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
Watch Now

Where To Watch

Buy on
Stream On
Stream On

Review this tv show

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling

User Reviews

view
per page
  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. 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.
  19. 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

All reviews »
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.
    Read full review
  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
See all critic reviews »