Backstrom

:

Season 1
  • Network: FOX
  • Series Premiere Date: Jan 22, 2015
User Score
7.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 96 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 70 out of 96
  2. Mixed: 15 out of 96
  3. Negative: 11 out of 96
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User Reviews

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  1. skeptik
    Feb 9, 2015
    10
    This is a show with a lot of potential that is going through its 1st season maturation. Just hope it gets sufficient attention by EOY to gain a following. Wilson's character is both pathetic and hilarious, reminding me very much of his Dwight character on The Office, which isn't a bad thing. It works on this show, though I'm sure some critics will object to the carry over only onThis is a show with a lot of potential that is going through its 1st season maturation. Just hope it gets sufficient attention by EOY to gain a following. Wilson's character is both pathetic and hilarious, reminding me very much of his Dwight character on The Office, which isn't a bad thing. It works on this show, though I'm sure some critics will object to the carry over only on principle. The story lines on the 2 shows I've seen are fine, and there are multiple dialogue segments in both shows that brought my family to tears laughing. It isn't in the same class as unfunny comedy Brooklyn 99, nor does it fit with single plot line shows like Criminal Minds. It's more like a more funny version of the old Columbo show. Does it rate a "10," no, but neither does it rate a "0" given by some reviewers. Realistically, it's currently a 7, but has potential for a 9.… Expand
  2. AngryBeaverHowa
    Jan 27, 2015
    8
    I like Rain Wilson so I thought I'd give this a chance. I give a show 5 minutes to hook me before I turned it off. Reel me in, because they caught a fan. I believe they writers established some characters that they will be able to build on for a engaging season. Thought they tied in the episode well throughout and ended it well. Found myself looking forward to the next episode
  3. PV0247124
    Feb 11, 2015
    10
    this series is a has great potential it features a dislikable detective and rainn wilson nails the role yet at the end you cant help but love the show
  4. MurrayT
    Feb 7, 2015
    9
    I love it. This show cracks me up about once a minute. "They are typical firefighters, glory hogs and thieves."
    Rainn Wilson makes you forget about Dwight Schrute in about 30 seconds, which I didn't think would be easy. Funny, quirky, fresh, and captivating.
  5. Cheryllynne
    Mar 7, 2015
    10
    I really like this show and its characters. I love heroes that are flawed, because all of us are. Backstrom is very unique just as Monk and House were. Fox is not smart to not give this show more time. It is so much better than all the "reality" TV. Backstrom has a very creative and wonderful gay roommate, so this should fit the agenda of today. However, Backstorm is not politicallyI really like this show and its characters. I love heroes that are flawed, because all of us are. Backstrom is very unique just as Monk and House were. Fox is not smart to not give this show more time. It is so much better than all the "reality" TV. Backstrom has a very creative and wonderful gay roommate, so this should fit the agenda of today. However, Backstorm is not politically correct, but he distains everyone equally and he is very flawed on the example of the greatest detective of all, Sherlock Holmes. I enjoy this show so much and it is unique, which is so unusual in this day and age. I think the writers have done a wonderful job with this show and its characters. I see that the people who have reviewed this show have turned in positive reviews. Let Fox know that it should not be cancelled.… Expand
  6. P8nter
    Mar 7, 2015
    10
    I love this show. He's different and brilliant. I can never guess the ending. The characters are growing with each episode. Can't wait until the next one.
  7. Adavies6025
    Mar 13, 2015
    10
    Took one episode to get hooked. Rainn Wilson does a great job! Love the Backstrom character and the supporting cast. I love the story line and the humor in each episode.
  8. RCCola
    Mar 30, 2015
    9
    There is still some character development and how they interact with each other as the show is still young and maturing. However, the sarcastic, in-your-face without apology NON-politically correct humor and character flaws are what attract me to this show. Watch 3 episodes and tell me you don't like it - I dare ya!
  9. jedijr79
    Mar 7, 2015
    10
    This is the only show I look forward to watching every week. It's a mix between CSI and X-files. You have a detective who is comical in his extreme cynicism but brilliant as well. I have yet to see a show in quite some time that leaves you guessing "who dunnit" until the reveal and even then you might not be sure.
  10. kinsley6
    Mar 9, 2015
    9
    How can you not love this obnoxious brilliant person??? This show combines humor with intrigue. There really isn't anything else on like this series. Backstrom is so NOT PC that you have to love him. It is good to see a show that you actually like the characters.
  11. fleslie
    Mar 14, 2015
    9
    Detective Backstrom is hard to take, as the man has an almost absolute disregard for political correctness and for the feelings of others. But his deep loathing of violent criminals is a clue to his deeper character, and we see that he can feel love and respect, but that he's not good at either (or at least at showing either). He is, however, good at his job. As a person who falls intoDetective Backstrom is hard to take, as the man has an almost absolute disregard for political correctness and for the feelings of others. But his deep loathing of violent criminals is a clue to his deeper character, and we see that he can feel love and respect, but that he's not good at either (or at least at showing either). He is, however, good at his job. As a person who falls into several of the "designations" Backstrom belittles or is rude about in various episodes, I wondered about whether I could enjoy the show. But I find myself laughing often, and liking the character.

    I think this series can find its legs if given a chance. Wilson is brilliantly loathsome, yet likable, and as the show's "jerk" character, has found an excellent foil in Dennis Haysbert's good man character. How much will people tolerate from those who can get the job done? A great deal, it seems, if that job is catching killers. But there is also balance, as Backstrom does frequently reap what he sows. He rains his misery on others, but he has to live in it all the time, and those working with him understand that. I recommend this to those who like quirky and/or obnoxious characters and crime dramas with a strong comedic line in them.    … Expand
  12. ingebird
    Mar 19, 2015
    10
    Rainn Wilson is hilarious in this comedy drama. His character is part Columbo and House. The show is not predictable like many other crime shows on t.v. today. I'm hooked!!!
  13. Tvholic
    Mar 26, 2015
    9
    When I watched the pilot for backstrom I was on the fence as to whether I would watch another one or not. I am glad I did. I like the story line and I see that Backstrom is actually a caring man under all his flaws. The cases r interesting and I really like Valentine because he is everything that Backstrom isn't. The cast of characters work well together with their quirkiness. If u haveWhen I watched the pilot for backstrom I was on the fence as to whether I would watch another one or not. I am glad I did. I like the story line and I see that Backstrom is actually a caring man under all his flaws. The cases r interesting and I really like Valentine because he is everything that Backstrom isn't. The cast of characters work well together with their quirkiness. If u have not given the show another look I hope you do.… Expand
  14. lukechristiansc
    Jan 27, 2015
    7
    From the creator of the highly successful best crime show of the year "Bones" tells a story of Backstrom a prick who is a damn good detective, Rainn wilson plays Backstrom. Let me just say executive producer/creator Hart Hanson has made his best at creating murder mystery thrillers but i don't think that Backstrom is his best show yet, yes this show is funny/thrilling it's just that iFrom the creator of the highly successful best crime show of the year "Bones" tells a story of Backstrom a prick who is a damn good detective, Rainn wilson plays Backstrom. Let me just say executive producer/creator Hart Hanson has made his best at creating murder mystery thrillers but i don't think that Backstrom is his best show yet, yes this show is funny/thrilling it's just that i don't love it as i hoped, Wilson gives a insinuate performance as Backstrom and he's the best character of the show. Some of other characters their just not good enough. Grade C… Expand
  15. twiistedlogic
    Apr 20, 2015
    10
    i love rainn in this. great show! people are too sensitive nowadays. i knew there would be reviews that have sticks up their butt. lighten up! and i saw a couple that reviewed without even seeing it. thanks for your unwanted and ignorant input.
  16. Swamie
    Jan 23, 2015
    9
    Going in with an open mind I thought the premiere of Backstrom was rather good. I wasn't looking for Dwight from "The Office" and to read critics saying that the show tries to copy "House" is absurd. The show puts its own spin on Backstrom that I haven't really seen in a tv comedy in a while. With the other diverse characters that are surrounding him it evens the guys rough and gruff edgesGoing in with an open mind I thought the premiere of Backstrom was rather good. I wasn't looking for Dwight from "The Office" and to read critics saying that the show tries to copy "House" is absurd. The show puts its own spin on Backstrom that I haven't really seen in a tv comedy in a while. With the other diverse characters that are surrounding him it evens the guys rough and gruff edges down just right. The show will get better if it is allowed to remain on and I look forward to Thursday nights now knowing that Backstrom is on..… Expand
  17. evster111111
    Mar 22, 2015
    8
    This is Rainn Wilson playing the uber washed-out, offensive detective exactly as you would expect him to and you will love this show or not accordingly. Some of the dialogue and characters are great, some are pretty bad. Even if you enjoy the show there are some "ugh" moments. But I hate when critics who don't understand how acting works derogatorily label certain performances 'overacting'This is Rainn Wilson playing the uber washed-out, offensive detective exactly as you would expect him to and you will love this show or not accordingly. Some of the dialogue and characters are great, some are pretty bad. Even if you enjoy the show there are some "ugh" moments. But I hate when critics who don't understand how acting works derogatorily label certain performances 'overacting' when in fact some roles or shows call for heightened acting. It's a comedy for God's sake, and not a subtle one. Of all roles to be overacted, this is one of the ones to overact. And of all people to do this type of overacting, Rainn Wilson is the guy to do it. The whole show - every other character - revolves around the way he plays Backstrom.… Expand
  18. SecondGuessMe
    Jan 24, 2015
    3
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Like many others, I was very hopeful that Rainn Wilson would put to work some of the acting chops he showed off in James Gunn's Super. I expected some irresistible rofl moments on account of the comedic prowess he displayed for years in the Office. To our overwhelming disappointment, Wilson seems largely bored with the lead role in Backstrom. I don't blame him.
    You're working with an ensemble cast here. Dennis Haysbert supplies his usual gravitas that was so compelling on such established productions as the Unit and 24. And yet, his place in the script as smirking straight man to Backstrom's supposed anarchic work ethic is completely cliche and easily forgettable. The misuse of an otherwise impressive cast (for a Fox show) gets worse from there, as it becomes apparent that Backstrom isn't the one who's a lazy, racist, slob: the producers are.
    Genevieve Angelson, who does a bang-up job with what she's given, plays Wilson's no-nonsense female partner, Detective Gravely (who came up with these names?). She disapproves of everything her partner says and does and yet has a history of being Portland's favorite on-the-job vice cop slut. Haysbert's Detective Sergeant Almond appears to be too hung up on Backstrom's (not illogical, or even unusual) observation that a certain suspect stands out in an otherwise racially homogeneous crowd, to notice that he's essentially running errands for his inferior officer. Moto, the other token minority on the team, is given a few lines about how dumb he is and how great threesomes are, especially with mixed martial arts groupies. Backstrom's Indian doctor has a few lines about his patient's health, and the writers milk every Hindu-related joke that they can for the entirety of the episode.
    The only person who doesn't fit snugly into a stereotype is Thomas Dekker's portrayal of the queer, underworld-connected roommate art thief (and son?), whose aforementioned adjectives are clearly spoken to the audience by Wilson as he gets another beer from the fridge whilst eating broccoli (more on that later). In fact, most of the characters in the show have so little of interest surrounding them that the writers feel the need to introduce them loudly every time they arrive on stage, lest we forget that they exist, let alone what their names are.
    In addition to the overly encouraged of nap time in Fox's creative lounge, we have a director who has no idea how to set a scene or make convincing use of cuts and camera angles in an action sequence, and doesn't even get the basics of actor direction. In both scenes centered around episode bad guy "Visser" (again, who the hell is naming these people?), it isn't clear what we are supposed to be paying attention to, or what we're even watching for that matter. Only after the first scene did I really know who they were talking to. And it still didn't make sense to me how the suspect was reacting to their actions in the bar.
    After the last scene, I was surprised that Backstrom had indeed shot himself and had to rewind it to understand what was going on. There's a lot to be said for using appropriate shots to give a narrative clarity. Mark Mylod's directing was clearly lacking in that regard.
    Now that I've done my best to tear this pilot apart, I want to highlight a few small points which give me hope again for the series as a whole. The first is Wilson's acting (along with some halfway decent writing) in two parts. The scene where he shoots himself, and Visser, was particularly surprising. We're not given any insight into why Backstrom has a freak out when he takes out his gun. We also aren't given many clues about this condition. That makes it a season-long mystery arc (if we're lucky)! Really, Wilson's look of bewilderment and terror in that scene was as convincing as mine must have been when watching the first half of this episode.
    And, in the final climax, the showdown with accomplice Cassandra, we get a taste of the drama that this show can dish out. Maybe it's just the sweeping skyline shots and the towering angles talking (good job, Mark, you figured out directing!), but this scene actually gave me some feels. Definitely a solid way to end a pilot, and rather gloriously unexpected.

    So, why do I absolutely hate Backstrom so far? Because of the Broccoli and the Beer. The producers of this show have no idea who their main character is. I'm not surprised a show like this came along. Misanthropic detectives have been popular since the 19th century. Recently, we've had a string of rather quirky ones: Monk, Dexter, Sherlock, House, even Rustin Cohle of True Detective. It's fine to use this archetype in your series, and it's especially encouraged to hilariously juxtapose a diet of plain broccoli with cheap beer. But only if that oxymoron is the result of well-thought-out characterization. Too often on Backstrom, every attempt at character development turns out to be just another eccentricity scribbled into this MadLib of a TV script.    … Expand
  19. aslanmane
    Jan 22, 2015
    1
    Big sigh. I was really hoping to like this, but I think I'll pass. The title says Backstrom but I think this will succeed based on the strength of the ensemble. Look at Brooklyn Nine-nine, the jokes are honestly not that funny, but because they are working with quirky established characters that gel together, it is very entertaining.

    The writing is very weak in the pilot. Everything    Big sigh. I was really hoping to like this, but I think I'll pass. The title says Backstrom but I think this will succeed based on the strength of the ensemble. Look at Brooklyn Nine-nine, the jokes are honestly not that funny, but because they are working with quirky established characters that gel together, it is very entertaining.

    The writing is very weak in the pilot. Everything feels forced. Niedermayer I think was supposed to be British or something similar to what Brendan Penny plays on Motive. Instead we get Kristoffer Polaha who does not pull off the character. He is leading man material, albeit on a low budget series, like North Shore. He is too handsome to play hippy hipster.

    Dennis Haysbert, who plays the character who is a pastor on the weekends, does not really pull that off either. They need someone who talks slower like Frankie Faison, who works on Banshee at the moment.

    Thomas Dekker is playing a 90's goth gay character, or maybe catwoman from Gotham. I love Thomas Dekker, but he just can't get a good show after Sarah Connor Chronicles ended. I hope this gets canceled soon, so he can get a better role.    … Expand
  20. Troublewalking
    Feb 6, 2015
    0
    I had high hopes for this show, but right now the show is too way over the top. Every actor is acting like everything they say is supposed to be hilarious or great. It is just absurd. I know that most new shows start with some bad acting until the actors get used to their new role, but this show at this point is just God awful. I really think this show is getting a decent rating by theI had high hopes for this show, but right now the show is too way over the top. Every actor is acting like everything they say is supposed to be hilarious or great. It is just absurd. I know that most new shows start with some bad acting until the actors get used to their new role, but this show at this point is just God awful. I really think this show is getting a decent rating by the fans because they like the lead actor. And he is doing a decent job, as he is supposed to be annoying and an antis social genius at solving crimes. But the rest of the actors are playing the same role. So it is just the worse detective show in history.… Expand
  21. horcrux2007
    Jan 23, 2015
    3
    I was really hoping that I'd like this one, but it's so tonally inconsistent, terribly written, and dull. The pilot episode tried to juggle painfully unfunny jokes with uninteresting cop drama. The jokes themselves feel so forced so that it can remind the audience that this guy is your "totally relatable and silly anti-hero". Even if the insults and jives hit, Backstrom himself is just aI was really hoping that I'd like this one, but it's so tonally inconsistent, terribly written, and dull. The pilot episode tried to juggle painfully unfunny jokes with uninteresting cop drama. The jokes themselves feel so forced so that it can remind the audience that this guy is your "totally relatable and silly anti-hero". Even if the insults and jives hit, Backstrom himself is just a formulaic anti-hero. I can't see this show getting a second season unless there are HUGE turnarounds.… Expand
  22. martinex
    Mar 1, 2015
    4
    Another procedural about a brilliant cop who "doesn't play by the rules". If you watch enough TV these shows become so predictable you can see them coming down broad street. Backstrom is supposed to remind us of the brilliant House M.D. but it falls way short.
  23. tigerskin84
    Apr 5, 2015
    1
    didnt like it, too much racist jokes, the main character is dislikeable(is intented to do that) but is not in a cool way,it susprise the high rating here....
  24. racecarsue
    Apr 4, 2015
    6
    Eh, haven't really made up my mind on this one yet. I guess he's the new "House" character on FOX. The rest of the characters are good, love Dennis Haysburt.
  25. bobbyj22
    Jan 28, 2015
    1
    He is not House. He is not Holmes. I made it through the first 5 minutes, barely. Not sure why every joke in the opening scenes had to be about race. He is very offensive to the point it flattens the senses of the audience. This type of show demands quick wit, not in your face brashness. I gave it a 1 because at least the camera was in focus.
  26. Slanegx
    Mar 12, 2015
    6
    Backstroke is a detective ,and the show is trying to give a new format with weird and smart-ish detective by solving the cases through empathy....clearly we haven't seen that before....This show needs to get better cause is getting uninteresting by the second, they try to copy HOUSE M.D. And give a complex character through beeing rude and quorkie and having a deep down empathy for peopleBackstroke is a detective ,and the show is trying to give a new format with weird and smart-ish detective by solving the cases through empathy....clearly we haven't seen that before....This show needs to get better cause is getting uninteresting by the second, they try to copy HOUSE M.D. And give a complex character through beeing rude and quorkie and having a deep down empathy for people through apathy, like........you guessed it House m.d.If you liked house watch the show its his distent cousin , but in the long run its not original, and the cases are getting boring by the episode.… Expand
  27. TheEpicZenrik
    Mar 15, 2015
    4
    I had high hopes for this show because of the main star Rainn Wilson aka Dwight Schrute from my favorite comedy The Office. Unfortunately it disappoints. Its not intriguing nor its funny. Im saddened by this
  28. JessicaRobyn
    Aug 7, 2015
    8
    Backstrom was messy and uneven, but that was a big part of what made it so interesting to watch. This show was all about character driven mysteries without being overly buffed and shiny. I think if Backstrom had been given time to mature it would have taken the genre by storm.
  29. shane9fingers
    Feb 18, 2019
    10
    I miss this show. Came up in conversation the other day. Real pity it was cancelled. Worth a look! Matches Monday night whiskey sessions especially well.

Awards & Rankings

55
#55 Most Discussed TV Season of 2015

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
51

Mixed or average reviews - based on 31 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 31
  2. Mixed: 21 out of 31
  3. Negative: 4 out of 31
  1. The Lincoln Journal Star
    Reviewed by: Jeff Korbelik
    Feb 19, 2015
    75
    Wilson’s Backstrom is just downright rude and in-your-face belligerent, and, at times, it can be tough to swallow. That’s where the supporting cast comes in. Polaha and Rosen are particularly winsome characters, providing additional touches of humor and helping to soften Wilson’s hard edges. A little more of them and little less of Wilson will go a long way.
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  2. The Hollywood Reporter
    Reviewed by: Tim Goodman
    Jan 23, 2015
    30
    Backstrom is pretty bad on a number of levels and can't ultimately be forgiven for wasting Dennis Haysbert.
    Read full review
  3. New York Magazine (Vulture)
    Reviewed by: Matt Zoller Seitz
    Jan 22, 2015
    40
    There's a deeper, more original series hiding inside the predictable melange that is Backstrom, and John Almond might be the way into it.
    Read full review
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