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There’s no question, Freeform (formally ABC Family), has a knack for their book to television adaptations. Uh, Pretty Little Liars, anyone? They’ve taken that successful formula and added warlocks, vampires, and oh yeah, Shadowhunters.

Clary Fray is having a picture perfect day. She’s just been accepted to the school of her dreams and it’s her eighteenth birthday. Her best friend, Simon, wants to celebrate by taking her out for a night on the town (naturally). But before she does, her mother stresses that they need to talk in the morning (dun dun dun). No, not THAT talk! It’s soon revealed that Clary Fray comes from a long line of Shadowhunters. I know what you’re going to ask, what the hell is a Shadowhunter? They’re human-angel hybrids who hunt down demons. And when her mother is kidnapped, Clary must begin her journey of self-discovery.

Alright guys, is anyone else having issues deciding what to watch on Tuesdays? Tuesdays are stacked with great shows and below are five reasons why you’ll be hooked on Shadowhunters.

Also, disclaimer! Before you start reading, I’ve never read any of The Mortal Instruments books so I’m only commenting on the television series. Fellow Pop Culturalist writer, Taraneh, is already working on a piece about the book to television translation.

Without further adieu, here are my top five reasons:

The Cast is Attractive Diverse! A Little Diversity Never Hurt Nobody

If you think that I’m going to use the fact that the cast is highly attractive as one of my reasons you’ll be hooked, you’re kind of right. It definitely doesn’t hurt but more importantly the show is a huge melting pot of talent. The team behind the show gets major props from me regarding their casting choices but more importantly (because really who am I?) they have the support from the author:

“I am really pleased with the diverse casting of the show. I will never be regretful that they cast the best choices and didn’t care that they were not the white choices. I’m excited about how great they are, and I think you will love them, too. Even those who are fearful now.” (via Cassandra’s twitter)

From their ethnically diverse cast to their representation of the LGBT community, you go Glen Coco, I mean Freeform.

The Effects and Graphics

Television is really having a moment right now. The effects and graphics rival anything you would see on the big screen. I half-expected the effects and graphics to be laughable but they weren’t. I literally shouted “oh HELL NO” when the monster appeared from the water with baby Clary. If that was me, I would need my memory erased too.

The Chemistry Between Simon and Isabelle

Oh man, can you say ELECTRIC? Alberto Rosende and Emeraude Toubia have undeniable chemistry. They play their respective roles so well but when they’re in the same scene together, it’s magic! If this was a movie, their scenes would get an R-rating. Emeraude Toubia brings all the necessary sexuality and promiscuity to Isabelle. And, Alberto Rosende IS Simon Lewis, nerdy with a great sense of humor, and he’s packing some serious abs.

We Can Pretend The Movie Version Never Happened
If you were outraged by how many things were condensed and cut out from the film (I wasn’t, see my disclaimer above) then you’re in for a treat. Fans of the books have made their voices heard and the television series is WAY better. Also, with so many books in the series, a television show lends itself better to long-form storytelling.

Freeform is Taking Risks
Freeform is known for their hit dramas but now they’re taking a shot at the fantasy/sci-fi space. And, we have to say, we’re enjoying it. Kudos to them for taking a chance and redefining their brand.

If you’ve seen the show, what are your thoughts?