Bates Motel

:

Season 1
  • Network: A&E
  • Series Premiere Date: Mar 18, 2013
Season #: 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 415 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 340 out of 415
  2. Mixed: 27 out of 415
  3. Negative: 48 out of 415
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User Reviews

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  1. Lucas565
    Nov 28, 2020
    10
    Uma das melhores séries que eu já assisti eu recomendo ela é maravilhosa.
  2. GioeleDonalisio
    Oct 6, 2018
    10
    Una delle serie TV più belle sul mercato. Vince a mani basse. Freddie e Vera sono una coppia esplosiva, oltre che vincente. Ha catturato fin dal primo minuto. Una storia che si anima con il passare delle puntate. Uno studio psicologico di Norman ben fatto e curato, ti fa capire la sua trasformazione. Te la fa vivere.
  3. WorldofLucky
    Jun 12, 2018
    8
    I have to say this is the biggest surprise of a tv show that I have had. Far better acted, written, and was far more interesting then I ever would have given it credit.

    When I originally saw teasers and trailers for the show I assumed that it was going to be A&E's copy of a teenage CW show with teen angst and drama. I had absolutely no interest after catching the first episode because    I have to say this is the biggest surprise of a tv show that I have had. Far better acted, written, and was far more interesting then I ever would have given it credit.

    When I originally saw teasers and trailers for the show I assumed that it was going to be A&E's copy of a teenage CW show with teen angst and drama. I had absolutely no interest after catching the first episode because it dealt with Norman at a new high school. I was entirely wrong about the show.

    I had assumed it was only a teenager show mostly because the actor looks like, and it is a young Norman Bates, and they focused on his mom a lot in the beginning, but for some reason I assumed she wouldn't be a lasting character. I mean how do you make Norma Bates, AKA "MOTHER!" a regular character. Not only is she a regular (and she is there on screen until the last episode), she is on the same level as Norman and they are both great characters, acted by very good actors.

    There is of course a lot of drama, violence, death and insanity, but that is expected from a reboot prequel of the original movie "Psycho". It hit all the notes for me, including the surrounding characters, unexpected reveals and even though several key facts about Norman are changed it is definitely Norma Bates.

    The only thing I hesitate on, and this isn't a poor reflection it is still great, I would have handled the last 3 or 4 episodes differently. SPOILER ALERT: I would have not had the final 3 or four episodes end the way they did, wrapping up the storyline 100%, instead I would have changed a couple of things that would allow it to end, right about where the movie started. That however isn't a bad thing, just a style thing.

    Pros: Excellent acting, writing, and kept my interest over the five seasons, even if I cringed sometimes.

    Cons: I stylistically would have wrapped it up at a different point, but that is purely a dramatic choice.

    I am really glad I did start watching it, and I encourage others to give it a try.    … Expand
  4. OudayYehya
    Mar 15, 2018
    10
    This is one of the better tv shows of the decade. I'm both angry and happy that I waited this long to start it, but it was worth the wait. Norman is a character that can (and as I heard) and will get a lot of development throughout the years. I want to see more of Dylan and Emma, and I KNOW that Norma has still more secrets she's buried.
    I wonder when Norman will find out about his DID.    This is one of the better tv shows of the decade. I'm both angry and happy that I waited this long to start it, but it was worth the wait. Norman is a character that can (and as I heard) and will get a lot of development throughout the years. I want to see more of Dylan and Emma, and I KNOW that Norma has still more secrets she's buried.
    I wonder when Norman will find out about his DID.
    Stay tuned for season 2's review!    … Expand
  5. Olivia7019408
    Jan 13, 2018
    0
    Boring and dragging. The more I watched, the more boring I get. It just dragging again and again and nothing to talk about. It’s starts to annoy me on how insane this “Great Motherly Love” and it’s not making much sense. The drama is so dragging and even stupid that how every man are so attracted to a woman who is not amazingly beautiful, not amazingly wonderful with beautifulBoring and dragging. The more I watched, the more boring I get. It just dragging again and again and nothing to talk about. It’s starts to annoy me on how insane this “Great Motherly Love” and it’s not making much sense. The drama is so dragging and even stupid that how every man are so attracted to a woman who is not amazingly beautiful, not amazingly wonderful with beautiful personalities, and crazy about her mentally insane son. It’s one of the typical drama that has no more agenda or stories to talk about and keep dragging till ppl r sick of it. I’m so sick of it.… Expand
  6. martinex
    May 17, 2016
    9
    The show tells the story of Norman Bates and the terrible circumstances that led him to his serial killer persona but the real hero of the story is his mother Norma, incredibly rendered by Vera Farmiga. Norma struggles to find some version of happiness and to keep her family together despite a series of events that would have decimated even the strongest of families. This show manages toThe show tells the story of Norman Bates and the terrible circumstances that led him to his serial killer persona but the real hero of the story is his mother Norma, incredibly rendered by Vera Farmiga. Norma struggles to find some version of happiness and to keep her family together despite a series of events that would have decimated even the strongest of families. This show manages to take a film classic to levels that even Alfred Hitchcock himself couldn't possibly have dreamed of. Bravo to the creators.… Expand
  7. KenyanCritic
    May 11, 2016
    9
    This is an original story blossoming with each episode. The character development is intense until you develop a personal relationship with all the characters on screen. This is how TV shows should be made, with depth and incremental plot unraveling. Nothing is rushed with plot holes being expertly executed to make room for new characters to be introduced to the show. The themes exploredThis is an original story blossoming with each episode. The character development is intense until you develop a personal relationship with all the characters on screen. This is how TV shows should be made, with depth and incremental plot unraveling. Nothing is rushed with plot holes being expertly executed to make room for new characters to be introduced to the show. The themes explored are Freudian in nature, but still not completely implausible. Wonderful TV show. Wonderful!… Expand
  8. grinfinoria
    Mar 24, 2016
    9
    One of the best drama TV shows ever made, the fact that the characters problematize in almost everything , leaves the series increasingly mysterious and spectacular.
  9. christineclift
    Mar 19, 2016
    10
    I love this show. I quite honestly was never a big fan of Vera Farmiga, but she is outstanding as Norma Bates! She has completely won me over. She should have been nominated for the Globe way before Gaga was ever thought of. Shes doing an amazing job. I love how Normans character has been progressing over the seasons...the writers certainly know what they are doing. Keeping it close to theI love this show. I quite honestly was never a big fan of Vera Farmiga, but she is outstanding as Norma Bates! She has completely won me over. She should have been nominated for the Globe way before Gaga was ever thought of. Shes doing an amazing job. I love how Normans character has been progressing over the seasons...the writers certainly know what they are doing. Keeping it close to the original story whilst not straying to far from the original story!There are some very wonderful supporting actors as well. One of the top shows on TV this year! Truly Enjoying It!!! Proud to have gotten many friends and family hooked on it!!… Expand
  10. GrumpyGamer85
    May 13, 2015
    10
    got to give a shoutout to netflix :)

    recently watched seasons 1+2 and i loved it,the characters are great and norma is such a lovely lady she really played that part so well.

    the writers of these TV series blow my mind again and again and i love it.
  11. IAC
    Mar 20, 2015
    7
    Excellent performances from everyone signed on to this series. Norma Bates is one of the best written characters on TV right now, brought to life by Vera Farmiga in a way that is disturbing and sympathetic at the same time. This kind of fallibility and nuance is generally reserved for leading white male characters, and to see a woman finally written as both condemned and redeemable isExcellent performances from everyone signed on to this series. Norma Bates is one of the best written characters on TV right now, brought to life by Vera Farmiga in a way that is disturbing and sympathetic at the same time. This kind of fallibility and nuance is generally reserved for leading white male characters, and to see a woman finally written as both condemned and redeemable is refreshingly courageous. It is beautifully shot; props to everyone involved with the look and feel of the show, which creates a subtly off-kilter blending of eras from 1960s through present day.

    Most criticism I've seen here stems from a comparison to its source material, Psycho, which frankly I feel is missing the point. Bates Motel is a separate entity that draws from the classic film, but is in no way a companion piece. It explores the motives and psychology behind a dysfunctional, codependant relationship between mother and son, which is interesting on its own. It's not Psycho, and it's not trying to be.

    My own criticism is with regards to the plot, which can feel contrived at times, particularly in the second season. Certain events occur for the sole purpose of moving the characters from A to B, rather than their attitude and decisions moving the plot, so I sometimes felt like I was being led by the nose. The strength of the show is in the characters, their twisted relationships with each other, and the depth with which the actors all seem to grasp their characters. Overall, a compelling, unique show that's not afraid to creep you out with incestuous undertones in a relationship that has you feeling compassion and disgust a the same time.    … Expand
  12. DemonSoul
    Mar 8, 2015
    10
    critics are idiots...the writing and story rival breaking bad...the only thing not "perfect" is that the people are too attractive, which takes away from the suspension of disbelief.
  13. Beckcossens
    Oct 30, 2014
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This was a highly anticipated second season for me. With the first season delivering a cliffhanger ending that left so many unanswered questions. The second season didn't disappoint and in my option far exceeded the first. The characters though well developed in the first season become that much more intriguing and complex. I cannot fault the acting in this series particularly Freddie Highmore his ability to portray Norman as a vulnerable awkward teenager one minute and a chilling psychotic psychopath the next are testament to his incredible acting ability.
    What I did enjoy about this season was the deeper exploration into Norman's psychological state. The black outs and the intrigue surrounding his teachers death are more played out and you begin to really see the characters malevolent side. His bizarre co-dependant relationship with his mother is also explored to greater levels.
    I also appreciate the impeccable cinematography in this series the use of light and shade and eerie misty shots are executed perfectly and only serve to immerse you deeper into this disturbing tangled world.
    I would highly recommend this series to anyone who likes their thrillers and who is a fan of the original Psycho as this delves deeper into the psychology of a psychopath. Fast enacting and entertaining.    … Expand
  14. pattwhispers
    Oct 4, 2014
    8
    Bates Motel is full with moments of suspense. I have only seen the first season, but I'm looking forward to see what more of the usual creepy stuff will appear on the final season.
  15. ryandiamandis
    Aug 23, 2014
    10
    I've never watched Psycho, but whatever the film's story is, sure I'll like this prequel more because it's amazing. Freddie and Vera are incredible, the story too and this is one of the best series I've ever seen.
  16. dante_finn
    Jul 10, 2014
    8
    The show is creppy is in a good way. I like the way Norman Bates is . We all try to think he is a nice guy with just some "problems" but we all know he is pshyco in training. The acting is outstanding and Freddie Highmore sometimes gives you the chills. Oh my god,this show is excellent because the way it's presented in.
  17. santaclausi
    Jun 28, 2014
    10
    the characters are great. you can like or dislike them with a lot of passion. the relationship between mother and son is fascinating. one of the best tv series!!
  18. lox
    May 8, 2014
    9
    Perfectly cast, genuinely intense, smoothly paced, superbly acted and multilayered, Bates Motel is a highly engaging, semi-modernized origins story of Norman Bates. Immersing you into Norman's world nearly inch by inch pre-Psycho, mixing 1950's and modern day elements together, this first season is taut and engaging. The highlight of this series is definitely Freddie Highmore, a youngPerfectly cast, genuinely intense, smoothly paced, superbly acted and multilayered, Bates Motel is a highly engaging, semi-modernized origins story of Norman Bates. Immersing you into Norman's world nearly inch by inch pre-Psycho, mixing 1950's and modern day elements together, this first season is taut and engaging. The highlight of this series is definitely Freddie Highmore, a young and amazing talented actor who channels Anthony Perkins excellently, and Vera Farmiga who is superb and convincing as Norma Bates.… Expand
  19. lukechristiansc
    Apr 23, 2014
    4
    so far its like watching alfred hitchcocks pyscho which was a good movie . But bates motel is the new pyscho with a whole new look and new secrets . This show is basically creepy nothing compared to hitch cocks pyscho and its beyond creepy so far . Grade B-
  20. MikefromAngus
    Apr 20, 2014
    8
    Intresting twist on a movie, that almost everybody watched! a Prequel set in our time. Actors are great, the show is interesting to watch. Season one ended on a cliff note! will watch season 2!
  21. SlyckNickChick
    Apr 14, 2014
    9
    The talented and amazing Vera Farmiga is brilliant as Norman Bates mother. I am such a huge fan of hers', the diversity of her films is amazing. This show is a prequeI to the movie Pyscho for those who don't know. So far I've really enjoyed this series, the suspense, crime, nuttiness and drama is none stop and is far from boring. The majority of the shows success will be due to Veras'The talented and amazing Vera Farmiga is brilliant as Norman Bates mother. I am such a huge fan of hers', the diversity of her films is amazing. This show is a prequeI to the movie Pyscho for those who don't know. So far I've really enjoyed this series, the suspense, crime, nuttiness and drama is none stop and is far from boring. The majority of the shows success will be due to Veras' part, just my opinion. Freddie Highmore aka Norman Bates doesn't do too bad either. Like I said at the beginning, Vera Farmiga is BRILLIANT and that alone is a good enough reason to watch this series. Here's to the writers, actors, producers etc... GOOD LUCK!! Look forward to many more seasons… Expand
  22. AllenReviews
    Mar 24, 2014
    8
    Heavy on story though weak on dialogue, But Bates Motel is so powerfully acted and very well shot, That Bates Motel is one of the most intriguing shows out right now.
  23. denisfangmusic
    Mar 13, 2014
    10
    I love the thrilling show. I watch it every single Monday on A&E network. I recommend this show to everyone who like's suspense. I also tweet a lot during the show and look through what people saying about the show. Every time i see like 40 tweets per 50 seconds its insane.
  24. RaeRae27
    Feb 26, 2014
    7
    I am impressed with this show because I had extremely low expectations. It's a cooky, silly pretense that could have gone horribly wrong. The plot is not its best attribute. But, the characterization and acting is what I'm excited about. The characters are smart; I love when shows assume their audience is smart too. I get insulted when everything is completely digested for me and theI am impressed with this show because I had extremely low expectations. It's a cooky, silly pretense that could have gone horribly wrong. The plot is not its best attribute. But, the characterization and acting is what I'm excited about. The characters are smart; I love when shows assume their audience is smart too. I get insulted when everything is completely digested for me and the characters are so stunningly stupid, I want to yell at the TV. At least, there is some resolve, toughness and self-awareness in these characters! And, I sense complete commitment in the actors, good for them!… Expand
  25. SteveVictor
    Feb 21, 2014
    3
    The problem with this show is that it's a recycled "Lost," not surprising since Hollywood veteran Carlton Cuse has produced both "Lost" and "Bates." Although the latter's opening episode had some bright spots, it suffered greatly from overt silliness and editing problems. One stark example of the former is the lawman-tinkling-in-the-bathroom-scene. He'd already been established as theThe problem with this show is that it's a recycled "Lost," not surprising since Hollywood veteran Carlton Cuse has produced both "Lost" and "Bates." Although the latter's opening episode had some bright spots, it suffered greatly from overt silliness and editing problems. One stark example of the former is the lawman-tinkling-in-the-bathroom-scene. He'd already been established as the curious sort. To believe that he wouldn't peek behind the shower curtain and see the dead rapist is absurd. Additionally, he certainly would have been able to smell the blood. Of course, if he had discovered the body, the series would have ended immediately; hence, any viewer with half a brain would have felt nary a shred of suspense.

    An editing issue that readily comes to mind is that the aforementioned rapist apparently only drives his pick-up truck during the day. I guess he walked over that night; maybe it was a full moon and he lived in the abandoned motel next door.

    The decision to set "Bates" in the present day makes little sense, since the reason to watch the series is to see how Norman became the "psycho" he was in Hitchcock's film. If the TV series is present-day, it has nothing to do with the film. It could just as well have been entitled "Smith's Motel." Worse, just as with"Lost," this show can go anywhere it wants. Essentially, there are no rules -- a bad thing, unless you have the IQ of a walnut.

    There is plenty more. It seems that all the high school kids are super-nice, and the girls are all pretty. Norman's teacher is gorgeous, too, and she empathetically touches his hand on the first day of school. If any of this unrealistic Hollywood pap clears up in future episodes, I stand corrected. But I won't be watching.    … Expand
  26. ilovesteam247
    Feb 20, 2014
    10
    i absolutely love it! Freddy Highmore is an amazing actor and the show already had me hooked after only 15 min. of the first episode! this show will keep you suspensed all the way until the end. are you way too hooked? the 2nd season only in two weeks!
  27. 8bitParadox
    Feb 19, 2014
    8
    I am a fan of Psycho and was anticipating this show greatly. The 1st season felt like it wasn't for Psycho fans and for other fans entirely. I surprisingly had no problem with that happening. I was disappointed it didn't have that Psycho vibe to me, but I still love the show as something on its own. Its one of those shows you don't expect or know how it will go after the first coupleI am a fan of Psycho and was anticipating this show greatly. The 1st season felt like it wasn't for Psycho fans and for other fans entirely. I surprisingly had no problem with that happening. I was disappointed it didn't have that Psycho vibe to me, but I still love the show as something on its own. Its one of those shows you don't expect or know how it will go after the first couple episodes, but it delivers. The cast isn't something to die for, but they fulfill their roles well enough to keep people interested. I'm looking forward to what direction season 2 will take.… Expand
  28. ugisupriatna
    Nov 19, 2013
    10
    I just watched this serial and I love that the thrill it serves. The artists both Vera and Freddie give us their best performance. I love it so much and I can't wait for second seasons.
  29. raviopatra
    Nov 17, 2013
    9
    The show works it way to climax slowly but in a good way. It doesn't rush things so viewers get to take all the suspense in. Freddie Highmore is surprisingly good playing against his typical role of being a sweetheart and Vera Farmiga manages to pull an act that makes me all sympathetic to her. Bates Motel is a very interesting and unique take on the story and should do well as long as theThe show works it way to climax slowly but in a good way. It doesn't rush things so viewers get to take all the suspense in. Freddie Highmore is surprisingly good playing against his typical role of being a sweetheart and Vera Farmiga manages to pull an act that makes me all sympathetic to her. Bates Motel is a very interesting and unique take on the story and should do well as long as the writers keep it consistent.… Expand
  30. oakridge
    Oct 27, 2013
    8
    bates motel is a surprisingly good prequel to the events depicted in Hitch's Psycho. The story is pacy and the look of the seres is in keeping with our memories of the original. Where this series is best served is with its two leading actors. Freddie Highmore is uncannily cast as his resemblance to Perkins from the original film is all too believable. Vera Farmiga brings class and herbates motel is a surprisingly good prequel to the events depicted in Hitch's Psycho. The story is pacy and the look of the seres is in keeping with our memories of the original. Where this series is best served is with its two leading actors. Freddie Highmore is uncannily cast as his resemblance to Perkins from the original film is all too believable. Vera Farmiga brings class and her wonderful talent and beauty to the moher role and all in all the series delivers.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

79
#79 Best TV Season of 2013
17
#17 Most Discussed TV Season of 2013
11
#11 Most Shared TV Season of 2013

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
66

Generally favorable reviews - based on 34 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 23 out of 34
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 34
  3. Negative: 3 out of 34
  1. Sioux City Journal
    Reviewed by: Bruce Miller
    May 29, 2013
    80
    This Bates Motel requires more than just a one-night stay. Once you slip in you may not want to check out.
    Read full review
  2. Entertainment Weekly
    Reviewed by: Clark Collis
    Mar 20, 2013
    83
    The most believable character--and the real reason to check in to Bates Motel--is undoubtedly Farmiga's Norma.
    Read full review
  3. New York Magazine (Vulture)
    Reviewed by: Matt Zoller Seitz
    Mar 18, 2013
    50
    I’m torn between condemning the series for piggybacking on a classic and promising an origin story it doesn’t really care to deliver, and praising it for avoiding the homicidal Muppet Babies formula and pulling a pretty brazen bait-and-switch.
    Read full review
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