Van Helsing: A Bite of the Big Apple
CBS, a network known for its long-running crime dramas, is taking a stab at the supernatural with its newest series, "Van Helsing". While the iconic vampire hunter has graced the screen before, CBS promises a "contemporary take" on the classic character. But can this new iteration break free from the formulaic tropes that have become a hallmark of the network’s procedural shows, or will it just be another case of "been there, done that"?
A Familiar Formula with a Fang-tastic Twist
CBS has built its success on a foundation of crime drama franchises, each varying only slightly in their premises. "NCIS" tackles naval crimes, "CSI" examines forensics, "Criminal Minds" delves into profiling, and "FBI" centers on national security. Each show follows a similar structure, with teams of skilled professionals tackling high-stakes case after case.
The network’s gamble with "Van Helsing" lies in its attempt to infuse this familiar formula with a dose of the supernatural. Described as a "contemporary take," the show will focus on Dr. Abraham Van Helsing and his partnership with Mina Harker, former FBI special agent (and notable figure from Bram Stoker’s "Dracula"). Together, they will navigate the dark underbelly of New York City, tackling its most "harrowing cases."
"Harrowing cases" is the key phrase here. CBS is walking a tightrope. Will they lean into the classic vampire lore inherent to Van Helsing’s legacy, or will they opt for a watered-down, sanitized version, leaving fans of the genre feeling cheated? The promise of a "uniquely inquisitive mind" working alongside a "relentless FBI special agent" could imply an intriguing blend of science and the supernatural. But, without diving deeper into the specifics of those "harrowing cases," it’s difficult to gauge just how much bite this "Van Helsing" will truly deliver.
A Pedigree with Promise
Despite the uncertainty, "Van Helsing" has a strong team behind it, with Rob Doherty, known for his success with "Elementary" (which utilized a similar contemporary approach to Sherlock Holmes), serving as executive producer. The series has been penned by Jonathan Lee, whose work includes the upcoming "Lockerbie," starring Colin Firth. These credentials provide a level of confidence, hinting at a potential escape from the tired tropes of CBS’s usual procedural dramas.
A History of Success, with Room for Improvement
While Syfy’s "Van Helsing" series (running from 2016 to 2021) had its fair share of criticism, it still managed to find its niche with a devoted audience. The show brought a distinct flavor to the vampire hunter mythos, featuring a female Van Helsing battling against a world overrun by vampires. It’s worth mentioning the lukewarm reception of the 2004 Hugh Jackman film, "Van Helsing," which aimed for big-budget spectacle but ultimately failed to capture the heart of fans.
This new "Van Helsing" has a chance to avoid the pitfalls of its predecessors. With the right balance of procedural intrigue and supernatural thrills, CBS might finally break free from its repetitive formula and deliver something truly compelling. Will it succeed in creating a believable, engaging, and satisfying adaptation of Van Helsing? Will it be able to tap into the rich potential of this iconic character and deliver a "harrowing" experience that resonates with audiences?
The Question Remains: Can a CBS Crime Show Really Scare Us?
CBS has built its image on formula. It’s a safe space for viewers, offering familiar characters and predictable narratives. This familiarity, however, can also breed a sense of stagnation, leading to repetitive stories and a lack of innovation. While the network has dabbled in genre shows before, its commitment to procedurals has been steadfast.
Can "Van Helsing" truly break the mold? Will it dare to stray from the comfort zone of predictable police procedurals and deliver something genuinely unique? Or will it ultimately succumb to the limitations of its network, becoming just another entry in a long line of formulaic crime dramas?
Only time will tell. But if CBS is truly interested in bringing a fresh perspective to the vampire hunter mythos, they need to take a calculated risk. They need to lean into the dark, gritty elements of Van Helsing’s world, embrace the thrills and chills of the supernatural, and break free from the shackles of their own safe, familiar formulas.
The world is ready for a new kind of "Van Helsing." A "Van Helsing" that doesn’t shy away from the darkness. A "Van Helsing" that isn’t afraid to be truly terrifying. A "Van Helsing" that reminds us that even on a network known for its crime procedurals, there’s still room for a good scare.
