met and fall so hard knowing he wears permanent glitter on his body?…for reals? But hey, if she wants to go out with a “vampire” who’s a walking disco ball, by all means (come to think of it, that would have been really funny to see at their dance if he took his shirt off. Bwahahaha!!). So yeah, you know what, two peas in a freaking pod. Go ahead, burn my house down and do a rain dance over my remains. I said it.
You know, I was between the ages of 8 and 10 when I got the first Vampire Diaries from the library. Do I remember what it was about? Yes. Did I buy them later in life? Yes. Did I read them? Not yet. I might, to start comparing TV Stefan to book Stefan just to see how boring he really is. Honestly, crack a joke or smile more for God’s sake! At this rate, he’s looking like an Edward clone, always so serious, foreboding, and sensitive!! Who the hell wants a sensitive vampire?! Angel was all tortured at first but he lightened up slowly but surely and before you knew it, he was the smart mouth of the whole team! Also, I don’t mean to sound violent but to be killed by Ian Somerhalder’s Damon is an HONOR!! At least he knows he’s evil and he has a sense of humor about it (a la Angelus. So much more fun when they’re evil…)! I still have high hopes for this show because I do remember what happened in the opening of the…third book, I wanna say? (Someone gets turned.)
…I have nothing bad to say about True Blood (other than the Maryann story dragged out a bit longer than necesasry). But I am growing impatient for Amnesia Eric’s appearance. Deeeeeelicious shower scene!
I have been telling everyone who is blinded by this sudden phenomenon that this isn’t the first time that vamps have fallen for humans. I mean, have we all forgotten about Buffy and Angel so quickly? Hard to believe they ended over five years ago but if you have the ability to read this, you have the ability to watch some damn good Joss Whedon programming on DVD. They sell them dirt cheap at Wal-Mart!!!
Well…that’s MY take on things. Bash me all you want but I just had to get that all out there. Okay! I’m gonna go watch “Fright Night”!
lol permanent glitter….that was hilarious
I LOVED this article. It cracked me up. And I agree with everything. Vampires shouldn't sparkle, they should be mean and vicious and sexy, and for me Spike and Angelus are the ultimate hot vampires on TV Shows. Of course Eric and Bill from TB are just as sinful, but, they're still not as "vampiresque" as I'd like.
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Buffy and Angel is the ultimate vampire story for me. I LOVE how Buffy is this badass [but cute] girl that kicks everyone's ass and always has something tricky to say during fights. They don't have girls like this on vampires stories anymore. It's mostly the fragile human chick that needs to be saved and loved and taken care of. One word: BORING.
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Don't get me wrong, I'm a sucker for love stories and I love Twilight, TVD, TB, Vampire Academy and aaaaalll that, but Buffy is my favorite. It has fight, it has sex, is has love, it has hot hot [HOT] guys, and all that. It's perfect ^^.
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Awesome article.
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Kiss
I LOVED this article. It cracked me up. And I agree with everything. Vampires shouldn’t sparkle, they should be mean and vicious and sexy, and for me Spike and Angelus are the ultimate hot vampires on TV Shows. Of course Eric and Bill from TB are just as sinful, but, they’re still not as “vampiresque” as I’d like.
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Buffy and Angel is the ultimate vampire story for me. I LOVE how Buffy is this badass [but cute] girl that kicks everyone’s ass and always has something tricky to say during fights. They don’t have girls like this on vampires stories anymore. It’s mostly the fragile human chick that needs to be saved and loved and taken care of. One word: BORING.
.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m a sucker for love stories and I love Twilight, TVD, TB, Vampire Academy and aaaaalll that, but Buffy is my favorite. It has fight, it has sex, is has love, it has hot hot [HOT] guys, and all that. It’s perfect ^^.
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Awesome article.
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Kiss
Oh, and btw, if you dig supernatural and fantasy books, not precisely about vampires, you should check Richelle Mead's series, and also The Mortal Instruments and House of Night series. They're really good.
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Kiss
Oh, and btw, if you dig supernatural and fantasy books, not precisely about vampires, you should check Richelle Mead’s series, and also The Mortal Instruments and House of Night series. They’re really good.
.
Kiss
As a big fan of Buffy and The Vampire Diaries, I really liked this article. The first thing I thought of after viewing TVD was of Buffy. They are in many ways completely different and I realize that it's going to be awhile before Vampire Diaries even come close to Buffy standards but they do have one great major thing in common that makes them what they are: evil vampires. It doesn't get better than Spike or Damon in my opinion.:)
https://twitter.com/lacyduckie
I did read all the books but the venom thing slipped my mind. However, the venom thing was another change, because while a vampire's bite isn't healthy, it isn't particularly venomous.
And I'm in total agreement with you about Riley and Spike. Buffy definitely belonged with Angel.
I did read all the books but the venom thing slipped my mind. However, the venom thing was another change, because while a vampire’s bite isn’t healthy, it isn’t particularly venomous.
And I’m in total agreement with you about Riley and Spike. Buffy definitely belonged with Angel.
What fun! Great job Clarissa! I'm enjoying everyone's comments.
I read Vampire Diaries when they came out in 1991 (I was 11) and had the same reaction to them that young gals do to Twilight now.
I love Buffy, Vampire Diaries, Twilight, Interview with a Vampire, Blade, TRUE BLOOD (for my adult sensibilities). I guess I like all of it – all interpretations (though some are definitely better than others).
I work at a University and take the occasional class to finish up an Anthropology degree. Reading these books and looking at the vampire folk tales is very interesting. There is apparently a class at my university on vampires in literature and film. I'm thinking of taking this next year as an elective – what fun! What I find the most interesting in the series is the different myths in the spread of vampirism – very interesting all of the different takes on how they change people into vampires – a great metaphor for social diseases (example: STDs, H1N1, etc). In real life I study the cultural factors that lead to the spread of HIV/AIDS, so I think looking at the factors leading to 'vampirism' (almost like a disease) can make the topic of what I study a little 'lighter'. It's a pretty depressing topic.
Any opinions out there on how these different series approach the 'change' into vampire?
What fun! Great job Clarissa! I’m enjoying everyone’s comments.
I read Vampire Diaries when they came out in 1991 (I was 11) and had the same reaction to them that young gals do to Twilight now.
I love Buffy, Vampire Diaries, Twilight, Interview with a Vampire, Blade, TRUE BLOOD (for my adult sensibilities). I guess I like all of it – all interpretations (though some are definitely better than others).
I work at a University and take the occasional class to finish up an Anthropology degree. Reading these books and looking at the vampire folk tales is very interesting. There is apparently a class at my university on vampires in literature and film. I’m thinking of taking this next year as an elective – what fun! What I find the most interesting in the series is the different myths in the spread of vampirism – very interesting all of the different takes on how they change people into vampires – a great metaphor for social diseases (example: STDs, H1N1, etc). In real life I study the cultural factors that lead to the spread of HIV/AIDS, so I think looking at the factors leading to ‘vampirism’ (almost like a disease) can make the topic of what I study a little ‘lighter’. It’s a pretty depressing topic.
Any opinions out there on how these different series approach the ‘change’ into vampire?
I really enjoyed your article. Like you I have read the twilight saga, watched buffy, and true blood. I even read the books that started true blood (southern vampire series). I agree with you on Bella's and Edward's character. I loved twilight and still do and I was really fixed on their relationship but after watching and reading TVD I have to agree that you are right about them being one dimensional. Stefan and Damon (especially Damon) are very complex. There is much more to their characters that give them strength and depth that Edward and his family are lacking. Even though in TVD I want the good guy (Stefan) to win Elena, a apart of me doesn't want to give up on Damon yet. The fact that he can be evil and cruel yet always is there for his brother and for Elena kind of makes me think he is the better brother. That he can come back from his dark place and still find goodness and light. The twilight characters are never dark. Even the volturi which is supposed to be super scary are kind of wimps. Also the whole Renesemee and Jacob thing was icky. I mean shes a baby for crying out loud.
I know that I will continue to be a fan of twilight because that kind of story book love is like a chocolate addiction. But TVD has definitely caught my interest and I will probably be just as die hard a fan. There is nothing sexier than a bad boy vampire that you can still see a little good in.
I really enjoyed your article. Like you I have read the twilight saga, watched buffy, and true blood. I even read the books that started true blood (southern vampire series). I agree with you on Bella’s and Edward’s character. I loved twilight and still do and I was really fixed on their relationship but after watching and reading TVD I have to agree that you are right about them being one dimensional. Stefan and Damon (especially Damon) are very complex. There is much more to their characters that give them strength and depth that Edward and his family are lacking. Even though in TVD I want the good guy (Stefan) to win Elena, a apart of me doesn’t want to give up on Damon yet. The fact that he can be evil and cruel yet always is there for his brother and for Elena kind of makes me think he is the better brother. That he can come back from his dark place and still find goodness and light. The twilight characters are never dark. Even the volturi which is supposed to be super scary are kind of wimps. Also the whole Renesemee and Jacob thing was icky. I mean shes a baby for crying out loud.
I know that I will continue to be a fan of twilight because that kind of story book love is like a chocolate addiction. But TVD has definitely caught my interest and I will probably be just as die hard a fan. There is nothing sexier than a bad boy vampire that you can still see a little good in.
I agree with mainly everything you said.
When I read Twilight, all of them, I was kind of angry.
Because Bella is just this girl who never says no, and shes weak, and gets everything just handed to her. And Edward is this brooding vampire who wants to feed on her but then doesn't because he loves her, within 5 minutes.
And then she goes on to introduce Alice and Jasper, and she had so much potential with those characters. And didn't develop them at all. I would have loved more of either of them, they had great back stories and just seemed interesting but she did nothing with them. It was all centered around Edward/Bella and there obsessive love.
I actually like the wolf pack stuff, though. Admittedly creepy he imprinted on Bella's daughter.
I was also totally disappointed with no one dying in that fight in breaking dawn, what was that about? I'm pretty sure Edward should have died. Would have made things 30 times interesting.
Vampire Diaries has been prety good the last two episodes.
I was actually shocked tonight, and I can't help but love Damon, the bad vampire-guy, Ian Somerhalder does great!
I agree with mainly everything you said.
When I read Twilight, all of them, I was kind of angry.
Because Bella is just this girl who never says no, and shes weak, and gets everything just handed to her. And Edward is this brooding vampire who wants to feed on her but then doesn’t because he loves her, within 5 minutes.
And then she goes on to introduce Alice and Jasper, and she had so much potential with those characters. And didn’t develop them at all. I would have loved more of either of them, they had great back stories and just seemed interesting but she did nothing with them. It was all centered around Edward/Bella and there obsessive love.
I actually like the wolf pack stuff, though. Admittedly creepy he imprinted on Bella’s daughter.
I was also totally disappointed with no one dying in that fight in breaking dawn, what was that about? I’m pretty sure Edward should have died. Would have made things 30 times interesting.
Vampire Diaries has been prety good the last two episodes.
I was actually shocked tonight, and I can’t help but love Damon, the bad vampire-guy, Ian Somerhalder does great!
I absolutely agree with everything you have said! I read Twilight first and just loved it. Well, I needed a book fix and my husband had The Vampire Diaries lying around (no we are not teenagers). I picked it up and started reading…after the first meeting school scene my jaw had dropped and I had to turn to the front flap and look at the copyright. I was in shock to see how old The Vampire Diaries was. It was SO FREAKING OBVIOUS that Stephenie Meyer stole the idea and her “dream” crap was a lie! Half the book WAS Twilight, I am talking scene for scene. I now cannot even pick up Twilight anymore because I “know”. At first I thought to myself at least she added werewolves to make it different. Then I read TVD Dark Reunion and realized that was not true. I am curious how Twilight fans will react if they ever decide to do the werewolf thing on TVD show. You are going to have to do this post all over again because they are going to have a field day..lol
I absolutely agree with everything you have said! I read Twilight first and just loved it. Well, I needed a book fix and my husband had The Vampire Diaries lying around (no we are not teenagers). I picked it up and started reading…after the first meeting school scene my jaw had dropped and I had to turn to the front flap and look at the copyright. I was in shock to see how old The Vampire Diaries was. It was SO FREAKING OBVIOUS that Stephenie Meyer stole the idea and her "dream" crap was a lie! Half the book WAS Twilight, I am talking scene for scene. I now cannot even pick up Twilight anymore because I "know". At first I thought to myself at least she added werewolves to make it different. Then I read TVD Dark Reunion and realized that was not true. I am curious how Twilight fans will react if they ever decide to do the werewolf thing on TVD show. You are going to have to do this post all over again because they are going to have a field day..lol
I prefer the vampire diaries over twilight.Which I make I watch every Thrus.I got forced while babysitting to watch twilight and I really didnt care for it and most specially after reading about them on google Kristen Stewart sounds like a B***H. If u dont like people in your pesonal life you should of quit alon time ago.And Nina sounds like a sweet heart the only good thing I did like was the music that was in the background which i think was (Robert Pattinson) Does any-one know if he has an album out.
I prefer the vampire diaries over twilight.Which I make I watch every Thrus.I got forced while babysitting to watch twilight and I really didnt care for it and most specially after reading about them on google Kristen Stewart sounds like a B***H. If u dont like people in your pesonal life you should of quit alon time ago.And Nina sounds like a sweet heart the only good thing I did like was the music that was in the background which i think was (Robert Pattinson) Does any-one know if he has an album out.
i wached “twilight’, the vampire diaries” every new episode and of course “buffy” all the seasons… i think this article is perfect and i like it very much in fact i think absolutely the same !!! and i want to tell people -come on, you must know– THE VAMPIRES ARE EVIL DEMONS BUT NOT PERFECT CUTE BOYFRIENDS! :}}
i wached "twilight', the vampire diaries" every new episode and of course "buffy" all the seasons… i think this article is perfect and i like it very much in fact i think absolutely the same !!! and i want to tell people -come on, you must know– THE VAMPIRES ARE EVIL DEMONS BUT NOT PERFECT CUTE BOYFRIENDS! :}}
i love the all
i love the all
i feel that you are very right..i enjoyed reading twilight, and stephanie mayer being a mormon explains alot about the context of the books…I ABSOLUTELY love True Blood and agree that it is for a different audience
GO STEPHAN SALVATORE hehe TVD is very interesting and am glad there adding more to the shows storyline, because the books weren’t all that interesting on Stephans part, i do believe that they should of added a Meredith in the show though !!!!
i feel that you are very right..i enjoyed reading twilight, and stephanie mayer being a mormon explains alot about the context of the books…I ABSOLUTELY love True Blood and agree that it is for a different audience
GO STEPHAN SALVATORE hehe TVD is very interesting and am glad there adding more to the shows storyline, because the books weren’t all that interesting on Stephans part, i do believe that they should of added a Meredith in the show though !!!!
i feel that you are very right..i enjoyed reading twilight, and stephanie mayer being a mormon explains alot about the context of the books…I ABSOLUTELY love True Blood and agree that it is for a different audience
GO STEPHAN SALVATORE hehe TVD is very interesting and am glad there adding more to the shows storyline, because the books weren't all that interesting on Stephans part, i do believe that they should of added a Meredith in the show though !!!!
i feel that you are very right..i enjoyed reading twilight, and stephanie mayer being a mormon explains alot about the context of the books…I ABSOLUTELY love True Blood and agree that it is for a different audience
GO STEPHAN SALVATORE hehe TVD is very interesting and am glad there adding more to the shows storyline, because the books weren't all that interesting on Stephans part, i do believe that they should of added a Meredith in the show though !!!!
Vampires can be retty boyfriends AND be dangerously evil.
I think you did a great job in this article. I think its funny and does a great job describing the differences in the shows. I'm actually basing a presentation off of your article because I think it does a great job explaining the "Vampire subculture trend".
I have never read Vampire Diaries, however i have watched the show religiously. I have loved all of the vampire stories. I am and always will be a Buffy fan and i have a special place in my heart for Twilight and a new love for Vampire Diaries. I love seeing similarities among the stories. In a lot of ways i see Vampire Diaries as an almost combination of Buffy and Twilight. It has the sunlight factor that Buffy has, the "not all of the legends are true" thing going on that Twilight has, Stefen is very similar to Edward and Angel, and Damean has some of the same qualities that Spike had, not to mention that they all have vampires and werewolves all interacting differently, Buffy and Vampire Diaries have the witch best friend, and in every story the vampire boyfriend gets a taste of the human girlfriend's blood (not as significant but the similarity is interesting). I love all of these stories and i never thought about that sex appeal that Twilight lacks. It is interesting :)