Pilot Review: Jane the Virgin

Jane the Virgin (CW)
Premiered October 13 at 9pm

I have to say, I’m liking the CW a whole lot more than I used to. I had no expectations whatsoever for this show, which rates as having one of the flashier titles of the season. Its pilot reminded me in many ways of “Ugly Betty,” a series I didn’t like when I first watched but then decided to go back and start again after enjoying some Emmy sample episodes (it’s not a surprise given they’re both based on telenovelas and both come from the same executive producer). It has the same flair and fun attitude, reminiscent of a fantasy yet grounded in a harsh and unforgiving reality. The plot is certainly comprehensive and creative, involving a number of energetic characters in intersecting ways. I love that Jane and Rafael shared a romantic moment in the past, though now they’ll be tethered to their own significant others, the manipulative Petra and the seemingly sweet Michael. The complicated and intertwining character tree should make for plenty of entertainment throughout the series, and the show’s tone is just right for its fanciful and overdramatic adventures. It’s all carried by Gina Rodriguez, who imbues Jane with such a wonderful and naïve outlook on the universe. Proposing to Michael was particularly sweet, and though Jane has a fierce foe in Petra, I think she stands a pretty decent chance of showing the man who unknowingly impregnated her that she’s the one he should be with, not her. The narration isn’t problematic and only serves to enhance the show’s bubbly nature. I’m surprised to be saying this, but I may actually come back and check out episode two.

How will it work as a series? Balancing her mother and grandmother, plus their own hangups, like the father she never met and her grandmother’s religiousness, and her newfound pregnancy, eternal virginity, and the other people in her life should be ripe for endless plotlines for Jane as she prepares for the unexpected challenge of motherhood.
How long will it last? This show did better than most of the CW’s slate this year and in recent years, so I think it’s off to a promising start. Good reviews also suggest that there will be many more people arguing for this show to continue than for it to end. I think it’s on track to be one of the first series renewed.

Pilot grade: B+