An Archie Comics adaptation was always going to be a tough sell for TV viewers, but somehow The CW managed to pull it off.
By maintaining an emphasis on character progression and a cinematic style, the show set itself apart from others – and with the teen drama finishing its second season this month fans must be enjoying it.
It has even received its own comic book spin-off titled “Riverdale” which fills in the gaps missed by the TV show.
One of these comics is available for free this Saturday May 5 to mark the annual Free Comic Book Day.
And Riverdale is bringing some much needed diversity to screens, says Dark Side Comics owner Holly Ringsell.
While Archie Comics began building its iconic characters in 1939 they have been modernised in The CW’s TV show.
And Holly says it couldn’t have come any sooner.
“Out of the comic-based shows that I watch,” she says. “That I know of, Riverdale is probably the best for queer representation.”
Holly started Dark Side Comics five years ago and has endeavoured to set a good example for the next generation of comic fans.
In addition, Diamond Distributors’ global Free Comic Book Day gives comic publishers a platform to show off new diverse and inclusive stories.
“It’s a celebration,” Holly continued. “It is inclusive of everyone – it should be about introducing new people [to the culture] and celebrating with old readers.”
Holly proposes shows such as Riverdale would struggle to find a home anywhere other than streaming services such as The CW and Netflix.
She explained: “They take a step in the right direction. Streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime are probably going to be where the diversity is.
“They’re going to have a bigger range of directors and creators working for them who will bring a different range of materials to the table.
“Amazon have Preacher as well – and stuff like Preacher is aired in the US on AMC.
“But [in England] I can’t imagine something like Preacher or even Riverdale landing on any of our traditional TV channels.
“And I think you can see that traditional TV is trying to play catch up.”
But with female-led dramas such as The Split finding their spot in the BBC, could things be beginning to change?
Riverdale continues Thursday on Netflix
Dark Side Comics is a family-friendly, all-inclusive comic shop in Chelmsford, Essex. Holly is the brightly-coloured, Riverdale and diversity enthusiast at its core.
