Arrested Development

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Season 1
Season #: 5.5, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
9.1

Universal acclaim- based on 497 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 467 out of 497
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 497
  3. Negative: 22 out of 497
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  1. Hrodwulf
    Dec 3, 2011
    8
    Very witty for its time. Don't blink or get distracted because there is a lot of subtle humor. I can't remember the last time a TV comedy actually made me laugh out loud. I really like this show.
  2. explodr
    Feb 21, 2012
    10
    This is an amazing show. I like it almost as much as Avatar: The Last Airbender series, however that had many more episodes. That's really the only downside, is that there are only 4 seasons (and soon a movie as well). Watch it. Watch it now.
  3. BradySmith
    Jun 10, 2013
    8
    A near brilliant sitcom. Perhaps one of the funniest ever made. Most, but not all, of the jokes land, and they're all hillarious when they do. The characters are great and the coincidences written into the show can at times be hysterical. It doesn't quite reach the creative heights of it's always sunny in philladelphia, but it comes closer than almost anything else. However, I don'tA near brilliant sitcom. Perhaps one of the funniest ever made. Most, but not all, of the jokes land, and they're all hillarious when they do. The characters are great and the coincidences written into the show can at times be hysterical. It doesn't quite reach the creative heights of it's always sunny in philladelphia, but it comes closer than almost anything else. However, I don't like the show's mocking attitude towards christianity.… Expand
  4. BentleyD
    Apr 5, 2011
    10
    Hands down the best ever.. Critics wont even review it. Its perfect!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  5. SachaBaronCohen
    Feb 17, 2012
    10
    Probably the most witty, clever and hilarious show to ever air on television. I absolutely love it. If you haven't already, watch it. It will be the best time you've spent watching T.V. in a long time.
  6. j30
    Jan 24, 2012
    10
    Hands down one of the funniest TV shows ever. Just watch it!
  7. AndrewWalker
    Sep 8, 2011
    10
    Arrested Development was and still is the funniest show to ever hit television. The show is completely original and unique, from the characters to the story line. The show is centered around a family, the Bluth's, who are all different in their own way and very greedy. Arrested Development gets better every time you watch it!
  8. RenegadeNorman
    Nov 28, 2011
    10
    Pretty much laugh after laugh after laugh after... well, you get the point. This show is one of the funniest ever made. The cast are all hilarious, and the writing is perfect, and every joke made is funny as hell. Watch it, and you'll never stop laughing.
  9. WorstReviews
    Jun 20, 2013
    10
    There are very few shows that actually manage to make me laugh out loud these days. And this does so, while also being dramatically intriguing. This "family" is driving everybody insane and me too. Thats what makes movies, games, tv shows, is the excellence in characters and how actors potray them. Arrested Development has taken the already earned excellence, and made it a pureThere are very few shows that actually manage to make me laugh out loud these days. And this does so, while also being dramatically intriguing. This "family" is driving everybody insane and me too. Thats what makes movies, games, tv shows, is the excellence in characters and how actors potray them. Arrested Development has taken the already earned excellence, and made it a pure masterpiece. This show will be remembered as one of the best forever, especially this first season. 10/10 Amazing.… Expand
  10. Ulkefaderen
    Nov 23, 2013
    7
    I had the pleasure of watching the whole show on Netflix recently, after having been putting it of for a while. I did not quite love the show that much at first, but after getting to know all the characters it really become massively enjoyable.
  11. BowsAndArrows
    Aug 13, 2010
    10
    This is the best show that has ever aired anywhere ever on TV ever. Unless you have the IQ of a mongoose you will like this show. Watching this series from front to back is the best television experience you can possibly have.
  12. DanyloZ
    Aug 18, 2010
    10
    Best television series of all time! It is extremely unique and clever, I've been watching it for about 4 years now and I'm still noticing jokes that i never noticed before. The cast is excellent, every actor on the show moved on to doing many movies after this series was cancelled. The writing for this show is godly as well, I've never seen better, nor do I think I ever will. There are soBest television series of all time! It is extremely unique and clever, I've been watching it for about 4 years now and I'm still noticing jokes that i never noticed before. The cast is excellent, every actor on the show moved on to doing many movies after this series was cancelled. The writing for this show is godly as well, I've never seen better, nor do I think I ever will. There are so many different jokes and I don't understand how Mitch Hurwitz manages to think of all of it. In short, this is a perfect show. Please watch Arrested Development :)… Expand
  13. tryx3
    Dec 12, 2010
    10
    A refreshing TV show from the copy paste style of most shows today. Original characters, and a good story line. Definitely worth watching, or better yet owning on DVD.
  14. Mattchew
    Oct 1, 2010
    10
    Completely hilarious and yet poignant tale about the insanity of family that I am sure we all can relate to. There isn't one misstep, nor one bad episode in the entire series. Easily my favorite show of all time, it only gets better with age. Every character is unique and extremely funny, even the narrator. Every person I have introduced to this show has completely fallen in love withCompletely hilarious and yet poignant tale about the insanity of family that I am sure we all can relate to. There isn't one misstep, nor one bad episode in the entire series. Easily my favorite show of all time, it only gets better with age. Every character is unique and extremely funny, even the narrator. Every person I have introduced to this show has completely fallen in love with it. A timeless classic.… Expand
  15. LeGuru
    Apr 18, 2011
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. What is there to say about this show? It started SO many trends in comedy. It pretty much started the modern day Documentary-style Sit-com, and if it didn't start it, then as the Beatles perfected Rock and Roll, Arrested Development started this new style of comedy. What makes this show stand apart from others is that continuity isn't ignored. Even in great sit-coms like Friends, they ignored Continuity like bastards. Characters used to be able to break a leg or something in one episode, then be fine the next time. But Arrested Development said to hell with that, and when Buster got his hand bit off, it stayed off. This is NOT a show you can watch through one time, and get the full experience, I have rewatched the series probably 4 times now, and I'm STILL finding jokes I've never caught before. The backround crew did a great job. This show's storyline was epic. It practically took any story you'd read on the papers about a crazy family, and gave you an inside look at it. It showed the troubles of a really rich, celebrity company, and made them lovable. These characters are just about the worst people ever. And Ron Howard will straight up tell you when they are lying (thus why he has so many lines), and put everything into perspective for you in such a funny, regular voice, that it makes it seem as if what the characters are doing aren't so bad anymore. Seriously, this show does not hide the fact that these are terrible people. Stupid, insensitive, money-wasting, and absolutely horrible people. Aside from Michael and his son George-Michael, and sometimes Linsay (Michael's sister). And you can just feel Michael's frustration every time this horrible family ruins things for him. He is forced to save them time after time, and they are just the absolute worst people. It works for some really funny stuff. And every episode is just amazingly executed. I love this show, it's one of my favorites, and never seizes to amuse- You know what? It never seizes to not have me on the floor, amuse is the biggest understatement that could be made about this show. It is Godly, it has everything.... So don't watch it. Don't. It will ruin television for you simply because of how good it is. You will hate everything after this. You will be angry that the show you are watching isn't called Arrested Development. Since watching this show, I have not found a single comedy that really makes me laugh that much anymore. How I Met Your Mother and Community are two, but otherwise, not much left. If you watch this movie, you will hate every other show you ever see. It's your choice. Pick your poison, either watch the greatest show ever written and hate television itself for all eternity, and then see the movie in 2012 (year the world will end because people will hate both television AND movies, as it's sure to be better than any other movie ever made), or don't watch it, and fail at life in general. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go cry because there are only 53 episodes or something. And that gets to me.… Expand
  16. Zuhgalter2000
    Jul 6, 2011
    10
    Arrested Development is not only the greatest comedy to appear on TV but also the most well written. Their casting and attention to detail are outstanding. Truly ahead of its time. This is where several notable actors have got their start/ are most well known for (Jason Bateman, Michael Cera, Will Arrnet, David Cross). If you enjoy comedy and have yet to see this masterpiece I advise youArrested Development is not only the greatest comedy to appear on TV but also the most well written. Their casting and attention to detail are outstanding. Truly ahead of its time. This is where several notable actors have got their start/ are most well known for (Jason Bateman, Michael Cera, Will Arrnet, David Cross). If you enjoy comedy and have yet to see this masterpiece I advise you to fix that.… Expand
  17. mgyukeri
    Jul 10, 2012
    10
    Arrested Development is the best comedy series ever on tv, and is also the most underrated. The jokes are incredibly funny and the cast is superb. A must see.
  18. gabrielbb5
    Jan 21, 2011
    9
    An amazing debut season for the best sitcom of the 00's. It takes a bit to get going, and as a recommendation I would probably watch like 6 episodes in a row every time you decide to pop in the DVD, as it has so many callbacks, in-jokes, etc. that if you decide to watch one episode and 3 days later another one, some of those jokes may just go over your head and you won't even notice.An amazing debut season for the best sitcom of the 00's. It takes a bit to get going, and as a recommendation I would probably watch like 6 episodes in a row every time you decide to pop in the DVD, as it has so many callbacks, in-jokes, etc. that if you decide to watch one episode and 3 days later another one, some of those jokes may just go over your head and you won't even notice. Probably the reason why this show never attracted many viewers.… Expand
  19. cinderella
    Mar 27, 2011
    10
    BEST TELEVISION SHOW IN THE HISTORY OF ALL TELEVISION SHOWS. I watched all three seasons in a row, almost without stopping and coming up for air. Since then, I've watched the whole series three more times. Absolutely brilliant, clever, fun, beautiful work by the actors, just an F-ING amazing program. The real travesty is that there are only 6 reviews from users, none from critics, showingBEST TELEVISION SHOW IN THE HISTORY OF ALL TELEVISION SHOWS. I watched all three seasons in a row, almost without stopping and coming up for air. Since then, I've watched the whole series three more times. Absolutely brilliant, clever, fun, beautiful work by the actors, just an F-ING amazing program. The real travesty is that there are only 6 reviews from users, none from critics, showing that people just didn't know how good it was. The program should've lasted 10 more seasons and I'd watch every second of every show. Oy, I love Arrested Development.… Expand
  20. JamesKeely
    Aug 22, 2012
    10
    I could write endlessly about how good Arrested Development is and why, but I don't want to waste your time when you could be watching it instead and finding out for yourself. I will simply say this: Arrested Development is undeniably the funniest, most intelligent, best written and fantastically acted sitcom that has ever existed. In my opinion, the greatest sitcom of all time.
  21. khan2705
    Jun 14, 2012
    10
    Hands Down, Best Comedy TV show of all time (sorry FRIENDS). I remember watching a few episodes of the show back when it was on aired but i didn't realize the sheer greatness of it till a few months back when i finished watching the entire series, which unfortunately consists of just 3 seasons. The show has some great storylines and arcs, wonderfully created characters, subtle and utterlyHands Down, Best Comedy TV show of all time (sorry FRIENDS). I remember watching a few episodes of the show back when it was on aired but i didn't realize the sheer greatness of it till a few months back when i finished watching the entire series, which unfortunately consists of just 3 seasons. The show has some great storylines and arcs, wonderfully created characters, subtle and utterly hilarious humor and on top of all one of the most perfectly constructed show i have ever seen. Packed with a stellar cast that equally gives brilliant performances, making it a great ensemble. Bateman, Tambor, Arrnet, Walters, Cross, Cera i mean literally everyone just epic performances.… Expand
  22. agleek
    Mar 27, 2012
    10
    'And now for a story about a family who lost everything, and the one son who had no choice but to keep them all together - it's Arrested Development.'
    This show, this show, this show - amazing, simply put. So many jokes, so many mishaps, so many misunderstandings, and none of it so forced that it shouts at you, in fact, most of the jokes in the show can be overlooked if you haven't seen it    'And now for a story about a family who lost everything, and the one son who had no choice but to keep them all together - it's Arrested Development.'
    This show, this show, this show - amazing, simply put. So many jokes, so many mishaps, so many misunderstandings, and none of it so forced that it shouts at you, in fact, most of the jokes in the show can be overlooked if you haven't seen it a million and one times. So nonchalant, casual, but focused. A show about a family obsessed with themselves in the most comical fashion, out of touch with reality, just outstanding to watch. Viewing it the first time through, I could not wait to start the next episode, and then the next, and the next. Compelling any wonderful, this show is a YES.    … Expand
  23. shineonsunfish
    Nov 29, 2012
    9
    There isn't much to say about Arrested Development that hasn't already been said. What I DO think is that this is the kind of show that you need to watch many, many episodes of, many many times, before you can realize exactly how funny it is. Therefore, by nature the first season isn't as funny as the ones that follow. I love that each character on this show represents a different brandThere isn't much to say about Arrested Development that hasn't already been said. What I DO think is that this is the kind of show that you need to watch many, many episodes of, many many times, before you can realize exactly how funny it is. Therefore, by nature the first season isn't as funny as the ones that follow. I love that each character on this show represents a different brand of humor, from big-man George, awkward George Michael, biting Lucille, deadpan Michael, idiot Gob, self-centered Lindsey, out-there Buster, blissfully unaware Tobias, worldly Maeby, and a sarcastic and hilarious narrator; there is something here for everyone to like. Once the writers get going, they really reward continuous viewers with plenty of inside jokes and references to older episodes. This is a show that truly deserves the hype.… Expand
  24. AlvaradoKTA
    Mar 28, 2013
    8
    This is one of the funniest shows in the last 15 years. The characters are so well portrayed in every episode. Their misfortune really helps you care for Michael and his family. Each episode is filled with plot twist and the ending sets up a nice tone for the next, The only negative thing that comes to mind, is that it seems like not much money was spent, as the locations always seem the same.
  25. jmozer33
    May 17, 2011
    8
    Overrated but still enjoyable.
  26. naytflix
    Oct 8, 2011
    10
    Wonderful show! Every aspect of this show is meaningful. Every episode is funny. Every actor is superb. Altogether, a near-perfect sitcom.
  27. drlowdon
    Sep 29, 2019
    9
    If you were looking to put together a dream cast for a comedy then Arrested Development would come pretty close. Produced and narrated by Ron Howard the show features Jason Bateman and Michael Cera (Juno), Jeffrey Tambor (The Larry Sanders Show), Portia de Rossi (Ally McBeal) as well as the always funny Will Arnett (30 Rock).

    The show itself introduces us to the Bluth Family who, with    If you were looking to put together a dream cast for a comedy then Arrested Development would come pretty close. Produced and narrated by Ron Howard the show features Jason Bateman and Michael Cera (Juno), Jeffrey Tambor (The Larry Sanders Show), Portia de Rossi (Ally McBeal) as well as the always funny Will Arnett (30 Rock).

    The show itself introduces us to the Bluth Family who, with the exception of Michael Bluth and his son, are lazy freeloaders that have never worked a full day in their lives. Following the collapse of the family business however they suddenly have to come to terms with the fact that they may have to curb their expensive habits.

    Shot in documentary style using a single camera the writers make good use of the comic talent at their disposal creating a twisted yet funny environment in which they can operate. Remaining a cult favourite, and thus receiving a Netflix revival, this first season of Arrested Developments remains just as watchable today, and just as funny, as it was back in 2003.    … Expand
  28. BobaFett666
    May 28, 2011
    9
    I laughed constantly watching this show. One of the rare shows where every character is funny. It's weird, ridiculous and offensive. That's why it's awesome. Can't wait for the movie.
  29. filmtrashreview
    Jun 8, 2011
    9
    Season 1: You can't create a greater comedy then this. It's simplicity and overall real-time comedy bring light to the comedy genre on TV. The only reason it doesn't get a perfect score is because the end of the season had a slight bit of lag and some jokes that just took to long.
  30. jakerthetaker
    Jun 21, 2011
    10
    Hilarious show. Michael Cera and all the other actors are amazing. Tons of crack up moments, while making advancements in the story. If u like cool things, u will like this.
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Awards & Rankings

3
#3 Best TV Season of 2003
1
#1 Most Discussed TV Season of 2003
2
#2 Most Shared TV Season of 2003

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
89

Universal acclaim - based on 26 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 24 out of 26
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 26
  3. Negative: 0 out of 26
  1. People Weekly
    Reviewed by: Terry Kelleher
    Jun 28, 2013
    88
    It's the season's best new series, period.
    Read full review
  2. Entertainment Weekly
    Reviewed by: Carina Chocano
    Jun 17, 2013
    100
    I don't know about you, but I'm not used to laughing out loud alone in front of the TV. Honestly, I was startled.
    Read full review
  3. Variety
    Reviewed by: Michael Speier
    May 26, 2013
    90
    With faith in its own inspired goofiness, the net's newest Sunday entry reinvents what works --- and mocks what doesn't --- within the confines of the undernourished sitcom world. Critics and viewers clamoring for something unique since the sesh began back in August finally have something to champion ... and boy, is it funny.
See all critic reviews »