Arrow Review: The Show That Redefined Superhero TV for a New Generation
If you love superheroes but also crave intense drama, Arrow might just be the perfect series for you. This CW show is the OG of the Arrowverse and has set the gold standard for superhero TV. Let’s dive into why Arrow still holds a special place in every fan’s heart.

Plot: From Billionaire to Vigilante Hero
Arrow tells the story of Oliver Queen, a spoiled billionaire playboy turned crime-fighting vigilante after being stranded on a mysterious island for five years. Upon his return to Star City, he dons the hood and takes up the bow and arrow to right the wrongs of his family and protect his city. What starts as a simple revenge mission evolves into a saga of heroism, sacrifice, and redemption.
A Brief About the Story
The show kicks off with Oliver Queen coming back home after being presumed dead. But he’s not the same man anymore. Through intense flashbacks of his time on the island and his current-day exploits, we see Oliver tackle corruption, criminal masterminds, and his own inner demons. With each season, the stakes rise, introducing new allies, foes, and jaw-dropping twists.
Main Characters: The Core Team Arrow
Oliver Queen / Green Arrow (Stephen Amell): The heart of the show. A flawed yet determined hero who evolves beautifully across the seasons.
Felicity Smoak (Emily Bett Rickards): The quirky, genius IT expert who brings humor and heart to Team Arrow.
John Diggle (David Ramsey): Oliver’s steadfast right-hand man and the moral compass of the team.
Thea Queen (Willa Holland): Oliver’s sister, who transforms into a badass vigilante herself.
Slade Wilson / Deathstroke (Manu Bennett): A friend-turned-foe who gives us one of the best rivalries in superhero TV.
Laurel Lance / Black Canary (Katie Cassidy): A lawyer and vigilante who fights for justice both in and out of court.
Positives of Arrow
Gritty Storytelling: Unlike many superhero shows, Arrow leans into its dark and grounded tone, making the stakes feel real.
Action Scenes: The choreography, especially in the early seasons, is next-level. Those rooftop chases and one-on-one fights? Chef’s kiss.
Character Development: Oliver’s journey from a selfish playboy to a selfless hero is inspiring.
Cameos & Crossovers: The show kickstarted the Arrowverse, introducing iconic characters like The Flash and Supergirl.
Negatives of Arrow
Pacing Issues: Some seasons, especially the later ones, feel dragged with filler episodes.
Repetitive Tropes: The “city in danger” plotline starts to feel overused after a while.
Romantic Drama: While it’s nice initially, the constant love triangles can be a bit much.
What We Liked
The emotionally charged rivalry between Oliver and Slade Wilson.
The thrilling origin stories of characters like Black Canary and Arsenal.
Felicity’s one-liners that lighten the darkest of moments.
What We Disliked
Too many villains per season sometimes dilute the tension.
Oliver’s brooding nature can feel excessive in certain arcs.
Should You Watch It?
Absolutely! Whether you’re a DC fan or just love action-packed dramas, Arrow offers a gripping story with unforgettable characters. However, prepare for some patience during slower seasons.
Final Verdict: Arrow is the show that redefined superhero TV by balancing heart-pounding action with complex characters. It’s not perfect, but it’s legendary in its own right.