A Discovery of Witches

100 Movies in 100 Days
Movie 33 Day 33
A Discovery of Witches

So as I said I've been wanting to mix things up a little bit and I've been watching a lot more television series. I love magical shows, books and movies. I've read all of the Mortal Instruments stories, I've read all the Twilight books (Don't judge me!) I've seen all of the magical movies from the Labyrinth to The Craft to Practical Magic and so many more. I love a good witch, vampire, daemon, werewolf story. So when I heard about A Discovery of Witches I was intrigued. Until this point, I have never read the books. To be honest, I went out and got the book as soon as I finished season 1. Moving on, before the show, I never even heard of the books. I followed Teresa Palmer, who plays Diana in the show, on Instagram. She posted about filming the show and I loved the cast. I've seen Matthew Goode in a few different things from Downton Abbey, Chasing Liberty, Leap Year and The Crown. I was mostly intrigued by the elements magic in A Discovery of Witches. I always wanted to be a witch when I was little. I was very disappointed when I found out I couldn't be a real witch. I blame years of Harry Potter! Let's take a short look at A Discovery of Witches.

A Discovery of Witches takes place in 2018. It is about a historian and witch named Diana Bishop, played by Teresa Palmer. One day while doing research at Oxford University, she finds a book hidden in the classical section of the library. When she opens the book weird event start to occur. Magic words start coming off of pages. The book is otherworldly, covered in magic and not only do the witches feel the power but vampires and daemons as well. Diana's experience with this book drew a lot of attention and the most attention is by a vampire named Matthew, played by Matthew Goode. All of the magical creatures are attracted to this book, which Diana has returned and is now nowhere to be found. Diana becomes a person of interest to all creatures. Matthew becomes completely fascinated and infatuated with Diana and her abilities. Let me tell you, the chemistry between Palmer and Goode is completely electric. Gives me total chills!

What's the big deal, it's just another witch story! Yes, it's a witch story but it has fantastic layers of History woven within each scene. It is clearly seen the author of the book series is a historian. Plus, what's not to love about forbidden romance? Obviously, Matthew is attracted to Diana. He's intrigued by Diana magical potential.  He's interested in her because something is off with Diana's magic. Her magic is untamed, unchecked and unbalanced. Who wouldn't love the idea of magic appearing whenever you need it or sensing danger whenever it's near? I think that is what draws the viewer in. We all imagine ourselves as a witch, vampire, or daemon. We humans are attracted to the unknown and the darkness. A Discovery of Witches allows you to tap into that part of your imagination. It's a fun escape for the boring Human world.

This show does not shy away from strong female characters. It's wonderful to see Diana as a smart academic but also a powerful witch. A Discovery of Witches is about women empowerment across all species. The female vampires are wise matriarchs of their families.  Female witches are powerful and can save themselves. Diana doesn't need Matthew's help to survive, she can survive on her own and it's brilliant to see. There is a great contrast where maybe the witch can save the vampire. A Discovery of Witches is not afraid to challenge societal norms. It's uplifting to see Diana was raised by two women, her aunt Sarah and partner Emily. Both women are strong capable witches. The fact they are lesbians is never mentioned. It doesn't matter who you love, it's the power of the love. Yes, I know that's so girlie and cheesy but I'm a secret romantic. Shhhh, don't tell anyone.

My only criticism of the some are the side stories. There are a few smaller stories happening in the background and they pull focus from the main characters. There is this whole plot line about an ancient council with Daemons, Vampires, and Witches. I found myself a little bit bored with that plot line. I'm sure it will be important in later seasons but I kept thinking, get back to Diana and Matthew now. Oh well, it is still a strong show!

I could write so much more on this show. I could write and entire thesis paper on it very easily but that's not why you are here. You, my dear reader are here to get a taste for something new. I highly recommend finding and watching A Discovery of Witches. Be warned, it's massively addictive.