Designated Survivor

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Season 1
Season #: 3, 2, 1
User Score
6.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 254 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 162 out of 254
  2. Mixed: 38 out of 254
  3. Negative: 54 out of 254
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  1. Dzimas
    Oct 4, 2016
    3
    This series has lost me from the start. It is such an absurd premise that to play it seriously is to blow a golden opportunity to have a lot fun. Instead, we see a sadly earnest attempt to make a bureaucrat into a President, somewhat along the lines of Dave but with less than satisfying results. Kiefer Sutherland is virtually unrecognizable in his attempt to play President Tom KirklandThis series has lost me from the start. It is such an absurd premise that to play it seriously is to blow a golden opportunity to have a lot fun. Instead, we see a sadly earnest attempt to make a bureaucrat into a President, somewhat along the lines of Dave but with less than satisfying results. Kiefer Sutherland is virtually unrecognizable in his attempt to play President Tom Kirkland straight up. The creators literally could have gotten anyone to play the role given how non-descript their character is. But, what really sinks this series is the utter lack of conflict in the first two episodes.

    The United States should be a nation in total chaos, It has lost virtually the entire executive, legislative and judicial branches of government, but the creators are treating it like 911. Washington, DC, would have immediately been cordoned off. No one would have been allowed to go in or out with a tight military net surrounding the city. States would have been in total confusion, not just Michigan. There would have been a run on the banks like never seen before and I well imagine all the Doomsday Preppers would have been taking to the woods or wherever they have their private stashes. More likely than not, the military would take have declared martial law.

    Kiefer Sutherland inspires absolutely no confidence in his role. Part of that is intentional the other is just poor writing. His standoffs ring hollow, especially with general. The asides with his wife and advisers aren't very effective and the scene of all the carnage looks like something out of a badly dated video game. What follows looks like it will be a bad copy of West Wing as the new President slowly builds a cabinet to deal with the crisis.

    It's too bad given all the possibilities the scenario has to offer.    … Expand
  2. goforgold
    Oct 16, 2016
    3
    Designated Survivor is another typical major network drama--long on preaching political correctness and diversity, short on substance. Anyone who produces and/or directs a network drama could learn a lot from, for example, Netflix (The Killings, Narcos, The Fall, or Hell on Wheels). Designated just reconfirms for me why I don't watch network television. Cheap and highly predictable.
  3. bob516
    Oct 2, 2016
    1
    If this show was on AMC or FX, where they are not afraid of an edgy storyline, without the heavy melodrama, I probably would have really liked it. There are moments where I find the story interesting, but then I am turned off by the 'laying it on thick' scenes of someone dealing with the loss of a loved one, or extreme family issues. I had to work to get through two episodes, to not letIf this show was on AMC or FX, where they are not afraid of an edgy storyline, without the heavy melodrama, I probably would have really liked it. There are moments where I find the story interesting, but then I am turned off by the 'laying it on thick' scenes of someone dealing with the loss of a loved one, or extreme family issues. I had to work to get through two episodes, to not let hackneyed parts drag me down. Unfortunately, I could not. Only because there are moments of grown-up writing in this , I will give it a 1.… Expand
  4. noonesfo
    Nov 11, 2016
    0
    I started watching because I liked Kiefer Sutherland in 24, but this is
    a big snooze.
    Both my husband and I have fallen asleep while trying to watch this. So many overly predictable plot lines - the evil governor who locks up Muslims, the oh so good immigration attorney who champions Syrians, the very bad rebellious teenager, the backstabbing politicians.... The most    I started watching because I liked Kiefer Sutherland in 24, but this is
    a big snooze.

    Both my husband and I have fallen asleep while trying to
    watch this. So many overly predictable plot lines - the evil governor
    who locks up Muslims, the oh so good immigration attorney who champions
    Syrians, the very bad rebellious teenager, the backstabbing
    politicians....

    The most entertainment I got out of this show was
    predicting the upcoming lines. Sorry, I tried, but it is too boring. Good idea but poor execution. And as good as Sutherland was in 24 is as bad as he is in this.    … Expand
  5. MSMstrikesAgain
    Jun 4, 2017
    1
    It took ABC Studios 10 episodes to reveal the true story line of this show: Dress up a liberal agenda and roll it out under the guise of a 'Registered Independent', all to fight the Alt-Right that will stop at nothing to restore the USA to their version of what's right. A novel idea - were it not for the fact that ABC News and the rest of the MSM (main stream media) is playing this sameIt took ABC Studios 10 episodes to reveal the true story line of this show: Dress up a liberal agenda and roll it out under the guise of a 'Registered Independent', all to fight the Alt-Right that will stop at nothing to restore the USA to their version of what's right. A novel idea - were it not for the fact that ABC News and the rest of the MSM (main stream media) is playing this same story every day, ad nauseam. If nothing else, this show merely shows how pervasive the liberal left is at furthering their intolerant view of what's right, at the expense of the viewers like this author who turn to series like this for a break from the news.

    Find a better story line which doesn't insult the intelligence of the nation at large.    … Expand
  6. trom
    Dec 10, 2016
    1
    Can you spot the clues to the real mystery: how does this dross get such a high metascore? Surely KS has earned enough to risk doing something really interesting or retire. Such poor writing, such awful plot lines, point and click performances. 1 point for the initial idea. Nothing for the idiots who approved a full season of 22 episodes.
  7. giveita10
    Jun 5, 2017
    0
    If you like watching C-Span but sometimes it gets a little too exciting, try this show. If you hate plot twists, Designated Survivor is the flick for you! There will be absolutely no surprises, and in addition, everywhere the writers can create forced drama, they will. If you think Antifa protesters are too articulate, try Tom Kirkman! Tom is the new president. He's an independent, butIf you like watching C-Span but sometimes it gets a little too exciting, try this show. If you hate plot twists, Designated Survivor is the flick for you! There will be absolutely no surprises, and in addition, everywhere the writers can create forced drama, they will. If you think Antifa protesters are too articulate, try Tom Kirkman! Tom is the new president. He's an independent, but actually a liberal. He works really well with the leader of the Republican party, who is also a liberal. The Democrats show up from time to time too, but they always agree with Tom, because, naturally, they are liberal too. Is a cabal of diabolical white people trying to take down your government? It's time for Gun Control! Is there a threat that the same organization that blew up the Capitol will strike again? Music funding for middle school band! What's the most pressing issue? Unilateral nuclear arms reduction!

    TL;DR This show sucks.    … Expand
  8. santiagodraco
    Oct 13, 2016
    4
    Just not feeling it.

    So many far fetched and intetionally sensational scenarios that push suspension of disbelief beyond reasonable limits. Generals that talk and act like 2 year olds. Governors that seem to think it's the 60s all over again. Over and over. This show is, unfortunately, getting tiring already.
  9. HOTSPUR
    Nov 27, 2016
    0
    This is a very disappointing effort, with some very tired formulaic US soap-style acting and cardboard cut-out characters (with the exception of Sutherland), e.g. a look-at-me FBI agent, who never has a hair out of place. Very unconvincing stuff. Compare this with the excellent Norwegian political thriller Occupied
  10. itsobs
    Mar 26, 2017
    1
    So cheesy and cliche, who did the writing? The first lady's acting is just terrible.

    Is this a kid's show? It's like a dumbed-down version of House of Cards
  11. nwbaird
    Oct 4, 2017
    3
    Imagine if 24 and Commander in Chief had a baby and dropped it on its head. There is so much one wants to like about this program. The unique premise is implausibly executed. The solid cast drowns in a shallow pool of cliches and platitudes. Designated Survivor can't decide if it wants to be action adventure or political drama and it does neither well.
  12. carrabella
    Oct 4, 2016
    1
    I agree with Dzimas and dukesnyd. Just seems to be a completely unrealistic portrayal of what Washington should be experiencing . And there's no way that I can suspend my frustrations with the plot deficiencies when Keifer continues his whispering. And come on, writers: why not base his first real act of leadership--curbing an overzealous governor--on some brilliant (or even accidental)I agree with Dzimas and dukesnyd. Just seems to be a completely unrealistic portrayal of what Washington should be experiencing . And there's no way that I can suspend my frustrations with the plot deficiencies when Keifer continues his whispering. And come on, writers: why not base his first real act of leadership--curbing an overzealous governor--on some brilliant (or even accidental) insight into his constitutional power, instead of on his ability to develop a convenient lie.… Expand
  13. mbergz
    Nov 15, 2016
    5
    Can they please stop saying, "with all due respect" every 20 minutes? And why isn't the country in total chaos? It makes no sense to be talking about Syrian Refugees at all! And the governors interrogating the president? ahhhh! I think I've given this show enough of my attention. Back to 24 reruns.
  14. Cromm
    Oct 17, 2017
    4
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Oh dear, what has happened? Series one was fun and momentum-fuelled. Series two attempts to ramp up the West Wing / House of Cards pretensions and fails, whilst maintaining the investigative threads as a sideshow and introducing overblown episodic scenarios (the airline hostage situation, for example) that have crass personal connections levered in with no subtlety. The super-baddy is reduced to a whining sociopath within 2 episodes and the scripts need some serious work. Clumsy attempts to generate "will-they-won't-they" in the White House, or the mock-friction between the guys in the investigative team left me laughing rather than intrigued. Oh dear, this series is going down the pan.… Expand
  15. jeremyp
    Nov 18, 2016
    6
    What starts off well all too soon veers into familiar prime time simplistic plot lines and ludicrous scenarios. If Madame Secretary is written for middle schoolers this is for high school frosh. The average voter can follow along and it is condescendingly plot twisty enough to make people think they are being immersed in the world of high brow television, but it's just a meandering taleWhat starts off well all too soon veers into familiar prime time simplistic plot lines and ludicrous scenarios. If Madame Secretary is written for middle schoolers this is for high school frosh. The average voter can follow along and it is condescendingly plot twisty enough to make people think they are being immersed in the world of high brow television, but it's just a meandering tale dressed up to look like Homeland. We all know that Kiefer's POTUS will soon enough morph from mid west joe into Jack Bauer.… Expand
  16. RichardGonci
    Apr 14, 2017
    4
    Geez, just wanna like anything that Kiefer Sutherland stars in (and produces.) But, the writing for this show is so puerile and sophomoric that I want to use it when I teach, as in "How not to do it!" I'm pretty sure some members of this cast could deliver better lines improvisationally! When Kiefer speaks as the President, he is so wooden you would think there was a 2x4 up his sphincter!Geez, just wanna like anything that Kiefer Sutherland stars in (and produces.) But, the writing for this show is so puerile and sophomoric that I want to use it when I teach, as in "How not to do it!" I'm pretty sure some members of this cast could deliver better lines improvisationally! When Kiefer speaks as the President, he is so wooden you would think there was a 2x4 up his sphincter! Kiefer doesn't do "inspirational." He's not his father (the truly great Donald Sutherland.) He does action. I will keep watching because the side plots are engaging, but also stupid, as in unassisted assaults. BTW, I totally agree a with previous reviewer named "robmixalot!" Except he used an accent grave over the word "cliche," instead of the proper accent aigu. But, as an award-winning 3D-HD creative director, I also must agree with his evaluation of the SFX... third-rate junk! But, again, I am a hopeless junkie who will keep watching this show. BTW, the middle-aged Republican leader of the House is hotter than Kiefer's own wife who looks a bit like a "Stepford Wife!"… Expand
  17. virginiaproud
    May 13, 2017
    1
    From an interesting premise and strong start, this show has progressively lost its way. The talented are actors doing their best to deliver progressively sillier scenes while maintaining very serious expressions.
  18. kingjay
    Oct 27, 2017
    4
    The show started nicely in season 1 but has become a downwards spiraling trainwreck since. Poison attack! Politician shot! Every episode needs another crisis. And an the other hand some really awful 'humor' with Lyor. It's really, really, really bad.
  19. ShaMana
    Mar 29, 2018
    4
    Started fairly promising, political intrigue, a mystery and a conspiracy which all wen't nowhere! At this point the show is "I love him and she isn't sure" and "AMERICA HELL YEAH" we solve everything with a mediocre motivational speech. I'm out
  20. EPMD
    May 5, 2017
    5
    The original premise for the show was very interesting. They could have blown that out into 10+ episodes of solid TV, but the writers had other ideas. They piled on crisis after crisis, and the writing just hasn't been good enough to pull off that degree of difficulty. The dialogue and twists are cheesy and eyeroll-inducing. The show is guilty of lecturing its audience in a way that WestThe original premise for the show was very interesting. They could have blown that out into 10+ episodes of solid TV, but the writers had other ideas. They piled on crisis after crisis, and the writing just hasn't been good enough to pull off that degree of difficulty. The dialogue and twists are cheesy and eyeroll-inducing. The show is guilty of lecturing its audience in a way that West Wing only sometimes got away with. There aren't enough positive moments. It's just a giant tragedy with way too many music-swelling moments and crappy dialogue.… Expand
  21. trash-46645
    Nov 9, 2017
    4
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The show started off okay but steadily turned worse as you go through the plot. It might have been a good 2h spy-thriller movie if handled a bit differently I guess but it does not work very well as a series. I guess it has to do with the shows premise which sounds good on paper but when you actually see it just turns out dull after a while. But it gets worse. I managed to get to 18th episode and by that time it turned from dull to dumb, which is much worse. I expected to get some interesting conspiracy or perhaps some foreign power that was behind the attack, not a bunch of fascist rednecks. The show completely lost me at that point and I have no interest in watching more.… Expand
  22. Healthynewme
    Sep 26, 2017
    1
    MONTANANS DON'T HAVE SOUTHERN ACCENTS! Please show some respect for actors from Montana like Dana Carvey, Brad Bird, Gary Cooper and Ted Kaczynski (just kidding about Kaczynski). Please get to facts on a group of people before you portray them. That being said, I love the plot. Getting tired of pushing political ideals. We have had enough of that from Holywood. Please do what you do best,MONTANANS DON'T HAVE SOUTHERN ACCENTS! Please show some respect for actors from Montana like Dana Carvey, Brad Bird, Gary Cooper and Ted Kaczynski (just kidding about Kaczynski). Please get to facts on a group of people before you portray them. That being said, I love the plot. Getting tired of pushing political ideals. We have had enough of that from Holywood. Please do what you do best, entertainment. If you want to push politics, run for office.… Expand
  23. drraj90
    May 2, 2018
    3
    Poor research for a program that claims to do global diplomacy. The Bhutan ambassador said "Selamat Malam" to Kirkman at a dinner.
    That is "good night' in the Malay language and not even remotely Bhutanese, whose language is Dzongkha.
    Bad fail.
  24. calumnias
    May 20, 2018
    3
    It's like 24 and The West Wing had a retarded child. Interesting starting point, but pretty bad execution.
  25. robmixalot
    Oct 4, 2016
    3
    I really wanted to like this show.

    But the writing is SO cheesy. It's so clichè.
    The special effects are cheap and henceforth humorous.

    But the writing...

    Is everyone else not watching the same show?!
  26. gmillerdoc
    Nov 1, 2016
    2
    This is a poorly written heavy handed approach, and, I believe, an embarrassment for Kiefer Sutherland coming off an outstanding series like 24. The expected family issues are poorly conveyed and simply raised as a means to an unimportant end. This was poorly executed. The problems the new president faces is also sickeningly simple minded using heavy handed brutish political broad strokes,This is a poorly written heavy handed approach, and, I believe, an embarrassment for Kiefer Sutherland coming off an outstanding series like 24. The expected family issues are poorly conveyed and simply raised as a means to an unimportant end. This was poorly executed. The problems the new president faces is also sickeningly simple minded using heavy handed brutish political broad strokes, assuming a bigoted governor, muslim hatred, a general out to take over before even vetting this new President, a wily conniving congressional designated survivor, the improvised bomb chamber. Who wrote this drivel? Please focus on the real inevitable human drama and real strategic issues and don't come into this with a clear political agenda: the good president, the conniving female other designated survivor, the pushy, treacherous general. Uch. I can't believe Mr Sutherland is allowing these hack writers tarnish his reputation with such poor writing. Even the scene with the seals was staged or crafted in such an obvious way that it has to make one want to puke--and that is sad. The reason for two stars is that it is interesting enough to try to watch, considering the hope that someone will try to bring this out of the garbage and add some sheen to it. It does have Kiefer Sutherland in it, and he can shine if given decent material.… Expand
  27. FelipeZapata
    Dec 28, 2016
    1
    I made it to show No. 6 before throwing up my hands and giving up. This series is endless left-wing political propaganda, specifically pushing the open-borders agenda that says sweet things about immigration in general and Mohammedan immigration in particular. If that's what you're looking for, this show is for you. It's not for me.
  28. vanmombo
    Mar 9, 2017
    1
    I had hoped the plot would get better this season. Still the same, all bad news. I think if the good guys took a step forward once in awhile at least it would make it a little interesting. I actually turned it off last episode. We have enough bad news on the news stations!!
  29. JungleWise
    Oct 26, 2016
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Contains Spoilers
    I was intrigued by the premise. Total destruction of Washington DC and most members of the government. What is going to happen next?! However the intrigue in ground to a complete halt in episode 2, and the series turns into a liberal propaganda vehicle. We see absurd stereotypes everywhere: the WHITE cops giving the BROWN-SKINNED guy a hard time, merely because he's not white. Please. Is Hitlery Clinton funding paying for this series. It's so unbalanced it's embarrassing.
    With a great premise, this could have been as good or better than Mr. Robot -- what happens when large social institutions collapse. Instead, we get liberal-politics disguised as a serious drama. Sutherland should be ashamed. His prior series "Touch" was have way decent. Designated Stranger sucks. And please, Sutherland, stop whispering -- it's really annoying.    … Expand
  30. Rjd707
    Dec 9, 2016
    1
    OK...I am not one to write reviews, but this show is so poorly written, so unbelievable, so poorly cast, and so incredibly bias that I had to creat an ID and sign up to this site to write a review.
    This show is basically insulting to the intelligence of it's audience. The writing is so cliche it's ridiculous, my wife and I predicted the outcome of the episodes we endured. The characters    OK...I am not one to write reviews, but this show is so poorly written, so unbelievable, so poorly cast, and so incredibly bias that I had to creat an ID and sign up to this site to write a review.
    This show is basically insulting to the intelligence of it's audience. The writing is so cliche it's ridiculous, my wife and I predicted the outcome of the episodes we endured. The characters are one dimensional with utterly no chemistry. The typical morally superior president, with the beautiful egalitarian immigration lawyer wife, the rebelious teenage son, 20 year old staffers running the country, a chummy secret service agent that gives the troubles son life lessons, but doubles as a computer expert, the evil members of congress, the white, war monger in generals, the all knowing (and hot) asian FBI agent that seems to be the only one to pick up on this.....

    Sutherland, who is generally good, is painful to watch as an impotent pansy as president...what is the deal with his mouth by the way ? It's like its stuffed with cotton an sewn shut.

    Also, this show is so politically biased its ridiculous...it's like they got Joy Bayhar off her fat a#$ from the View to write the script....Why is it EVERY bad or Shady person is a white male ? The generals are crazy, the corrupt senator, the dude who blew up the capital was in the army with the crooked congressman...who is also white....oh the congresswoman is a witch but she's white too.....anyone of color is fighting for good or going to save the world.

    Oh and the best is their heavy use of green screen for background scenery.....it's laughable.

    I'm done....give this show two seasons tops.    … Expand
  31. bobiroka
    Sep 29, 2016
    0
    Absolute Trash. Utterly unbelievable. I can see what they're trying to do: See what an everyman would do if he was in the Oval office, but they spend so much time dwelling on the family and not fleshing out the real business of what was going on at the white house, that I really couldn't care less by the end of it. This is a shame, because I'm a big fan of Sutherland and feel he couldAbsolute Trash. Utterly unbelievable. I can see what they're trying to do: See what an everyman would do if he was in the Oval office, but they spend so much time dwelling on the family and not fleshing out the real business of what was going on at the white house, that I really couldn't care less by the end of it. This is a shame, because I'm a big fan of Sutherland and feel he could really shine in something more worthy of his talents...… Expand
  32. Noxsucow
    Dec 5, 2016
    0
    I dont understand the good reviews on this show. Perhaps the idea was good but the show quickly became predictable, linear and propagandized trash. I was bored quickly and lost the element of surprise after episode 1.
  33. eagleeyeviking
    Sep 22, 2016
    7
    Kiefer Sutherland carries Designated Survivor effortlessly, delivering an understated (compared to 24) but still riveting performance as the POTUS. The show around him is promising with solid action and thrills even if the supporting cast are rather one note so far.
  34. Storpotaten
    Oct 19, 2016
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This show is probably based on Tom Clancy's novel, Debt of Honor, published in 1994. It features a lowly cabinet member who is catapulted into the presidency when every other person in the government is killed in a terror attack. At first glance, it seems like a good premise for a drama, but it quickly turned into a Liberal Socialist anti-white propaganda feast instead.
    It became very clear in the second episode, when the White House speech writer, "a man of color" but not black, (he's Indian) was harassed by DC Police for walking down the street with a gym bag. Naturally, the cops were white guys and we all KNOW that white cops are all racists, bigots and homophobes. The premise of the show, that all whites are bigots and want to attack "people of color", in this case MUSLIMS, is absurd! Also, almost every person in the congress is dead after the terror attack and one would think that Sutherland should call are the families of the dead victims, but NO! Instead he must call and give condolences to the parents of the Muslim teen beaten to death by the Police. More liberal crap!
    This is a very disappointing show, but it fits well with the Hollywood Liberal Socialist anti-white propaganda. It seems like there are less than a handful of shows now that dare to depict things as they actually are. This is NOT one of them. Stay clear of this crap!    … Expand
  35. Kazzazaninja
    Mar 13, 2017
    2
    Too much propaganda ruined what could have been one of the best political thrillers ever made.

    What starts off as an incredible premise with fast paced political thrill, quickly turns into a leftist democrat propaganda series. Lets go over a few things here: - Apparently the biggest priority for the government and the new President after being effectively wiped out is to combat    Too much propaganda ruined what could have been one of the best political thrillers ever made.

    What starts off as an incredible premise with fast paced political thrill, quickly turns into a leftist democrat propaganda series.

    Lets go over a few things here:
    - Apparently the biggest priority for the government and the new President after being effectively wiped out is to combat racism and let in syrian refugees. No kidding entire episodes are spent on these topics.

    - the show spends a significant amount of time talking about tolerance, racism, islamophobia and accepting syrian refugees, not focusing at the actual crisis going on.

    - There are so many scenes that act out as debates between pro refugee and pro islam view points vs what they show as racist white nationalists (portaryed by republican governors)
    - Republicans are shown as racists while democrats shown as tolerant

    - The extreme focus on democrat liberal agenda turns this show from a political thriller to a propaganda piece, real shame.

    - Terrorists have a sob story to create sympathy about why they commit these acrs,

    - FBI are shown as weak in the interrogation room not being tough and bending over. This is because the show spends alot of time lecturing us about how enhanced interrogation doesnt work.

    - Sutherland has a very inconsistent personality, sometime we see his tough no nonsense attitude then he retreats to being a wuss coward especially if its something politically correct.

    - State of Michigan is shown as a racist state which beas up Muslims, i bet this was punishment for them for voting Trump.

    Overall this show is completely opposite of what 24 was, that show was about Americana, patriotism and toughness this one is all about political correctness ..times have really changed.    … Expand
  36. Catchy
    Dec 1, 2016
    0
    I'm trying to like this series, because its Kiefer Sutherland and all, king of drama and action series, BUT the core of the story is illogical. One thing which is important in a drama-thriller is a good story.....

    Tom Kirkman (played by Kiefer Sutherland) said he didn't want to be president, why does he keep being president when there's obviously people wanting him to step down. Why    I'm trying to like this series, because its Kiefer Sutherland and all, king of drama and action series, BUT the core of the story is illogical. One thing which is important in a drama-thriller is a good story.....

    Tom Kirkman (played by Kiefer Sutherland) said he didn't want to be president, why does he keep being president when there's obviously people wanting him to step down. Why doesn't Tom Kirkman just give the lead to someone else, they seem to more eager, motivated and more competent, and he doesn't even want the presidency anyway!    … Expand
  37. DeadPixel81
    Nov 21, 2016
    5
    This show is, at best, average.

    I'm not a big drama person, but I acquiesce on that front so my wife and I can watch a show together. This show was at the top of our list. Unfortunately it has fallen to the bottom of my list after 4 episodes. Why do I want to watch a show where nothing ever goes right? You can literally take a look at any event that occurs in the show, imagine the worst    This show is, at best, average.

    I'm not a big drama person, but I acquiesce on that front so my wife and I can watch a show together. This show was at the top of our list. Unfortunately it has fallen to the bottom of my list after 4 episodes. Why do I want to watch a show where nothing ever goes right? You can literally take a look at any event that occurs in the show, imagine the worst possible outcome and you will have predicted what happens. No matter how far fetched the disastrous outcome seems, it will happen. Unless you like watching depressing content structured in a way to shove Liberal Thinking down your throat, avoid this.    … Expand
  38. noticesthings
    May 30, 2017
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Generally enjoy the series but hope there'll be fewer continuity issues i.e. how did the silver case get from the car crash into Lloyd's hands? Stuff like that...… Expand
  39. Ripandread
    Sep 27, 2016
    7
    Interesting concept for a TV show however it reminds me slightly of Geena Davis' program "Commander-in-Chief. Instead of the new president facing opposition from a sitting senator, the military Chief of Staff wants to depose Sutherland's character. Of course the show had to toss in the cute little kid and teenager with issues, which seems to be a standard practice in numerous drama seriesInteresting concept for a TV show however it reminds me slightly of Geena Davis' program "Commander-in-Chief. Instead of the new president facing opposition from a sitting senator, the military Chief of Staff wants to depose Sutherland's character. Of course the show had to toss in the cute little kid and teenager with issues, which seems to be a standard practice in numerous drama series these days. While the show has potential, I think Sutherland's TV career peaked after "24".… Expand
  40. Broyax
    Dec 29, 2016
    1
    J'aime bien Kiefer Sutherland, un acteur éminemment sympathique et très capable même si je ne me doutais pas qu'il approchait si vite des cinquante balais. L'acteur est en effet la seule bouée de sauvetage à laquelle on pourrait en dernier recours tenter de s'accrocher afin de ne pas couler en même temps que ce "naufrage" du petit écran à tous les égards. Maggie Q accuse le poids des ans,J'aime bien Kiefer Sutherland, un acteur éminemment sympathique et très capable même si je ne me doutais pas qu'il approchait si vite des cinquante balais. L'acteur est en effet la seule bouée de sauvetage à laquelle on pourrait en dernier recours tenter de s'accrocher afin de ne pas couler en même temps que ce "naufrage" du petit écran à tous les égards. Maggie Q accuse le poids des ans, elle aussi mais à l'instar de son "Nikita", on ne veut surtout pas la revoir (oui, elle est naze).

    De façon surprenante, la série parvient -malgré un idée de départ séduisante- à nous ennuyer en moins de 10 mn voire un petit quart d'heure... puis tout le premier épisode qui constitue le "pilote" et devrait au moins se réveiller et se bouger le cul un minimum ne fait que confirmer l'ennui colossal, grand comme une montagne.

    L'ennui vient de la mise en scène d'une banalité affligeante, l'ennui vient également de l'écriture même de la série, très pauvre et sans éclat. C'est en effet terne, extrêmement terne, banal, vu et revu, bourré de clichés, le tout... tout au premier degré évidemment. Tellement générique qu'on ose même pas en rire ni en ricaner, même au troisième degré ! parce que ça ne vaut même pas un ricanement, celui qu'on accorderait de bonne grâce pour sa gamelle à un navet déjà périmé.

    Et dire qu'il n'y a -pourtant !- que 10 épisodes dans cette première saison... et que dès le premier, c'est tout raté de la cave au grenier. Ils sont vraiment pas doués.    … Expand
  41. Bgrod
    Sep 21, 2016
    10
    Intense and taut but not overwrought. Best new drama pilot of the new Fall season by a long shot. Keifer is everyday family man handed the keys to the country.
  42. Qldgamer
    Sep 24, 2016
    5
    This is a poor version of West Wing. It is a bit dull and the characters are mono-dimensional. The plot seems to struggle with actually getting some tension from the big event.
  43. Prosmooth
    Sep 22, 2016
    8
    Really strong pilot. Pretty much perfect when Sutherland is on the screen. It lags a bit when he's not. We will have to see how strong the subplots are. Interestingly--that was the weakness of 24 in more than a few seasons. Pretty excited to see if this one has legs, once the initial plot is finished.
  44. dukesnyd
    Sep 30, 2016
    10
    I don't think a President of the United States no matter who he is would be a Whisperer. talk normal Kiefer .You are not on 24 now so stop whispering.
  45. nightblade00
    Nov 15, 2016
    9
    Really liking this show so far.

    Positives: Premise is really cool. The leftover politicians are pretty accurate representations of what our real politicians are like, especially on the right. I also love a good conspiracy---which so far has been the most well done aspect of the show. Negatives: The writing can be cheesy at times, but most network shows are. There is definitely    Really liking this show so far.

    Positives: Premise is really cool. The leftover politicians are pretty accurate representations of what our real politicians are like, especially on the right. I also love a good conspiracy---which so far has been the most well done aspect of the show.

    Negatives: The writing can be cheesy at times, but most network shows are. There is definitely a disconnect between well written cable drama and network dramas.    … Expand
  46. viewer911
    Jan 2, 2017
    10
    Amongst top 10 on network tv for me. . Political intrigue, action, and solid acting especially by Kiefer Sutherland. Cant wait for next season. Don't care if it's far fetched . It's a fictional drama meant to entertain- not a documentary so I can overlook some of the more obvious clichés. Overall the writing is pretty good.
  47. rmswenson747
    Sep 30, 2016
    8
    this could be good.... i hope the writers can maintain the story... it will be especially interesting to see if the story line continues with the developing story of a non-political president.
  48. MrAlexWild
    Oct 12, 2016
    8
    Surprisingly a reasonable good tv show, we have been lacking something to replace th West Wing for a while, the only thing is the silly infighting and procrastinating, the only differences I would make would perhaps reduce some of the filming lengths to reflect current politics and get rid of the military guy, he doesn't quite deliver the role with a "Brummy" Accent.....
  49. connor1982
    Oct 3, 2016
    10
    Outstanding new show. Sutherland delivers as usual. A politician that wants to do good things for the people gets thrust into the position of President of the United States due to a terrorist bombing. He now has to deal with trying to put the government back together while the military leaders and others want to put someone else in charge. It seems to me, so far, that we will see aOutstanding new show. Sutherland delivers as usual. A politician that wants to do good things for the people gets thrust into the position of President of the United States due to a terrorist bombing. He now has to deal with trying to put the government back together while the military leaders and others want to put someone else in charge. It seems to me, so far, that we will see a somewhat quiet family man grow in to the nations most powerful leader while trying to keep to his beliefs and personal morals amidst the chaos. I have very high hopes for this one.… Expand
  50. sebastian1227
    Feb 19, 2017
    10
    Great show! A mix of West Wing, with a dash of 24 and House of Cards! With our current political climate, really makes us want to feel some normalcy how a POTUS tries to do a decent job on a daily basis. I look forward to this every week even if it's just a a fantastical show . Kiefer Sutherland is just one of those amazing actors that could carry a show like this. Hope they renew itGreat show! A mix of West Wing, with a dash of 24 and House of Cards! With our current political climate, really makes us want to feel some normalcy how a POTUS tries to do a decent job on a daily basis. I look forward to this every week even if it's just a a fantastical show . Kiefer Sutherland is just one of those amazing actors that could carry a show like this. Hope they renew it for a second season next year.… Expand
  51. McGillotine
    Nov 16, 2016
    7
    Join the adventures of Solduis Snake as he takes down the mysterious organsation known as the patriots... I mean join the adventures of Americas least favourite and ethically divided president, Thomas Kirkman as he embarks to take down those responsible for blowing up the American Capital building and for pulling strings inside the US government. Now, within this TV show, it is pretty muchJoin the adventures of Solduis Snake as he takes down the mysterious organsation known as the patriots... I mean join the adventures of Americas least favourite and ethically divided president, Thomas Kirkman as he embarks to take down those responsible for blowing up the American Capital building and for pulling strings inside the US government. Now, within this TV show, it is pretty much played on a week to week basis with Kirkman, the last surving cabnint member in the US democratic party facing a new ethical conflict in what can be described as an anti-after school special with Kirkman learning that the peacful solution isnt always the best solution.

    Now where the story overall despite its cheesy and sometimes overly pushy subjects matters, the story otherwise is actually quite entertaining to watch unfold with familair actors playing their roles, while not realistically, are otherwise interesting to watch. My only falter with the story is perhaps the subplot with kirkmans family which is about as cliche as famalies are portrayed with an innocent little daughter, an emo drug addicted son and an overbearing wife who is good incarnate. Now why i dont like this sub plot is because of the scenes involving them come across as paint by numbers with the plot you've seen been told a million times being to told again in an inferior manner. The best plot however probably comes inside the oval office with Kirkman, the chief of staff and deupty chief of staff actually doing somthing that is interesting while expanding upon both character devolpment and plot.

    Overall Designated Survivor is worth a watch and despite its flaws is better than about 90% of other television.    … Expand
  52. section20mi6
    Feb 12, 2018
    7
    Despite a immensely well-paced first episode, Designated Survivor falls short when procedural method kicks in with later episodes. However overall story line took a turn after mid-season when focus shifted more to the conspiracy with several surprising deaths. In general, season 1 proves to be an adequate political drama on a budget.
  53. CovertNinja
    Dec 14, 2016
    8
    Designated Survivor is a good TV show if you just wanna sit back and relax, but not watch a complete idiotic people screwing around. The show concentrates on basically 2 stories: Tom Kirkman and Hannah Wells. Tom Kirkman is the new president of United States after the bombing of the capitol. Audience watches how he sorts out the problems, due to people's distrust in him. There is a smallDesignated Survivor is a good TV show if you just wanna sit back and relax, but not watch a complete idiotic people screwing around. The show concentrates on basically 2 stories: Tom Kirkman and Hannah Wells. Tom Kirkman is the new president of United States after the bombing of the capitol. Audience watches how he sorts out the problems, due to people's distrust in him. There is a small transformation seen, but not so much. Then there is Hannah Wells who is an agent and is solving the capitol bombing, and sometimes those 2 worlds collide. Yes, worlds, because I rarely see any type of interaction between them except few times. Sometimes I feel like the show is concentrating on just Hannah Wells, but in my personal opinion, I prefer Tom Kirkman's story.

    Overall rating is 8/10 due to sometimes lack of interaction between characters and just personal feeling about this TV show.    … Expand
  54. hangadodo
    Oct 15, 2016
    7
    I agree with ArtsCriticsForum, Kiefer Sutherland is the nr 1 guy for this position. He saved the world in 24 so many times, he is now a credible President to do it a number of times. Don't take it too seriously...
  55. dissennatori
    Oct 24, 2016
    8
    Ok maybe is a bit of others series but so what? I personally want to be entertained And even if I've approached the second episode not too exicited I can't stopped my self to looked immediatly the others And can't wait for the next to come.
  56. gilbermon
    Jan 12, 2017
    10
    I love this, I fell that 24 is back... The adrenaline and suspense is what I was looking for a while, I didn't get that since 24. Thank you for making this...
  57. MovieNerd_EP
    Oct 24, 2017
    8
    Designated Survivor has a fascinating premiss, a standout performance by Kiefer Sutherland, a solid supporting cast, good writing and a plot that keeps you hooked. It does have some dull moments, but they are rare in a series that generally keeps the pace going very well.
  58. HARBAD
    Nov 13, 2017
    9
    in episode 5 "idiot" President Kirkman gets into a mess, since an old friend, besides a politician, tries to take advantage of decontextualizing the commentary, where the president calls the Americans an idiot, nevertheless, his tenacity and determination manage to return the direction to comments and take advantage of this error, in my opinion, although the series has kept me since itsin episode 5 "idiot" President Kirkman gets into a mess, since an old friend, besides a politician, tries to take advantage of decontextualizing the commentary, where the president calls the Americans an idiot, nevertheless, his tenacity and determination manage to return the direction to comments and take advantage of this error, in my opinion, although the series has kept me since its inception and this in its second season has slight signs of being more interesting, intrigues and power struggles do not seem to do nick in the figure of the president who happened to be an irreproachable architect to handle the threads of power of the most powerful nation in the world for a fortuitous matter, although in some aspects the series is loose of arguments, unlike house of cards, they teach like the good thing that a politician must have and that if there can be people like that in the future.… Expand
  59. nielsnable
    Jan 10, 2018
    8
    Designated Survivor is an easy-to-watch, fast-paced drama that marries effectively the espionage elements of Homeland and the exciting politics of House Cards while keeping its original premise intact and thrilling. While it certainly keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout its 21 episodes (I myself watched the first half in one day because it is just surprisingly bingeable), you mayDesignated Survivor is an easy-to-watch, fast-paced drama that marries effectively the espionage elements of Homeland and the exciting politics of House Cards while keeping its original premise intact and thrilling. While it certainly keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout its 21 episodes (I myself watched the first half in one day because it is just surprisingly bingeable), you may often find the show too familiar and derivative. And they also badly need to replace their scriptwriters.… Expand
  60. Spaniardunited
    Jun 21, 2018
    10
    Baldwin couldn't do it, Ford was ok, Affleck couldn't do it, Pine couldn't do it ... not until Sutherland do we finally get the Jack Ryan we deserve, and it's not even Jack Ryan. DS feels like the reimagining of Debt of Honor and Executive Orders, and I for one am loving it. Different strokes for different folks, but I just can't agree with the bad reviews ... I like the story, theBaldwin couldn't do it, Ford was ok, Affleck couldn't do it, Pine couldn't do it ... not until Sutherland do we finally get the Jack Ryan we deserve, and it's not even Jack Ryan. DS feels like the reimagining of Debt of Honor and Executive Orders, and I for one am loving it. Different strokes for different folks, but I just can't agree with the bad reviews ... I like the story, the execution, the cast, and especially Kiefer.

    Maybe the negative reviewers are Spacey fans? Dunno, but I would absolutely recommend this show.    … Expand
  61. Othrandur
    Oct 24, 2018
    4
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I have enjoyed Kiefer Sutherland in many of his roles, but in "Designated Survivor", he falls flat. Since he has been good elsewhere, I can only assume that this is due to bad writing and direction. And the writing and direction are horrendous! The dialogue feels like it was written by someone who wasn't good enough to write for a daytime soap opera and the directors render it in much the same way as a soap opera would, with exaggerated facial expressions and ostentatious dramatic pauses that foretell an impending commercial.

    The plots are naive to the point of stupidity, such as when government lawyers figure out a "clever" way to get around the Posse Comitatus Act at the last minute by having the FBI perform an action instead of the army. Doh! John Goodman was once in a comedy, "King Ralph", where he became the king of England because the royal family got electrocuted while taking a family photo. That comedy had a more solid plot than "Designated Survivor".

    Given the subject and setting, it's hard not to make comparisons with "The West Wing" and "Designated Survivor" loses spectacularly in every possible aspect. Where "The West Wing" trusted the viewers to be intelligent, "Designated Survivor" is written with the expectation that the viewers are complete morons.

    Character development and portrayal is on the same, low level as the writing and direction. The Tom Kirkman character is downright boring, especially when he opens his mouth. His attempts at motivation are reason enough for people to want to shoot him. The ineptitude of the writers make him sound illiterate, despite their failed attempts at making him seem eloquent. Kal Penn, who is very capable, clearly tries to make something positive from the pathetic lines he's given, but can't overcome the mediocrity of the writing staff. At least, he delivers the platitudes well. Maggie Q has moments where you can see that she has talent, but the writers and directors do a good job to bury that and turn her Hannah Wells character into an incoherent mess of clichés.

    To summarize, this show is like a daytime soap opera that is written by people who master neither politics nor the English language. I'm generous to give this show a 4.    … Expand
  62. MeritCoba
    Jan 7, 2017
    5
    When, during the State of the Union, almost every important politician is killed by a massive explosive that level the Capitol, Tom Kirkman, the secretary of Housing and Urban Development is propelled to the job of leader of the free world. It is up to him to deal with the 9/11 scenario and dissent within the country and within the white house staff.
    Kiefer Sutherland does his best to    When, during the State of the Union, almost every important politician is killed by a massive explosive that level the Capitol, Tom Kirkman, the secretary of Housing and Urban Development is propelled to the job of leader of the free world. It is up to him to deal with the 9/11 scenario and dissent within the country and within the white house staff.
    Kiefer Sutherland does his best to make the most of this uneven character and the cliche ridden story that requires some serious suspension of disbelief and makes everybody dumb so the key persons can look smart.
    Two episodes in and one could see it coming. Maggie Q plays an FBI agent who comes to the conclusion that there is something rotten in the state of Denmark when an unexploded bomb is found in the rubble of the Capitol which, upon investigation, seems to point to an obscure Muslim terrorist group. She does this by thinking hard, looking anguished and hanging around in a tent while other people do the hard work.. But wait a moment. What nutcase will even believe that IEDs have been used to blowup a building so big as the Capitol? You know how many of those devices you need for that? Think truckloads. It either is so obvious a plant that it was on purposely put there to fail as a plant or the writers just have no clue about explosives.
    Nobody else comes to the conclusion that there is something fishy going on. Yeah only smart people like Maggie Q do.
    Cliche upon cliche is served one after the other. The warmongering general who actually schemes to overthrow the president. The rebellious governor who gives free reign to police brutality(no doubt a Republican).
    The Republican senator Hookstraten, the only other survivor, who is obvious going to play Brutus with the president.The loner president who apparently has no friends. The irresponsible troubled teen age son who is into soft drugs. The bickering advisors who never seem to be able to give the president any sound advice.
    The president himself is like a wind vane in a hurricane: one moment he makes strong decisions, the next moment he looks around in panic and throws up.
    All in all, the show has an interesting premise, but even Kiefer Sutherland isn't able to save the cliche ridden story. It gets a five because of the acting, it loses five for the badly written story.    … Expand
  63. BioTofu
    May 8, 2018
    4
    I honestly thought the first half of the season was pretty good with much promises. some of those politicians openly rebelled against the central government didnt make much sense to me... but then it went full 24 with conspiracies mode with spies in every level of the government... jack bauer took over the show basically.
  64. AxeT
    May 11, 2017
    6
    Downgraded from an 8 rating. Whereas "House of Cards" is entertainment for adults, this is for 10 year olds. ABC/Disney now place diversity as their top priority over good story-telling, and this is the cartoon junk that results. Still, what a great premise! Unfortunately it's been blown coming to the end of the season by regurgitated Left wing headlines substituting for creativity.Downgraded from an 8 rating. Whereas "House of Cards" is entertainment for adults, this is for 10 year olds. ABC/Disney now place diversity as their top priority over good story-telling, and this is the cartoon junk that results. Still, what a great premise! Unfortunately it's been blown coming to the end of the season by regurgitated Left wing headlines substituting for creativity. Weak writers.

    The pilot for this series is off the charts great, and the high concept itself is a clear home run. It beats all the similar stupid White House disaster feature films out in recent years. Unfortunately it immediately devolves into a Leftist social agenda by the second episode with the same old cliché wrap up end ballad montage from former rock song formula. Still the writing is good and the story ratchets up the tension constantly with new wrinkles and developments which is what is best in any drama series. So far anyway...    … Expand
  65. YoloSwag4Doge
    Nov 25, 2016
    6
    I liked the show at first, but the plot seems way to oversimplified and doesn't always make a lot of sense. I was hoping for more of an apocalyptic, anarchy outcome, but instead it's basically a show about politics, conspiracies and every day relationship challenges.

    As an example of the plot not making a whole lot of sense, at one point a prisoner gives up the name of a terrorist. They    I liked the show at first, but the plot seems way to oversimplified and doesn't always make a lot of sense. I was hoping for more of an apocalyptic, anarchy outcome, but instead it's basically a show about politics, conspiracies and every day relationship challenges.

    As an example of the plot not making a whole lot of sense, at one point a prisoner gives up the name of a terrorist. They search the name in their database and don't find a match. At first they wonder if the prisoner was lying, which makes complete sense, but instead jump on the idea that it's a CIA conspiracy. They don't even touch upon two other more likely possibilities. One being that the terrorist simply isn't in a database, because the US doesn't know about every single terrorist in the world. Or, and I believe this is the most likely, the terrorist simply gave him a fake alias on the spot. I mean, why the **** would he give anyone that he's working with the exact same alias he's been using for years. Sure enough, a CIA informant gives up his file which comes complete with not just his alias, but his real name. For being an extremely dangerous terrorist, the guy isn't very good at hiding his identity.    … Expand
  66. StanCliffBroad
    Dec 15, 2016
    7
    This is just '24', except Kiefer Sutherland does absolutely no running around, this dealbreaker rider was probably written into his contract. Suspension of disbelief is really hard work here, because the acting has little credibility.
    Better acting, better 'adult' writing in terms of plot line, would've made this subject matter a corker.
  67. SrPepe
    Jul 8, 2018
    8
    Una trama muy muy interesante con un protagonista con una gran personalidad encargado de dirigir al país más poderoso del mundo.
  68. Trueblood
    Dec 2, 2016
    1
    The show is pretty good, but the lead actor who plays president is really depressing, his character seems to be a ball less dim wit, if there was a different lead I may watch this
  69. copperroof1
    Dec 14, 2016
    4
    I looked forward to seeing Sutherland in another series after 24 but the unforgiving pace of conversation is too fast and constant, and the muttering and whispering too frequent. I had to watch episodes two or three times to understand all conversations. The pace should have been slowed down a bit to allow reflection. I am disappointed in the production when I compare it to 24.
  70. NIGHTOWL50
    Dec 27, 2016
    6
    Loved the premise of the show, but it's a bit far-fetched even for ABC. So the FBI agent can't call anyone about the attempted assassination or anything else that she's found? She has to go from place to place on her own? And the FBI and police can't find her, but the bad guys follow her everywhere? I mean, come on...the President is already suspicious of the senator/VP...any type of infoLoved the premise of the show, but it's a bit far-fetched even for ABC. So the FBI agent can't call anyone about the attempted assassination or anything else that she's found? She has to go from place to place on her own? And the FBI and police can't find her, but the bad guys follow her everywhere? I mean, come on...the President is already suspicious of the senator/VP...any type of info on him from the FBI gal would not go unheard. One phone call to the White House, FBI, or Secret Service and they'd be in on what she's chasing in a minute. ABC has a tendency to do this with all of their dramas...remember Revenge? Quantico? They start out well, and then always go downhill with ridiculous story lines. I understand it's fictional television, but at least have some credibility with your viewers. This is pure making-it-up-as-I-go stuff. I watched the first half of season one, and I think I'm done. At least Chicago P.D., NCIS, and other dramas - while a bit out there - are at least in the ballpark of reality with their story lines.… Expand
  71. dcssteve
    Apr 23, 2018
    1
    This series is really struggling. It is so unrealistic and has such unimaginative writing. I marvel at the staff of one who is the know all computer wizard who handles all security treats (is their and FBI and CIA?). Then there is Agent Hannah Wells, superwoman, who is almost the entire secret service agency. Now she also flies to Kunami to join special forces operations. Oh my....This series is really struggling. It is so unrealistic and has such unimaginative writing. I marvel at the staff of one who is the know all computer wizard who handles all security treats (is their and FBI and CIA?). Then there is Agent Hannah Wells, superwoman, who is almost the entire secret service agency. Now she also flies to Kunami to join special forces operations. Oh my.... Sometimes I think there is a budget crunch where they cannot hire other actors to play parts that should not be filled by the main charactors.. This is a typical Hollywood, poorly thought out series. Did they ever watch West Wing? Please cancel this series and put it out of its misery.… Expand
  72. troubador
    Apr 6, 2018
    0
    This show is a horrendously bad star vehicle for Maggie Q. The premise of the show is to follow FBI Agent Wells as she tries to solve a conspiracy to bring down the US Government. Kiefer Sutherland stars as President of the United States, in a failed attempt to shake the shackles of being typecast as Jack Bauer, his performance adds little more than window dressing.

    Designated Survivor    This show is a horrendously bad star vehicle for Maggie Q. The premise of the show is to follow FBI Agent Wells as she tries to solve a conspiracy to bring down the US Government. Kiefer Sutherland stars as President of the United States, in a failed attempt to shake the shackles of being typecast as Jack Bauer, his performance adds little more than window dressing.

    Designated Survivor would have been just about tolerable as a single season production. The lurch towards following Maggie Q in season two is stark. The dialogue is terrible, and unlikely, and the poor english accent delivered by an Australian actor who is basically supposed to be playing James Bond is so distractingly bad, it is almost a reason to continue watching. Adan Canto's christmas card list will not include his agent nor the script writers for this assignment. Kal Penn serves admirably on a sinking ship. Paulo Costanzo basically rehashes his Road Trip character in the White House. Italia Ricci does well and is probably the only person who will go on to benefit from staring in this show.    … Expand
  73. Maxx71
    Jul 29, 2019
    4
    An interesting idea supported by stiff acting and sub-par dialogue. The characters are obvious and one dimensional.
  74. stevemcongdon
    Jun 5, 2018
    0
    Some,like myself may see this series as a follow on from 24. And they'ed by right, in spirit it's the natural evolution of that show but rather than a simple rebadging of a previously used formula, i find this to be a very credible and relatable show that piques the interest and floats very close challenging the current'y held views on the Heritage and conspiracies in the USA i HighlySome,like myself may see this series as a follow on from 24. And they'ed by right, in spirit it's the natural evolution of that show but rather than a simple rebadging of a previously used formula, i find this to be a very credible and relatable show that piques the interest and floats very close challenging the current'y held views on the Heritage and conspiracies in the USA i Highly recommend this as a must see.… Expand
  75. sbermont
    Oct 14, 2018
    1
    Designated Survivor is certainly qualified to make the he Top 10 list of "Brain Drain" shows - productions that seem perfect to watch when you are too tired to think or when you are in the mood to "veg" and experience fatuous, extremely forgettable TV. But even though a certain amount of mediocrity is expected and enjoyed; the writers could do a better job of taking their craft seriouslyDesignated Survivor is certainly qualified to make the he Top 10 list of "Brain Drain" shows - productions that seem perfect to watch when you are too tired to think or when you are in the mood to "veg" and experience fatuous, extremely forgettable TV. But even though a certain amount of mediocrity is expected and enjoyed; the writers could do a better job of taking their craft seriously and avoid the following tedious, tired, and hackneyed catch phrases:

    1/ "With all due respect"...obligatory intro phrase to any debate or insult
    2/ "We're done here" to end participation in any meeting
    3/ "Can we have the room please?"
    4/ "You didn't come here to reminisce, did you? -
    5/ "A word?" request to talk privately
    6/ "I've got nuthin" to indicate a lack of pertinent information
    7/ "We need to talk." (Possibly the #1 most overused of the list)
    8/ "...and yet, here we are." - to signify an unexpected turn of events
    9/ "knocked it out of the park" - synonymous for doing really well
    and the piece de resistance:
    10/ Keep me posted and/or I'll keep you posted

    A request to the dialogue writers assigned to shows of this caliber:
    PLEASE, at least make an attempt to pump some new blood into your chosen vernacular. I'm watching the show to relax...not to be forced into a coma.
    Oh...and as far as Sutherland's simpering/prissy/boy scout, overly-gravel-voiced presidential portrayal...He must be going for the most politically correct man in the universe award - he's sensitive; he's liberal; he's caring; he's humble (the "aw shucks" routine is really tedious); he's fashionably weak; and his shoes are weird. Oprah would love him.    … Expand
  76. NT5CC
    Oct 8, 2018
    0
    The first season while predictable was well written and interesting enough. The characters seem interesting and develop well as the storyline progresses. Unfortunately, toward the end of season 1, the president though labeled an Independent begins to show signs of a definite Left shift. Season 2 opens as a full fledged Leftist propaganda project with opposing characters and views shownThe first season while predictable was well written and interesting enough. The characters seem interesting and develop well as the storyline progresses. Unfortunately, toward the end of season 1, the president though labeled an Independent begins to show signs of a definite Left shift. Season 2 opens as a full fledged Leftist propaganda project with opposing characters and views shown as mean spirited, narrow minded and conniving. The Progressive ideals professed are presented with the usual spin and gloss while any opposing views are depicted as, well, other than desirable and certainly not fairly. Season 2 begins with the expected hot topics of gun control and immigration and trends downhill from there.
    I was initially hopeful for an interesting series but wound up completely disappointed by a lopsided propaganda piece which follows the usual talking points and fabrications.
    Wouldn't it be nice if Hollyweird could just stick to entertaining and leave the propagandizing to the PACs. They could have had a fairly entertaining and interesting story here but all they would up with is Leftist BS. MSNBC would give it high praise no doubt...    … Expand
  77. wy1Kk1r7sUKl
    Dec 2, 2018
    6
    It's a decent show. But every episode tries to wrap in the issues du jour. And it deals with most of them in the most cursory of ways. It's bad writing. Also, at times Keifer Sutherland's voice gets on my nerves.
  78. theutahartist
    Jan 22, 2019
    2
    The idea of the show is entertaining and I can allow myself to suspend my belief on much of the series. The President and his wife are likable people and that's not a bad thing, except they use it to sell the obvious political platform that the writers have. Seriously, if I want to have political policies shoved down my throat, I'll go watch the news. There was so much that the writersThe idea of the show is entertaining and I can allow myself to suspend my belief on much of the series. The President and his wife are likable people and that's not a bad thing, except they use it to sell the obvious political platform that the writers have. Seriously, if I want to have political policies shoved down my throat, I'll go watch the news. There was so much that the writers could've done with the show to keep my attention but, instead, I've done so much eye-rolling with their obvious agendas that I'm getting a headache.… Expand
  79. n8rush
    Apr 10, 2019
    3
    I just started to watch this show on Netflix, loved 24 and saw this as a potential spiritual successor. The first few episodes were great, I was hooked, but then it lost me.

    The reason why? PROPAGANDA The show claims Kirkman to be an Independent able to give either party a fair shake, but that does not prevent the introduction of a sneaky Republican within the first 30 minutes of the    I just started to watch this show on Netflix, loved 24 and saw this as a potential spiritual successor. The first few episodes were great, I was hooked, but then it lost me.

    The reason why? PROPAGANDA

    The show claims Kirkman to be an Independent able to give either party a fair shake, but that does not prevent the introduction of a sneaky Republican within the first 30 minutes of the show. I thought to myself, whatever, maybe it is just this lady is a B, I can deal with that. NOPE, next few episodes we have another cooky Republican allowing for a police state to beat up on the Muslim community. Perhaps that is just what would happen if the government fell apart, maybe they will tie it together when the dust settles down... NOPE the Democratic agenda pushed throughout the show consistently repeating the same rhetoric as the protagonist clings to every word. Gun laws, immigration, Climate Change, Racism, Sexism, it's all there. Let me save you the trouble of watching the show and seeing it dwindle, Republican bad, Democrat good, Logical Independents are actually Democrats.    … Expand
  80. bcwjr
    Jun 22, 2019
    0
    Yes it is leftist propaganda. But it is presented in an assumptive way as just ordinary ideals and "normal." So if you are middle of the road or conservative you are given the opportunity to understand that something is wrong with you. Change or you may go insane enough to blow up something in Washington.
    The high spot for me was seeing Maggie Q's phone on the ford app starting her car.    Yes it is leftist propaganda. But it is presented in an assumptive way as just ordinary ideals and "normal." So if you are middle of the road or conservative you are given the opportunity to understand that something is wrong with you. Change or you may go insane enough to blow up something in Washington.
    The high spot for me was seeing Maggie Q's phone on the ford app starting her car. Now that's entertainment.    … Expand

Awards & Rankings

78
#78 Best TV Season of 2016
11
#11 Most Discussed TV Season of 2016
49
#49 Most Shared TV Season of 2016

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
71

Generally favorable reviews - based on 35 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 26 out of 35
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 35
  3. Negative: 0 out of 35
  1. Wall Street Journal
    Reviewed by: Dorothy Rabinowitz
    Sep 22, 2016
    50
    The problem comes in the second episode, along with a suddenly increased capacity to resist everything about Designated Survivor. Here we come up against the show’s message, or more precisely its gross political tendentiousness. ... Mr. Sutherland may not have been the best choice for the role of a virtuous milquetoast concealing a heart of steel--the milquetoast part dominates even when the steel is flashed.
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  2. Los Angeles Daily News
    Reviewed by: Rob Lowman
    Sep 21, 2016
    80
    It looks like Sutherland has another winner on his hands.
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  3. New York Magazine (Vulture)
    Reviewed by: Jen Chaney
    Sep 21, 2016
    80
    It’s smartly made, but it also doesn’t linger terribly long on details, including character development. ... If nothing else, there is something satisfying about seeing Sutherland as our president.
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