"Dark Magic & Modern Feminism: A Deep Dive into Chilling Adventures of Sabrina"

 

Title: Chilling Adventures of Sabrina

Starring: Kiernan Shipka, Ross Lynch, Miranda Otto, Lucy Davis

Streaming on: Netflix

Genre: Supernatural Horror, Teen Drama

Rating: 4.5/5

Overview: Chilling Adventures of Sabrina is a dark, supernatural reboot of the classic Sabrina the Teenage Witch series, reimagined by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa. Inspired by the Archie Comics series of the same name, the show dives into the life of Sabrina Spellman (played by Kiernan Shipka), a half-witch, half-mortal teenager living in the town of Greendale. Unlike the lighthearted 90s sitcom, this version veers toward horror, filled with occult rituals, sinister forces, and morally complex characters. It ran for four seasons on Netflix, captivating viewers with its gritty tone, nuanced themes, and Shipka’s compelling portrayal of Sabrina.

Plot Summary: The series follows Sabrina as she grapples with her dual identity—torn between her mortal life with friends and boyfriend Harvey and her destiny within the Church of Night. As her 16th birthday approaches, Sabrina is expected to undergo a “Dark Baptism” to fully embrace her witch heritage, pledging allegiance to the Dark Lord. But Sabrina’s rebellious nature and strong moral compass lead her to question the expectations of her coven and seek a path that allows her to maintain her independence.

As Sabrina navigates relationships, family mysteries, and confrontations with dark forces, she encounters a host of supernatural beings, including demons, witches, and the cunning Madam Satan (Michelle Gomez). Alongside her aunts Hilda (Lucy Davis) and Zelda (Miranda Otto) and her familiar, Salem, Sabrina confronts challenges that test her strength and moral resolve.

Themes: The show explores themes of identity, autonomy, and the power of choice, with Sabrina embodying a complex, modern heroine. She constantly challenges patriarchal structures within the coven, advocating for her rights and independence. Themes of friendship and loyalty are also central, as Sabrina’s mortal friends and her cousin Ambrose play pivotal roles in her life and her battles against evil. The show also examines darker, more philosophical questions about the nature of good and evil, particularly in Sabrina’s struggle between her mortal empathy and the often morally ambiguous demands of the witch world.

Writing and Tone: Chilling Adventures of Sabrina is unapologetically gothic, and its tone is leagues darker than its 90s predecessor. The writing often includes witty dialogue and modern-day feminist themes, but it also tackles issues like loyalty, faith, and rebellion in ways that appeal to a teenage audience and beyond. The plot weaves elements of horror and suspense with everyday high school dilemmas, blending them seamlessly to keep the narrative both engaging and intense. At times, the story leans into camp, but it does so knowingly, honoring the comic book roots while still creating a cohesive, eerie atmosphere.

Character Analysis: Kiernan Shipka delivers a powerful performance as Sabrina, bringing a blend of vulnerability, courage, and defiance to her character. Her portrayal balances the lighter aspects of Sabrina’s personality with her darker side, giving viewers a relatable yet formidable protagonist. Michelle Gomez’s performance as Madam Satan (or Ms. Wardwell) stands out as she masterfully combines charm with menace. Hilda and Zelda, Sabrina’s aunts, add emotional depth and humor to the series, each representing different facets of Sabrina’s magical lineage. Ambrose, her cousin, is another fan-favorite, offering a unique perspective as a gay warlock with a complicated past and a penchant for mischief.

Visuals and Atmosphere: Visually, Chilling Adventures of Sabrina is stunning, with its dark, moody cinematography and attention to occult details. The set design, costumes, and special effects are richly atmospheric, creating an immersive experience. Greendale itself becomes almost a character in its own right—a foggy, eerie town where danger and magic seem to lurk around every corner. From the eerie Spellman mortuary to the candlelit halls of the Academy of Unseen Arts, the visuals pull viewers into Sabrina’s world with a compelling aesthetic.

Strengths and Weaknesses: The show’s strengths lie in its bold reinvention of a beloved character, stellar cast performances, and unique blend of horror and teen drama. The darker take on Sabrina’s story makes for fresh, engaging storytelling, and the show’s thematic focus on empowerment and autonomy resonates with a modern audience. However, the series does have occasional pacing issues, especially in later seasons, where certain plotlines feel rushed or less cohesive. Some viewers may also find the blending of camp and horror uneven at times, but for most, it adds to the show’s distinctive charm.

Conclusion: Chilling Adventures of Sabrina is a thrilling, dark, and stylish reimagining of a classic character. While it departs significantly from the lighthearted tone of the original Sabrina the Teenage Witch, it succeeds in creating a unique identity with its daring storytelling, memorable characters, and occult themes. Fans of supernatural horror, strong female protagonists, and modern takes on classic tales will find much to enjoy in this series. Shipka’s Sabrina is a modern-day witch for a new generation, defying expectations and carving her own path—one spell at a time.