Salem

"Salem" had a lot of expectations to live up from on my account, and I must admit now that I have watched 10 episodes of season 1 that the show more than does deliver.

What makes this TV series work is the intriguing storyline and how nicely it is executed and brought to life on the screen. Given the fact that I have very little knowledge of the actual events of the witch trials that took place in Salem, I can say that there is at least a very nice sense of authenticity to the show and a good feeling of realism as well - well, as real as things get when you mix witchcraft and the Devil into the picture.

The characters in the show are very, very important for the show to keep its appeal and keep it fresh and interesting. And I must admit that the various roles and characters is interesting. The townsfolk are not just fillers in the crowd, and there are lots of layers to those whose stories are shown in the show. And much of this is also of course credited to the talents portraying these characters.

Without a good cast, "Salem" wouldn't stand out as strongly as it does. They have managed to put together a great ensemble of actors and actresses to fill out the various roles and characters. Stephen Lang, once he gets into the show, really carries his role so well and he is so well cast for that particular role. Despite only having a supporting role as Tituba, then Ashley Madekwe really shines on the screen as well, and she needs to be brought more on the center stage, so to speak.

The dialogue in the movie is good, as it is not diluted with cussing and lots of inappropriate bad languages, that would most certainly not be time accurate, such as seen in other TV shows that were supposed to take place in the past.

A key essential to the show is the set and the props. And wow, they really put effort into this. It is really like being back in time, as if walking around that darkened town in those troubled times. Lots of great details in the sets, buildings, costumes and environment.

One thing that didn't really go well with me was the choice for intro music. As much as I used to enjoy Marilyn Mansons music, then his song is a poor choice for the intro. While the song, in itself is good enough, it is just misplaced for this show. And it would have worked better with a more ambient and atmospheric theme that would be more time appropriate to the period of time the TV series is set to take place in.

"Salem" is a good show that is fueled by a well written storyline and well detailed characters, and it is definitely a show that I will continue to watch. While it is no "The Walking Dead", it sure does deliver good entertainment.

I was on the fence about starting this show, until I came here and read the ridiculous 1 star reviews that actually made me give it a go. I just finished episode 1 and thought I would leave my opinion because a lot of people seem to be confused between this show and actually historical events.

For anyone who wants a 100% accurate retelling of real events from that period. This show is not for you. It doesn't claim to be accurate and doesn't try to be. Try the history channel for nice documentary.

Although a dark time in US history. There were no real witches. If this show was accurate it would be a simple small town that randomly kills innocent people for religious reasons. Perhaps that is what some of you expected from this show, but I would find that boring and repetitive. I'm happy the writers included witches and obscured some facts to make it entertaining.

This show is an entertaining twist on a dark time in US history. I don't think that means its insulting or aimed towards idiots (as some have said). I believe its what it is: a supernatural show loosely based on historical events.

Now for the show itself. The plot so far has been fast paced with some slightly strange aspects (no spoilers). The acting is so-so and the sfx were a lot better than I expected.

The only bad thing I can say is.. The brothel doesn't make sense. I'm not talking about historical accuracy. The writers have clearly setup a town ruled by religion. It seems anyone who disagrees with the religious order ends up beaten or killed. Yet they allow a brothel. I believe in this aspect the writers have tried to use sex scenes to keep people entertained and I don't think it is needed as I found it entertaining enough without those scenes.

Overall a good show and I will keep watching.

I've lived in Salem for decades, and to their credit most local Tourist Attractions stick strictly to History.

The Honest History is amazing, with critical lessons we should all learn. Lessons concerning Greed, False Witness, Power, Government OverReach, and Religious Hysteria.

But to be honest, many, if not most, Tourists seem to leave disappointed. They're looking for EVIL WITCHES and MAGIC.

Thankfully, this series delivers a bounty of both !

It's very entertaining, with excellent character development to flesh out the blood, gore, and nudity (all of which are tastefully presented).

Each Episode exceeds the previous.

We're only up to Episode 7, and have formed very strong feelings on many of the characters, including Mary Sibley, who commits detestable deeds - but we love her anyhow !

Well worth the time spent watching !!

Not sure why some are bringing up history to judge this TV series. It's on WGN not the History channel. We saw the previews for Salem & it turned out to be exactly what the previews made it out to be. It's not going to be sweet & silly, we've had those. It's not going to be campy, had those. Not really for the young teens, we still have those. If you're absolutely against this series, OK don't watch it anymore. If you are giving up on it after 1 episode because it was too slow, maybe give it a few more episodes(if you have the time). You don't want them to give too much away, in the first episode. Sometimes people give up on a show too early, when the best is yet to come(I know with some shows that never happens). I'll be tuning in. It's different than the other "witch" series.

This show didn't get nearly enough publicity. I find it really eerie. The lead does a great job. Worth a binge watch