Altered Carbon

:

Season 1
  • Network: Netflix
  • Series Premiere Date: Feb 2, 2018
Season #: 2, 1
User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 696 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 555 out of 696
  2. Mixed: 83 out of 696
  3. Negative: 58 out of 696
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  1. jspenillo
    Feb 6, 2018
    10
    Great show, great acting, love the story. Watch it for yourself and you be the judge. I think its excellent, highly entertaining! All the actors are awesome!
  2. sedition
    Feb 15, 2018
    10
    Critics irritate me. There is no way they spend as much time and thought with a series television show like this as we do. They have hundreds of shows to review and I just don't believe that they have the time or attention to devote to a complicated stunning show like this. The negative reviews from several here show they just didn't get it. Altered Carbon was unique, fascinating andCritics irritate me. There is no way they spend as much time and thought with a series television show like this as we do. They have hundreds of shows to review and I just don't believe that they have the time or attention to devote to a complicated stunning show like this. The negative reviews from several here show they just didn't get it. Altered Carbon was unique, fascinating and forward thinking with Kinnaman giving a standout emotional performance. I wish there were more shows like this and less stupid inane comedies.… Expand
  3. hushiwei
    Feb 25, 2018
    10
    Excellent use of future technology throughout visually reminds of the original Bladerunner. Actors are convincing and the ending is satisfying. I had to give this a ten.
  4. EludiumQ36
    Feb 17, 2018
    10
    Wow, what an epic series! Cinematic level of production values, multiple themes, this is one hell of an offering! I very rarely give ANY production a 10 but “Altered Carbon” nailed every aspect of what you want in a series. On the surface, this presents as a murder mystery that our protag Takeshi Kovacs (mostly in the body/image of Elias Ryker) is hired to solve - by the ultra-rich murderWow, what an epic series! Cinematic level of production values, multiple themes, this is one hell of an offering! I very rarely give ANY production a 10 but “Altered Carbon” nailed every aspect of what you want in a series. On the surface, this presents as a murder mystery that our protag Takeshi Kovacs (mostly in the body/image of Elias Ryker) is hired to solve - by the ultra-rich murder victim himself, who was suspected to have committed suicide - so yes, wrap your head around that! But this series goes so much deeper than just this murder. In fact, this series, if applying MPAA ratings,would easily carry an NC-17 rating, it is not for the squeamish, there is a plethora of nudity and graphic violence, so much blood, everywhere at times, but it’s all in line with the story, it doesn’t seem gratuitous or out of place. Speaking of which, episode 8 has an “attack of the clones” you won’t soon forget - you’ll thank god for rewind.

    But when I say deeper, it’s because of the many themes and issues that are addressed as this plays out. I’m not going to do a full analysis on them because this would be too long and I’m not getting paid for this, but one of the themes will not be lost on Stargate fans - that of false gods. The Meths are direct analogs of Stargate SG-1’s race of Goa’ulds, beings that seemingly live forever across discardable host bodies. Whereas the Goa’uld have unique weapons and personal energy shields that promote their god-like powers, the Meths have no such abilities, just their massive wealth and control over everyone else. Finally, though it’s implied by the above, let me explicitly state that the visuals are supremely outstanding. You will have to watch this series several times to fully appreciate the VFX and the story itself because you simply cannot absorb it all in one viewing, it’s just not possible, and I’m not kidding but you may need to create a character matrix/chart to keep things straight. And please, please view this on no less than a 55-in HDTV, preferably in 4K/HDR, the production quality of this series demands it.    … Expand
  5. mammary_glands
    Feb 4, 2018
    10
    Pitch perfect cyberpunk. Simultaneously funny, dark, heart-wrenching, and thoughtful. The world is rich and well rendered, helped by the beautiful cinematography and production value. Characters are interesting and lovable. Losing them is a gut punch, which speaks to the strong writing. Can't wait to see more of this kickass show if/when it gets a second season.
  6. JPG127
    Feb 3, 2018
    10
    This was a great sci noir. The acting was good, effects were top notch and the story is interesting.
  7. Codex
    Jun 19, 2020
    10
    This season I fell in love with this world. It is a blast to watch from episode 1 onward. If you want a true cyberpunk experience, this is the show for you. It takes risks and it pays off in spades. But don't bother with season 2. It's hot garbage. 1 and done.
  8. Anastasi
    Feb 20, 2018
    10
    really one of the best serial of modern times. cool special effecs< nice idea nd goodactors. what else do you need? we are watching with all my friends and love it!!
  9. ManRammer
    Feb 9, 2018
    10
    What a series. I cannot recommend it enough! I am throughly impressed. Love the environments and the characters. Don't want to spoil anything. Just see it! :)
  10. laio
    Feb 3, 2018
    10
    Altered Carbon is the perfect Noir Futuristic serie. we can see a "Blade runner" similar world with an accent of "Deus Ex" gameplay (if you have ever played it). Simply fantastic, all stuff is linked, explained e clear, the plot is really well written, actors are really good, love stories are not semplicistic and boring. Carachters are interesting and introspection is placed at firstAltered Carbon is the perfect Noir Futuristic serie. we can see a "Blade runner" similar world with an accent of "Deus Ex" gameplay (if you have ever played it). Simply fantastic, all stuff is linked, explained e clear, the plot is really well written, actors are really good, love stories are not semplicistic and boring. Carachters are interesting and introspection is placed at first place. I loved it and I'll wait for the second season. Must to be seen.… Expand
  11. Chrisgui
    Feb 4, 2018
    10
    Amazing visuals. Great action. Faithful adaptation (especially in spirit) of one the best cyberpunk novels of the last 20 years. What more could you want?
  12. djashdj
    Apr 2, 2018
    10
    Loved this and pumped for 2nd season. cyberpunk/action/mystery a+ acting/music/production all good.
  13. lepicklepie
    Feb 4, 2018
    10
    This show is the perfect amalgamation of Cyberpunk, Sci-Fi and neo-noir.I'll recommend it to anyone looking for a dark and twisty adventure that makes you question the basic foundation of human society and what our own future may look like in the not too distant future. Altered Carbon is in the same league as Westworld, Mr Robot and Doll House. There wasn't an episode I didn't enjoy andThis show is the perfect amalgamation of Cyberpunk, Sci-Fi and neo-noir.I'll recommend it to anyone looking for a dark and twisty adventure that makes you question the basic foundation of human society and what our own future may look like in the not too distant future. Altered Carbon is in the same league as Westworld, Mr Robot and Doll House. There wasn't an episode I didn't enjoy and I'll probably watch it again before the year is over.… Expand
  14. papadrew7
    Feb 8, 2018
    10
    This was an amazing tv show with an intriguing new mythos to get lost in. The writing was superb. The acting was top notch and the action kept you on the edge of your seat. I highly recommend for you to check this show out.
  15. Aryann
    Feb 19, 2018
    10
    Best cyberpunk there is. And certainly one of the best tv series. Can't wait for a second season.
  16. JoeB777
    Feb 3, 2018
    10
    It is such a joy to watch a well-thought-out science fiction universe in series format. It has excellent production values and is quite unlike anything else you will see on television. We need more of this kind of programming on television. Recommended.
  17. Marshb63
    Feb 3, 2018
    10
    While its not verbatim, the series definitely captures the spirit of Takeshi Kovac! Loving it (first season) so far! Can't wait for the next season!
  18. ifritforce
    Feb 4, 2018
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Tratama prrsonajes efectos especiales usica ambientaciom fotografía bien, cada parte de forma independiente es normal para buena, pero en su conjunto hacen una gram serie. En este caso la suma de las partes es mejor, recomendable pero no lo mejor sin duda… Expand
  19. fishu
    Feb 6, 2018
    10
    pure CP + violence. I was waiting for something like this a long time. If you like it when bad things happen to bad people you will like AC.
  20. SMIICE
    Feb 24, 2018
    10
    The show is truly amazing. It never felt like a TV show. Production was amazing, actors were great. Using different languages is so awesome. Honestly, it felt like I finished watching 10-hour movie. Good job Netflix. Hotel AI was my favorite character. The show made me feel emotions, I didn't want episodes to end. I definitely going to buy and read the book version while I wait for seasonThe show is truly amazing. It never felt like a TV show. Production was amazing, actors were great. Using different languages is so awesome. Honestly, it felt like I finished watching 10-hour movie. Good job Netflix. Hotel AI was my favorite character. The show made me feel emotions, I didn't want episodes to end. I definitely going to buy and read the book version while I wait for season two to come out. Fighting scenes and Japanese influence throughout the show is amazing. The ending was so great and so honorable.… Expand
  21. Brannagyn
    Feb 5, 2018
    10
    Another great production by Netflix thats getting weak critical buzz yet solid audience appeal. Half the negative reviews here seem to be from people who either didn't watch it or gave it zero by mistake. Hopefully Netflix will follow up on both this and Bright. Seems like there might be an old Shadowrun or Cyperpunk 2020 fan among the Netflix execs. More in that vein won't go wrong.
  22. ZackMurph
    Dec 3, 2018
    10
    Is the show perfect? Absolutely not , but it adventures to try to be something creative and to a degree it's fresh.

    The acting is absolutely fantastic with characters sometimes taking on multiple personality and fitting the roles perfectly. Though there are a few characters I wouldn't have minded having less screen time. The overall characters and performance were enjoyable. This    Is the show perfect? Absolutely not , but it adventures to try to be something creative and to a degree it's fresh.

    The acting is absolutely fantastic with characters sometimes taking on multiple personality and fitting the roles perfectly. Though there are a few characters I wouldn't have minded having less screen time. The overall characters and performance were enjoyable.

    This show does take a sci-fi type of fan in order to hit a 10/10 mark. Everyone else will probably give it a 5/10-8/10 because of issues with the plot or long drawn out back stories. Even I have to admit that the season had a few segments of emptiness that could have either been cut or redone to make the overall story more compelling.

    In all, Altered Carbon isn't your run of the mill world breaking tv series but it definitely hits a lot of notches within many sci-fi fans belts and the average viewer can easily enjoy the show as well. If the writers learn their lessons from the first season and apply that knowledge to the second. Then I could easily see the show's fanbase growing.    … Expand
  23. GunnerMcDagget
    Feb 19, 2018
    10
    Absolutely loved it from start to finish. They created a perfectly messed up world, much like the world of Blade Runner but this one driven primarily by sexual desire and fetish rather than Capitalism. The story was intriguing and the finale was epic.
  24. Mockster
    Feb 3, 2018
    10
    Good adaptation from an awesome novel. Excellent cast, great visuals. very satisfying to watch!
  25. tuwalua
    Feb 4, 2018
    10
    The perfect combination of politics, philosophy, action and awkwardness. The real story of the show is the world not the main plot. The political and ethical implication which comes with immortality. But its still a future i want to live in, not even but because its dirty!
  26. Ledge_Pls
    Feb 4, 2018
    10
    Honestly starting to think critics are snubbing Netflix originals on purpose. This is without a doubt the best Netflix Original, easily blew Stranger Things and even Dark out of the water for me. visually its absolutely breathtaking, the story and world has so much more depth than at first glance but it already sold me on said glance. This show has everything, darkness and depression, fearHonestly starting to think critics are snubbing Netflix originals on purpose. This is without a doubt the best Netflix Original, easily blew Stranger Things and even Dark out of the water for me. visually its absolutely breathtaking, the story and world has so much more depth than at first glance but it already sold me on said glance. This show has everything, darkness and depression, fear and thrills, philosophical commentary, dystopian/futurist cyber punk tech and setting. Its got mystery, and some really great comedic relief.… Expand
  27. Seer
    Feb 9, 2018
    10
    Absolutely amazing addition to the science fiction series genre. The visuals are brilliant. The story telling is great. Characters like Poe added a brilliant flavor to the overall dystopian tone of the story. Would recommend to everyone. Does contain gore and nudity though. So if you are squeamish about that sort of things, you might now enjoy it too much.
  28. ChrisLioneel
    Feb 17, 2018
    10
    el cast, como su banda sonora fue muy buena, sin olvidar que fue sorprendente, en si me gusto el doblaje latino y su encargado (a) se lucio con la obra, espero una segunda aunque en si concluyo bien.
  29. Archound
    May 11, 2018
    10
    It is the best cyberpunk-themed show you can watch on your telly. It is better than Blade Runner in basically every aspect.
  30. OGgamer2001
    Feb 8, 2018
    10
    If I could give this show higher than 10/10 I would! I absolutely love this show. It is a fantastic show. The CGI, acting, script, story line, and everything else about this show are spot on. It reminds me of Blade Runner, but very unique in it's own right! I am definitely a fan and I really am extremely impressed with everything about this series. I really am not sure why metacriticIf I could give this show higher than 10/10 I would! I absolutely love this show. It is a fantastic show. The CGI, acting, script, story line, and everything else about this show are spot on. It reminds me of Blade Runner, but very unique in it's own right! I am definitely a fan and I really am extremely impressed with everything about this series. I really am not sure why metacritic (corporate schell) is only giving it a 60%, they have drastically changed my opinion about their judgement in terms of quality. Either they watched a different show than I watched, or they would not know a great scifi show if it slapped them in the face. Anyways, I give this show a 10/10 and highly recommend for you to watch it and make your own opinion about how great it is.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

2
#2 Most Discussed TV Season of 2018
30
#30 Most Shared TV Season of 2018

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
64

Generally favorable reviews - based on 25 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 13 out of 25
  2. Mixed: 12 out of 25
  3. Negative: 0 out of 25
  1. The Detroit News
    Reviewed by: Adam Graham
    Mar 1, 2018
    50
    Big issues of body, mind, identity and technology shuffle around the Altered Carbon universe, but the show often drags its feet in order to fill its individual episodes’ running times.
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  2. Vox.com
    Reviewed by: Emily VanDerWerff
    Feb 5, 2018
    80
    For a series that makes a lot of basic storytelling stumbles and often seems to feature characters who can only speak in exposition, Altered Carbon’s first season is surprisingly gripping, especially in its superior back half. This is probably the best first season of a Netflix drama since The Crown’s first year dropped in late 2016.
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  3. The Atlantic
    Reviewed by: Sophie Gilbert
    Feb 5, 2018
    50
    Altered Carbon is so busy trying to wow viewers by constantly one-upping the imagery and the intensity that it barely pauses to consider its story. The writing is also distinctly clunky: a hodgepodge of vacant platitudes and canned spirituality.
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