I was so put off by the first episode. A shameless theft of ideas and plot elements from other shows (Something the writers cheekily or unknowingly acknowledge, when they talk about how the name van Helsing was stolen by Bram Stoker) mixed with poor dialogs. Everything is so fake in the first episode: Fake accents, fake makeup and a bunch of silly and fake villains. Well, the effects were decent, but with overall standards so much improved recently, they are really not that much of a bonus these days. Then there was some obvious eye candy especially for younger females, as the main character was more or less shirtless half the time. But that couldn't distract from the fact that the whole episode was fundamentally silly and poorly made. However, the second episode was different and bordered on the acceptable. Richard Wilson certainly helped a little there with some solid acting and the 'villain of the day' was much better in terms of visual design. This said, the show still lacks direction and captivating plot elements, but I have to admit that the show still has potential. All in all a poor start and they don't have much time left to win me over, but there is hope yet.
EDIT
Just saw the third episode.....as inspiring as house dust. This show is too crappy to waste even the time of a dedicated couch potato. Avoid at all cost!