The Originals, a spin-off of the popular supernatural drama The Vampire Diaries, has gained a significant following over the years. The show, which premiered in 2013, follows the original vampire family as they return to their hometown of New Orleans to reclaim their city from other vampires, werewolves, and witches. If you're considering watching The Originals, here are some ultimate viewing tips to help you navigate the complex and intriguing world of the show.
Understanding the Show’s Timeline
The Originals is set in the same universe as The Vampire Diaries, but it takes place in a different city and has its own distinct storyline. However, there are several crossover episodes and characters that appear in both shows. To fully appreciate The Originals, it’s essential to understand the show’s timeline and how it relates to The Vampire Diaries. The Originals begins with the original vampire family, including Klaus, Elijah, and Rebekah, returning to New Orleans to reclaim their city from other supernatural beings.
Season 1: Introduction to the Originals
The first season of The Originals introduces the main characters and sets the stage for the rest of the series. The season focuses on Klaus’s struggle to reclaim his city and his family’s legacy, while also exploring the complex relationships between the original vampires and other supernatural beings in New Orleans. Key characters, such as Hayley, a werewolf, and Sophie, a witch, are introduced, and their storylines become integral to the show.
The following table highlights the main plot points and character introductions in Season 1:
| Episode | Plot Point | Character Introduction |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Klaus returns to New Orleans | Klaus, Elijah, Rebekah |
| 2-3 | Introduction to the werewolf and witch communities | Hayley, Sophie |
| 4-5 | Klaus's plan to reclaim the city unfolds | Marcel, a vampire leader |
Character Development and Relationships
The Originals is known for its complex characters and intricate relationships. The show explores the deep bonds between the original vampire family members, as well as their relationships with other characters in the show. Klaus, in particular, is a fascinating character, with a rich backstory and complex motivations. His relationships with Elijah, Rebekah, and Hayley are central to the show and drive much of the plot.
Key Relationships to Watch
The following relationships are crucial to understanding the show’s dynamics:
- Klaus and Elijah: The brothers' complicated history and deep bond are central to the show.
- Klaus and Hayley: Their relationship is a key plot point, with significant implications for the show's storyline.
- Rebekah and Marcel: Their complex and often tumultuous relationship adds depth to the show.
These relationships, along with others, drive the show's plot and character development. Understanding the intricacies of these relationships is essential to fully appreciating The Originals.
Viewing Order and Crossover Episodes
While The Originals can be watched as a standalone show, there are several crossover episodes with The Vampire Diaries that are worth watching. These episodes provide additional context and insight into the characters and their relationships. The following crossover episodes are particularly notable:
- The Vampire Diaries, Season 4, Episode 20: "The Originals" (backdoor pilot for The Originals)
- The Originals, Season 1, Episode 10: "The Casket Girls" (features a crossover with The Vampire Diaries)
- The Vampire Diaries, Season 5, Episode 10: "Fifty Shades of Grayson" (features a crossover with The Originals)
What is the best way to watch The Originals?
+The best way to watch The Originals is to start from the beginning and watch the episodes in chronological order. This will allow you to fully appreciate the show’s complex characters and plotlines.
Are there any crossover episodes with The Vampire Diaries that I should watch?
+Yes, there are several crossover episodes with The Vampire Diaries that are worth watching. These episodes provide additional context and insight into the characters and their relationships.
How many seasons of The Originals are there?
+There are five seasons of The Originals, which concluded in 2018. The show has a total of 92 episodes.
