11.22.63

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Season 1
  • Network: HULU
  • Series Premiere Date: Feb 15, 2016
User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 225 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 184 out of 225
  2. Mixed: 23 out of 225
  3. Negative: 18 out of 225
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  1. Donathin
    Feb 23, 2016
    9
    My background: I love Stephen King novels. I love good television. I love The Shining (both the film and the mini-series, separately), Pet Cemetery, It, and The Stand mini-series. Most other Stephen King series and movies have been a bit of a let down.

    I've not read the novel that 11.22.63 is based on. The first two episodes are extremely promising for what's to come, and very    My background: I love Stephen King novels. I love good television. I love The Shining (both the film and the mini-series, separately), Pet Cemetery, It, and The Stand mini-series. Most other Stephen King series and movies have been a bit of a let down.

    I've not read the novel that 11.22.63 is based on.

    The first two episodes are extremely promising for what's to come, and very compelling in and of themselves. The elements of period and historical fascination are a great hook, the science fiction premise works on a subtle level that challenges the viewer to think, and the foreboding horror undertones that Stephen King is known for are unmistakable and highly executed.

    JJ Abrams' influence is also unmistakable. Here, he brings his passion for a good time-traveling yarn to play with necessary restraint and unsettling mystery. The first two hours of 11.22.63 feel like they could be good episodes of LOST or Fringe.

    The camera work, dialogue, acting, directing, casting -- all top notch. My biggest concern (will I be able take James Franco seriously in this role?) was answered in the second episode, as Franco gives a gritty, ballsy, vulnerable performance that is on par with the great acting of the surrounding cast.

    This is on pace to be the strongest King-adapted mini-series since The Stand. And if it heats up even more, it might just be the best King-on-the-small-screen story told yet. As I haven't read the book, I don't know what's coming, or how faithful the adaptation is ... hopefully the story will ride the rails like King's best, and not fall off of them like the rare King miss is wont to do.    … Expand
  2. Bluesmanuk
    Feb 27, 2016
    9
    A great concept that after 2 shows has me hooked. Nothing is as it seems, which leaves the door open to keep you guessing all the way. The only potential danger being that it could end up too complicated for it's own good, albeit not so far. Although serious in nature, there are some light hearted moments that make you smile and there is a private wish to visit the era, if only to sampleA great concept that after 2 shows has me hooked. Nothing is as it seems, which leaves the door open to keep you guessing all the way. The only potential danger being that it could end up too complicated for it's own good, albeit not so far. Although serious in nature, there are some light hearted moments that make you smile and there is a private wish to visit the era, if only to sample food that seems to taste as good as nostalgia often tells us so.… Expand
  3. asafitai1
    Mar 7, 2016
    8
    As one of the few who have read the booked and seen the show, I would say that although there are many differences between the book and the show, it's a mostly fithfull and good adaption of the fantastic time travel adventure written by the legendary author Stephan king. I like James Franko as the main protegonist, as well as most of the cast. I recommend to everyone to see this, as wellAs one of the few who have read the booked and seen the show, I would say that although there are many differences between the book and the show, it's a mostly fithfull and good adaption of the fantastic time travel adventure written by the legendary author Stephan king. I like James Franko as the main protegonist, as well as most of the cast. I recommend to everyone to see this, as well as reading the book… Expand
  4. Orbeck
    Mar 15, 2016
    8
    I like this series , but in episode 5 they show at 33.54 a Seiko quartz watch that didn't exist in 1963 .
    The first commercial quartz watch was not for the public avail before 1969.
  5. Skeletor71
    Feb 24, 2016
    9
    This is turning out to be one of my favorite new shows. The only part that's still a little fuzzy to me is the 'supernatural' part about time fighting back. I could have done without that. But the scenery and acting is really spot on.
  6. Bertoflyingfox
    Feb 16, 2016
    7
    Not a bad start, I like the premise and so far the characters have kept everything interesting. This is only based on the first episode though, looking forward to seeing where the the rest of the season takes us.
  7. morninstar
    Mar 8, 2016
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Let's face it, at this point anything J.J Abrams touches becomes gold. I started watching 11.22.63 because,a. the premise piqued my interest, and b. J.J. Abrams. Then I found out it was based on a Stephen King novel I had not yet read, which made it even more exciting for me. Plus, I had been waiting to see James Franco in a solid role, and he finally came through with his portrayal of Jake Epping(or should I say Amberson). It has been a thoroughly engaging journey on the show this far, and I would like to see this show take even bigger strides in the future. Oh yes, almost forgot, the actress who plays Sadie, I'd like to see more of her as well.… Expand
  8. bettyblack1
    Apr 4, 2016
    4
    I could not be more disappointed in the last episode. Is King really endorsing the government should have carte blanche to assassinate anyone at any time at their whim without public knowledge or judicial permission and we would all be better off? The political message of this series is awful. “Let’s face the light and be grateful.” “We didn’t ask for this room or this music let us dance.”I could not be more disappointed in the last episode. Is King really endorsing the government should have carte blanche to assassinate anyone at any time at their whim without public knowledge or judicial permission and we would all be better off? The political message of this series is awful. “Let’s face the light and be grateful.” “We didn’t ask for this room or this music let us dance.” Is the message really to accept what life hands us and do a jig?

    Engaging story until the big reveal that we should never expose or try to change the past or alter our future. I blame the producers because I’m one too and I know how agendas easily get in the way of good storytelling.

    Seriously if you’ve read any history you know that the Kennedy assignation marked the ultimate admission of deceit that our government makes the decisions and we are no longer in control. I simply can’t endorse this socialist propaganda. Big thumbs down on the ending.    … Expand
  9. johnbingham
    Apr 4, 2016
    10
    JJ Abrams meets Stephen King. Expectations are high and met! Acting, great. Pace, great. Surprises per hour factor is solid. Would I do what the main character did? Yes. Sweet finish? Very. The format is like the top British shows, not many episodes, but top quality throughout.
  10. antoniioGeee
    Apr 25, 2016
    10
    Definitely my favorite tv show of 2016. Great acting and amazing production,very hard to watch the season end. I am hoping to see a second season be released.
  11. SharpTooth
    May 12, 2016
    9
    This was a really good series that i enjoyed quite a lot. The story is about a teacher who travels back in time to stop the assassination of JFK, sounds very simple and straight forward but it wasn't very simple at all. It had a perfect blend of suspense, supernatural, political intrigue and romance mixed with time travel. I highly recommend it.

    Overall Score : A-
  12. DLG_OneShot
    May 20, 2016
    10
    Amazing show, amazing characters, amazing story! The only bad thing about it was... that's a mini series, i just can't remember the last show that left me thinking "I want more, i want them to announce a second season" I hope Hulu finds a way to bring 11.22.63 season 2 to the fans, it's almost impossible because the last episode doesn't left more things to tell but... It's not the firstAmazing show, amazing characters, amazing story! The only bad thing about it was... that's a mini series, i just can't remember the last show that left me thinking "I want more, i want them to announce a second season" I hope Hulu finds a way to bring 11.22.63 season 2 to the fans, it's almost impossible because the last episode doesn't left more things to tell but... It's not the first mini series that turns out to be a complete TV Show. If you haven't seen it yet, go watch it right NOW! You'll thank me later!… Expand
  13. GilpinDavid
    Jun 6, 2016
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. With Stephen King and JJ Abrams headlining, expectations were high. Unfortunately, the TV Series disappoints. I have not read the book, so many of my issues may be addressed there and this could just be an unfortunate edit for TV. My biggest problem is the lack of logic. Once Jake runs into his first major problem regarding too large of a bet, he should have gone back and reset the timeline to do it again. He should have made minor changes just to see what would happen. Jake has a hard time taking a life, although he will when pressed, but I was so hoping we could have some better mind candy of the butterfly effect when changing even small things. I get that once Jake had things figured out, he went to the past for the long haul - who would want to repeat four years of their life? I figure Jake is aging normally so these four years he will never get back. I believe there was wasted opportunity to explore who Bill and Sadie actually were. It would have been great if Jake realized too late that they were significant in either US History or his personal history and he has completely changed their course for good or ill.
    Once Jake goes back to the future, the diner is no longer there along with the closet; however, the portal remains intact. Now the portal is out in the open where anyone could just stumble into it. Why hasn't that happened and what are the effects of it?
    I think a better ending would have been having Jake go to the same future and learning just how messed up the US became, but the portal is gone along with the diner so there are no resets. That being said, the message of don't mess with the past; we grow and learn from the pain of our mistakes is a great one to end with.
    One more thing, the unnecessary language in the sixties was out of context for the time period. I get a few f-bombs tossed around by the rougher crowd, but most people just didn't use it. Sure, there was plenty of swearing with other words, but I feel Abrams took the modern understanding of colorful metaphors and applied it to the sixties instead of doing a little research on the colloquialisms of the period; in other words, he was being lazy.
    I love James Franco and I think he did a good job with this character, so bonus points for that.    … Expand
  14. usernamereject6
    May 4, 2016
    9
    I recently binge watched this series on hulu after hearing from a friend how good it was. I was skeptic because a lot Stephen King's stories when turned to film turn out to be major crap, and i can't really stand James Franco. But after watching the first episode I was intrigued, and watched episode after episode and it just got better and better. From the acting to the production to theI recently binge watched this series on hulu after hearing from a friend how good it was. I was skeptic because a lot Stephen King's stories when turned to film turn out to be major crap, and i can't really stand James Franco. But after watching the first episode I was intrigued, and watched episode after episode and it just got better and better. From the acting to the production to the storyline it is one of the best series I've seen in a long time… Expand
  15. McGillotine
    Feb 24, 2016
    9
    It's certainly not Darabont and it sure isnt Kubrick, but boy does it stand equally on it's own. The charm of 11.22.63 is the fact that the story is given time develop, which is an interesting change in the adaptions of King's work. Now where i may not have read the source material of which the show is primarily based, I have in my life read a few of Kings works including The Shining andIt's certainly not Darabont and it sure isnt Kubrick, but boy does it stand equally on it's own. The charm of 11.22.63 is the fact that the story is given time develop, which is an interesting change in the adaptions of King's work. Now where i may not have read the source material of which the show is primarily based, I have in my life read a few of Kings works including The Shining and most recently Revival and from what i have noticed about the film adaptions is the fact that the story is condensed to appear in a maximum 3 hours frame, in which core chunks of the book are cut out and glued together to suit the book for the screen. However with 11.22.63, the Story, The Characters, The settings, the events have time to breath and consistently develop making it all the more satisfying for the show to unfold… Expand
  16. Knighthawk81
    Feb 16, 2016
    7
    This feels like a good idea and something that could develop in an engaging and entertaining way. The pilot for this limited series laid out the set up and the story, took us back in time, built the central character and set up the journey. Was it perfect? No. But it was engaging and made me curious to see where this goes.
  17. SchroederRock
    Apr 7, 2016
    8
    A griping series with only eight episodes, 11.22.63 is one of the better new shows to surface. It's greatest fault is that it doesn't get to expand on the details of 60s culture, the people, or the true intentions of "Jake Amberson" for very long. But what we do get is of great quality. Even if there wasn't a show beyond a single season there was still opportunity to stretch out theA griping series with only eight episodes, 11.22.63 is one of the better new shows to surface. It's greatest fault is that it doesn't get to expand on the details of 60s culture, the people, or the true intentions of "Jake Amberson" for very long. But what we do get is of great quality. Even if there wasn't a show beyond a single season there was still opportunity to stretch out the content and elaborate more as every character that gets screen time is interesting in one way or another and was worth exploring.… Expand
  18. ducini
    Feb 29, 2016
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. What a hugely disappointing show, as one had such high hopes given the cast, and executive team behind it. But the show shot itself in the foot within the first half an hour, with such a glaring plot inconsistency that I switched it off in a rage.

    Basic premise of the show is that a diner owner, Chris Cooper, has a portal in his cupboard that takes you back in time to a date in the 60s. You can go back and spend as much time there as you like in the past and only 2 minutes will pass in the present. Every time you go back however the past resets itself so you always return to the same date and time and any changes you might have made from a previous visit that affect the future are reset.

    Enter James "wooden actor" Franco, who is tasked by Cooper with saving JFK and making the future a better place to live. We forward to a scene were both characters are in Coopers room looking over his typical evidence wall, and of course the discussion moves to whether Lee Harvey Oswald killed JFK. Cooper's character says he saw Oswald and looked him in the eyes and thought he did not do it, but maybe he did, or didn't --- ohhhh the suspense it needs 5 seasons worth of watching Franco act like a fence post to investigate it.

    Hence we get to the biggest plot guff which makes the show unwatchable. If every time you go through the cupboard it resets the changes you made in the future from the last time you were there, then why did Cooper's character not kill Oswald, pop back to the future, see if JFK was alive. If he was task succeeded and if not then pop back through the cupboard and start again with the other suspects.

    Such nonsense.    … Expand
  19. DakotaFred
    Mar 29, 2016
    10
    This has turned out to be a great show. I like the fact that they arent relying on any nudity, excessive violence, gore etc... just a good clean witty and entertaining adult drama. Great stuff!
  20. ydnar4
    Apr 5, 2016
    8
    11.22.63 is one of my favorite Stephen King novels of all time and I was very excited to see a film adaptation of the story I loved so much. JJ Abrams got involved in the project which caught my attention. James Franco, who I've always liked eventually got cast as the star and that made the show more appealing.

    This miniseries is not a direct adaptation of the book there are several    11.22.63 is one of my favorite Stephen King novels of all time and I was very excited to see a film adaptation of the story I loved so much. JJ Abrams got involved in the project which caught my attention. James Franco, who I've always liked eventually got cast as the star and that made the show more appealing.

    This miniseries is not a direct adaptation of the book there are several things that have changed but the story is still a pretty interesting one to follow. The trip to the past is one of the best I've ever seen on tv and I'm so glad that they decided to bring it to tv rather than try to stuff it into a 2 hour movie. Franco does a pretty solid job as the main character Jake Emberson. Bill Turcotte gets a lengthened role as he only had a small appearance in the book but George MacKay such a great job playing him that I didn't mind that they went away from the source material.

    Sadie Dunhill was my favorite character from the book and I was the most worried about her character. I was thrilled to see that Sadie was portrayed beautifully by Sarah Gadon and she also became my favorite character in the show as well. Chris Cooper makes several appearances as Al Templeton and he's always great and Daniel Webber does a great job of playing the mysterious Lee Harvey Oswald.

    The show does not live up to the strength of the book but it is still not that far off. 11.22.63 is a book that is very hard to convert effectively to film and although the story lacks the depth that the book had there is still a great story to be told. There are also some times where the story is not quite told well enough for people who have not read the book before.

    The ending was one of the best parts of the book and the series ends very strong as well. It stays very close to the original ending which satisfied me. I would recommend 11.22.63 but I think you should read the book first.    … Expand
  21. diogomendes
    Jun 29, 2016
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Based on Stephen King's 2011 novel of the same name, "11.22.63" tells the complicated life of ex-divorced English professor, Jake Epping (played by James Franco), who travels through time (to 1960, no less) to prevent the assassination of John F. Kennedy. But as his life settles in, he feels that the time is pushing back, preventing him to alter anything that occurred in the past, so that the timeline remains intact. Meanwhile, he becomes attached to his new life in the 60's and falls in loved for a girl named Sadie, who's also recently divorced, and this could be his mission's undoing.

    The series doesn't diverge much from the book, and that it's good, and also bad. But James Franco gives it such warming performance that it's impossible to resist. His chemistry with Sadie is just one of the finest elements of this miniseries. His relationship with Bill Turcotte, not so much. Despite the fact the character had a solid backstory, his presence was a means to an end so that Jake didn't have to deliver exposition by himself, or through narration voice-over, but his relationship with him didn't really work out as well. Too many times he came across as annoying and his arc went nowhere, as he was killed in the penultimate episode. I appreciate that the writers were trying to have Bill's death affect Jake, and make him see that everything comes with a price, and it's a price you must pay, but at the end of the day, it makes me wonder what role did Bill exactly have to offer.

    The conspiracy of who killed Kennedy was intriguing, although a little boring during the middle of the series' run. Too often it seemed that the romance subplot between Sadie and Jake was getting in the way of the main storyline, but nothing that hurt too much. As I said, Sadie and Jake have a great chemistry. They're just so adorable to watch on screen, and their scenes where they supported each other was bittersweet. It's heartfelt that their romance came to a sad conclusion, but the real meaning came to when Jake knew she always had a happy life, and that he sacrificed his relationship with her so he could keep her safe.

    It didn't matter if Jake had to reset the timeline where Harry Dunning's family was never killed and JFK had lived. That proved to have consequences to it, as he returned to a more grim, apocalyptic 2016. The heart of the story centers around on Jake and Sadie, and it's that chemistry that really drove this series forward.

    One last thing, there were questions that I found myself disappointed, 'cause they were never answered. Like for example, the question whether why that rabbit hole exists, and what happened to it after Jake came back to return to his old life. I wanted to see more of that answered, so if anything, it was a little frustrating.

    All in all, "11.22.63" was a fun experience, and really boasted some nice questions of time-travel and the butterfly effect. Some subplots didn't click for me (looking at you, Bill) and some questions could have been answered, but the performances, the chemistry between Jake and Sadie, and the intriguing premise are just enough to overcome those problems.

    Final Score: 7/10    … Expand
  22. Johnnys212
    Mar 1, 2016
    9
    I'll agree with some that the story does feel rushed. I know it's a mini-series but I feel like this could defiantly develop into an amazing show. From the very first episode it has me wanting more and more. I hope it keeps up like this.
  23. Broyax
    Nov 19, 2018
    3
    Une série très intéressante pendant les 3 premiers épisodes ou plutôt pendant les 2 premiers, puis un 3ème qui commence à tituber dangereusement... et après, bah après, c'est la dégringolade...

    Pourtant, voyage dans le temps + Kennedy, ça laissait augurer quelques belles heures de complot sur l'une des plus grandes énigmes du 20ème siècle. Avec un brin de fantastique en prime puisque    Une série très intéressante pendant les 3 premiers épisodes ou plutôt pendant les 2 premiers, puis un 3ème qui commence à tituber dangereusement... et après, bah après, c'est la dégringolade...

    Pourtant, voyage dans le temps + Kennedy, ça laissait augurer quelques belles heures de complot sur l'une des plus grandes énigmes du 20ème siècle. Avec un brin de fantastique en prime puisque c'est tiré d'un bouquin de Stephen King... J'ignore totalement si le livre en question est aussi daubé mais peu importe...

    Ce qui importe, c'est la série qui ne suit que de très loin le complot et se perd au fil des épisodes dans la niaiserie et le violon de bas étage. Monsieur le voyageur temporel se fait en effet le défenseur de la veuve et de l'orphelin et perd son temps dans une guimauve pathétique... et pourtant on a ici que 9 épisodes dont 6 qui se traînent lamentablement jusqu'à la fin téléphonée.

    James Franco demeure un brave gars qui fait ce qu'il peut et la jolie blonde platine au sourire Colgate est très... jolie (je la recommanderai pour la prochaine pub Garnier ou L'Oréal d'ailleurs) mais si on veut du bon voyage à rebours, on se tournera vers le film L'Effet Papillon et si on veut du complot, vers l'excellent film-fleuve d'Oliver Stone... JFK.    … Expand
  24. owmynose9000
    Apr 6, 2016
    9
    This series caught me by surprise, it seemed to consist of a straightforward but engaging concept that was unique and well told. Initially, I was was instantly drawn to the show by the unique historical plot and the was completely engaged in the 1960s setting. The finale was perfectly done and proved that the overall plot was used to tell a different kind of story, a more tragic one whichThis series caught me by surprise, it seemed to consist of a straightforward but engaging concept that was unique and well told. Initially, I was was instantly drawn to the show by the unique historical plot and the was completely engaged in the 1960s setting. The finale was perfectly done and proved that the overall plot was used to tell a different kind of story, a more tragic one which was an excellent ending to a superb series. 11.22.63 was unique, it is a show that might initially seem linear in its narrative but contains enough to deliver a story that is well-rounded and captivating.… Expand
  25. Prosmooth
    Feb 15, 2016
    2
    Very disappointing like most of King's adaptations. James Franco is miscast as Jake, the story feels extremely rushed, and it deviates from King's novel so much that it turns a somber meditation on the ills of America over the last 50 years to a Back to the Future remake. If you're going to change a novel (like Kubrick did with the Shining) --by all means create your own art--but don'tVery disappointing like most of King's adaptations. James Franco is miscast as Jake, the story feels extremely rushed, and it deviates from King's novel so much that it turns a somber meditation on the ills of America over the last 50 years to a Back to the Future remake. If you're going to change a novel (like Kubrick did with the Shining) --by all means create your own art--but don't minimize it by making a joke out of it. Awful.… Expand
  26. amirjahangiri
    Feb 21, 2016
    8
    just watched the first episode , awesome ! , it started a little shallow but after 20 minutes it just grip the attention out of ya .... the atmosphere of the series , the locations , James , music all are pretty good , it's not a very scientific-based plot , it's more kind of a mystery ... really enjoyed it
  27. Wulfrune
    May 11, 2016
    4
    Weak sauce. What is it about King, does he get bored towards the end of a story? because this, like many others before had me groaning with the usual "WTF King?". I don't get me wrong, I quite liked it, apart from the usual silly and often unbelievable Kings characters which let it down, the ending was poor to say the least. But hey, please don't take my word for it. I'm no expert andWeak sauce. What is it about King, does he get bored towards the end of a story? because this, like many others before had me groaning with the usual "WTF King?". I don't get me wrong, I quite liked it, apart from the usual silly and often unbelievable Kings characters which let it down, the ending was poor to say the least. But hey, please don't take my word for it. I'm no expert and usually when something sucks, I don't usually watch it through to the end, as I often go by the adage "You don't have to eat all of the egg to know it's rotten" but sat to the end I did and as usual.... Kingy did it again ! No, not for me, maybe for you, but not for me. Enjoy.… Expand
  28. opindude
    Apr 17, 2016
    5
    Translating books to the screen has always been a difficult task where many have failed, and this is especially true when it comes to Stephen king’s books. In my humble opinion, 11/22/63 isn’t different. As an avid king fan and one who perceives 11/22/63 to be one of the best books of the decade so far, I was fairly disappointed with the series. It felt like an over-simplified, evenTranslating books to the screen has always been a difficult task where many have failed, and this is especially true when it comes to Stephen king’s books. In my humble opinion, 11/22/63 isn’t different. As an avid king fan and one who perceives 11/22/63 to be one of the best books of the decade so far, I was fairly disappointed with the series. It felt like an over-simplified, even childish version of the book, where the writer obviously enjoyed straying (sometimes too far) from the original story. Ok, so you can’t really contain a 1000-page book into a mini-series without losing some of the plot, and changing some of it in the name of artistic freedom can be great, but doing it too much takes away the original feel - the plot in the show felt like the skeleton of king’s book dressed in different clothing. A clone. Where is the past that doesn’t want to be changed, which in the book actually feels like a character by itself and in the show is only a shadow of a hint? Where are the beautiful side stories, where Jake goes back and forth in time to experiment with cause and consequence? Where is king’s beautiful description of the sounds, smells and feel of jumping back in time by going through the diner’s pantry? It all feels rushed, and the excuse of “something has to go when translating a book to the screen” just doesn’t cut it for me. Too many times while watching the show I asked myself “but why he/she will do that?” and then found myself remembering the actual reasons that were explained in the book and were never mentioned in the show.
    On the other hand, the production value of the show is quite high, acting is excellent and the sets are very reliable in presenting a 60’s feel. It’s just that the plot has been reduced and changed to make something that is too different than and too less of the original story. Disappointing.    … Expand
  29. bryan33333
    Aug 25, 2016
    8
    this is not the best but it is not weak that muck we expect so ......we should wait and see season 2 cause in season one the story was cool but it was a little complicated
  30. drlowdon
    Aug 24, 2016
    8
    Making a mini-series, rather than a movie, from Stephen King's book (from 2011) has resulted in a much better adaption of his work than we would likely have been treated to by giving the story and characters more time to develop. Those that have read the book will notice plenty of changes but its hard to really be disappointed with any of them as they are all necessary to make the storyMaking a mini-series, rather than a movie, from Stephen King's book (from 2011) has resulted in a much better adaption of his work than we would likely have been treated to by giving the story and characters more time to develop. Those that have read the book will notice plenty of changes but its hard to really be disappointed with any of them as they are all necessary to make the story work on screen and the fitting ending is kept largely intact.

    There were a few pacing issues but all in all this was an enjoyable mini-series.    … Expand
  31. TheApplegnome
    Jul 7, 2017
    7
    11.22.63. The famous mini-series by Stephen King is in this version a slower but well written adaption. It’s an interesting concept of many possibilities, and we get some nice twists in the 8 episodes. It’s a great drama with likable characters and some fragments of romance, but without that much character development, mystery nor revelations. 11.22.63 is mostly “meh” on the entertainment11.22.63. The famous mini-series by Stephen King is in this version a slower but well written adaption. It’s an interesting concept of many possibilities, and we get some nice twists in the 8 episodes. It’s a great drama with likable characters and some fragments of romance, but without that much character development, mystery nor revelations. 11.22.63 is mostly “meh” on the entertainment scale, but great production design and directing are big pros.

    Average personal episode rating: 70.8

    Personal rating: 70/100
    Critical rating: 70/100    … Expand
  32. Voodoo123
    Oct 7, 2019
    9
    Charming heartfelt performances from Gadon and Franco take centre stage in this expertly produced 8 episode mini series based on the Stephen King novel. The casting is superb with great character acting that never deviates into parody or exaggeration with captivating dramatic performances that stand apart from the genre it occupies. Throughout watching this I felt echoes of back to theCharming heartfelt performances from Gadon and Franco take centre stage in this expertly produced 8 episode mini series based on the Stephen King novel. The casting is superb with great character acting that never deviates into parody or exaggeration with captivating dramatic performances that stand apart from the genre it occupies. Throughout watching this I felt echoes of back to the future part1&2, 1989's Always and even touches of final destination! Overall I was enthralled by the story and setting and just generally pleased to see such great attention to detail in the setting costumes and soundtrack.… Expand
  33. RogerE
    Apr 4, 2016
    9
    I was going to write a long report about this series, but I'll just cut to the core. 11.22.63 centers around James Franco and is executive produced by Stephen King and J.J Abrams based on a book by King. Need I say more? If you're here seeking out this series, I suggest watching it in entirety. If you're expecting it to be a scene-for-scene adaption of the book then I'd recommend notI was going to write a long report about this series, but I'll just cut to the core. 11.22.63 centers around James Franco and is executive produced by Stephen King and J.J Abrams based on a book by King. Need I say more? If you're here seeking out this series, I suggest watching it in entirety. If you're expecting it to be a scene-for-scene adaption of the book then I'd recommend not watching at all because that is not how interpretation works. James Franco delivered a heartwarming performance in this beautifully crafted story about history, love and the speculative horrors of revisionism. The whole cast did a pretty good job with costumes, norms and portraying the differences in time, however, Sarah Gadon (Sadie Dunhill) was such a delight on screen. I hope we get to see more of her in other shows. The story arc was tightly knit and well laid out. What struck me the most is the touching ending to a magnificent journey for the central protagonist. Sit back and enjoy a blast to the past with good acting, decent script, and quality production from Hulu.… Expand
  34. Tamacinema
    Mar 8, 2018
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Overall a very good, faithful where it needed to be, adaptation of one of Steven King's best novels. As a fan of both the book and the TV series, there are some changes in the TV series that still annoy me but I can see why they needed to be done. Unfortunately, the miniseries is too faithful in some areas, specifically in the lazy and rushed denouement which hand waves through a bunch of alternate histoery to get to the idea that saving Kennedy was a bad thing while also falling into the **** about not being able to alter the "time space contunuum" too much that bogs down so many time travel stories and had not bogged down this one until the very end.

    However, just like the book, the sequence wherein Jake actually saves JFK and goes through interrogations from the FBI is absolutely perfect because, for the first time in this story, we really don't know what's going to happen, and watching Jake change history is incredibly interesting.

    The setup for the time travel itself is unique and interesting and sets up a wide array of possibilities, but often there are moments with Frank Dunning and Sadie's husband as insane sadistic wife beaters where it feels as if King is forcing his typical tropes into history for no real reason. The comparison of Oswald to this King trope occurs in the book and in the show, and that would've been interesting enough, but when we have two other characters in this way feels bizzare. Frank's character is important in that he serves as a test case for the JFK assassination, but Sadie's Husband is so unbelievably "steven king crazy" that he breaks the incredible immersion in the time period that King has built up.    … Expand
  35. ChanceCarnahan
    Apr 4, 2016
    9
    Technical Rating

    Plot and Story: 33/35 Cinematography: 21/25 All Editing: 10/15 Acting: 13/15 Script: 6/7 Musical Score and Soundtrack: 3/3 Total: 86/100 I’m not usually the type to keep up with a television series week to week, but after watching the first episode of 11.22.63, I was absolutely hooked. The one season, Hulu mini-series drops a big “what if” in the premiere,    Technical Rating

    Plot and Story: 33/35
    Cinematography: 21/25
    All Editing: 10/15
    Acting: 13/15
    Script: 6/7
    Musical Score and Soundtrack: 3/3

    Total: 86/100

    I’m not usually the type to keep up with a television series week to week, but after watching the first episode of 11.22.63, I was absolutely hooked. The one season, Hulu mini-series drops a big “what if” in the premiere, and then proceeds to answer it in the remaining seven episodes. "If you could alter the outcome of one major event in history, which would it be?"

    Now, 11.22.63 travels in a much more narrow direction, sending Jake Epping (James Franco) to the year 1960 with one goal in mind, to prevent the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. History books tell us that Lee Harvey Oswald was responsible for his death, but nobody is certain whether Oswald was acting alone, or if he is even the one who pulled the trigger. Stephen King, whose novel the show is adapted from, puts this historical hypothesis into question, while bringing to light other theories about what really happened on that day.

    Perfectly cast and cleverly directed, 11.22.63 is the show of the year, and it would be getting the true attention that it deserves if it weren’t for Hulu’s monopoly on its release. Mooch off your friend, use your dad’s credit card, or do whatever else you can to get access to a Hulu Plus account, because this series is worth all the effort.

    Technically speaking, the show is brilliant. If Stephen King’s byline isn’t enough to sell you, J.J. Abrams, producer and writer of the highest grossing film of 2015, (Star Wars: The Force Awakens) made the whole thing happen. In addition, nearly every episode is directed by a different critically acclaimed director, making each week even more unique and exciting. Franco even directed one episode himself, continuing to show how he very well may be “the most interesting man in the world” (read his feature in Rolling Stone if you’re not convinced).

    Franco is joined on-screen by Canadian actress and rising star Sarah Gadon (Sadie Dunhill) as Jake Epping’s love interest, whom I’ve been a huge fan of since seeing her in Enemy (2013), one of my all-time favorite movies that I probably talk about way too much. Gadon plays her role perfectly, showcasing a peachy Southern accent that could make any guy fall in love with her. Matched with a script that leaves a lasting impression on you, Franco and Gadon make the 60s look sublime, except for the racism, medical practices, phone booth struggles, and many other time-travel challenges that the show comments on as well.

    Regarding my specific movie preferences, I’m a sucker for thoughtful films with beautiful women and well-dressed gentlemen, so 11.22.63 takes the cake and lands a spot among The Newsroom, House of Cards, True Detective, and Entourage as what I consider one of my favorite television shows of all time. My pick for the best of the series is episode 3, but nothing takes your breath away quite like the finale. Go check it out before I spoil it for you. I’d love to have someone else to discuss it with.    … Expand
  36. lrossington
    Apr 7, 2016
    7
    It would be unfair to judge this as a bad mini-series, in fact it is actually reasonably enjoyable and good quality in most ways, but I have to say that your enjoyment of this series relies heavily on how well you know the original novel. If you haven't read the novel, or are only a casual King fan, I believe it will come across as a much better experience. I, however, have read the novelIt would be unfair to judge this as a bad mini-series, in fact it is actually reasonably enjoyable and good quality in most ways, but I have to say that your enjoyment of this series relies heavily on how well you know the original novel. If you haven't read the novel, or are only a casual King fan, I believe it will come across as a much better experience. I, however, have read the novel three times now, it really is a good book, and unfortunately the omissions and major changes do affect it for me. I understand how hard it is to translate a novel to screen, and convey what is quite a large novel into a fairly short time frame, but I cannot understand certain changes. The fact that Harry Dunning was from Derry, Maine in the novel, and from Kentucky in this adaptation is one such point, but is something avid readers will understand, and is one of many major changes even early on. As I say, you'll only notice these if you have read the novel, and for a wider audience doesn't affect anything or detract from what is otherwise a well made series, but I feel it is jarring and definitely off-putting for those who are fans, which is slightly ironic. Obviously opinions vary, and I still would generally rate this as a good mini-series, but on balance I have to say having read the novel that I couldn't enjoy the series, I do feel it definitely could have been more faithful to the source material.… Expand
  37. EPMD
    Jun 7, 2016
    8
    It's an excellent main premise, and there are some interesting subplots at play here. The middle of the season can aggravate at times, and some of the dialogue and main character bumbling seems a bit far-fetched. Nevertheless, a strong start and end to the season ensured this show was worth watching.

    I can't help but feel they could have made a brilliant TV show and failed to realize    It's an excellent main premise, and there are some interesting subplots at play here. The middle of the season can aggravate at times, and some of the dialogue and main character bumbling seems a bit far-fetched. Nevertheless, a strong start and end to the season ensured this show was worth watching.

    I can't help but feel they could have made a brilliant TV show and failed to realize its full potential. But I still appreciate that this was good, and at times very good.    … Expand
  38. lucasmatteo
    Oct 15, 2016
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I started watching 11.22.63 because the premise of time-traveling, spying, and heroism by saving the President from assassination, are all up in my alley of geek interests. Though, I slowly realized that all those were simply incidental. 11.22.63 is a love story through and through, and, honestly, I ain't even mad. I'm not even ashamed to say that I loved the series in every aspect (in spite of James Franco's many awkward facial expressions). The setting, the costumes, the soundtrack were done so impeccably, that it leaves you nostalgic for a time you didn't even live through. And, for the most part, it was acted quite well. Sarah Gadon (Sadie) was perfect in her role, and was oh, so beautiful. But, off all the things I loved about the series, the ending is what I loved the most. Needless to say, it was bittersweet, but never has an understatement been more true. The transition between young and old Sadie, dancing with Jake, while Sam Cooke's song was in the background, was a breath of life and joy, but also a dagger to the heart. I watched the last 20 minutes of the series finale 4 times, because I couldn't get over all the feels. This series will eat your heart out, and leave you wanting more. What a journey. So, everyone, stop what you're doing and binge-watch 11.22.63. You can thank me later.… Expand
  39. LRB
    Nov 6, 2016
    9
    Based on a concrete and widely analyzed moment of U.S. History, this show appeals to a large audience of Baby Boomers and history buffs alike. Characters create a depth of personalities, values, needs, and thrills. A combination of American history, sci fi, and drama, the audience is led on a whirl of an adventure that makes for a binge-watching weekend. Watchers may be confused from timeBased on a concrete and widely analyzed moment of U.S. History, this show appeals to a large audience of Baby Boomers and history buffs alike. Characters create a depth of personalities, values, needs, and thrills. A combination of American history, sci fi, and drama, the audience is led on a whirl of an adventure that makes for a binge-watching weekend. Watchers may be confused from time to time picking up on time between each episode, and may lose some watchers by the (perceived) lack of authenticity of decision making by the characters. However, the show causes its audience to deeply consider actions and consequences on another level. Overall, highly recommend for a thought-provoking ride.… Expand
  40. All_ButTrU4
    Feb 6, 2022
    4
    disappointing adaptation of the meticulous source material. It's lazy on all fronts in reference to the acting, cinematography, pacing & writing. . Unfortunately, the TV Series disappoints. I have not read the book, so many of my issues may be addressed there and this could just be an unfortunate edit for TV. My biggest problem is the lack of logic. Once Jake runs into his first majordisappointing adaptation of the meticulous source material. It's lazy on all fronts in reference to the acting, cinematography, pacing & writing. . Unfortunately, the TV Series disappoints. I have not read the book, so many of my issues may be addressed there and this could just be an unfortunate edit for TV. My biggest problem is the lack of logic. Once Jake runs into his first major problem regarding too large of a bet, he should have gone back and reset the timeline to do it again. He should have made minor changes just to see what would happen. Jake has a hard time taking a life, although he will when pressed, but I was so hoping we could have some better mind candy of the butterfly effect when changing even small things. I get that once Jake had things figured out, he went to the past for the long haul - who would want to repeat four years of their life? I figure Jake is aging normally so these four years he will never get back. I believe there was wasted opportunity to explore who Bill and Sadie actually were. It would have been great if Jake realized too late that they were significant in either US History or his personal history and he has completely changed their course for good or ill.
    Once Jake goes back to the future, the diner is no longer there along with the closet; however, the portal remains intact. Now the portal is out in the open where anyone could just stumble into it. Why hasn't that happened and what are the effects of it?
    I think a better ending would have been having Jake go to the same future and learning just how messed up the US became, but the portal is gone along with the diner so there are no resets. That being said, the message of don't mess with the past; we grow and learn from the pain of our mistakes is a great one to end with.
    One more thing, the unnecessary language in the sixties was out of context for the time period. I get a few f-bombs tossed around by the rougher crowd, but most people just didn't use it. Sure, there was plenty of swearing with other words, but I feel Abrams took the modern understanding of colorful metaphors and applied it to the sixties instead of doing a little research on the colloquialisms of the period; in other words, he was being lazy.    … Expand

Awards & Rankings

91
#91 Best TV Season of 2016
31
#31 Most Discussed TV Season of 2016
41
#41 Most Shared TV Season of 2016

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
69

Generally favorable reviews - based on 35 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 23 out of 35
  2. Mixed: 12 out of 35
  3. Negative: 0 out of 35
  1. TVLine
    Reviewed by: Michael Slezak
    Apr 6, 2016
    91
    [A] little bit of bloat hardly slows down a slick production that, while transporting us back in time, stakes Hulu’s claim as a serious streaming player of the future.
    Read full review
  2. Colorado Springs Gazette
    Reviewed by: Terry Terrones
    Apr 6, 2016
    100
    A brilliant premise, an excellent cast and first-rate production values will make viewers truly feel like they're going on an incredibly journey in 1960.
    Read full review
  3. Uncle Barky
    Reviewed by: Ed Bark
    Feb 19, 2016
    67
    Despite its flaws, 11.22.63 ends up closing the deal in a way that for the most part makes it a long, strange time travel worth taking.
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