TITANS
“Titans” Ep1, S1
Starring: Brenton Thwaites, Anna Diop, Teagan Croft, Ryan Potter, Lindsay Gort, Jarreth J. Merz
Directed by: Brad Anderson
Written by: Akiva Goldsman, Geoff Johns, Greg Berlanti
Based on characters from Teen Titans by DC Comics
“Fuck Batman” Never have two words had such a direct and immediate effect of how an entire series is viewed. As the first original series to hit the DC Universe, Titans was thrown directly into the spotlight. The trailer made it obvious that the series would be much darker than any previous version of the Titans.
First episodes are never an easy task. You need to find that perfect balance between making sure there is an easy entry for the viewers, while also providing enough action that the viewer does not become bored as they are buried in explanations. Titans choose to throw the viewer right into the action. We met Rachel who is having visions of a circus that she does not recognize, but she feels connected to it and the tragedy that has befallen the circus.
Just as quick, we switch over to Robin’s introduction where he is setting up in Detroit after a falling out with his former partner in Gotham. We also get a chance to see Dick Grayson as Robin. He is much darker than any previous version of the Greyson version of Robin. Instead, he feels more like Jason Todd or Damian Wayne. Starfire’s introduction is a bit different as she awakens in a crashed car with no memory of what or who she is. What is obvious is that there are people that are very scared of her and what she is capable of.
This first episode really focuses on these three core members of the Titans. A connection between the three of them is introduced that is sure to be explored later and help to lead to the formation of the team. We do get a quick look at Beast Boy. It feels like it was done more to show how he changes from animal to human more than anything else.
Much has been made as to how the dark the trailer was. Don’t get me wrong. Titans is going to be very dark based on the first episode. However, that dark theme did nothing to affect the quality of the storytelling. In fact, just a few small changes would have done nothing to affect the story. This show could just have easily followed Gotham in Fox’s network line up.
The choice to focus on just three of the characters in this first episode was a smart one. It allows for the writers to explore characters without feeling as if too much is stuffed in here. There are several plot points that are put into place that viewers will end up with several threads that they can follow to keep them interested and engaged. There are a couple of mysteries that feel as if they have enough meat on them to last throughout the entire season.
Verdict: Check it out!
If you are a diehard Teen Titans fan and expect Titans to follow that theme, then this is not the show for you. If you are someone who likes a bit of grit, violence, and mystery, then check out Titans. You will find yourself engrossed in a series that has some interesting plot points and enough mystery to last for the whole season.
