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. 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.
  2. 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
  3. dtg12
    Dec 12, 2018
    9
    The only negative - it's way too short! Other than that, I have nothing to complain about.
  4. 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
  5. 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
  6. 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
  7. 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
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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.
  11. 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
  12. 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.
  13. 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
  14. 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
  15. 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.
  16. 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.
  17. 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
  18. 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
  19. 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!
  20. 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
  21. 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
  22. 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.
  23. 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
  24. 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
  25. 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
  26. 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.
  27. 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.
  28. 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.
  29. 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
  30. 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.
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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]
See all critic reviews »