Homeland

:

Season 1
  • Network: SHOWTIME
  • Series Premiere Date: Oct 2, 2011
Season #: 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
8.2

Universal acclaim- based on 1135 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 983 out of 1135
  2. Mixed: 52 out of 1135
  3. Negative: 100 out of 1135
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  1. InFAMOUSDexter
    Dec 12, 2011
    8
    I must agree with the fact that this show starts slow, and personally I started to watch it only because of Claire Danes, because I am a fan, and she is both beautiful and great actress. And as I say, the show starts slow until they found out that Brody is not a terrorist. After that, things starts to be very good, and I will definitely keep watching it until its very end.
  2. SLeastside
    Nov 1, 2011
    8
    A gripping drama that plays with the notions of reality and perceived reality in the setting of both post-9/11 counter-terrorism intelligence and mental illness.

    What starts out as merely a skillfully constructed "is-he-or-isn't-he" plot-line, has - within the space of just a handful of episodes - evolved into a taut, psychological thriller with ever-growing levels of complexity. The    A gripping drama that plays with the notions of reality and perceived reality in the setting of both post-9/11 counter-terrorism intelligence and mental illness.

    What starts out as merely a skillfully constructed "is-he-or-isn't-he" plot-line, has - within the space of just a handful of episodes - evolved into a taut, psychological thriller with ever-growing levels of complexity. The characters in the show don't know the truth - or do they? You - the viewer - doesn't know either - or do you? Red herrings abound... or do they?

    The show delves deep into themes of dedication and paranoia, with each often being simultaneously the catalyst for the advancement of the story. One of the great successes of 'Homeland' is that when action occurs the viewer is left wondering - beyond the obvious - what the results will be. This will disenfranchise those ADD-type viewers who lack patience.

    Clearly, some reviewers here have missed one of the subtleties of the show... that covert 'intelligence' - like a good TV show - takes time to develop.    … Expand
  3. cody0r
    Nov 8, 2011
    8
    I watched out of convenience and kept watching because of substance. It plays a careful balancing act on suspense and misdirection. The character development is very good and you actually care for the characters despite some of their actions and/or perceived future actions.
    This is the first Homeland Security type show that I have enjoyed and seemed to have substance. That being said it    I watched out of convenience and kept watching because of substance. It plays a careful balancing act on suspense and misdirection. The character development is very good and you actually care for the characters despite some of their actions and/or perceived future actions.
    This is the first Homeland Security type show that I have enjoyed and seemed to have substance. That being said it does unravel much like a Tom Clancy book but that isn't entirely bad.
    I have never been a Claire Danes fan but I like her a lot in this role and I would not be surprised to see an Emmy nomination thrown her way.    … Expand
  4. w_underwood
    Dec 20, 2011
    8
    Interesting concept for a series that shows the other side of the war against terrorism. However, I feel this season's plot moved fairly quickly to the point that unless there is a huge twist, I can't see how much further this series can go before it starts to get redundant. Great acting though, and this season did have some very intense and dramatic scenes, which for a show like this IInteresting concept for a series that shows the other side of the war against terrorism. However, I feel this season's plot moved fairly quickly to the point that unless there is a huge twist, I can't see how much further this series can go before it starts to get redundant. Great acting though, and this season did have some very intense and dramatic scenes, which for a show like this I think is necessary to keep it entertaining and enticing to watch. I will definitely tune into next season and see where this show goes.… Expand
  5. spadenx
    Jan 23, 2012
    8
    (This is based off the first two episodes)
    The show has an interesting plot. However the episodes take too long to really get interesting and when it does its usually at the end of the episode thus leading you hyped up for the next episode. The acting is great (as expected). I enjoyed the show and I cant wait to see what happens next.
  6. kbier
    Dec 2, 2011
    8
    While I think season 1 may have started off a little slow it has definitely picked up within the last couple episodes and is shaping up to be a great addition to this seasons lineup.
  7. JohnnyG
    Dec 14, 2011
    8
    It may be slow moving, but Homeland is probably the best new show this year. I'd say give it around two episodes, though it isn't till later that it gets really good. If you don't like it after a couple of episodes, it probably isn't something you'll enjoy. Clair Danes is amazing as is most of the cast. With so many misses this season, Homeland is a definite HIT!
  8. Alambna
    Dec 15, 2011
    8
    This show is great, but a bit overrated. What I love about the show is the acting by Claire Danes and Mandy Patinkin, which is stellar. The scenes between them are wonderful. And sometimes surprisingly moving. However, what I don't love about this show is the Captain Brody storyline. The back-story for why he has turned is ultimately so disappointing that it discredits the whole show.This show is great, but a bit overrated. What I love about the show is the acting by Claire Danes and Mandy Patinkin, which is stellar. The scenes between them are wonderful. And sometimes surprisingly moving. However, what I don't love about this show is the Captain Brody storyline. The back-story for why he has turned is ultimately so disappointing that it discredits the whole show. However, the strengths of this show far outweigh the bad and it is worth your time.… Expand
  9. sonjo18
    Sep 28, 2012
    8
    If there were and 8.9 I would give it that, I can't give it a 9 because of reasons that I don't want to say because if I do i will ruin the first season for people. Regardless, Claire Danes is the best actress on TV and Damian Lewis is extremely good as well. I say it is the second best drama on TV behind only "Breaking Bad," but it was only the first season. "Homeland" may be able to getIf there were and 8.9 I would give it that, I can't give it a 9 because of reasons that I don't want to say because if I do i will ruin the first season for people. Regardless, Claire Danes is the best actress on TV and Damian Lewis is extremely good as well. I say it is the second best drama on TV behind only "Breaking Bad," but it was only the first season. "Homeland" may be able to get on "Breaking Bad's" level eventually. An excellent hour of TV.… Expand
  10. tripbackward
    Jan 22, 2012
    8
    Set in modern day, and focusing on events that are very relevant to the modern-day American. Gives a different perspective on the terrorist situation. One of the few "thrillers" I have seen that are actually interesting. Usually thrillers are boring to me the whole way through and interesting at the end. This one had some good plot points throughout. Damian Lewis is a favorite actor ofSet in modern day, and focusing on events that are very relevant to the modern-day American. Gives a different perspective on the terrorist situation. One of the few "thrillers" I have seen that are actually interesting. Usually thrillers are boring to me the whole way through and interesting at the end. This one had some good plot points throughout. Damian Lewis is a favorite actor of mine and he plays his role very well.… Expand
  11. zgdelta
    Jan 22, 2012
    8
    Is it the best show of the year? No, that would be Breaking Bad. Is it the best new show of the year? Still no, that would be Game of Thrones. Is it a great show? Yes. The writing of the show is iffy for me, but it won't put you to sleep. The season finale was disappointing though. The acting is good for the most part. Claire Danes is great. It's hard not to feel bad for her character.
  12. Spade
    Feb 11, 2012
    8
    Authentic, intense, engaging drama. A class of its own in this genre. Great actors. In fact, very giving, and generous actors. The acting alone deserve our time. Clare Danes is simply fearless. Damian Lewis is a dark horse, a pleasant surprise. David Harewood is a genius of subtlety. Morena Baccarin immense talent is still being under-utilized. Engaging, well-paced, complex, REFRESHINGAuthentic, intense, engaging drama. A class of its own in this genre. Great actors. In fact, very giving, and generous actors. The acting alone deserve our time. Clare Danes is simply fearless. Damian Lewis is a dark horse, a pleasant surprise. David Harewood is a genius of subtlety. Morena Baccarin immense talent is still being under-utilized. Engaging, well-paced, complex, REFRESHING writing /directing style. As long as the show don't descend into over-compressed pacing and cheapening of females with excessive shock-value nudity and taboo sex, more please.… Expand
  13. AceFace
    Mar 26, 2012
    8
    A really great show, spectacularly acted by Danes and Lewis, with the supporting cast nailing it all around them as well, and the writing is terrific as well. Character development is crucially made poignant for the two leads as they are pulled by forces they cannot control, and all these wonderful qualities lead to an excellent conclusion. My only complaint is that the road the finaleA really great show, spectacularly acted by Danes and Lewis, with the supporting cast nailing it all around them as well, and the writing is terrific as well. Character development is crucially made poignant for the two leads as they are pulled by forces they cannot control, and all these wonderful qualities lead to an excellent conclusion. My only complaint is that the road the finale took could easily lead to a pattern of maintaining the status quo, which is an unfortunate turn taken by its network-mate Dexter in its sixth season, but my hope is the writers won't let that happen.… Expand
  14. A_Northerner
    May 7, 2012
    8
    The debut season of Homeland is an enjoyable and suspenseful ride through the modern post 9/11 world of American domestic espionage.
    It stars Claire Danes as the paranoid spy doing just that on newly-returned war hero Damien Lewis, in an above average 'is he or isn't he" thriller.
    The introduction to Brody, for the first few episodes, is largely provided through footage from illegally    The debut season of Homeland is an enjoyable and suspenseful ride through the modern post 9/11 world of American domestic espionage.
    It stars Claire Danes as the paranoid spy doing just that on newly-returned war hero Damien Lewis, in an above average 'is he or isn't he" thriller.


    The introduction to Brody, for the first few episodes, is largely provided through footage from illegally installed surveillance cameras planted in his house by Carrie (Danes), this provides an interesting viewpoint which serves to heighten the suspicion on his strange behaviour in settling back into his much-changed family life.


    As the action progresses, Carrie, not without her own personal struggles, finds it difficult to foster support for her theories within the CIA and risks everything by going it alone to investigate Brody up close and personal. Having kept the lead characters apart for the first half of the series, with Carrie always watching from afar, I was unsure about how the show would develop once the two grew close but I was not to be concerned as their relationship falls apart once Brody learns of Carrie's suspicions.


    The show deals with some uncomfortable themes that are unlikely to go down well with too many loyal Americans, namely that the US is largely responsible for the terrorist threat it faces on its own soil, and I strongly doubt that many American viewers will be too sympathetic to Brody's cause, be it as it is based on Islamic ideals. The writers try to Americanise Brody's adopted ideals by having him use an American civil war last stand at Gettysburg to explain to his children that you should always fight for what you believe in.


    The action is tense in places and strong performances are delivered by Danes, Lewis and Mandy Patinkin as Carrie's supervisor and mentor Saul. Once Brody's intentions are finally apparent, the final episode makes for tense viewing and features some superb acting from both Lewis and Morgan Saylor (Brody's daughter) at the moment of truth.


    A second series is confirmed and the events of the final episode suggest that the action will switch from that of violent retribution to silent political influence, however with Carrie still on the trail.    … Expand
  15. Amber_Stevens
    Dec 4, 2012
    8
    Homeland is my ultimate TV program ever. I think it incorporates lots of different issues all rolled into one, whilst gripping and intriguing viewers. Series one was flabbergasting. I thoroughly enjoyed every single episode in that series... now we get onto the subject of series two. Do I like it? Do I not? I'm kind of in the middle at the moment. I guess the story line gets farfetchedHomeland is my ultimate TV program ever. I think it incorporates lots of different issues all rolled into one, whilst gripping and intriguing viewers. Series one was flabbergasting. I thoroughly enjoyed every single episode in that series... now we get onto the subject of series two. Do I like it? Do I not? I'm kind of in the middle at the moment. I guess the story line gets farfetched most of the time, after the writers had to make an "all american" script for series two (which isn't the original. Series one is the original series) and I think they have Americanized it too much. As an English person watching this series, I don't believe half the things that have already cracked off on Homeland series two, and it confuses me watching it. However, I am being optimistic and hoping for better story lines throughout the series, but I hope it doesn't get too farfetched. Another reason is why I am giving it an 8 is because I believe that if the show is commissioned for another series after this one, it's going to end up being similar to lost (which we don't want to happen). Damian Lewis. What an amazing actor. I won't go into too much detail about him, but wow, can that man act. I am also amazed with Clare Danes because she plays a psychopath and makes it believable-obviously that is their job, but can you imagine you being believable as a psychopath??… Expand
  16. TheAddict
    Sep 22, 2012
    8
    Instantly hooks you to the TV. The whole first season delivered amazing acting and an incredibly interesting story. Shows like this are really rare, the concept is really promising and you'll just love Claire Danes' performance. Definitely worth checking out.
    Although the middles of each episode tend to get kind of boring, it all connects well as the story develops and the ends of the    Instantly hooks you to the TV. The whole first season delivered amazing acting and an incredibly interesting story. Shows like this are really rare, the concept is really promising and you'll just love Claire Danes' performance. Definitely worth checking out.
    Although the middles of each episode tend to get kind of boring, it all connects well as the story develops and the ends of the episodes are fun to watch.    … Expand
  17. MGG
    Oct 16, 2012
    8
    I liked the show but they really need to do some research on military security protocols. In the real world it would be impossible to simply walk into a top secret meeting room with no asking for security credentials, much less bring in a cell phone and start sending text messages while watching a classified video stream of intelligence operatives in action.
  18. bob516
    Sep 5, 2013
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Really liking this show, but something is missing for me. I have always liked the performances of Lewis, Danes, Baccarin, and Patinkin, and they play their roles here just as well as anything else I have seem them do, but something of their characters just misses the mark for me. I find it hard to believe that someone could hide all out bipolar disorder from the CIA. The romance seems just to improbable to me. That said I keep on watching it.… Expand
  19. cameronmorewood
    Nov 9, 2012
    8
    This is good stuff. Homeland is grounded, but knows how to throw in a twist. We also have some very good acting going on here.
  20. bulger_paul
    Aug 15, 2013
    8
    Within the first few episodes of Homeland, I wasn't particularly impressed. Considering this show dethroned Mad Men after a four year run while simultaneously beating out Game of Thrones, Downton Abbey, and Breaking Bad at the Primetime Emmys last year, I was expecting quite a bit. Once I got toward the second half of the first season I was not disappointed.
    This is a smart, heart    Within the first few episodes of Homeland, I wasn't particularly impressed. Considering this show dethroned Mad Men after a four year run while simultaneously beating out Game of Thrones, Downton Abbey, and Breaking Bad at the Primetime Emmys last year, I was expecting quite a bit. Once I got toward the second half of the first season I was not disappointed.
    This is a smart, heart poundingly tense, ingenious spy thriller featuring an outstanding performance from Claire Danes as an obsessive, brilliant, bi-polar CIA agent vetting out a seemingly perfect war hero whom she believe to be a terrorist. The drama is high, the performances are brilliant, and the surprises are many. Season 1 of Homeland is an excellent start to an exciting series.    … Expand
  21. AvantGuardian
    Oct 10, 2013
    8
    Homeland is an original and intelligent CIA drama with a twist. The show doesn't focus on a new case each episode like the standard CIA drama, but rather focuses on one single case that involves a serious terrorist threat to America. Carrie Mathison, played by the wonderful Clare Danes is an Bi-polar, manic CIA agent who somehow gets the idea that recently rescued after 8 years Prison ofHomeland is an original and intelligent CIA drama with a twist. The show doesn't focus on a new case each episode like the standard CIA drama, but rather focuses on one single case that involves a serious terrorist threat to America. Carrie Mathison, played by the wonderful Clare Danes is an Bi-polar, manic CIA agent who somehow gets the idea that recently rescued after 8 years Prison of War Nicholas Brody, is actually a terrorist. We as the viewer know she is correct, but nobody else does, and she has to prove it. The show has a unique premise and it is done well. It's intelligent, and original. Some negative aspects are, the worlds longest opening sequence, and the occasional boring episode where nothing happens.… Expand
  22. pisapiag
    Nov 15, 2013
    8
    The third season is a major letdown compared to the first ones. Too much Dana, not enough Brody. Enough already with the irrelevant teenagers antics. The first two seasons were worth a 10 in my book. Get your act together, writers.
  23. SherlockHolmess
    Apr 28, 2015
    8
    Good show, kinda like 24 but less action more dialog.
    Good acting, good plot, a bit predictable too movie like sometimes, but most of the time it was exciting.
    A bit annoying, lots of sex scenes.
  24. Fako_35
    May 30, 2020
    8
    This season gives a lot of reasons to keep watching the rest of the show. Keeps the audience on the edge and in limbo most of the time.
  25. aggrippa
    Dec 24, 2015
    8
    I have to say that Clair Daynes overacts and spoils the show. Sure, she is playing a conflicted and bipolar character BUT she has so many teenage mannerisms (twitching, moving her head from side to side, gurning, blatantly showing every emotion etc) that you just wonder how she could even grace the desk of an institution such as the CIA let alone be called 'best field agent that theyI have to say that Clair Daynes overacts and spoils the show. Sure, she is playing a conflicted and bipolar character BUT she has so many teenage mannerisms (twitching, moving her head from side to side, gurning, blatantly showing every emotion etc) that you just wonder how she could even grace the desk of an institution such as the CIA let alone be called 'best field agent that they have'. I am a latecomer to the whole 'Homeland' affair and I am into season three as I type. I do like the show, even giving Season 2's plunge into 'gung-ho'-isms but, as I work through season three and know that Brody will be no more, I am not sure that the fact that Saul will still be there will keep me watching.......I find Claire Daynes. acting style intensely annoying.......… Expand
  26. MovieMasterEd
    Mar 22, 2016
    8
    Another first-rate cable series adapted from an Israeli format (following HBO’s “In Treatment”), “Homeland” rather quickly gets beyond its formulaic set-up and captures the Cold War paranoia of “The Manchurian Candidate,” where even a returned military hero can be suspected of plotting terror. If the first hour struggles a bit with a surfeit of moving parts, by the end, the show has laidAnother first-rate cable series adapted from an Israeli format (following HBO’s “In Treatment”), “Homeland” rather quickly gets beyond its formulaic set-up and captures the Cold War paranoia of “The Manchurian Candidate,” where even a returned military hero can be suspected of plotting terror. If the first hour struggles a bit with a surfeit of moving parts, by the end, the show has laid the groundwork for a serial leaps and bounds better than Showtime’s last pass at this subject matter, “Sleeper Cell.”

    Overseen by “24” alum Howard Gordon and Alex Gansa, “Homeland” centers on a U.S. soldier, Nick Brody (Damian Lewis), rescued eight years after his capture by terrorists abroad. Yet despite the delightful optics for TV, his homecoming isn’t all flag pins and celebration.

    Most suspicious is Carrie Anderson (Claire Danes), a CIA agent whose foreign adventures and take-no-prisoners style have landed her on thin ice at the agency. Still, she’s convinced the time interval suggests Brody might have been turned into some sort of double agent, conveniently released to orchestrate terrorism on U.S. soil.

    In addition to that macro plot, there’s the micro one, as Brody’s wife (“V'” Morena Baccarin) — who hasn’t exactly been tying yellow ribbons all these years — struggles to readjust to a husband she thought she’d never see again, with kids who barely remember him.

    Given Israel’s proximity to forces plotting its demise, one can see how the premise — originated there by Gideon Raff, who shares a writing credit with Gordon and Gansa — would have been especially resonant in that small country. Yet the series effectively transfers those issues to the U.S., with Lewis (a Brit who previously wore a U.S. uniform in “Band of Brothers”) especially good at turning his face into an implacable mask.

    Danes’ character proves less interesting. Even a bit miscast, the actress is talented enough to marginally pull it off, but given her prodigious talent, casting her in this fairly by-the-number role (three episodes in, anyway) — despite a pill problem and some nice sparring with her mentor (Mandy Patinkin) — feels a bit like buying a high-performance sports car just to drive it slowly around the block.

    Like “Manchurian Candidate,” “Homeland” does some of its best work via flashbacks to Brody’s time in captivity, sprinkling additional tidbits with each glimpse into the past. There are also some clever touches, from a subplot involving an “asset” close to a Saudi prince to MSNBC’s Lawrence O’Donnell turning up in the third hour as a journalist profiling the newly returned POW.

    “Homeland” also feels more inherently commercial than most of Showtime’s recent dramas, and paired with lead-in “Dexter” ought to create a pretty compelling block.

    Besides, after the deluge of Sept. 11 remembrances TV trotted out for the 10th anniversary, there’s something refreshing about a program that spins those apprehensions forward, even if the conceptual process required engaging in another activity that’s become increasingly common in the U.S. during the war-on-terror decade: Borrowing.    … Expand
  27. apaeth
    Apr 3, 2013
    7
    I couldn't get into this show. Way too many cliches in the subplots. It would have made a great miniseries though. Once I saw the wife was sleeping with the best friend, the troubled daughter and the drug addicted agent I bailed after four episodes.
  28. Sevalley
    Dec 21, 2011
    7
    Given the lack of any great shows on TV right now, Homeland does a good job of filling the void. It is not amazing, but it is a solid, good show. I likened it to 24 with less action and replacing Jack Bauer with an annoying Claire Danes. Saul is awesome, as are the Marines and the suspense of not knowing who is a good guy and who is a "terrorist". The show really gets into gear towards theGiven the lack of any great shows on TV right now, Homeland does a good job of filling the void. It is not amazing, but it is a solid, good show. I likened it to 24 with less action and replacing Jack Bauer with an annoying Claire Danes. Saul is awesome, as are the Marines and the suspense of not knowing who is a good guy and who is a "terrorist". The show really gets into gear towards the end. I was somewhat disappointed with the outcome of the season finale, but it certainly kept me in suspense the whole time. Most episodes are available on-demand or online to keep you entertained in-between Dexter episodes or until Game of Thrones and Spartacus return.… Expand
  29. B3ckett
    Nov 8, 2011
    7
    'Homeland' lacks pace sometimes. Well mostly, to be frank. But it makes up for that with the atmosphere and suspense.
    The acting is on the right side, the plot thickens with every episode and you sit before the TV just hoping for a break or solid evidence for Carrie. You can feel that this is coming to something big. What exactly is Brody's role in this is yet to be unfolded.
    Solid piece    'Homeland' lacks pace sometimes. Well mostly, to be frank. But it makes up for that with the atmosphere and suspense.
    The acting is on the right side, the plot thickens with every episode and you sit before the TV just hoping for a break or solid evidence for Carrie. You can feel that this is coming to something big. What exactly is Brody's role in this is yet to be unfolded.
    Solid piece of entertainment.    … Expand
  30. eTurkey
    May 14, 2012
    7
    I once heard somebody describe this program as "a televised serial of 'The Manchurian Candidate in present time". Provided they were referring to the first-rate 1962 film; not the awful 2004 remake, I would be inclined to agree with their assessment. To put it simply 'Homeland' is a thrill ride of a show and the places it takes you (the viewer) knows no bounds. It isn't perfect and I foundI once heard somebody describe this program as "a televised serial of 'The Manchurian Candidate in present time". Provided they were referring to the first-rate 1962 film; not the awful 2004 remake, I would be inclined to agree with their assessment. To put it simply 'Homeland' is a thrill ride of a show and the places it takes you (the viewer) knows no bounds. It isn't perfect and I found multiple plot holes throughout the first season but for the most part it delivers on its tag line and provides the thrills and spills of a decent espionage series.… Expand
  31. adrock
    Nov 26, 2011
    7
    Objectively speaking, Homeland is a good show - well acted and entertaining. But I cannot stand Claire Danes' character's ethical choices. Her self destructive behavior is painful to watch, so much so that I can't watch anymore. Granted some will see this as visceral portrayal of an extremely flawed character, a unique aspect of the show, and part of the reason Homeland isObjectively speaking, Homeland is a good show - well acted and entertaining. But I cannot stand Claire Danes' character's ethical choices. Her self destructive behavior is painful to watch, so much so that I can't watch anymore. Granted some will see this as visceral portrayal of an extremely flawed character, a unique aspect of the show, and part of the reason Homeland is compelling...but it's simply too much for me. In a way it's analogous to Steve Carell's character (Michael Scott) on The Office - very funny but also so painful to watch that it turns your stomach at the same time. Hopefully that makes sense...… Expand
  32. blondevixen
    Dec 21, 2011
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I enjoy this show, but many of the technical errors really bug me. What I really do not understand is why on earth did the producers of this show not consult any actual marines or intelligence experts?! Here are a few examples of some errors regarding the military.

    SGT Brody's rank changes episode to episode. Watch his shoulder --- sometimes he is a sergeant (E-5) and sometimes he is a gunnery sergeant (E-7) or master sergeant (E-8). The writers could have figured this out with a simple web search.

    Secondly, marine NCOs are addressed by their exact rank. If Brody is (as I suspect based upon his years of experience and apparent intelligence) an E-7, he would be addressed as "Gunnery Sergeant" or , more casually, "Gunny." Unlike the army or air force, marines use their full rank, in both spoken and written communication. In this show he is always addressed as just "Sergeant Brody," or simply "Brody." A senior NCO would never be just addressed by his last name; that would be very disrespectful.

    Thirdly, what is his unit's job and why is he in DC? I get the feeling that the only reason he is in DC is to be close to the CIA and the action of the show. His actual position in the Marine Corps and his unit's job should be spelled out. Furthermore, it seems highly unlikely that his former boss, the captain who had the affair with Brody's wife, would still be in the same location in the same unit some 8 years after Brody's original capture. Most military officers transfer every 2 to 3 years.

    Finally, an actively serving service member cannot run for Congress without first resigning from the military. Military members are not allowed to use their rank or position to gain elected office.

    That said, I love the role of Carrie and the use of her mental instability. It really makes me think that perhaps the so-called "crazy" people in society are really the ones who should be trusted!    … Expand
  33. jonnybgoode
    Nov 16, 2017
    7
    Season one is a 10, season 2 a 9, but by the season 6, we are at a 1, a sad leftist PC mess. Pathetic end to a once great show. I wish this show would have recognized the climate it was originally made in and left on a high note.
  34. Rallandollo
    Dec 9, 2013
    7
    Very interesting and exciting start of the series, but the show has become boring and tedious. You don't know what the purpose of the story is anymore.
  35. Armin_Abbasi
    Apr 27, 2015
    7
    Homeland seems to be an honest story behind some secret political war decisions. Claire Danes is astonishing in this series, Drama elements have been considered moderately and the series is well-directed. But the only and the most important problem is the lack of addiction, it’s so hard to keep up with the serious plot!
  36. Digitalkid
    Jan 21, 2012
    6
    Awful and disappointing finale. Great idea became just another soap, with no balls to make things right in the end. Actors are great, despite over-hysterical agent.)
  37. helohe
    Jan 9, 2012
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Well, if one is looking for a show similar to 24 but with more dialogue, then this is the show. It is surely entertaining. But then again this stupid american-patriotism and completely unrealistic plots just makes this show suck. Common the guy is "brainwashed" for 8 years and convinced to do a "terrorist" attack, but chooses not to do it because of some stupid phone call by his daughter. o rly?… Expand
  38. Shortfuse
    Dec 21, 2011
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I think it's natural to want to like something that is critically acclaimed, but try as I might I can't get into Homeland. The season certainly has its moments, specifically Claire Danes raw portrayal of a CIA agent on the edge; and it was fascinating to see how the writers managed to create a plausible scenario that could turn a loyal soldier into a terrorist (although more time could/should have been spent to evolve this from plausible to completely believable). But the series invested so much energy around the "Is Brody a terrorist or not" theme, that I never really felt any connection to the characters. Brody's family were essentially card board cutouts for the majority of the season. Possibly a second viewing of the season, after reflection, could change my opinion.… Expand
  39. MewvieGuy
    Mar 29, 2012
    6
    To put it simply, this show is American television for American viewers. It targets the market for post-9/11 paranoia and a revamped patriotism, but falls flat due to a tired storyline and acting that is not believable. Claire Danes winning the Golden Globe for best actress was an atrocity in my opinion. I find myself cringing (seriously) during some of her key performances in the show.To put it simply, this show is American television for American viewers. It targets the market for post-9/11 paranoia and a revamped patriotism, but falls flat due to a tired storyline and acting that is not believable. Claire Danes winning the Golden Globe for best actress was an atrocity in my opinion. I find myself cringing (seriously) during some of her key performances in the show. The scene when she has been drinking with Brody, stumbling into the parking lot, made me almost change the channel. I continued to watch the entire season, and plan on giving next season a chance, but there is not much character substance nor is there much to the plot. You can continuously add twists and turns but if you don't invoke a person to think about human experience or trigger emotions other than "Wow, and explosion!" then there is no payout for the viewer.… Expand
  40. seoul213
    Jun 6, 2012
    6
    I just finished watching Season 1. Not bad, not great. I'm not a big Damien Lewis fan, and he did nothing in this series to change my opinion. The CIA cast is great. The final episode was a real let down. Kind of epitomized the whole season. A lot of potential, just comes up short.
  41. IMoveMoney
    Nov 11, 2011
    5
    I didn't know Temple Grandin was in the CIA. Half a season in and I'm still waiting for this to go somewhere. Clare Danes is uncomfortable to watch in this role and for me, not believable.
  42. deamonhunter
    Mar 29, 2012
    5
    Not bed but after the 5th episode it gets a bit flat but i still enjoy it. Could be a bit more inspiring but the plot is just outstanding it really keeps the story running .
  43. cabana
    Oct 5, 2012
    5
    The Pros: Suspenseful, after some lenghts in the Pilot also fast paced writing, stellar performance by Claire Danes and very good performances by the rest of the cast.
    The Cons: Theres not much depth here if youre interested in the real inner workings of the CIA. On the contrary, the "unorthodox" way Danes' character is working and her relationship with the other main character demands    The Pros: Suspenseful, after some lenghts in the Pilot also fast paced writing, stellar performance by Claire Danes and very good performances by the rest of the cast.
    The Cons: Theres not much depth here if youre interested in the real inner workings of the CIA. On the contrary, the "unorthodox" way Danes' character is working and her relationship with the other main character demands quite some suspension-of-disbelief willingness from the viewer. Thats why i will stop watching it, cause realism is the one thing that cannot be absent from a show like this.    … Expand
  44. TVMovieFan
    Oct 28, 2011
    4
    All I can say is, I watched 3 or 4 episodes of this and I was hoping it would pick up a little more but no it didn't so I stopped watching it it's to obvious that everyone is acting it's just bad acting and boring stuff the only entertainment in this is the Anna form V lol who plays the wife of the turncoat anyway that's it .
  45. smestril
    Oct 31, 2011
    4
    This show has a good story and can be thrilling at some points I'll give it that, but I think that's as far as I'm willing to go. What bothers me most is the character Carrie Mathison, I refuse to believe that the CIA would ever hire her let a lone she is America's best chance. In each show she somehow finds the need to complain about something like my boss isn't giving me any support, orThis show has a good story and can be thrilling at some points I'll give it that, but I think that's as far as I'm willing to go. What bothers me most is the character Carrie Mathison, I refuse to believe that the CIA would ever hire her let a lone she is America's best chance. In each show she somehow finds the need to complain about something like my boss isn't giving me any support, or the government isn't giving me enough power, or I need drugs for my health which I keep secret, etc. I do want to see if Nick Brody has been turned, and I do want to see him caught if he has but I simply can't see Carrie Mathison being the person to save the day. That's my verdict.… Expand
  46. TVCritical
    Dec 29, 2011
    4
    From my analysis the show is a decent premise with bad acting & not altogether the best casting and writing, but it does do well in managing to flesh out and use to their advantage American post 9/11 paranoia.
  47. blackpete
    Oct 29, 2012
    4
    It's the worst tv-show I ve seen by far. The characters are cliche, over reacted performances, the scenario is full of stereotypes. Same **** again and again for classic Americans. The whole thing is annoying, you cannot stand to like anyone even the little kids of Brody. The plot seems a bit predictable (1st season) and nothing really happens... I admit I did watch the whole seasonIt's the worst tv-show I ve seen by far. The characters are cliche, over reacted performances, the scenario is full of stereotypes. Same **** again and again for classic Americans. The whole thing is annoying, you cannot stand to like anyone even the little kids of Brody. The plot seems a bit predictable (1st season) and nothing really happens... I admit I did watch the whole season though... But it felt very problematic. Disappointed.… Expand
  48. jorel75
    Dec 24, 2012
    4
    Americans like me who lived/worked in an arab/muslim world would find it very hard to relate to this show. The Drama Homeland took an extremely delicate, serious and fundemantel problem facing the American/Arab/Islamic world, and transformed it into a silly and sad cowboys and indians circus show.

    There are over 1.6 Billion! muslim in the world and for those like me who actually know    Americans like me who lived/worked in an arab/muslim world would find it very hard to relate to this show. The Drama Homeland took an extremely delicate, serious and fundemantel problem facing the American/Arab/Islamic world, and transformed it into a silly and sad cowboys and indians circus show.

    There are over 1.6 Billion! muslim in the world and for those like me who actually know arabs and muslims can share the frustration on how such an incredibely real world issue is sadly portrayed through the show's cast and crew. We have a lot to tell the muslims and they have a lot to tell us and they don't all speak in bombs language...

    On the other hand, what in the world is wrong with our homeland security...?? honestly!? are we really that silly and incapable?    … Expand
  49. gregorytmurphy
    Aug 9, 2013
    4
    Yes, I know it's fiction but it doesn't seem remotely realistic. I hope we really don't have emotionally challenged nymphomaniacs in the upper ranks of US security.
  50. Blacspur
    Dec 12, 2013
    4
    It's really too bad there is so much profit motivation in continuing a series that it runs off the rails. The acting on this show is pretty good. But it is also too bad that the writer's didn't just do a modicum of research into what real covert agents actually do. Actually, Carrie's character is some kind of hybrid between an analyst and a covert operative. They are two entirelyIt's really too bad there is so much profit motivation in continuing a series that it runs off the rails. The acting on this show is pretty good. But it is also too bad that the writer's didn't just do a modicum of research into what real covert agents actually do. Actually, Carrie's character is some kind of hybrid between an analyst and a covert operative. They are two entirely different branches of the CIA. And her boss. He's so stupid, the CIA would have tossed his application for employment in the nearest round file. But she is far more believable than Brody. He started out unbelievable and has only become more so as the series has worn on. Drama is all about the willing suspension of disbelief. The only way you could do that is to have swallowed those two bottles of pill that Carrie did in her half-hearted (not nearly enough for lethality) suicide attempt on the episode I watched (Season 2, Ep. 3). I have really wanted to like this, (I'm a great fan of REALISTIC spy stories) but it is becoming more difficult to watch each time. Clare Danes is a fine actress and Damian Lewis is a good actor as well and likewise Mandy Patinkin. They deserve better material (Maybe not the boss!)… Expand
  51. attachecrime
    Dec 24, 2011
    3
    Flawed premise. This show is based on a flawed premise. The type of situations that take place in Homeland would have you believe that highly organized Muslim terrorists are sneaking around every corner of the country. The episodes are well acted with some nice moments as far as character goes. The characters are interesting. The main problem with the show is the plot. It'sFlawed premise. This show is based on a flawed premise. The type of situations that take place in Homeland would have you believe that highly organized Muslim terrorists are sneaking around every corner of the country. The episodes are well acted with some nice moments as far as character goes. The characters are interesting. The main problem with the show is the plot. It's incredibly frustrating to have a show operate on such an obvious and silly premise. It's almost as if Homeland was penned by Homeland Security to make you look under your bed for terrorists. It does nothing to dispel stereotypes but only adds to them and uses them to influence the audience's suspicion of one of the main characters.

    All in all
    Homeland is a huge letdown    … Expand
  52. DrBrogbo
    Nov 19, 2012
    3
    I hate shows like this. Characters are well-acted, and it's an adequate portrayal of how messed up home lives can be, but the whole show makes me angry. The "good guys" are all bumbling idiots, who mess up every single thing they touch through lack of interdepartmental communication, secrets being held by those in power, and moles inside the agencies. The "bad guys," however, are perfectlyI hate shows like this. Characters are well-acted, and it's an adequate portrayal of how messed up home lives can be, but the whole show makes me angry. The "good guys" are all bumbling idiots, who mess up every single thing they touch through lack of interdepartmental communication, secrets being held by those in power, and moles inside the agencies. The "bad guys," however, are perfectly synchronized, all-powerful, and able to get away with everything. Claire Danes' character is seemingly sabotaged at every single turn by almost everyone (including herself). Every time she gets close, it gets taken away, over and over and over and over and over. It's the TV equivalent of that person you knew who used to drive their car 5 feet forward every time you reached for the door handle. The first few times can be forgiven, but enough is enough. This may be the perfect example of how government agencies really work, but it makes for insanely aggravating and frustrating television. I don't watch TV to be annoyed. I will not be tuning in for any further seasons.… Expand
  53. Gromold
    Oct 3, 2012
    3
    Somewhat interesting, but the main character is not believable. An American prisoner of war turned terrorist and then back again, and then back again ... No thank you. Damian Lewis is great, though, Claire Dnaes not so much.
  54. bhartman36
    Sep 29, 2013
    3
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. If it wasn't for the main character/protagonist, this show would be wonderful. Unfortunately, because half of the episode always focuses on her, I can't recommend this show in good conscience. The lead character ("Carrie Mathison") has actions that are so poorly thought out that she wouldn't last 5 seconds in an actual CIA environment, and I know this without even working in government.

    You know it's a bad sign when you root for the main character to get machine-gunned.    … Expand
  55. rafaelbranco
    Dec 22, 2014
    3
    Homeland morphed into an atrocious tv show where there's nothing at stake, when something interesting happens and it's immediately solved and now the show revolves in only drama and not into that frenetic pace of the start of the show were you had, drama, action and actually consequences.

    The show lost it's way and you shouldn't watch it, I know the last episode made me quit. Season    Homeland morphed into an atrocious tv show where there's nothing at stake, when something interesting happens and it's immediately solved and now the show revolves in only drama and not into that frenetic pace of the start of the show were you had, drama, action and actually consequences.

    The show lost it's way and you shouldn't watch it, I know the last episode made me quit.

    Season 1 Fantastic
    Season 2 Nice
    Season 3 Bad
    Season 4 Atrocius    … Expand
  56. Broyax
    Jun 30, 2022
    3
    Malgré quelques longueurs (et c’est une prouesse avec seulement 12 épisodes, on se demande ce qu’ils branlent ces scénaristes…) malgré quelques longueurs dans la première saison disais-je, il s’agit d’une bonne adaptation de la série israélienne originale (qui était elle même ultra-chiante à dire vrai).

    La seconde saison est la meilleure par son rythme et la relation ambigüe pour ne pas    Malgré quelques longueurs (et c’est une prouesse avec seulement 12 épisodes, on se demande ce qu’ils branlent ces scénaristes…) malgré quelques longueurs dans la première saison disais-je, il s’agit d’une bonne adaptation de la série israélienne originale (qui était elle même ultra-chiante à dire vrai).

    La seconde saison est la meilleure par son rythme et la relation ambigüe pour ne pas dire paranoïde entre les deux siphonnés, chacun à leur façon. A cet égard, qu’il soit rendu justice à Claire Danes et Damian Lewis qui ont abattu un boulot fabuleux sur ce point, ils comblent presque les carences encore répétitives de l’écriture mais soit ! si seulement ils s’en étaient tenu là… mais non, encore une saison, encore une…

    Une troisième saison donc, celle où Brody est en RTT les deux tiers, celle qui gaspille des épisodes entiers sur sa chieuse Dana, Dana Brody et ses cacas nerveux (on s’en fout !) et celle où finalement les enjeux de la série ne se réveillent qu’au 9ème épisode (sur 12). Il fallait réduire s’ils n’avaient rien à dire, ces scénaristes stagiaires ! et se limiter à 6 ou 8 épisodes.

    Cela étant, la fin est surprenante, audacieuse même, dommage qu’elle manque de cohérence avec les personnages dans leurs réactions. On a vu bien mieux avec l’autre série d’espionnage (The Americans) sur cette question. On se demande alors, à la fin de ce dernier épisode, pourquoi Carrie travaille (encore) à la CIA ? mais cela, les scénaristes ne le savent pas eux-mêmes ! Dommage, car Carrie qui semblait si riche et pétrie de contradictions ressemble à une coquille vide et tout se casse la gueule.

    Pour la 4ème saison, tout est remis à plat et on pourrait la regarder sans avoir jamais vu les 3 précédentes qu’on y verrait que du feu… à part une seule séquence certes ! Cela étant, cette nouvelle chasse aux terros a ses quelques moments de gloire, notamment les épisodes 7 à 10 qui insuflent une tension exceptionnelle tout en restant à ma grande surprise assez réaliste ou à tout le moins crédible. Hélas, les deux derniers épisodes sombrent et végètent dans un pathos minable ! Quant au début de saison, il s’avère plutôt ramollo.

    La 5ème saison est par contre une déception sur toute la ligne, à tel point que je n’ai pas réussi à la finir. Les scénaristes sont au bout du rouleau et tentent en s’inspirant d’une actualité terroriste (qui dépasse la fiction…!) de boulotter un complot qui vise personnellement notre bipolaire préférée ! cette dernière part un peu dans tous les sens et voit la crédibilité de son personnage détruite au fur et à mesure des invraisemblances de l’écriture.

    La saison 6 ne s’occupe plus des islamo-terros mais part sur un complot complotiste interne à la CIA/NSA, visant à discréditer la présidente (fraîchement) élue… tandis que Carrie s’est elle-même éloignée de l’agence et s’occupe de l’autre zèbre, là, mal en point depuis « Berlin »…

    On ne s’ennuie pas au fil des rebondissements mis on à peine à croire à tout ce fatras paranoïde au sein même du gouvernement américain… même si « Salieri » est évidemment toujours aussi inquiétant et fourbe ! ça reste très moyen dans l’ensemble… Un ultime coup de théâtre conclut la saison et relance néanmoins la machination et un peu la curiosité…

    Une curiosité déçue tout au long de cette saison 7 qui recycle et prolonge (encore) un complot à deux dollars qui vise la Présidente ! on s’emmerde à qui-mieux-mieux alors que la cabale se dévoile éventuellement mais à chaque rebondissement bidon, on constate que tout cela est écrit par des débiles et/ou des complotistes comploteux camés aux réseaux sochiasses : c’est affligeant, pitoyable et la pire de toutes les saisons d’Homeland !

    La 8ème et dernière saison ne relève pas le niveau même si elle se recentre sur son sujet… en Afghanistan cette fois. Les péripéties y sont nombreuses mais de plus en plus invraisemblables et aberrantes ; l’on y lèche le fion des Talibans avec application, on pactise avec les Russes tandis que le Pakistan tire des ficelles (stupéfiantes) en coulisses…

    C’est un festival d’inepties qui conclut lamentablement la série qui s’est décidément trop éparpillée et a fini comme on s’y attendait de plus en plus, en PLS, complètement éclatée au sol. Le personnage de Carrie a pâtit également de cette écriture navrante et de l’incompétence irrécupérable des scénaristes en roue libre qui ne savaient plus quoi faire : un gros gâchis donc pour une série qui avait bien commencé… au commencement ! mais Homeland, c’est devenu de la merde finalement !    … Expand
  57. MorriBey
    Oct 6, 2011
    2
    If you are able to suspend belief that a blonde girl can walk around Baghdad, sorry, a CIA intelligence blonde girl , in the midst of the insurgency, then, this is the movie for you. If you are a fan of Breaking Bad where each detail is intricately woven then you will be disappointed . This is an American show for an American audience.
  58. Gregorio9
    Oct 26, 2011
    2
    Homeland is just bad.
    A CIA agent convinced that a man is a terrorist without any proof convinces another CIA agent with the most stupid thing ever seen. If you're a patriotic american that's your show. If you're a person looking for a good show then you'll dislike this.
  59. nerdyhousewife
    Jan 5, 2012
    2
    Oh my gosh, why did I let myself get sucked into this program! I agree that it's not as "24" as one might expect from the title or commercials, but that's only because NOTHING EVER HAPPENS! It's not because this show is realistic or anything. There are still seriously preposterous plot lines going on here, they just travel in circles and dead ends with no payout for the viewer. This is notOh my gosh, why did I let myself get sucked into this program! I agree that it's not as "24" as one might expect from the title or commercials, but that's only because NOTHING EVER HAPPENS! It's not because this show is realistic or anything. There are still seriously preposterous plot lines going on here, they just travel in circles and dead ends with no payout for the viewer. This is not high art - you aren't going to learn anything about human existence from this show. It's just a series of dramatic episodes with a whole lot of climax and no resolution. The season finale was the biggest disappointment of all. That said, Claire Danes is a fantastic actress. It's worth watching an episode just to see that quality of acting on television, but don't let yourself get sucked into the plot, hoping for any conclusion.… Expand
  60. nom
    Dec 3, 2011
    2
    Very disappointing. Some of the acting, many of the characters and most of the plot lack believability. Worst of all though, episode after episode goes by without much of import happening, and the shows end up committing the cardinal sin of being boring. Claire Danes and Damian Lewis do find their moments to shine though.
  61. Mspikes82
    Oct 4, 2012
    2
    So, I hear that this little show is critically acclaimed--Wow, I think. It's won an Emmy AND a Golden Globe for best drama series, during it's FIRST season! So, I think--this show is a MUST see. Well, over the course of 4 days, I plow through all 12 episodes of the first season, and I NEVER want to revisit this show again. The storytelling was slow and sloppy to the point at which it neverSo, I hear that this little show is critically acclaimed--Wow, I think. It's won an Emmy AND a Golden Globe for best drama series, during it's FIRST season! So, I think--this show is a MUST see. Well, over the course of 4 days, I plow through all 12 episodes of the first season, and I NEVER want to revisit this show again. The storytelling was slow and sloppy to the point at which it never really hooked me--and I seriously look for these things in a TV show. There's no real plausibility in what happens throughout the show. I find it very difficult to believe that people love this show and would award it over what Breaking Bad did in the 4th season. I just don't get it.… Expand
  62. powaa
    Jul 26, 2013
    2
    Holy terrible show, seriously, it's BAD, the story tries to be complex, but it's stupid. This show takes itself way too seriously, I'd rather watch 24, at least that show had a stupid plot, but it didn't take itself too seriously...
    I don't get this show, I really don't.....
  63. dana_fan
    Oct 12, 2014
    2
    Need moar Danaz!!1 Need moar Danaz!!1 Need moar Danaz!!1 Need moar Danaz!!1 Need moar Danaz!!1 Need moar Danaz!!1 Need moar Danaz!!1 Need moar Danaz!!1 Need moar Danaz!!1 Need moar Danaz!!1 Need moar Danaz!!1 Need moar Danaz!!1 Need moar Danaz!!1 Need moar Danaz!!1 Need moar Danaz!!1 Need moar Danaz!!1

    Brody.
  64. steveyme
    May 26, 2020
    2
    I just cannot understand the scores on this. Neo conservative pro American cringe script is truly cringeworthy at times 'this is what happens when you mess with a marine!'. Quite slow to progress the script, too. I've pushed through all of season 1 as my gf enjoys it ironically (she thinks it's terrible, too, but in a good way).
  65. Satanski
    Jan 22, 2019
    2
    Quite interesting show, untill episode 7, when it changes into another soap opera.
  66. wynams
    Jan 18, 2013
    1
    So many unbelievable elements mostly revolving around Carrie Mathison's character (bi-polar CIA agent who leaves windows WIDE OPEN in her house with SURVEILLANCE monitors and documents photos in PLAIN VIEW from any would be passer by). She continually goes rogue, gets caught only to have superiors ultimately look the other way. As a protagonist, good luck feeling sympathetic for her!So many unbelievable elements mostly revolving around Carrie Mathison's character (bi-polar CIA agent who leaves windows WIDE OPEN in her house with SURVEILLANCE monitors and documents photos in PLAIN VIEW from any would be passer by). She continually goes rogue, gets caught only to have superiors ultimately look the other way. As a protagonist, good luck feeling sympathetic for her!

    Too bad HBO doesn't have a Terrorism show!    … Expand
  67. blondowl
    Nov 21, 2011
    1
    Completely unbelievable, the pilot offers a young, blond girl in Baghdad -- without her face covered -- that is so lame. The acting is subpar and there's too much English spoken which makes it more unrealistic that it needs to be. Has a cheap television look to it, probably shot on subpar digital equipment. If you expect something along the lines of the seminal 24, Homeland will leave youCompletely unbelievable, the pilot offers a young, blond girl in Baghdad -- without her face covered -- that is so lame. The acting is subpar and there's too much English spoken which makes it more unrealistic that it needs to be. Has a cheap television look to it, probably shot on subpar digital equipment. If you expect something along the lines of the seminal 24, Homeland will leave you very, very disappointed.… Expand
  68. bb338
    Dec 21, 2011
    1
    After hearing both good and bad reviews about Homeland, I decided to give it a try. After watching the entire series thus far, I found that everything about this show was predictable and poorly done. While Claire Danes has been great in her role, her performance wasn't enough to make this show even tolerable.
  69. spacemonkey83
    Nov 6, 2011
    1
    I don't want to write a review, but this show is so bad it should be on CBS. One only has to watch for fifteen minutes before complete frustration sets in. A viewer who has (a) served in the military or CIA (b) knows someone who has (c) has read at least a single book on the subject, or (d) is not a **** moron in general, will realize how idiotic this show treats such sensitive butI don't want to write a review, but this show is so bad it should be on CBS. One only has to watch for fifteen minutes before complete frustration sets in. A viewer who has (a) served in the military or CIA (b) knows someone who has (c) has read at least a single book on the subject, or (d) is not a **** moron in general, will realize how idiotic this show treats such sensitive but extremely serious and formal subject matter. I'd love to say more, but I don't feel like devoting my time to nonsense. I'm sorry that critics like this. Very disappointing. It just goes to show that even the experts can be wrong now and again.… Expand
  70. nahc
    Jan 15, 2012
    1
    there is 1 true story for those who are unable to sleep. it is such a boring and slow moving story that you fall asleep almost after 10 minutes of the episode. not sure why such a slow slow movie...the plot is dull and the acting are bad. normally when i see the rating was set so high from the reviews, thought it was an exciting crime suspense thrilling show; to my utter disappointmentthere is 1 true story for those who are unable to sleep. it is such a boring and slow moving story that you fall asleep almost after 10 minutes of the episode. not sure why such a slow slow movie...the plot is dull and the acting are bad. normally when i see the rating was set so high from the reviews, thought it was an exciting crime suspense thrilling show; to my utter disappointment this show is so slow that they spell out every details of the spying of the naval sergeant that just came back etc… Expand
  71. rollingdjs
    Mar 29, 2012
    1
    Really, no critic thought this was even a mediocre show? It shows how flawed an aggregate system like metacritic can be when this is the highest rated TV show. This is at best a middling network drama. At worst a pretty deplorable ensemble of unbelievable characters and ridiculous storylines. For some reason I watched the entire season, and not once did I even consider the whodunnitReally, no critic thought this was even a mediocre show? It shows how flawed an aggregate system like metacritic can be when this is the highest rated TV show. This is at best a middling network drama. At worst a pretty deplorable ensemble of unbelievable characters and ridiculous storylines. For some reason I watched the entire season, and not once did I even consider the whodunnit elements of the plot. I was totally uninterested. I'm a sucker for the cliche bi-polar hard drinking protagonist but even that wasn't enough for me to care about Claire Danes' character by the end. The whole soldier coming home dynamic also made no sense and was carried out so poorly. pretty awful show.… Expand
  72. bereal
    Dec 22, 2012
    1
    The reason this show is bad is that it is completely unrealistically full of plot holes and giant unrealistic mistakes. Oh I'll just send a text message to a terrorist half way around the world from the room where they are running the operation to kill him, he'll get the text message 1 second before we pull the trigger, which is enough time for him to get into a vehicle and then we won'tThe reason this show is bad is that it is completely unrealistically full of plot holes and giant unrealistic mistakes. Oh I'll just send a text message to a terrorist half way around the world from the room where they are running the operation to kill him, he'll get the text message 1 second before we pull the trigger, which is enough time for him to get into a vehicle and then we won't be able to locate him. Yep, completely believable. The terrorists also have an assault team that can take down 7 armed agents in a small store except no one hears the gun fight or calls the police - totally unbelievable. I really have no idea how this show is getting such great reviews. They just throw in all sorts of other unlikely problems like the 2 kids running over a lady in their car, or an alcoholic disabled veteran who is figuring the entire secret terrorist plot out faster than the CIA. Your IQ must be below 70 if you find this show in anyway plausible or enjoyable. There are some interesting moments, but the improbability of the crap that they expect the viewer to buy into is too much. You just sit there the whole time thinking, "this would never happen." It might be ok, but they're trying to pass this show off as realistic. It is not.… Expand
  73. GwionBach29
    Feb 12, 2018
    1
    The first 2 seasons were excellent. It's slowly devolved over time and now it's unwatchable garbage.
  74. adydanger
    Oct 28, 2011
    0
    I don't understand how the critics can give this show universal acclaim! It is dull and poorly scripted with lazy character development. The main female character is just a ball of cliches; wow, an agent with a drug problem who's promiscuous but great at her job who goes home and throws herself around her crummy apartment. Amazing, however did you come up with such an original andI don't understand how the critics can give this show universal acclaim! It is dull and poorly scripted with lazy character development. The main female character is just a ball of cliches; wow, an agent with a drug problem who's promiscuous but great at her job who goes home and throws herself around her crummy apartment. Amazing, however did you come up with such an original and compelling character?… Expand
  75. quasmaster
    Jan 31, 2012
    0
    Completely unbelievable characters and plot twists. If a marine turns because of 60 civilian casualties there wouldn't be anybody left in the US Forces... Watch Generation Kill instead!
  76. verdeverde
    Oct 13, 2012
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This show has become completely unrealistic and absurd. You can't be a CIA agent and have bi-polar disorder, but if you do have it evidently you can go to the Middle East on the CIA's behalf to get intelligence for them from one of your former contacts. Revealing Carrie's disorder to her bosses killed the show after just one season. Also, what about the classified documents she had in her personal possession? She should be in prison for season 2. What a waste this show turned out to be. I watched the 1st season right after hearing about the Emmy wins. I thought if it can beat Breaking Bad, Mad Men, AND Boardwalk Empire it must be good, but I thought wrong. It WAS a very good show (not close to the 3 I just mentioned) but they turned it into the same unrealistic story 24 was. The writers & creators just play the audience for idiots while they count their money. How anyone could give this show a positive score is beyond me. I would give this show a negative score if I could. Do yourself a favor and don't waste your time even getting started with it.… Expand
  77. joef123
    Jul 11, 2013
    0
    I don't really like it. It's unrealistic and predictable. I don't find it addicting. This does not deserve the awards it has won, Claire Danes portrayal of a bi-polar person is very unpredictable, I have a brother who is bi-polar and he acts nothing like that
  78. LoveaGoodShow
    Feb 6, 2013
    0
    Love the fictional story line, however, I'd classify this as porn with the graphic bedroom scenes. Also, I guess the writer's are linguistically challenged in that the best descriptive word they seem to be able to come up with is the "F" word. Although I enjoyed the plot, I won't be purchasing season 2.
  79. BadShow
    Feb 15, 2013
    0
    Horrible. Watched 8 episodes. This show is beyond boring. There's nothing that gets me coming back to it ever. The only good thing about it is all the hot women.
  80. Windolicker
    Sep 23, 2013
    0
    First of all, I will admit that this show is great in many ways. In fact, it is great in most ways and for most of the first season I was obsessed with it. However, I absolutely refuse to support a show that essentially tricks me into thinking that it is, for the most part, non partisan. Soon enough I found that not only does the show lean to the left, it practically could not be anymoreFirst of all, I will admit that this show is great in many ways. In fact, it is great in most ways and for most of the first season I was obsessed with it. However, I absolutely refuse to support a show that essentially tricks me into thinking that it is, for the most part, non partisan. Soon enough I found that not only does the show lean to the left, it practically could not be anymore offensive than it currently is. The entire shows message is that radical Islamic terrorists are not truly villains and that the reason America is attacked is because of the "war-mongers" in political power. I am sure that this sort of thing does happen in reality, but the way "Homeland" portrays the whole scenario is inexplicably offensive. It is a vile tactic that makes the viewer want to sympathize with some of the worst scum on this planet. It truly is shameful that this show is even on television. I honestly wonder if the creators of this show actually are empathetic to the 9/11 bombers. One day, when your plane goes into a building or a bomb goes off on your bus, you aren't going to be pitying the poor suicide bomber. I could rant more about "Homeland" and its flaws but I think the message alone should be enough to deter most decent viewers.… Expand
  81. sherieryan
    Nov 9, 2013
    0
    The overacting is enough to have you rip your hair out. The fact that a CIA agent sobs like a baby at every scene, laughable. The best scene ever was Carrie screaming, "It's not him, its not the sandman, WE DON'T HAVE THE SANDMAN!" *bursts into tears* In saying this, I am still watching it as its the best laugh I have had in ages. The sad thing is, I use to think ol' Claire was aThe overacting is enough to have you rip your hair out. The fact that a CIA agent sobs like a baby at every scene, laughable. The best scene ever was Carrie screaming, "It's not him, its not the sandman, WE DON'T HAVE THE SANDMAN!" *bursts into tears* In saying this, I am still watching it as its the best laugh I have had in ages. The sad thing is, I use to think ol' Claire was a great actress, now.... not so much.… Expand
  82. tometacriticit
    Dec 11, 2013
    0
    Really lame show. The material in the show is so far off from the truth and shameful on how they depict certain situation instead of showing something close to being real. The shows story line is boring. I recommend watching a better show. There are so many amazing shows out there.
  83. hotfromcauldron
    Dec 22, 2014
    0
    Carrie Mathison isn't bipolar- Homeland is. The last two episodes of this season should have been one or not at all. If i wanted to watch a soapy family drama- this wouldn't be it. Like mother like daughter: one woman's fear of commitment sends another woman back into the arms of her beloved- alas, too late. I see no reason to return next season- unless Carrie is hired by Hollywood toCarrie Mathison isn't bipolar- Homeland is. The last two episodes of this season should have been one or not at all. If i wanted to watch a soapy family drama- this wouldn't be it. Like mother like daughter: one woman's fear of commitment sends another woman back into the arms of her beloved- alas, too late. I see no reason to return next season- unless Carrie is hired by Hollywood to fight against cyber attacks which threaten Showtime to take Homeland off the air. It took half a season to win me back- and a snoozer of a finale to lose me, again.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

2
#2 Best TV Season of 2011
3
#3 Most Discussed TV Season of 2011
7
#7 Most Shared TV Season of 2011

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
92

Universal acclaim - based on 28 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 28 out of 28
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 28
  3. Negative: 0 out of 28
  1. Boston Herald
    Reviewed by: Mark A. Perigard
    Oct 3, 2011
    75
    What seems like a straightforward question--Is Nick a traitor to his country?--might be the most devilishly complicated thing to answer, and definitely worth pursuing in this complex show.
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  2. Miami Herald
    Reviewed by: Glenn Garvin
    Oct 3, 2011
    90
    Homeland is an absolutely riveting immersion in the paranoia and burnout of America after a decade of the war on terrorism.
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  3. Philadelphia Inquirer
    Reviewed by: Jonathan Storm
    Oct 3, 2011
    100
    It's no lie to say you don't get this sort of stylish and challenging stuff very frequently on TV, adult subject matter treated maturely in a series that makes you squirm and think.
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