Firefly

:

Season 1
  • Network: FOX
  • Series Premiere Date: Sep 20, 2002
Season #: 2, 1
User Score
8.3

Universal acclaim- based on 481 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 411 out of 481
  2. Mixed: 13 out of 481
  3. Negative: 57 out of 481
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  1. jsous
    May 3, 2011
    10
    perfect. smart, funny, action packed. Such an amazingly enjoyable show. I cherish the few episodes that were made because in my opinion they are some of the very best television produced.
  2. Tnetennba
    Apr 23, 2011
    10
    Brilliant dialogue full of intrigue, drama suspense and ass-kickery. There is a lot of character development over its short episode list and will keep viewers pining over what might have been. Its fourteen episodes are some of the most best sci-fi television ever made.
  3. steven
    Mar 30, 2011
    10
    Firefly transcends the sci-fi genre. The characters are multi-dimensional, the writing superb and the chemistry between the actors and actresses are palpable. The spaceship was just an added bonus. It's too bad the show did not really get off the ground due to Fox's incompetence of airing the show out of order.
  4. ncoulombe
    Feb 23, 2011
    10
    Absolutely amazing. Truly clever writing, great acting, interesting stories, superb cinematics. This show is quite possibly the best show to be cancelled. Don't listen to what professional critics say, they are used to giving thumbs up to anything that fits in with what is 'the norm', this show is breaks the mold, and is definitely unlike anything else I've seen on television.
  5. SchroederRock
    Apr 10, 2012
    10
    If there was one show that should have never been cut off, it was Firefly. There's not another TV series that captured the imagination like Joss Whedon's Firefly. And though it received a movie (Serenity) to bring some form of closure, there has never been a greater travesty than the cancellation of this absolutely wonderful TV series. One can only hope that a day is coming where a TVIf there was one show that should have never been cut off, it was Firefly. There's not another TV series that captured the imagination like Joss Whedon's Firefly. And though it received a movie (Serenity) to bring some form of closure, there has never been a greater travesty than the cancellation of this absolutely wonderful TV series. One can only hope that a day is coming where a TV executive has the brains to get the band back together for an encore season or two.… Expand
  6. xXRenTyrellXx
    Aug 17, 2011
    10
    It's TV series like Firefly that let us know what true entertainment is. Firefly is part of our history, a part of it we will never forget. And although it is very unfortunate that the show was canceled, (way to soon I mite add!) 14 episodes is all we need to call Firefly one of the greatest series of our time. We will never forget the fun, and adventurous times we had with thisIt's TV series like Firefly that let us know what true entertainment is. Firefly is part of our history, a part of it we will never forget. And although it is very unfortunate that the show was canceled, (way to soon I mite add!) 14 episodes is all we need to call Firefly one of the greatest series of our time. We will never forget the fun, and adventurous times we had with this spectacular series, and will continue to have, for many, many more years.… Expand
  7. cmpgk1024
    Oct 30, 2011
    10
    This has to be the best TV show ever. The mix of sci-fi and western themes make for a show that simply can't be missed. Why are you still reading this? Go rent it on Netflix or something!
  8. DavidS
    Oct 18, 2011
    10
    Firefly is a masterpiece and a very special series of the sort which only ever happens once. Every aspect of the series is profoundly well done, and comes together perfectly. The setting is highly creative, and completely convincing. The way it brings together western themes with a sci-fi setting and combines it with multicultural elements is risky, but works like a dream. TheFirefly is a masterpiece and a very special series of the sort which only ever happens once. Every aspect of the series is profoundly well done, and comes together perfectly. The setting is highly creative, and completely convincing. The way it brings together western themes with a sci-fi setting and combines it with multicultural elements is risky, but works like a dream. The characters are all completely unique and have real depth. I love the way all nine of them are equally important. It is impossible to imagine Serenity having even one less character. The acting is astonishingly good. Every single actor is perfectly cast, and I honestly can't imagine a better performance from any of them. I want to give special mention to Summer Glau as River. I thought her performance had nuanced depth and complexity. She acted a difficult role at a young age but made River utterly convincing. The relationships between the characters are realistic, and we can identify with them. In fact, one quality of Firefly is that it avoids excess. There are no tiring soap opera elements, nor does it include any aliens. Even River's physic characteristics are deliberately understated. The story in each episode was creative and gripping, and there was no recycling, nor any weak episodes. Each episode bring new ideas to the table, and the series stay fresh all the way through. The themes combine exciting western/sci-fi characteristics with universal human elements. The cinematography is also bold. The camerawork is deliberately rough, which really complements the down-to-earth western and human themes. Overall I rate this series a ten, because I honestly can't think of a single flaw. It's tragic that it ended early, but at least it ended on a high note.… Expand
  9. lifeinrewind
    Jun 29, 2011
    8
    While Firefly may not be quite as amazing as some make it out to be, it certainly features a strong cast of characters, great humor, and an abundance of fun and adventure. Firefly showed a lot of promise in its one season, and would have probably become even better if given more time to grow. A few episodes aren't up to the standard of the rest, but "Ariel" and "Out of Gas" stand out inWhile Firefly may not be quite as amazing as some make it out to be, it certainly features a strong cast of characters, great humor, and an abundance of fun and adventure. Firefly showed a lot of promise in its one season, and would have probably become even better if given more time to grow. A few episodes aren't up to the standard of the rest, but "Ariel" and "Out of Gas" stand out in particular of Firefly at its best. Joss Whedon showed once again his strengths at writing believable characters who still spout out witty, amusing dialog. This "space-western" has great re-watch potential and it was a crime that it did not get a chance to further the mythology with more seasons. Luckily, the excellent film "Serenity" gave some resolution to the show, but it deserved even more. Firefly is a lot of fun. Overall score: 8/10… Expand
  10. JamboBuenna
    Jan 18, 2012
    10
    Favourite show, would love to see it return. Whedon's finest hour. The characters are multi-dimensional, the writing superb and the chemistry between the actors and actresses are palpable. The spaceship was just an added bonus. It is a shame it has not been picked up again.
  11. PQuinny
    Jan 15, 2012
    10
    This was a terrific show. I just recently started watching it about a year ago and I was so upset to find it had been cancelled after the first season. I mean what happened Fox? Did you hire a bunch of morons who decided it wasn't good enough? Joss Whedon did such an excellent job with the plot and characters of this show and it's a shame Fox had to ruin it.
  12. RavenousGrue
    Jul 3, 2012
    10
    Firefly has characters and dialog that are truly memorable. In a single season, I really felt like I got to know these people and it is a crime that I won't likely see them again. Where is the Kickstarter campaign for Firefly the TV series? I'd contribute to that.
  13. AlphaBoss
    Apr 19, 2013
    10
    Undoubtedly the best sci-show to have ever aired for such a short period of time. This shows first season(and only season) was enough to demonstrate it's potential. This genre of western and science fiction blend in perfect harmony. If this show was given a chance, there's no telling how good it could have gotten.
    Remember it is a TV show, many people who have only watched chopped    Undoubtedly the best sci-show to have ever aired for such a short period of time. This shows first season(and only season) was enough to demonstrate it's potential. This genre of western and science fiction blend in perfect harmony. If this show was given a chance, there's no telling how good it could have gotten.
    Remember it is a TV show, many people who have only watched chopped portions will give it low ratings. Ignorance are no grounds for a bad review.    … Expand
  14. dylanlp
    May 2, 2013
    10
    An excellent show by far the best live action TV show I have ever seen. It provided a complex, deep, and perfectly put together form of entertainment that network TV shows almost never have. The acting is excellent, the stories are interesting and intriguing, and the script is great. Its cancellation doesn't surprise me I know that the typical folks watching FOX on weekdays have noAn excellent show by far the best live action TV show I have ever seen. It provided a complex, deep, and perfectly put together form of entertainment that network TV shows almost never have. The acting is excellent, the stories are interesting and intriguing, and the script is great. Its cancellation doesn't surprise me I know that the typical folks watching FOX on weekdays have no interest in such a show I think this sort of show is more suited for cable and premium like AMC, SyFy, HBO, Showtime etc. Overall, I would reccommend this to anyone a great show.… Expand
  15. DrunkGentleman
    May 1, 2013
    10
    Although the series was as short as 14 episodes it was probably the best thing I've ever watched,the characters and the story blended together so well,the humor was well applied and each character also had a personal story or a secret .Every episode had an enjoyable scenario and an interesting outcome.All in all i would like to congratulate fox for ruining something so brilliant justAlthough the series was as short as 14 episodes it was probably the best thing I've ever watched,the characters and the story blended together so well,the humor was well applied and each character also had a personal story or a secret .Every episode had an enjoyable scenario and an interesting outcome.All in all i would like to congratulate fox for ruining something so brilliant just because they felt like it.… Expand
  16. heromoder
    Apr 21, 2015
    9
    Joss Whedon's finest television by a country mile. Great characters, stunning settings and terrific chemistry between the cast produces a unique and fresh TV experience. Make sure you check out "Ariel", the best episode of the series. A favourite.
  17. bfedor
    May 5, 2014
    10
    I love this show! Once again FOX makes an asinine decision to cancel something that is well written and much loved by fans. I cannot say enough good things about this show! It has such a large following and I wish they would sell the rights to it so someone could bring it back!
  18. JackKasket
    Apr 15, 2015
    10
    After watching this show for the first time on Netflix, I can finally appreciate what the hype is all about.

    Here's my number one take-away from the show: I used to hate Nathan Fillion's stupid smug face and every single thing he did. I just could not bring myself to watch Castle, because I just wanted to smack the stupid grin off his face. Oh how have the tables turned Nathan. How very    After watching this show for the first time on Netflix, I can finally appreciate what the hype is all about.

    Here's my number one take-away from the show: I used to hate Nathan Fillion's stupid smug face and every single thing he did. I just could not bring myself to watch Castle, because I just wanted to smack the stupid grin off his face. Oh how have the tables turned Nathan. How very much so.

    I absolutely love the crew of Serenity, particularly Fillion's portrayal of captain Reynolds. The spaghetti western meets space age is reminiscent of Cowboy Bebop, but with its own unique charm. While some episodes are a bit long-winding, there are enough charming dialogue or surprise lynchings to keep me interested.

    Truly, one of the best sci-fi shows ever made, and truly an unacceptable fate in the hands of Fox executives.    … Expand
  19. goettel
    Nov 28, 2011
    10
    Having just revisited Firefly, again I'm amazed how good it is: the casting, dialog, acting and sets are all top notch, and the whole thing is just a ton of fun. Whedon's finest hour. It just makes me sad that it can never return in its current form.

    [spoiler] Killing off Wash and Book in the movie feels like an angry Whedon smothering his baby out of spite over its cancellation.    Having just revisited Firefly, again I'm amazed how good it is: the casting, dialog, acting and sets are all top notch, and the whole thing is just a ton of fun. Whedon's finest hour. It just makes me sad that it can never return in its current form.

    [spoiler] Killing off Wash and Book in the movie feels like an angry Whedon smothering his baby out of spite over its cancellation.

    The movie also lacks the humor which made this short-lived series so much fun. So, I'm going to treat myself to a rerun of what could have panned out to be my favorite series of all time. *sigh* =(    … Expand
  20. GenuineOpinion
    Jun 12, 2012
    10
    I can't say anything that hasn't already been said. These characters, and the episode plots were simply wonderful. I can't think of anything off the top of my head that I did not like about it.
  21. Zal
    Dec 19, 2012
    9
    Having watched this series from start to finish, I can definitely understand why Firefly is the cult classic it is. The characters were fun and interesting, the acting was supurb, the writing was clever, and the sets were creative. It's really a shame that this show got cancelled after the first season yet awful shows like The Secret Life of the American Teenager are only cancelled after 5Having watched this series from start to finish, I can definitely understand why Firefly is the cult classic it is. The characters were fun and interesting, the acting was supurb, the writing was clever, and the sets were creative. It's really a shame that this show got cancelled after the first season yet awful shows like The Secret Life of the American Teenager are only cancelled after 5 SEASONS (on the bright side, it's finally going to end)! Oh, what a world.… Expand
  22. ramblemancy
    Mar 9, 2012
    9
    As cautious as cats held close to fire by metallic creatures, their hands guarded by angular men with rounded features, this world, this space opera is where I want to live. A real estate agency should be established, an asteroid with enough atmosphere to somehow make rural California arise long enough for filming. But here is the ramblemancy a pocket deep or rather more wide and deep toAs cautious as cats held close to fire by metallic creatures, their hands guarded by angular men with rounded features, this world, this space opera is where I want to live. A real estate agency should be established, an asteroid with enough atmosphere to somehow make rural California arise long enough for filming. But here is the ramblemancy a pocket deep or rather more wide and deep to hold a gun and a coat and a future detective author. There is, there must be, an episode sixteen. To create a spaceship and fly it to other planets, to dodge and flee from either those with great power or those with intents to theft and to create "skin made lamps", to bring along a brother of many famous men and lovely woman who eventually will love her Marine Husband despite his terrorist leanings and some other types whose careers vary from a slow cave dice to simply mowing lawns in East Hollywood, to do all of this, these words, a ramblemancy of text, surely meant they created more episodes. Maybe they are waiting, as some might wait, for the curse and collection of future networks, some broadband something.… Expand
  23. StaticSpine
    Mar 7, 2015
    9
    Fantastic characters, great stories, awesome universe. It's a shame Firefly was cancelled. A must-see for any Sci-Fi fans. The potential of this was enormous.
  24. yune2
    Jan 19, 2013
    10
    Great, original characters and a fantastic setting makes this one great TV series that should not have been cancelled. A great cast and a great director has made Firefly an unforgettable experience.
  25. Rox22
    Apr 12, 2013
    9
    A fantastic show that got cancelled too soon. Great premise, great characters and great episodes. The first few episodes were a little rough around the edges, but that quickly went away once the actors were comfortable in their roles. A dying shame that it never got a chance to grow into what it could have been. At least there's Serenity.
  26. Yorkshirebaster
    Jan 8, 2015
    10
    a masterpiece mix of sci-fi and western mixed in with some great characters, action and most memorable comedy. it was canceled just after one season, yet it still is up there with the greats, the follow on film was also very memorable and all together makes one hell of an adventure. this show stands out for me as one of the most original to ever be made, and i think it was and inspirationa masterpiece mix of sci-fi and western mixed in with some great characters, action and most memorable comedy. it was canceled just after one season, yet it still is up there with the greats, the follow on film was also very memorable and all together makes one hell of an adventure. this show stands out for me as one of the most original to ever be made, and i think it was and inspiration for such films as guardians of the galaxy. after i watched guardians, (which i enjoyed) it reminded me so much of firefly and serenity that i could not help but go back and watch firefly from start to finish, im now on serenity i think i might shed a tear at the end as i know they won't be anymore. joss whedon may of made buffy but he done good with this, firefly + serenity legendary till the end. :)… Expand
  27. dtg12
    Dec 12, 2018
    9
    The only negative - it's way too short! Other than that, I have nothing to complain about.
  28. greenisgood
    Sep 6, 2019
    10
    An absolute loss of good, deep and complex writing came with the death of this show. And though this was a wholly character driven show I can't say I Do not understand why the low ratings killed the show.

    The characters serious approach with their portrayals of their persona and relatively grounded tone of the show is probably was probably what turned off the casual sci-fi $hit    An absolute loss of good, deep and complex writing came with the death of this show. And though this was a wholly character driven show I can't say I Do not understand why the low ratings killed the show.

    The characters serious approach with their portrayals of their persona and relatively grounded tone of the show is probably was probably what turned off the casual sci-fi $hit exploding in space with massive VFX loving popcorn munchers.
    On the other side and the reason this show gained it's cult status was because we needed to see the underlying deconstruction of the smart ass ship captain and crew which was the key focus.
    Even though Cpt. Malcom Reynolds always acted like he could do no wrong and sometimes even pissed us fans off with his on screen actions, he would always redeem himself though sheer grit, well written story and excellent Screenplay execution.

    Joss Whedon is not a god, trust me I know this but i cannot deny he is a damn good writer and I thank the fanbase for the Serenity Movie existing to allow us fans some closure for the Universe. It is difficult to see the show return considering the gap and I think it is good since we have Firefly and Serenity for endless watches and Good Feels.    … Expand
  29. muzziklover
    Feb 12, 2012
    10
    Best cancelled show ever. I curse FOX forever for cancelling this sci-fi masterpiece. I know quite a few failed tv shows that I like but Firefly is the only show that I wished they continued. Each episode is absolute gold and its storylines leave such a huge impact even with only 14 episodes available. The main reason to watch Firefly and what made it so great is its cast of characters,Best cancelled show ever. I curse FOX forever for cancelling this sci-fi masterpiece. I know quite a few failed tv shows that I like but Firefly is the only show that I wished they continued. Each episode is absolute gold and its storylines leave such a huge impact even with only 14 episodes available. The main reason to watch Firefly and what made it so great is its cast of characters, the Serenity crew. In just 14 episodes, you grow attached to these characters because of their unforgettable and likable personalities. If you come across the dvd of this great show, don't even hesitate. Buy it.… Expand
  30. Ravenous
    Nov 19, 2010
    10
    Truly brilliant. Firefly delivers clever storytelling along with perhaps one of the finest ensemble casts ever assembled. The witty dialogue, the drama, the fantastic humor... everything is absolutely top-notch. Joss Whedon is perhaps the most talented mind in the television industry. Firefly, Buffy, and Angel are easily three of the best shows from the modern era, if not for all time. TooTruly brilliant. Firefly delivers clever storytelling along with perhaps one of the finest ensemble casts ever assembled. The witty dialogue, the drama, the fantastic humor... everything is absolutely top-notch. Joss Whedon is perhaps the most talented mind in the television industry. Firefly, Buffy, and Angel are easily three of the best shows from the modern era, if not for all time. Too bad Dollhouse was a trainwreck.… Expand
  31. Humboldt1337
    Oct 13, 2011
    10
    This is the best TV show of all time. I would like to have 5 minutes alone in the room with the old-fat-retarded-SciFi-hating TV execs who canceled this show.
    I have never seen a better first season to any TV show - can you imagine how good this could have gotten if it had been given a fair chance? All TV shows get better after the first season, and getting better than this season would    This is the best TV show of all time. I would like to have 5 minutes alone in the room with the old-fat-retarded-SciFi-hating TV execs who canceled this show.
    I have never seen a better first season to any TV show - can you imagine how good this could have gotten if it had been given a fair chance? All TV shows get better after the first season, and getting better than this season would have been near-impossible.
    Serenity was a small consolation prize for those who did like this show - but not near enough.
    bring this show back!!!    … Expand
  32. ducky87
    Aug 24, 2011
    10
    the best sci-fi tv show ever made. from the perfect cast to the amazing script there will never be a show that can touch how Firefly melded a group together and still came up with great plot lines to go with them
  33. DoctorDalek
    Mar 13, 2012
    10
    More than just another sci-fi show. The interactions among the characters and the development of said characters is superb. It is a shame that it didn't air for more than one season.
  34. AJRambo
    Apr 9, 2013
    10
    Fun and adventurous following this incredible team is an amazing journey as you see the relationships that have depth and meaning. Seeing the secrets of the team reveal themselves and characters grow and flourish is exactly what you look for in a show.
  35. Lambo442
    Sep 7, 2012
    10
    Firefly will change you. Believe the hype. The characters, the feel, the setting is so original it almost haunts you, in a good way. I'm being lying in bed daydreaming and found myself on board Serenity, conversing with the characters. They all have a special place in my heart. I didn't know I could enjoy a show so much until I watched this.
  36. anshiman
    Jul 16, 2014
    8
    Acting amongst the cast is moderately inconsistent, with a portion performing above the average and a portion performing disturbingly below it. Disregarding this blemish, Firefly is a suspenseful, well-written, and engaging show with memorable, original and textured characters and a sci-fi disguise with a heart of red-blooded drama.
  37. daywalker
    Oct 14, 2013
    10
    Firefly was sci-fi/western ahead of its time and sadly I didn't hear about it till after it was cancelled. The characters, casting, and writing were well done and it is a real shame that this show has never gotten the attention and recognition that it deserves. Serenity (the movie Joss Whedon used to continue the story) suffered from the same problem, which again, is a real shame.
  38. morfil
    Jun 3, 2014
    8
    Firefly was easily the best sci fi show Fox developed aside from the X-Files. It had science fiction staples spaceships, laser pistols, and tech, but also a nice retro quality of frontier western speech, horses, and guns. The humor alone made this one of the best shows on television. The Joss Whedon ability to spin a familiar plot convention/line in a surprising direction and the top notchFirefly was easily the best sci fi show Fox developed aside from the X-Files. It had science fiction staples spaceships, laser pistols, and tech, but also a nice retro quality of frontier western speech, horses, and guns. The humor alone made this one of the best shows on television. The Joss Whedon ability to spin a familiar plot convention/line in a surprising direction and the top notch cast of talented and charismatic actors help make this cancelled science fiction Fox casualty a cult favorite and upcoming movie.… Expand
  39. ThatCooperGuy
    Sep 29, 2015
    8
    Firefly was a bit overhyped for me, but it still proved to be a solid show. I did rush through it and I don’t think it’s any sort of “masterpiece”, but I enjoyed it and saw what could of been a promisingly entertaining show that should not of been cancelled so early in its prime. I should probably re-watch it again in the future.
  40. iCronic
    Jul 11, 2014
    8
    Watched it this year, the characters/ actors are just great, good chemistry funny Humour. the Special effects even 10 years later are okay to watch. too bad it was cancelled
  41. fbtimesofficial
    Sep 20, 2015
    8
    It's not very consistent, but Firefly is a perfect example of Joss Whedon's abilities as both a filmmaker and showrunner. And that western vibe doesn't hurt a bit.
  42. Bruce722
    Jan 12, 2014
    10
    This is undoubtedly one of the best shows I've ever seen. It combines the crew and episodic adventure of Star Trek with the old-school gritty western feel of the original Star Wars and, taking away the fantastical elements of aliens and "the Force" (though River is damn near a Jedi at times), merges those elements into a wonderful show. The characters are all dynamic and interesting andThis is undoubtedly one of the best shows I've ever seen. It combines the crew and episodic adventure of Star Trek with the old-school gritty western feel of the original Star Wars and, taking away the fantastical elements of aliens and "the Force" (though River is damn near a Jedi at times), merges those elements into a wonderful show. The characters are all dynamic and interesting and their relationships with one another feel genuine and real, not forced or superficial. The little nuances of the show also give it a certain amount of charm that most other shows fail to create. Honestly, I could go on and on but I'll end by saying that I absolutely loved the show, am disappointed that there are so many idiots out there that it only lasted one season, and I will continue to watch reruns whenever the opportunity arises. Thank you Joss Whedon for another gem. I just wish this one last half as long as some of your other ones.… Expand
  43. Richard_Craven
    Apr 28, 2014
    10
    This has to be one of my favorite TV series of all time. Have been a fan of Joss Whedon's work and was not sure about this. Read a few mixed reviews and was put off from first, I found the DVD box set for sale in a charity shop and took the chance, I'm glad I did.if your only interested in flashy alien Sci-Fi movies then I would give this a miss, if like me you like stuff that's designedThis has to be one of my favorite TV series of all time. Have been a fan of Joss Whedon's work and was not sure about this. Read a few mixed reviews and was put off from first, I found the DVD box set for sale in a charity shop and took the chance, I'm glad I did.if your only interested in flashy alien Sci-Fi movies then I would give this a miss, if like me you like stuff that's designed to make you think then this is a must watch.… Expand
  44. JamesCannon
    Nov 25, 2014
    3
    I am now through 5 episodes and I am still giving this thing a 3 rating. It may take me an entire year to get through this. First off all I have seen some great sci fy cable shows to begin with such as Battle Galacticca which absolutely annihilates this show in every single respect. There is nothing believable about this world what so ever. It also includes extremely slow episodesI am now through 5 episodes and I am still giving this thing a 3 rating. It may take me an entire year to get through this. First off all I have seen some great sci fy cable shows to begin with such as Battle Galacticca which absolutely annihilates this show in every single respect. There is nothing believable about this world what so ever. It also includes extremely slow episodes where we get invited to a cocktail party that ends in a 17th century style duel with freaking fencing moves. I dont know how this thing got a cult following..anything in the world can get a cult following if this can.… Expand
  45. Barby
    Dec 1, 2014
    9
    This is a lovely space western that nobody seems to understand how could be cancelled! All in Firefly looks well thought, the environment of defeated colonies, the ramshackle ship and its disparate crew, all ingredients fit perfectly with very few flaws, most of them subjective as an extremely dumbed Jayne (I really like him but would be nice a bit smart), or the idealization of theThis is a lovely space western that nobody seems to understand how could be cancelled! All in Firefly looks well thought, the environment of defeated colonies, the ramshackle ship and its disparate crew, all ingredients fit perfectly with very few flaws, most of them subjective as an extremely dumbed Jayne (I really like him but would be nice a bit smart), or the idealization of the prostitution (I like Inara's role but it would be even more interesting if she weren't proud of her 'job'), or the forced inclusion of a preacher without a clear role (his best scenes are when he attempts to evangelize the Captain in vain, ha!), but in average all characters fit in their roles.… Expand
  46. SelnAdams
    Apr 30, 2013
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. You all are going to think I am nuts, but I did not think it was that good. It is not as low as The Avengers, but it is just in-between something and nothing. But I will give the show the benefit of the doubt because of its unfortunate end.

    The first season of any show is rough, and to end it there is just plain sad. Shows nowadays never get a chance to reach their potential, not even the film Serenity satisfied me.

    Some characters never get a chance to show their true colors, except if you are the star of course, and the Tam siblings, even though Rivers character was so formulaic that I knew where they are going with this character, and Jane Cob, which despite one particular episode, I did not find him interesting at all.

    Kaylee was the only character that stood out from the crew; it really was the performance that sold me.
    Wash however was very hard for me to see, because when he is not on screen I completely forget he exists. As much as Jane is somewhat dull, he at least is memorable. And the pilot’s death in the feature film, while shocking, goes over my head as soon as the next scene starts.

    But as stated, if not for the shows untimely end, this review would be different.
    The cast and crew should be fortunate that there are loyal fans out that will fall on to the sword for their success, because honestly, they would be dead and forgotten without them.    … Expand
  47. Tick
    Dec 27, 2015
    10
    I just realized I haven't written a review for my all-time-favourite TV series.

    You guessed it, as my all-time-favourite, this series get a 10/10. It has everything and more. It crushed me when it was cancelled... as it crushed so many others. In the perfect world we would have had at least 7 seasons of this true gem... but we were only blessed with one season. If you watch    I just realized I haven't written a review for my all-time-favourite TV series.

    You guessed it, as my all-time-favourite, this series get a 10/10.

    It has everything and more. It crushed me when it was cancelled... as it crushed so many others.

    In the perfect world we would have had at least 7 seasons of this true gem... but we were only blessed with one season.

    If you watch it... You have to watch the first 2-3 episodes in order to become hooked. The character depth, writing, and immersion into their universe is awesome and complete.

    I still pick this up now and then and watch the whole series... wishing there could be more, and suffering a little heartbreak each time the season comes to an end.    … Expand
  48. ReubenIsAGod
    Nov 10, 2014
    8
    Basically Cowboy Bebop live action. I love the setting and the feeling of the show, it's basically a western in space, all the characters are just so captivating and seem to always keep me entertained. the only real negatives is probably just how slow the pilot episode was, oversize the show would be about a 9.
  49. shipwreck58
    Dec 30, 2011
    7
    Look, I know its a fan favorite, but it is not the greatest show, especially not in sci-fi. Its a good show. I watched it when it aired and rewatched it on DVD and saw the movie (which was terrible by the way). Its a fun ride, but the characters, contrary to what many say in these critiques, are one dimensional, in fact they are the same tired old western archetypes, which isn't badLook, I know its a fan favorite, but it is not the greatest show, especially not in sci-fi. Its a good show. I watched it when it aired and rewatched it on DVD and saw the movie (which was terrible by the way). Its a fun ride, but the characters, contrary to what many say in these critiques, are one dimensional, in fact they are the same tired old western archetypes, which isn't bad when you consider that is what this show is supposed to be. I am not beating up on Firefly but there are a number of better, even great scifi shows that got the axe after one season (Space: Above and Beyond for example). Yes Fox has a horrible track record properly pushing its sci fi shows (SAAB, Dark Angel, the list goes on and on) but the bottom line is ratings. The new BSG wouldn't have survived on Fox, Star Trek (at least the good Next Generation) wouldn't have survived on Fox. But Firefly survived as long as it should have. At least they got a movie to wrap things up.… Expand
  50. ClariseSamuels
    Apr 14, 2014
    6
    I retrieved this 2002 14-episode series from Netflix, and I’ve watched almost every episode. It is an excellent sample of Western-scifi, which is not an easy genre to pull off. The noble Hollywood failure, Cowboys and Aliens, is a good example of how problematic it can be to mix outer space with the good old-fashioned Wild West.

    Why the series got canceled after one season is still    I retrieved this 2002 14-episode series from Netflix, and I’ve watched almost every episode. It is an excellent sample of Western-scifi, which is not an easy genre to pull off. The noble Hollywood failure, Cowboys and Aliens, is a good example of how problematic it can be to mix outer space with the good old-fashioned Wild West.

    Why the series got canceled after one season is still speculative. The former president of Fox said the numbers simply weren’t there; others say the series was aired out of sequence and doomed to a bad Friday night slot. The cast should have been a winning combination—an eclectic group of unique characters, each one with their own history, quirks, and emotional problems. Nathan Fillion was positively charismatic in his role as Captain Malcolm (“Mal”) Reynolds, and even looked like he was set to inherit the mantle that had been left behind by the young Harrison Ford. Unfortunately, that never happened. All of the cast are still active and working today, mostly kept employed in other television series. Firefly became a major feature film that was well received in 2005—the title was changed to Serenity, which was the name of Captain Mal’s spaceship. Serenity was a “Firefly,” which was the name of the class of spaceship that Captain Mal was flying. The first time he saw the used Firefly, he fell in love with it and purchased it.

    I have a different theory about why the series could not become a mainstream hit. There exists throughout the series a preoccupation with the theme of legalized prostitution; it is a major thread in every episode and comprises the entire plot line of Episode 12, entitled “Heart of Gold” (as in “a whore with a heart of gold”). The character of Inara, played to perfection by Morena Baccarin, embodies the role of what would seem to be a geisha or a courtesan. She is a licensed prostitute, called a “companion,” and she is a permanent part of the spaceship crew, although she has her own shuttle attached to the ship, which means she can leave at any time to visit rich clients on other planets. As a registered companion, she is extremely selective, charges high fees, and is considered to be therapeutic in her role.

    A spiritual side of Inara’s profession is alluded to but not enough to lift her completely out of the stigma of being a prostitute. Captain Mal often refers to her as a “whore,” but she always rebukes him for using that word. The “whores” as seen in Episode 12, are freelancers who work out of brothels and are looked down upon because they are not properly trained and licensed. Inara dresses lavishly, her shuttle looks like an Asian boudoir, and she does what looks like a Japanese tea ceremony for her clients. There is a plot thread regarding her secret feelings for Captain Mal; she is in love with him, but he is off limits to her. How a legal prostitute can have her own personal love life is never clarified, so it is easier for her to be in love with a man who has only a peripheral interest in her and often plays mind games to keep her hanging on.

    I personally believe that the overemphasis on legalized prostitution is what brought this series down. It could not have possibly become a new Star Trek under those circumstances. What kind of message would that send to children and adolescents? Legalized prostitution does not have to be consigned to the futuristic world of science fiction. Prostitution is legal in Italy, although brothels and pimps are not. Prostitutes in Italy are considered to be sex-care workers, and there are government guidelines and laws to protect them. Coincidentally, in the Italian vernacular, they are known as “Lucciole,” which translates into English as “fireflies.” Needless to say, the reality of legalized prostitution could not be nearly as glamorous or as beautiful as Inara (who in only one episode has to go in for a government-mandated medical examination). As with the glamorization of prostitution in the 1990 film, Pretty Woman, much damage can be done to impressionable young girls by idealizing this kind if life. The prostitution theme is infused into nearly every episode of the Firefly series, a peculiar and obsessive plot device that may have proved to be the series’ fatal flaw.    … Expand
  51. TheWalrus2000
    Mar 9, 2013
    6
    Its smart and sexy, but Firefly sometimes falls into way too many elements of your every day action film, making it a rather silly show. But Firefly stills fits its definition of fun.
  52. freinz
    Jul 21, 2014
    6
    Good show but for the overarching storyline hte number of episodes is just too great. The first one or two and the last one or two were good the episodes in between seemend to be just "today the crew meets people on this planet and gets into trouble" - episodes (bvasically filler), which may be ok for a show but i don't like it.
    Also the weapons and technology in general doesn't add up    Good show but for the overarching storyline hte number of episodes is just too great. The first one or two and the last one or two were good the episodes in between seemend to be just "today the crew meets people on this planet and gets into trouble" - episodes (bvasically filler), which may be ok for a show but i don't like it.
    Also the weapons and technology in general doesn't add up for me, sometimes it's futuristic, sometimes it's wild west 19th century. I know it's a premise of the show and it makes it special and sometimes interesting but mostly it's just unrealistic for this setting.    … Expand
  53. MeritCoba
    May 2, 2017
    7
    If you don't mind your sci-fi served with a hefty sprinkling of cowboys, then give firefly a try. The introduction music gives it away: this series is so heavily dipped in a US 19th century western frontier sauce that at times you feel like the ship Serenity is more a time traveling machine than a spaceship.

    The strongest part of the show is the often engaging and funny dialogue, the    If you don't mind your sci-fi served with a hefty sprinkling of cowboys, then give firefly a try. The introduction music gives it away: this series is so heavily dipped in a US 19th century western frontier sauce that at times you feel like the ship Serenity is more a time traveling machine than a spaceship.

    The strongest part of the show is the often engaging and funny dialogue, the interaction between the cast members and the touching up sensitive subjects such as religion. For, instance, one episode has River going through the bible to correct all its inconsistencies and logical errors to the shock of Shephard Book. Also interesting is the role of Inara, the companion, a function that is like a mix of a geisha, escort, priestess and therapist.

    While on a superficial level the series is fun, it is also at pretty shallow. Notably the relation between Inara and Malcolm, obviously in love, is astounding immature and never develops beyond that level. This despite the fact that Inara, being a trained companion, should be the best suited to deal with a situation like that. And she does with everyone else, but Malcolm.
    The same goes for the developing relation between Kaylee, the mechanic, and Simon, the doctor. It is just plain unbelievable how insensitive Simon can be and how childish Kaylee reacts when he is.
    Also missing is an overarching storyline. The 14 episodes just are instances that have nothing to tie them together.

    Most of the episodes are okay, but a few are mediocre to downright awful. Notably, episode thirteen is just really bad, forced and predictable. Episode 14 sees an interesting concept developing(River merging with the ship) but that gets broadsided in the end. And what is up with naming the bounty hunter after Jubal Early?
    As a last remark: i find it typical that almost everyone they meet in space is unfriendly or openly hostile.

    Despite this criticism, I enjoyed the episodes and would certainly recommend it. My personal observation is that the cult status probably stems from the show being canceled, thus allowing a lot of space for what-ifs and filling in the blanks. For instance, the background story is so underdeveloped that you can just make anything off it.    … Expand
  54. russiangamer
    May 14, 2017
    9
    Ничего в этом сериале не устареет, кроме эффектов.
    1. Прекрасный сетинг, в котором намешана куча жанров.
    2. Юмор, который местами до ужаса смешит. 3. Интересные, хорошо прописанные персонажи. 4. Эффекты хоть и устарели, но всё равно приятно на них смотреть, они вызывают какую-то особую ностальгия, будто играешь в игру 2000 года. Тут даже в космосе звука нет, реализм! 5. Декорации,    Ничего в этом сериале не устареет, кроме эффектов.
    1. Прекрасный сетинг, в котором намешана куча жанров.
    2. Юмор, который местами до ужаса смешит.
    3. Интересные, хорошо прописанные персонажи.
    4. Эффекты хоть и устарели, но всё равно приятно на них смотреть, они вызывают какую-то особую ностальгия, будто играешь в игру 2000 года. Тут даже в космосе звука нет, реализм!
    5. Декорации, костюмы, атмосфера, режиссура, да и просто фантазия создателей.
    Прекрасный сериал, настоящая классика.    … Expand
  55. Ripplecry
    Mar 18, 2018
    8
    Hani çocukluğunuzun dizileri olur; -kendi dönemimden bahsetmem gerekirse- pokemon gibi, tusubasa gibi, power rangers gibi... İşte bu kalitede efsaneliğe sahip bir dizi bence. Aşırı samimi gelen karakterlerle, içindeymişsin gibi hissettirdiği hikayesiyle insanı saran, kötü efektlerin mantık hatalarının bile güzel geldiği çok ilginç bir dizi. An itibarile bitirdim. :) Filmi de izlediktenHani çocukluğunuzun dizileri olur; -kendi dönemimden bahsetmem gerekirse- pokemon gibi, tusubasa gibi, power rangers gibi... İşte bu kalitede efsaneliğe sahip bir dizi bence. Aşırı samimi gelen karakterlerle, içindeymişsin gibi hissettirdiği hikayesiyle insanı saran, kötü efektlerin mantık hatalarının bile güzel geldiği çok ilginç bir dizi. An itibarile bitirdim. :) Filmi de izledikten sonra tekrar görüşmek üzere.… Expand
  56. ForReals13
    Jan 29, 2022
    10
    Serenity A. The Train Job A-. Bushwhacked A-.
    Shindig A-. Safe B+. Our Mrs. Reynolds A.
    Jaynestown A. Out Of Gas A. Ariel A. War Stories A.
    Trash A. The Message A-. Heart Of Gold A-.
    Objects In Space A.

Awards & Rankings

14
#14 Best TV Season of 2002
2
#2 Most Discussed TV Season of 2002
8
#8 Most Shared TV Season of 2002

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
63

Generally favorable reviews - based on 30 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 16 out of 30
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 30
  3. Negative: 5 out of 30
  1. Time
    Reviewed by: James Poniewozik
    Jun 28, 2013
    40
    There are no aliens, no teleporters and no lasers. And sadly--given creator Joss Whedon's track record with Buffy the Vampire Slayer--no laughs or thrills.
    Read full review
  2. Entertainment Weekly
    Reviewed by: Ken Tucker
    Jun 14, 2013
    83
    'Firefly' benefits enormously from Whedon's ability to take the clichés of any genre and give them a good, hard yank.
    Read full review
  3. Newark Star-Ledger
    Reviewed by: Alan Sepinwall
    Feb 24, 2013
    70
    The whole space cowboy gimmick shouldn't work, but Whedon and co-creator Tim Minear have managed to create a world where space stations and men on horseback can plausibly co-exist. Little touches like deliberately old-fashioned dialogue - one character describes the bar fight as "just an honest brawl between folk" - help immensely. [19 Sept 2002]
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