Let the Right One In Season 1 Episode 1 Review: Anything for Blood

Let the Right One In Season 1 Episode 1, “Anything for Blood,” is the epitome of everything a series premiere needs to be.

Fans of this particular story might remember the 2008 and 2010 film iterations, and while the series might follow the storyline to a point, it does wonders to set itself apart from the films.

“Anything for Blood” excels in setting the scene, slowly revealing crucial information to figure out what’s happening.

Instead of simply laying the storyline out for the audience, we’re taken straight into the meat of the story and slowly fed information, keeping the audience’s engagement at all times.

The storyline follows Mark Kane and Eleanor Kane, a father and daughter duo that stays on the run due to Eleanor’s vampirism. The two are making their return to NYC for the first time in ten years when Eleanor was bitten initially and cursed to forever be in the body of a twelve-year-old.

Mark and Eleanor’s return leads to the introduction of Isaiah and Naomi, a son and mother duo that live next door. The budding relationship between Eleanor and Isaiah is, just like the movies, bound to be a series highlight.

This particular story and franchise have a peculiar take on vampires, making their existence a rarity and not an overly populated community like most series.

As the episode progresses, we get a better sense of the family situation, with vague mentions of Eleanor’s mother, leading to curiosity about what could have happened to her. It’s clear that how she became how a vampire and how her mother was taken from her will be two critical questions the series will revolve around this season.

There’s a gritty horror theme surrounding the series, but it’s also a family drama at the story’s center. Whether the drama is between Mark, Eleanor, and Zeke, Arthur Logan and Claire Logan, or between Isaiah and Naomi, there’s always a vital familial essence, no matter the situation.

Mark shows his love for Eleanor in everything he does, especially with his willingness to let her feed on him whenever she needs.

For the most part, the pacing of the premiere is spectacular, besides a few moments that could use an additional flare. The series begins with a noteworthy introduction to who may be vampire zero and ends with another twist with Mark killing his detective neighbor’s ex, Frank.

Besides the story’s allure, there’s also a genuine curiosity, sense of urgency, and desire to continue watching because of the exciting backstories and multifaceted characters at play.

“Anything for Blood” ends with a rather large cliffhanger, setting the scene for the ongoing issues Mark and Eleanor will endure. It’s a pivotal moment that will affect how the series progresses and is a gruesome end to an impervious series premiere.

Madison Taylor Baez and Ian Foreman do an impeccable job of portraying their characters, only exciting me more for what’s to come from their performances this season.

Stray Thoughts:

• The angles and shots are remarkable, especially when Eleanor climbs the building to get a better view of the city.
• Claire is a natural badass, and I absolutely love how she doesn’t put up with her father’s bullshit. I’m excited to get more backstory on her, Peter, and Arthur.
• It’s easy to cling to Isaiah and seek the best for him because those around him are nothing but cruel. His love of magic makes him a natural target for those at school who are insecure with themselves, and it’s heartbreaking.
• Isiah’s generosity is unwavering, offering Eleanor his only candy bar and even eating it for her to have the experience. It’s both an endearing and awkward situation.
• Part of me is rooting for Nicole to figure out that Mark killed Frank. As much as I want Mark to succeed in finding a cure for Eleanor, Nicole is a good enough detective to figure out the truth. I’m looking forward to the conflict between the two.
• It’s unfortunate that Frank bites the dust early in the series and right after getting clean.

What did you think of this episode of Let the Right One In? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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Let the Right One In airs Sundays at 9/8c on Showtime.

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