BrainDead

:

Season 1
  • Network: CBS
  • Series Premiere Date: Jun 13, 2016
User Score
7.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 133 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 105 out of 133
  2. Mixed: 11 out of 133
  3. Negative: 17 out of 133
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User Reviews

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  1. Superbuddha
    Jun 17, 2016
    5
    There's some great actors in this show. Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Tony Shalhoub are doing a great job, But I'm not a fan of Danny Pino though and I feel the script was taking shortcuts at times.

    It's not possible to have a definite opinion on just one episode though and at the time I'm writing this only the pilot has aired. Still there's no clear indication where this show is leading    There's some great actors in this show. Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Tony Shalhoub are doing a great job, But I'm not a fan of Danny Pino though and I feel the script was taking shortcuts at times.

    It's not possible to have a definite opinion on just one episode though and at the time I'm writing this only the pilot has aired. Still there's no clear indication where this show is leading yet and to be frank it can go either way.

    And I really hope "You might think" by The Cars is not used as a running joke, because having it played three times in the opening episode was seriously more than enough...    … Expand
  2. NotchFilter
    Jun 16, 2016
    8
    After watching the pilot, I have to say I like the show, and I'm looking forward to the next episodes.

    The pilot was rough in a couple of parts, but it continued to hold on to my interest for the entire hour, somewhat of an accomplishment for an hour-long show. I really like the current political backdrop that seems present on the abundant TV screens on the sets. The writing keeps    After watching the pilot, I have to say I like the show, and I'm looking forward to the next episodes.

    The pilot was rough in a couple of parts, but it continued to hold on to my interest for the entire hour, somewhat of an accomplishment for an hour-long show.

    I really like the current political backdrop that seems present on the abundant TV screens on the sets. The writing keeps the show moving along quickly, so pay attention.

    Smooth over the few rough spots, and this show could be an ideal comedic-thriller to get me through what is looking like a long, hot summer in the world of real politics.    … Expand
  3. Ashley33
    Aug 15, 2016
    10
    While I have never enjoyed political dramas or science fiction, this show has combined the two (with the necessary addition of comedy) to create a truly unique and entertaining series. One should not judge it for the pilot episode; not all of the main characters were introduced. I am on tenterhooks waiting to find out if this show will be renewed!
  4. oxlion
    Jun 21, 2016
    8
    Braindead is a great show! I'm into politics and the paranormal. So this incredibly satirical mesh of the twisted and the cranial is right up my ally. It's somewhat like the old great X-Files. But instead of the "Shadow Government" we have real Democrats and Republicans. Characters argue over Hillary and Trump, liberal and conservative, while something wicked this way comes. I hope moreBraindead is a great show! I'm into politics and the paranormal. So this incredibly satirical mesh of the twisted and the cranial is right up my ally. It's somewhat like the old great X-Files. But instead of the "Shadow Government" we have real Democrats and Republicans. Characters argue over Hillary and Trump, liberal and conservative, while something wicked this way comes. I hope more people give it a chance and it has a long life.… Expand
  5. billingfoil
    Jul 9, 2016
    9
    Smart and funny. I've read other reviews complaining about 'uneven tone' or that it's trying to be west wing or veep while lacking the political depth, or that the horror elements aren't thrilling enough. But I think that misses the point. Braindead is something strange and original that is for once has both clever writing and excellent acting.
  6. IrishKevin
    Aug 1, 2016
    10
    This is very funny in an unexpected way. - This is not a sit-com. It is not belly laugh humor.
    But it keeps making you smile as it pokes fun at how Washington takes things to extremes (both left and right). Also the acting, suspense, and the writing of the story arc (how each episode builds on earlier elements) is very good.
    I have never posted on metacritic before. But I wanted to    This is very funny in an unexpected way. - This is not a sit-com. It is not belly laugh humor.
    But it keeps making you smile as it pokes fun at how Washington takes things to extremes (both left and right). Also the acting, suspense, and the writing of the story arc (how each episode builds on earlier elements) is very good.

    I have never posted on metacritic before. But I wanted to post here as I am already recommending this show to all my friends.    … Expand
  7. TVgirl9087
    Aug 14, 2016
    10
    This is smart, clever TV with charming characters, surprising story lines, and dead on take on Washington DC. Highly recommend. Stick with it. It might be too smart for broadcast TV, but it's the rare show that doesn't treat the viewers like we're stupid. And it's really well cast. Love binge watching it.
  8. MisterT
    Aug 14, 2016
    10
    Haven't regularly watched any CBS comedies for years but I am hooked on this one after seeing virtually ZERO publicity for it. Clever, funny.hopes it gets picked up for a second season..
  9. JerseyGirl4Life
    Aug 18, 2016
    10
    Great show all around. Rivals The Good Wife in quality, although it's a very different beast with it's humor and sci-fi storyline, wrapped around the inner workngs of Washington D.C. politics. If you haven't watch it yet, give it a couple of episodes to get it's hooks into you. I can't find out online how it's doing ratings-wise, so I don't know if it'll get renewed for a second season,Great show all around. Rivals The Good Wife in quality, although it's a very different beast with it's humor and sci-fi storyline, wrapped around the inner workngs of Washington D.C. politics. If you haven't watch it yet, give it a couple of episodes to get it's hooks into you. I can't find out online how it's doing ratings-wise, so I don't know if it'll get renewed for a second season, but oh, I hope so! There's nothing else like this on TV. Kudos CBS for taking a chance on this.… Expand
  10. adominguezlavin
    Aug 28, 2016
    9
    I am really hooked on this show. This one is brilliant, funny, smart and has a balanced dosis of scifi, comedy and horror movie. You feel like a The Good Wife spin off but more funny. I'm looking forward this show will be renewed for a new season. I love the characters of the show, all of them, really.
  11. KilsythLass
    Sep 17, 2016
    10
    This is a really funny show but you have to be able to cope with politicians being superficial and selfish! All characters are well written and it ( sadly) is a good reflection on how politics work
  12. PoeticDumpling
    Jun 13, 2016
    9
    It will be a miracle if this show lasts. I am already seeing a ton of comments on their FB page saying "worst/dumbest show ever". Those people obviously did not know what they were in for. Silly, over-the-top, satirical, campy, cult series fun... and for the most part it delivers...as a decent appetizer. I am hoping it can build up from the pilot. The elements are in play forIt will be a miracle if this show lasts. I am already seeing a ton of comments on their FB page saying "worst/dumbest show ever". Those people obviously did not know what they were in for. Silly, over-the-top, satirical, campy, cult series fun... and for the most part it delivers...as a decent appetizer. I am hoping it can build up from the pilot. The elements are in play for something fresh and different, but I am surprised CBS gave in to such a shockingly fringe idea. It seems something that Cinemax or Starz might be more apt to try or even Fox. If the show can deliver a little more brains behind the mayhem and manage to balance the fun it could work. It's a bit X-Files... a bit David Cronenberg... a bit John Carpenter...a bit of a b-movie bug horror flick. If the right camp/cult audience can get behind it...it could survive, but I won't hold my breath. Will enjoy it as long as I can unless it all goes downhill from here. We shall see.… Expand
  13. hotterguy6969
    Jul 12, 2016
    10
    Anyone who doesn't like this show or gives it a lower score than 10 is brain dead . Excellent filming, acting,and writing. Who wouldn't like a show about how idiotic all politicians and followers are. Ask questions no matter how crazy they are don't just agree
  14. TVPredictor
    Aug 21, 2016
    0
    Not Funny. No Horror. Just Gross, Brain-Eating Bugs! And it has to do with Politics, which I understand it has to do with Corrupt Politicians, but... Lame!
  15. LamontRaymond
    Jun 13, 2016
    4
    Winstead is literally the only reason to watch this show.... and I vowed never to do that again - watch a show because of one pretty face. So I'm done after the pilot. I'm not going to sucked in to another summer show (see: Zoo, Under the Dome) that has a provocative premise yet - we all know - will go absolutely nowhere.
  16. cherold
    Jun 18, 2016
    5
    This show has an interesting premise, and after only one episode I can't really predict how well it will handle that premise, but I found the first episode too slow and soggy to continue.

    It's hard to say what this series is. I've seen it described as comedy/drama/horror/satire, but that gives the impression of a lot more punch than this show has. There are moments that I suppose are    This show has an interesting premise, and after only one episode I can't really predict how well it will handle that premise, but I found the first episode too slow and soggy to continue.

    It's hard to say what this series is. I've seen it described as comedy/drama/horror/satire, but that gives the impression of a lot more punch than this show has. There are moments that I suppose are mildly comedic, although not especially funny. It's got elements of a political drama, but not an involving one. Horror would suggest some element of suspense or chills, which were absent.

    Satire would require some bite, but the series seems to want to be a political show without politics. We don't know what the budget fight is about, the two people who will clearly have sex eventually do some mild political sparring that carefully avoids any significant conflict, and the approach is very much the both-sides-are-recalcitrant trope that doesn't jibe with the current reality of the anti-compromise Tea Party situation of the real world. (The series actually makes the Republicans seem slightly more reasonable, since their senator is just a drunk who wants to cut a deal while the other side's senator is quite Machiavellian; was this produced by a Republican or just by someone bending over backwards to even things out?).

    At some point the series may explain the invaders' purpose and why they like that Cars song so much, but based on the first episode, I don't expect the explanations to be compelling.    … Expand
  17. alexthepie
    Jul 6, 2016
    10
    i love how its tongue in cheek, 80s sci fi movie, and satirical political commentator all rolled into one well acted works on every level some and will be a love or hate you'll get it or you wont.
  18. shoulderoforion
    Sep 21, 2016
    8
    After watching a few episodes and finding it brilliant I wrote my first review giving it a 9 and making fun of all the people who rated it low, but the further into the season I got the more the lower scores started to make sense. It was such a fun concept & great execution at first that seemed to simply get stupider (and more mailed in) the closer it got to the end. Still give it an 8After watching a few episodes and finding it brilliant I wrote my first review giving it a 9 and making fun of all the people who rated it low, but the further into the season I got the more the lower scores started to make sense. It was such a fun concept & great execution at first that seemed to simply get stupider (and more mailed in) the closer it got to the end. Still give it an 8 for every episodes except the last two which were downright awful & a shame.… Expand
  19. Donaldtrum
    Jul 23, 2016
    10
    The critics were hard on this show. I think it deserves a 10. Two reasons. First, it slams the hell out of the government. Second, it connects with a large age group meaning younger and older people will understand what's going on.
  20. skviewer
    Jun 18, 2016
    0
    Disappointed in CBS and Tony, this has to be one of the worst programs to actually make it to airing. I'll certainly be looking at another network during this time slot!
  21. TheMetacritiqer
    Jul 15, 2016
    3
    This show is just awful. However Mary Elizabeth Winstead is very hot and it's cool seeing her in something besides 10 Cloverfield Lane(which you should VOD right now) . So I'll most likely watch it till the end
  22. chrisjd7
    Jul 14, 2016
    9
    Best one-word description, FUN! The previews for this show did not impress me, so my expectations were low. Now, after watching the first 4 episodes I am very impressed with the story and count this as a new favorite. The show offers something for just about anyone and I hope the popularity catches on since I want to see a lot more.
  23. sallyrankin123
    Aug 13, 2016
    3
    Very disappointed. Can't stand to watch more then 10 min. Liked the actors but not to their potential. Thumbs down. Really wanted it to be good. We need more comedy.
  24. XomaT
    Jul 1, 2016
    1
    Probably the worst alien invasion in tv history. Someone says it is a good parody of the US politics world, but is not. This series should be trash, and it is not, should be demential, and is not, should be a good parody, and is not. It is bad written, both the alien part and the politics part. Nothing has sense, it's not comedy and it's not a serious political thriller or parody. It's aProbably the worst alien invasion in tv history. Someone says it is a good parody of the US politics world, but is not. This series should be trash, and it is not, should be demential, and is not, should be a good parody, and is not. It is bad written, both the alien part and the politics part. Nothing has sense, it's not comedy and it's not a serious political thriller or parody. It's a big bad failure.… Expand
  25. martinex
    Dec 15, 2016
    9
    It's official. I don't know what's good anymore. I absolutely loved this show. I thought it was timely, well written and hilarious. It was better than 95 percent of CBS' fall lineup. Show how much I know. Apparently what people really want is 2 Broke Girls and the Odd Couple.
  26. DEWER
    Dec 16, 2016
    10
    Well acted. You should either watch with a glass of wine or your tongue firmly implanted in your cheek. A great combination of sit-com, political satire and romance. No serious distractions--just fun.
  27. bohmer
    Jul 8, 2016
    9
    After watching first three episodes, I'm hooked. Dry humour, freakish storytelling, very smart writing, great characters. Sure to be this year's most unrated show. Not for everybody for sure but what fun ride!
  28. bob516
    Oct 2, 2016
    10
    Rarely do shows get me to laugh out loud. My wife was surprised when she heard me laughing while I was watching this show. With a smart, biting criticism of the government we elect, this show really worked for me. Unfortunately, I doubt it will survive. Another show to smart for commercial TV.
  29. jaxxman
    Jul 14, 2016
    9
    This show is amazing. How it gets such a low score here makes me question what this sites critique considers value. Mary Elizabeth Winstead's character is amazing with a blend of failing artist and intellectual in denial, she really makes the show move well from point to point. The show itself is great, a blend of politics, family, love drama, and sci-fi. Great cast, great topics.... aThis show is amazing. How it gets such a low score here makes me question what this sites critique considers value. Mary Elizabeth Winstead's character is amazing with a blend of failing artist and intellectual in denial, she really makes the show move well from point to point. The show itself is great, a blend of politics, family, love drama, and sci-fi. Great cast, great topics.... a very good watch.… Expand
  30. MacheteDontText
    Nov 20, 2017
    9
    Delightfully idiotic, reminds me of Mars attacks. I m in the middle of season 1, hope the show wont take itself seriously and I can definitely see the theme getting old so I hope It wont have more then 1 or 2 seasons. Cast is great, the whole vibe of the show is refreshing and plain fun, nothing serious, but very entertaining so far.
  31. msmoran
    Aug 4, 2016
    10
    The acting, writing and production values are top notch and the show is wonderfully creative, hilarious and off the wall. Who'd have thunk that sci fi and political satire could forge such an enchanting marriage?
  32. MilwJeff
    Sep 27, 2016
    9
    Timely and topical politically, the sci-fi component of the series gives this comedy a quirky, feed-the-conspiracy theories storyline. Scenes and plots borrowed from real life (bipartisanship - what's that?) and classic sci-fi films and TV shows (2001, The Invaders) makes Braindead even more interesting.
    Inconsistent plodding plot development makes some of the episodes less edgy than    Timely and topical politically, the sci-fi component of the series gives this comedy a quirky, feed-the-conspiracy theories storyline. Scenes and plots borrowed from real life (bipartisanship - what's that?) and classic sci-fi films and TV shows (2001, The Invaders) makes Braindead even more interesting.
    Inconsistent plodding plot development makes some of the episodes less edgy than others. It seems like fewer episodes
    Nonetheless, there are lots of laughs and Tony Shalom and Mary Elizabeth Winstead are excellent and very watchable. Definitely worth checking out!    … Expand
  33. Noanopolis
    Jul 22, 2016
    9
    I'd recommend this show for anyone who has grown cynical and disillusioned with politics and political discussion. It's using space bugs as an explanation for the ever increasing toxic political climate brilliantly explains the absurd with the absurd. It's a show that makes fun of the extremists; the politicians that stubbornly hold their ground at the expense of the American people, theI'd recommend this show for anyone who has grown cynical and disillusioned with politics and political discussion. It's using space bugs as an explanation for the ever increasing toxic political climate brilliantly explains the absurd with the absurd. It's a show that makes fun of the extremists; the politicians that stubbornly hold their ground at the expense of the American people, the news channels that exist only to shake their fists at liberals or conservatives. I genuinely think it's a show that both liberals and conservatives(or at least the moderates of the spectrum) can get a kick out of, which is very rare for a political show. You owe it to yourself to give it a try.… Expand
  34. djgomes
    Jul 12, 2016
    10
    Didn't know what to expect when I first tuned in. I hadn't heard anything about it. After watching the first 3 episodes, I am hooked. Well written, interesting, yet a bit funny.
  35. amyturner2000
    Aug 24, 2016
    10
    This show is smart, hilarious, and at times a disturbing satire of today's politics. Its episode on torture was very powerful. I can't believe that a show with this premise actually works, but it does, and does so extremely well. And of course, the acting./ Tony Shalhoub looks likes he's having a blast and Winstead is a talent!
  36. thefade
    Sep 11, 2016
    10
    A work of Art!!!! Subtle humor! little bit of thriller lil bit of Drama... all just enough of everything! binge-watched whole season.

    After seeing mad reviews from Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Variety, Yahoo TV The New York Times,USA Today,Denver Post The Hollywood Reporter,Wall Street Journal San Francisco Chronicle I feel like these magazines are paying **** to write reviews on    A work of Art!!!! Subtle humor! little bit of thriller lil bit of Drama... all just enough of everything! binge-watched whole season.

    After seeing mad reviews from
    Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Variety, Yahoo TV
    The New York Times,USA Today,Denver Post
    The Hollywood Reporter,Wall Street Journal
    San Francisco Chronicle
    I feel like these magazines are paying **** to write reviews on TVshows.. people who watch 1 episode and live inside their own Ass.... unable to grasp subtle comedy, understand Irony or even admire something new and amazing if it doesn't smell like the same Old **** as from the 90's(not that 90's TV shows are bad).... some of theses retards even think it's a horror TV series and it's not scary enough... I mean if you think what is happening with trump in the US is horror, then sure.    … Expand

Awards & Rankings

36
#36 Most Discussed TV Season of 2016

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
61

Generally favorable reviews - based on 37 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 19 out of 37
  2. Mixed: 14 out of 37
  3. Negative: 4 out of 37
  1. The New Yorker
    Reviewed by: Emily Nussbaum
    Jul 20, 2016
    80
    BrainDead is aggressively funny and a little sloppy, and it’s that sick-joke aggression, the refusal to take itself seriously, that is the key to its appeal.
    Read full review
  2. Sioux City Journal
    Reviewed by: Bruce Miller
    Jun 20, 2016
    80
    BrainDead comments better than a Sunday morning pundit, moves faster than a New York to D.C. train and never pauses to filibuster.
    Read full review
  3. TV Guide Magazine
    Reviewed by: Matt Roush
    Jun 16, 2016
    80
    The genius of BrainDead, an enjoyably offbeat sci-fi/political satire hybrid, is in reminding us that it's possible to have fun without leaving one's brain at the door. [20-26 Jun 2016, p.17]
See all critic reviews »