I didn't think I'd like this because it's aimed at a slightly younger demographic than me but it's actually exceptionally good. The production, acting, etc are all top notch. The casting of the characters is brilliant, as a long time Archie fan I was impressed with how closely they followed the cartoon looks and the way they have voiced the characters is directly on point also. This could have been really cheesy and lame but they have managed to blend the "fun" of the Archie characters and names etc with a realistic grittiness and a finely drawn out suspense & mystery. Also, the characters start out feeling slightly cardboardish & 2 dimensional but in a nice twist they are quickly showing more depth and story arcs that involve people evolving and developing as individuals while still keeping to the original ideas from the comics. In addition they are now (as of Ep 3) delving more deeply into the darker issues of today including racism, sexual assault & the rise of extreme right wing attitudes. You're not bashed around the head with it but the themes are there and they are not afraid to boldly & directly explore them. This is shaping up to be a hell of a show and I thoroughly recommend it - whether you're a fan of the comic book or not. Intriguing, addictive, a nice balance of bright comic book fun & gritty darkness. Reminds me of a similar blending in the movie Blue Velvet, tho of course not quite in that league and not quite as dark as that.
Review of Riverdale
