Once Upon a Time

Editor Reviews

• Lark Ashford

  Rating: 4

  4

  August 15, 2025

  Once Upon a Time invites you into a world where fairy tale characters are real and living among us, but with a twist – they've been stripped of their memories and magic by a powerful curse. This series is a masterclass in weaving together disparate stories from classic folklore into a cohesive and engaging narrative. The show's appeal lies in its ingenious premise, exploring the deeper psychological aspects of beloved characters like Snow White, Rumplestiltskin, and Captain Hook, giving them new backstories and complex motivations. It's a show that constantly surprises with its interconnected plotlines and unexpected character developments. The special effects bring the fantastical elements to life beautifully, from magical realms to intense confrontations. It's a heartwarming and often thrilling journey that reminds us of the power of hope and the enduring nature of true love, whether it's romantic or familial.

• Lake Parrish

  Rating: 4

  4

  June 10, 2025

  Once Upon a Time takes beloved fairy tale characters and thrusts them into our world, living in a small town in Maine called Storybrooke, unaware of their true identities due to a powerful curse. The series is a charming blend of fantasy and adventure, focusing on Emma Swan, the daughter of Snow White and Prince Charming, who is prophesied to break the curse. Each episode delves into the rich backstories of characters like the Evil Queen, Captain Hook, and Rumpelstiltskin, while the present-day narrative involves unraveling mysteries and facing magical threats. While perhaps lighter on the intense thriller aspects than others on this list, it offers plenty of suspense and peril as characters fight for their happy endings against formidable villains.