This is the darkest, most brutal DC series to date (which seems to be applauded as authentic by fans of the source comic books). Lots of action. Lots of characters (and many of their backstories) of the younger heros of the DC universe. Taegan Croft is an incredible actress (most of this was filmed when she was only 13 years old). She's a solid anchor for the series and a treat to watch perform. The things that held it back for me: 1) a real absence of chemistry within the team - the tender moments misfired and the bonds felt forced by circumstances rather than forged by fire. Ironically, the most convincing relationship is Rachel and her mom. I think if you are going to have that much darkness and violence there neeeds to be a counterbalance of light and tenderness, otherwise we disconnect emotionally from the characters. Taegan/Rachel (Raven) and Minka Kelly/Dawn (Dove) seems to be the only actors/characters that balance heart and strength. 2) The backstory episodes slowed down the season's underlying story arch, stalling the momentum. 3) And, I'm up in the air about the season 1 finale: once again a sub-story pulled us away from any mounting, seasonal tension, even though I understand that it completes Dick's character arch of the season. I don't feel this qualifies as a seasonal finale, there was no seasonal resolve, which could have happen if we saw Rachel/Raven come into her own, balancing out Dick's arch. 4) Also, If Trigon is so overwhelming powerful (and evil) as to be able to warp reality, what compensating powers (or goodness) have we seen in our heros that will be able to oppose him? Once again it's a balance issue. Because of these issues, I can only give this series a 7.9 (short of great) out of 10. [Super Heroes Action Drama]
