First, I want to say that I understand this show wasn't meant to follow the books 100%. People have to understand that the reason this was reborn as a TV show was that the movie didn't draw nearly as much interest as needed to continue with the series in movie form. This was highly disappointing, so I was excited for the show. I went in with a totally open mind and told myself I would try to judge the show fairly. I believe the show could stand on its own for people who haven't read the books which is super important. I actually like some of the changes solely based on the ability for this show to draw people not familiar with the book series. I think the show has enough action and for the most part the cast is worth watching. Now for the die hard book fans....as one of them I am super disappointed in a few things. First, as good as most of the cast are, they do not fit the characters from the book very well. I agree with a lot of others that the movie actors were almost perfect, but these fall quite short. Most especially disappointing is Jace. This is what is ruining the whole thing for me. Of all the characters to fail on, this was not the one to do it on. I don't know if it's the change in story or the actor that is the reason, but his character is all wrong in the show. He is nothing like the Jace in the book, and to be honest, isn't even likable. I certainly hope they do something to make him more likable, or it will ruin the whole show for die hard book fans, which I'm guessing are a huge part of the overall viewers. On one positive casting note, I like the new Hodge character despite not being exactly what I pictured from the books. I do like the difference in his inability to speak of The Circle and I hope to see him in more episodes and what they decide to do with his story line. I also like Simon, which is surprising considering I really loved the Simon of the movie. I find his character likable and just nerdy enough to fit the bill. All in all I intend to continue to watch it, and just try to enjoy it as something much different from The Mortal Instruments of my imagination.
Review of Shadowhunters
