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What’s the Story?

Reviewed byKari Croop

In THE VAMPIRE DIARIES, a teen-centered drama based on the best-selling young adult novels by L.J. Smith, recently orphaned high-schooler Elena Gilbert (Nina Dobrev) is caught between two drop-dead gorgeous vampire brothers -- the good-hearted Stefan (Paul Wesley) and the sadistic Damon (Ian Somerhalder). Both Elena and Stefan keep track of their thoughts and feelings by writing in their journals. But Stefan's journal also contains fasincating details about his complicated past.

Is It Any Good?

4

For vampire-crazed fans of the Twilight series (both in book and movie form) and the adults-only TV drama True Blood, The Vampire Diaries has just about everything, including teen angst, dramatic tension, and crush-worthy creatures of the night. There are, of course, obvious parallels to the Twilight storyline. But it's worth noting that the book trilogy that inspired this series was originally released in 1991, predating Stephenie Meyer's Twlight bestsellers by nearly 15 years.

Even if you're lukewarm on the current vampire fad, The Vampire Diaries is better-than-average entertainment, boasting a soundtrack that oozes cool (with songs from artists like The Killers and MGMT) and a talented cast that can really get its brood on. The show seems poised to be a hit with teens and young adults ... and maybe even a few of their parents.

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