Cosmos: A Space-Time Odyssey

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Season 1
User Score
8.7

Universal acclaim- based on 356 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 317 out of 356
  2. Mixed: 10 out of 356
  3. Negative: 29 out of 356
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  1. raikespeare
    Mar 9, 2014
    10
    As a huge fan of the original series, I'm happy to let you know the pilot continued the legacy of the great Carl Sagan behind the very respectable Neil DeGrasse Tyson with great overview and some eye candy visuals. I expect that the science will get more detailed once it focuses on more succinct subjects but so far it was an absolute joy for the anticipation!!
  2. psp1213
    Mar 10, 2014
    10
    Astounding. There is never a wrong time to be reminded through flashy visuals and poetic description just how beautiful our universe is. Cosmos entertainingly informs, and reminds us of the unimaginable scope and complexity of the world that surrounds us. Our path to discovery is through the ambitious practices of science, and while the pilot reminded us of the rather negative roleAstounding. There is never a wrong time to be reminded through flashy visuals and poetic description just how beautiful our universe is. Cosmos entertainingly informs, and reminds us of the unimaginable scope and complexity of the world that surrounds us. Our path to discovery is through the ambitious practices of science, and while the pilot reminded us of the rather negative role religion has played in this journey, it was surprisingly objective, only presenting facts and never insulting spirituality. Cosmos is a must watch for anyone with eyes, especially those who previously thought themselves uninterested in science.… Expand
  3. JRod
    Mar 10, 2014
    9
    Cosmos: A Space-Time Odyssey has a large shadow looming over it from which it will have to work hard to free itself from.

    Luckily, the new series has some quality heavyweights backing it up. Carl Sagan's widow, Ann Druyan, was a writer on the original Cosmos, and is producing the new show with Seth MacFarlane. Neil deGrasse Tyson once met Sagan as a young man, and is a brilliant    Cosmos: A Space-Time Odyssey has a large shadow looming over it from which it will have to work hard to free itself from.

    Luckily, the new series has some quality heavyweights backing it up. Carl Sagan's widow, Ann Druyan, was a writer on the original Cosmos, and is producing the new show with Seth MacFarlane. Neil deGrasse Tyson once met Sagan as a young man, and is a brilliant astrophysicist in his own right.

    This show has a lot of promise, I just hope they can keep up the level of quality per episode for many seasons to come.    … Expand
  4. Rockoman100
    Mar 10, 2014
    10
    This series only has one episode released as of the time of writing this review, but it has reminded me of the fantastical wonder of the natural universe. An amazing and beautiful spectacle that had me almost tearing up at times. Remember Sagan well, honor those who made this possible. Carl, Ann, Neil, and even Seth. Thank you all.

    This series is sure to knock your socks off. Socks not    This series only has one episode released as of the time of writing this review, but it has reminded me of the fantastical wonder of the natural universe. An amazing and beautiful spectacle that had me almost tearing up at times. Remember Sagan well, honor those who made this possible. Carl, Ann, Neil, and even Seth. Thank you all.

    This series is sure to knock your socks off. Socks not included.    … Expand
  5. Daozang
    Mar 10, 2014
    10
    The first episode, did exactly what it should do, give the viewer a sense of scale.
    Neil did an excellent job (as always) to help the layman picture the vastness of the world as it is.
    The Cosmos, is not about hard science. It is about understanding our place in the universe. To give us the facts, and also to dare us. Challenge us to imagine what's next without constraints. And it    The first episode, did exactly what it should do, give the viewer a sense of scale.
    Neil did an excellent job (as always) to help the layman picture the vastness of the world as it is.
    The Cosmos, is not about hard science.
    It is about understanding our place in the universe.
    To give us the facts, and also to dare us. Challenge us to imagine what's next without constraints.
    And it accomplishes that goal completely.    … Expand
  6. robbiekhan
    Mar 25, 2014
    10
    I don't understand the red reviews here from some people but everyone is entitled to their opinion I suppose.

    Anyway, I'm watching the show in the UK and having read and seen much of Sagan's series and quotes over the years have been anticipating the new Cosmos for some time as I'm also a big deGrasse Tyson fan. I wonder if those saying the CGI is poor to the point of giving the show    I don't understand the red reviews here from some people but everyone is entitled to their opinion I suppose.

    Anyway, I'm watching the show in the UK and having read and seen much of Sagan's series and quotes over the years have been anticipating the new Cosmos for some time as I'm also a big deGrasse Tyson fan.

    I wonder if those saying the CGI is poor to the point of giving the show 0 marks were watching it on screen smeared with Vaseline? Watching it in HD I thought the visuals were just fine. The animated segments were done really well too without going overboard on dramatics.

    I agree there is a strong Science vs Religion underpinning in the first couple of episodes but there's no fiction here either. During history Religion clashed with Science heavily to the point where great men like Bruno put themselves at huge risk. Are the people rating the show so low saying that it shouldn't touch on historical facts?

    This is Cosmos, we start from the beginning and work our way through the journey Neil is taking us on via the ship of the imagination (which in itself I thought was a brilliant concept at helping the target audience better grasp what's being shown and told).    … Expand
  7. lashbl
    Mar 17, 2014
    7
    Although I agree that the program at times is like a planetarium program, that Dr. Tyson sometimes sounds a bit middle-school condescending, and that the special effects are harder to appreciate on a TV than in a planetarium setting, I would have enjoyed the two episodes I've seen very much but for one thing: the constant, numerous commercial interruptions. If they were a feature of theAlthough I agree that the program at times is like a planetarium program, that Dr. Tyson sometimes sounds a bit middle-school condescending, and that the special effects are harder to appreciate on a TV than in a planetarium setting, I would have enjoyed the two episodes I've seen very much but for one thing: the constant, numerous commercial interruptions. If they were a feature of the Cosmos I watched years ago, I don't remember them. Couldn't the network get some really high-powered sponsors who'd be willing to restrict the interruptions (in exchange for some fawning appreciation of their generosity)? At some points we didn't even get 8 minutes of uninterrupted science.… Expand
  8. badirontree
    Mar 11, 2014
    9
    I have not seen all the originals series but I remember that He had the feeling that the world will end in a nuclear winter ... and he was very passionate...
    The new series are a little of the same with a water down version for the FOX extreme christian people...
    Well if these are their target group Its a 10/10 for me... the rest of the stories have been said from other good shows    I have not seen all the originals series but I remember that He had the feeling that the world will end in a nuclear winter ... and he was very passionate...
    The new series are a little of the same with a water down version for the FOX extreme christian people...

    Well if these are their target group Its a 10/10 for me... the rest of the stories have been said from other good shows in many channels... We are not in the "dark ages TV' anymore :D    … Expand
  9. EderOlivas
    Mar 20, 2014
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. As part of a generation that didn't grew up watching the original series, this one is a great show that focuses on science using great visuals. Let's be honest, when it comes to science, people don't usually grab a magazine and in a time when most of the people watch tv series to be entertained, this is a great option. The first episode with the cosmos calendar was a great idea. Of course it can not be very specific about science facts, but after all, this is a tv show, not a 100% documentary.… Expand
  10. FreerideForever
    Mar 21, 2014
    10
    Oh yeah baby. Ohhhh yeah. It's a science show about outer space. It's astronomy. How can it not be awesome? Tellin' it like it is baby. Tellin' y'all the truth.
  11. Smudge2626
    Apr 1, 2014
    10
    I am very happy to see a new science communicator on broadcast TV. Neil DeGrasse Tyson brings science to many in a very accessible way. Cosmos also has very slick visuals and storytelling.
  12. osiris666
    Jun 8, 2014
    10
    What a great series cosmos was, I have been enjoying watching it every sunday night and I am sad it has finished! Niel deGrasse Tyson was brilliant and is a worthy successor to Carl Sagan! I hope there will be another series as there is still so much to be told about the universe and our Earth. Shows like this are important because they give an interest in science and the history of theWhat a great series cosmos was, I have been enjoying watching it every sunday night and I am sad it has finished! Niel deGrasse Tyson was brilliant and is a worthy successor to Carl Sagan! I hope there will be another series as there is still so much to be told about the universe and our Earth. Shows like this are important because they give an interest in science and the history of the Earth! I find it hard to believe that some people don't like cosmos, they are obviously to stupid to understand it, or they are just idiotic religious fanatics who believe in some non existent god! As for attacking Christianity why not! This ridiculous religion of lies and ignorance has done more damage than anything else and I can never forgive these bastards for destroying most of the ancient knowledge when they burned down the great library in Alexandria and set our science and medicine back 1500 years behind where it should be at the moment! Not to mention the countless other atrocities that they have done over the centuries! I will not be happy until Christianity and Islam is just a memory and their churches and mosques become empty memorials to the age of ignorance for which they stand!… Expand
  13. ejonp
    Jun 11, 2014
    9
    I waited until the series was over to write a review. Overall, I was extremely impressed by the show.

    I'm a PhD physicist, so I knew *most* of the physics and cosmology in the show (although I learned quite a bit about evolution, particularly the mass extinctions). On the other hand, even though I consider myself reasonably well-informed about science history, I learned a lot from the    I waited until the series was over to write a review. Overall, I was extremely impressed by the show.

    I'm a PhD physicist, so I knew *most* of the physics and cosmology in the show (although I learned quite a bit about evolution, particularly the mass extinctions). On the other hand, even though I consider myself reasonably well-informed about science history, I learned a lot from the historical context of the episodes - something I really enjoyed. I wasn't crazy about the animation at first, but I got used to it. I still think live action would have been better, but maybe it was a budget thing.

    I thought Tyson's style and tone were just right for the show. He's a little more confrontational than Sagan, but these are different times. We're facing a well-organized and well-funding anti-science campaign in this country, and Tyson seems like just the kind of person we need.

    A lot of the reviews accuse him of Christian-bashing, because he didn't feel compelled to say things like "The Earth is 4.7 billion years old - or maybe 6000". If that bothers you, then I'm sorry, there really no reason for you to be watching a science show in the first place. In fact, Tyson was vey respectful of religion, and commented several times on the religious convictions of famous scientists. He just didn't waste time on fairy tales.

    I knocked it one point because in the end, I can really only justify giving a 10 to the original. Still, an excellent show. Very informative and extremely inspiring.    … Expand
  14. Elvisbop
    Oct 11, 2014
    10
    When I first watched the trailer for Cosmos, I knew I was in for a great treat. Neil DeGrasse Tyson takes us on a fabulous and stunning journey through the wonders of our universe. View in awe a trip from our planet to the end of the observable universe, witness the creation of the universe and its transition through time within just ten minutes using a cosmic calendar, and see theWhen I first watched the trailer for Cosmos, I knew I was in for a great treat. Neil DeGrasse Tyson takes us on a fabulous and stunning journey through the wonders of our universe. View in awe a trip from our planet to the end of the observable universe, witness the creation of the universe and its transition through time within just ten minutes using a cosmic calendar, and see the friendship between Edmond Halley and Sir Issac Newton. What really makes this documentary is the visual effects. Thanks to the technology of today, these effects look very realistic. They allow us to leave our sight limits and envision things beyond our imagination, like the Virgo Supercluster. It also allows to look back in the past, and see how life evolved from bacteria, to the Tiktaalik, all the way to our species. There is also another side of these visual effects, which is the cartoon segment, a very huge contrast from that of the other effects. These effects normally are utilized for talking about scientists or people in the past, like Giordano Bruno or Galileo. I believe it works well because since we are used to cartoons, we do not expect the pictures to be stunning and perhaps people would start to get annoyed if it was just all realistic effects throughout the program. The choice to use cartoons for this portion instead of using actors is much better, because using actors would make it more corny and humorous. Neil DeGrasse Tyson was the perfect choice for this, after all he is an astrophysicist. Tyson makes everything clear and understandable to the viewer and the camera position on Tyson makes it look like he is talking directly at you, which makes you listen and pay attention. This documentary has taught me things that I have never known, and the topics are really intriguing. If you are curious about our universe, or just perhaps looking for an interesting program, Cosmos is the perfect choice. Believe me, you will not regret it.… Expand
  15. epitage
    Mar 22, 2014
    10
    The way Neil draws the viewer into each scientific scenario is absolutely astonishing in both content and eye candy. Even if you are already familiar with the content, it is endlessly entertaining to take a ride in Neil's "Ship of the Imagination".
  16. MikefromAngus
    Aug 12, 2014
    10
    What an amazing show! The special effects are great! Also teaches you history, and the wrong that religion did and how it slowed the progress of people. Science is the best!
  17. Elbxleon
    Mar 15, 2014
    10
    Long overdue! I have gained a new found respect for Seth McFarlane in producing this new version of "cosmos". And who better to host this journey of our understanding of the universe than the charismatic astrophysicist Neil DeGrasse Tyson. I just hope this new series rekindles the passion of scientific exploration lost decades ago within the U.S.
  18. Plutarco
    May 27, 2014
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. As wonderful as Carl Sagan's. Thank you Cosmos for teaching the common people, with beautiful and clear words, about the meaning the universe. This is, without any doubt, the best TV show of the year… Expand
  19. BogKid
    Jun 25, 2014
    8
    Remembering the original Carl Sagan show (I am somewhat long of tooth), I had great expectations for an updating, especially with this host. I am not really disappointed. Maybe a little. I do like the fact that different episodes go into some depth on a different, not always spacey, subject. But, I hate the stupid spaceship bit. CGI is pretty good but overdone. The rather cartoonishRemembering the original Carl Sagan show (I am somewhat long of tooth), I had great expectations for an updating, especially with this host. I am not really disappointed. Maybe a little. I do like the fact that different episodes go into some depth on a different, not always spacey, subject. But, I hate the stupid spaceship bit. CGI is pretty good but overdone. The rather cartoonish animations put the show squarely into the kid's show category. All-in-all, a decent attempt at updating Mr. Sagan that falls noticeably short.… Expand
  20. Jern
    Mar 10, 2014
    10
    This was an amazing first episode. A great unbiased introduction to what we think we know about the cosmos. The animations are awe inspiring and even artistic. I would recommend this to any human, it will make you a better and more profoundly knowledgeable person.
  21. luminaxster
    Mar 10, 2014
    10
    Epic!!!! It is mind-blowing from start to end. I am hooked again, exactly as I was when I was a child and watched Sagan on TV for the first time twenty years ago. Sagan enlightened me with his opening monologues and clever explanations every time. That so, that I am a scientist because he made fall in love with Science as he was. And Neil, oh Neil, I totally see you are deeply andEpic!!!! It is mind-blowing from start to end. I am hooked again, exactly as I was when I was a child and watched Sagan on TV for the first time twenty years ago. Sagan enlightened me with his opening monologues and clever explanations every time. That so, that I am a scientist because he made fall in love with Science as he was. And Neil, oh Neil, I totally see you are deeply and recklessly in love with the Cosmos, and therefore I am. With warm tears I rejoice dreaming the day I will introduce your/our SpaceTime Odyssey to my children...… Expand
  22. coolcef
    Mar 20, 2014
    10
    I've never hear of the original series, but this one is just outstanding. Never before have seen something so interesting yet based on real science. The visuals are stunning. Extremely interesting show. I was really surprised when I realized that Seth McFarlane created the show. The special effects are movie-worthy. My only complaint is that sometimes it doesn't have enough "science" andI've never hear of the original series, but this one is just outstanding. Never before have seen something so interesting yet based on real science. The visuals are stunning. Extremely interesting show. I was really surprised when I realized that Seth McFarlane created the show. The special effects are movie-worthy. My only complaint is that sometimes it doesn't have enough "science" and too much "show", but this is easily excused because of how great the series is.… Expand
  23. Noctophrenia
    Mar 24, 2014
    10
    Ten out of ten! Tyson is exceptional and the it is laid out well for folks of all ages. They also provide enough information for those somewhat illiterate to science without boring the more educated.

    Bravo! Can't wait for the rest.
  24. chago926
    Mar 24, 2014
    10
    Cosmos puts it in simple terms and in a way that I fully understand. The music score is fitting and peaks my interest as well as my sons interest. Well done!
  25. Mouldin
    Jun 8, 2014
    10
    its amazingly mind opening no matter how much you know because a new point of view is always refreshing and the subject mater is humbling. This should be the benchmark for all tv shows to follow, all the swamp, storage and parking related shows shouldn’t exist. The reach of television into all the homes no matter rich or poor, is a powerful tool which should be used for the good and notits amazingly mind opening no matter how much you know because a new point of view is always refreshing and the subject mater is humbling. This should be the benchmark for all tv shows to follow, all the swamp, storage and parking related shows shouldn’t exist. The reach of television into all the homes no matter rich or poor, is a powerful tool which should be used for the good and not just to get advertising money. It's a sad fact that there are not many programs like this airing on tv and I hope things change.… Expand
  26. drpuffsmcadams
    Aug 28, 2014
    10
    This show is masterpiece. Picking up where the Sagan original ended, this picture of perfection spreading the mantra of "Science is Truth" is unequaled on the mission of educating the public about the nature, and importance, of science.
  27. trickydicky
    Sep 11, 2014
    10
    Essential viewing for all humankind. If every person on this earth was educated with just this one single user-friendly and informative series we would be living a different, and better existence. I consider myself to be very scientifically literate, but I still learnt a great deal. The grass-roots science is explained clearly and the history of these discoveries was extremely interesting.Essential viewing for all humankind. If every person on this earth was educated with just this one single user-friendly and informative series we would be living a different, and better existence. I consider myself to be very scientifically literate, but I still learnt a great deal. The grass-roots science is explained clearly and the history of these discoveries was extremely interesting. Neil DeGrasse Tyson is an inspiration and an outstanding science orator. I hope it gets translated into every major world language and reverse the trend of growing science illiteracy.… Expand
  28. Vibew
    Jul 18, 2016
    4
    There is more history than science, and is very childish...
    There is more history than science, and is very childish...
    There is more history than science, and is very childish...

    ...
  29. PatriotVet
    Apr 12, 2014
    10
    As a professional educator, I'm confused by the negative reviews of Cosmos.

    Those who denigrate the quality of the program and its educational value are unaware of the true state of science ignorance in many middle schools and high schools, and even at the tertiary level. Do NOT attempt to compare the 2014 series with the original series. Both of them are/were original, and    As a professional educator, I'm confused by the negative reviews of Cosmos.

    Those who denigrate the quality of the program and its educational value are unaware of the true state of science ignorance in many middle schools and high schools, and even at the tertiary level.

    Do NOT attempt to compare the 2014 series with the original series. Both of them are/were original, and masterpieces, in their own unique ways.    … Expand
  30. MovieMuscle
    Mar 12, 2014
    9
    Damn, I'm seeing a lot of pretentious, elitist **** writing their own reviews on the show. I admire the slower pace it takes because--believe it or not, people--not everyone has done an endless amount of research on astronomy. If you prefer the dull, straightforward documentaries on science, there's plenty of them out there. I think this show establishes a terrific balance betweenDamn, I'm seeing a lot of pretentious, elitist **** writing their own reviews on the show. I admire the slower pace it takes because--believe it or not, people--not everyone has done an endless amount of research on astronomy. If you prefer the dull, straightforward documentaries on science, there's plenty of them out there. I think this show establishes a terrific balance between education and entertainment. The Giordano Bruno part was incredibly fascinating as much as it was important. I found nothing wrong with the writing. I guess you people expected a more pompous, verbose host, but Tyson never displays a hint of egoism. He--and the showrunners--know that not everyone's as well-informed as the people who've dedicated their lives to plentiful of research (only to blast other people who know less--how cool of you). Anyway, I can't wait to see what comes next.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

24
#24 Best TV Season of 2014
14
#14 Most Discussed TV Season of 2014
52
#52 Most Shared TV Season of 2014

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
83

Universal acclaim - based on 19 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 18 out of 19
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 19
  3. Negative: 0 out of 19
  1. Los Angeles Times
    Reviewed by: Robert Lloyd
    Mar 10, 2014
    80
    Crafted to satisfy those generations of viewers for whom even "The Empire Strikes Back" looks quaint and old-fashioned, it is no less thought-provoking for being made to be fun.
    Read full review
  2. Variety
    Reviewed by: Geoff Berkshire
    Mar 7, 2014
    80
    The premiere episode nimbly balances information with visual spectacle, forging a middle ground between sci-fi and science fact.
    Read full review
  3. People Weekly
    Reviewed by: Tom Gliatto
    Mar 7, 2014
    100
    It's educational, kid-oriented and fun, and Tyson us confidently smooth popularizer of science. [17 Mar 2014]
See all critic reviews »