How to Get Away With Murder

:

Season 1
  • Network: ABC
  • Series Premiere Date: Sep 25, 2014
Season #: 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
7.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 386 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 302 out of 386
  2. Mixed: 30 out of 386
  3. Negative: 54 out of 386
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User Reviews

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  1. saucyninja007
    Apr 23, 2016
    1
    I tried to like the show. I only made it through the first 6 episodes of the first season before I gave up. The characters are dull, unlikable, and one dimensional. The acting and writing is sub par at best. The story is terribly melodramatic, predictable, and, worse of all, BORING! Not to mention, the sex in the show is completely gratuitous. Just assume everybody is having sex andI tried to like the show. I only made it through the first 6 episodes of the first season before I gave up. The characters are dull, unlikable, and one dimensional. The acting and writing is sub par at best. The story is terribly melodramatic, predictable, and, worse of all, BORING! Not to mention, the sex in the show is completely gratuitous. Just assume everybody is having sex and affairs with everybody and you will rarely be mistaken. The only saving grace of this show is Viola Davis, who honestly deserves to be on a better show.… Expand
  2. meldrew
    Oct 1, 2014
    7
    10's on the basis of one episode? Yes it was good, but let's just see how we feel in 6 episodes time. Or when it drags the dying carcass of its original idea into a cliffhanger, followed by a painful second season.

    I'll go 7/10 for now and sincerely hope that the remaining episodes make me want to mark it up.
  3. marc5477
    Feb 22, 2017
    2
    A legal world drama written by a teenage brain (or so it seems). The plots and twists were so bad that they one might be able to classify them as comedy, but unfortunately the show takes itself very seriously with mature themes aplenty. A lot of the side plots and story try to be engaging but the problem is that the characters are very badly developed defusing any sort of tension or buildA legal world drama written by a teenage brain (or so it seems). The plots and twists were so bad that they one might be able to classify them as comedy, but unfortunately the show takes itself very seriously with mature themes aplenty. A lot of the side plots and story try to be engaging but the problem is that the characters are very badly developed defusing any sort of tension or build up that one might have if they can identify with any of the characters. For instance, by the end of season 1, I could care less about the lawyer/professor main character and it is clear as day that she is not bright nor worth following, but the show tries to play her off as some sort of brilliant lawyer. The writing does not fit the character description. Her choices during trial and in real life are, at best, about what I expect from a high school adolescent, not an adult. The students who follow her like puppies are equally frustrating in the same way that some tween drama are vomit inducing.

    Overall this show is more about love triangles than anything else. If you are looking for an intellectual drama then skip this. If you enjoy trashy soap operas and dont particularly like to think, then this might be your kind of show.    … Expand
  4. a_critic
    Jan 25, 2016
    2
    The show is incoherent and all over the place. The writers make stuff up as they go, and then, change without sticking to a static planned outline. This leads to improbabilities and inaccuracies all over the place. It is definitely not a realistic show in nearly any way, yet it is compelling, so people watch it. However, it is the worse show I have ever watched.
  5. HutznMutts
    Nov 11, 2014
    6
    I hope they revamp it while on hiatus because it needs serious help. Watching Viola Davis be emotional as a powerful business woman is bothersome. it is too much. And all the sexual maneuvers by all is unnecessary in this show. Get a grip please!!! Hopefully it will get a much needed enema and bring some substance to the show, because it is not promising at this time.I hope they revamp it while on hiatus because it needs serious help. Watching Viola Davis be emotional as a powerful business woman is bothersome. it is too much. And all the sexual maneuvers by all is unnecessary in this show. Get a grip please!!! Hopefully it will get a much needed enema and bring some substance to the show, because it is not promising at this time. Viola is much better than this.… Expand
  6. jeepz
    Dec 14, 2014
    5
    I was skeptical about this show because, as a lawyer, i find legal dramas so frustrating to watch cos they're ridden with so many inaccuracies and fallacies, it makes it too hard to just enjoy the show. However, to my surprise, the legal storylines on this show, although somewhat jumbled and a bit outlandish for drama's sake are still ok. however, what lets it down mostly is that thereI was skeptical about this show because, as a lawyer, i find legal dramas so frustrating to watch cos they're ridden with so many inaccuracies and fallacies, it makes it too hard to just enjoy the show. However, to my surprise, the legal storylines on this show, although somewhat jumbled and a bit outlandish for drama's sake are still ok. however, what lets it down mostly is that there seems to be almost no focus on building the characters' chemistry with each other. it is almost formulaic and robotic. 2 characters meet and with little screen time to explain what attracts them to each other, suddenly they are besties, study partners or lovers. little explanation of what drew them together and made them so close, what details do they share with each other that even common work colleagues would at least know about each other. The bonding moments that form the basis of every relationship, even the most simple friendships, and inform their decisions to work together to cover up something as serious as a murder, giving the storyline more credibility. I mean i wouldn't help 'just anyone' cover up a murder if i didn't have a vested interest in or a sufficient basis for an allegiance to the person involved. people aren't stupid so the strength of dramatic storytelling hinges on credibility. that's what cultivates empathy which makes the audience not only buy the story, but also put themselves in the shoes of the characters and invest in their success or demise. You want your audience to care for your characters because your characters are like real people in real relationships.… Expand
  7. moothemagiccow
    Jan 8, 2017
    5
    This show has a compelling frame story, but it goes a bit off the rails once the corpses start stacking up. They really didn't know what to do for season 2.

    There are way too many sex scenes. I'm sure it's supposed to be steamy and erotic, but I'm just bored. You're young, you're having sex with everyone, good for you.I wonder how often the foley artist had to record a belt being    This show has a compelling frame story, but it goes a bit off the rails once the corpses start stacking up. They really didn't know what to do for season 2.

    There are way too many sex scenes. I'm sure it's supposed to be steamy and erotic, but I'm just bored. You're young, you're having sex with everyone, good for you.I wonder how often the foley artist had to record a belt being unbuckled. Somehow they never show the students going to the gym, where they must be, constantly.
    Also this show could use one fat person. A fat judge, at least. They sit all day.    … Expand
  8. nickjkirby
    Nov 28, 2014
    3
    There's no doubt that this a slick series, typical of Shonda Rhimes, but it has one major flaw - all the lead characters are unpleasant with no redeeming features.

    The five students are ridiculous stereotypes - we have bolshy arrogant straight boy, queeny slutty gay boy, prissy insecure black princess, prissy insecure white princess, and poor, outsider black guy (who obviously is the    There's no doubt that this a slick series, typical of Shonda Rhimes, but it has one major flaw - all the lead characters are unpleasant with no redeeming features.

    The five students are ridiculous stereotypes - we have bolshy arrogant straight boy, queeny slutty gay boy, prissy insecure black princess, prissy insecure white princess, and poor, outsider black guy (who obviously is the anti-hero). And they all do nothing but whine all the time.

    The two grown men - Frank and Annalise's husband - are chauvinistic and sleep around. Annalise herself is flawed but flips from being ice queen to emotional wreck. Oh, and she sleeps around as well.

    To be honest, the main problem is that you don't really care about any of them. The only thing that keeps you watching is the rolling story that keeps getting told in flashforwards, But even that is fast becoming scant reason to keep watching six episodes in.    … Expand
  9. LamontRaymond
    Oct 5, 2014
    4
    I hate to say it, because the show had promise, but the I feel that it jumped the shark half way through episode 2! Viola Davis is a great actress, but the blows it here. She gets way too emotional, breaks down, and loses that powerful, icy veneer that has paid off for so many powerful women playing lawyers, such as Glenn Close. And the show is simply a little boring. Not what I expected.
  10. JoeSchmo
    Aug 21, 2015
    1
    Worst acting I've seen in a series with a decent budget in year. Alfred Enoch needs some lubricant for his neck and the entire cast needs sex ed and a heart. It's like watching a bunch of horny tinmen faking their way through a script
  11. metro4771
    Oct 26, 2014
    3
    Love Viola Davis , but is the director leading her wrong? She seems a powerful woman and the next minute she is falling apart. The story is confusing with the back flashes and the rest of the cast are just
    nothing to talk about at all. I want Viola to succeed. I wish she was surrounded by even half the talent she has. This show is way beneath her.
  12. sortanormal
    Nov 10, 2014
    2
    As someone else said, it's not boring. I watch it but I don't like any of the characters including Annaliese. I have little to no sympathy for any of them. All of them are pretty despicable and lacking conscience, integrity or decency. They are devoted to winning, but don't care at what cost to others or themselves.

    There is a lot of music instead of dialogue, and not much character    As someone else said, it's not boring. I watch it but I don't like any of the characters including Annaliese. I have little to no sympathy for any of them. All of them are pretty despicable and lacking conscience, integrity or decency. They are devoted to winning, but don't care at what cost to others or themselves.

    There is a lot of music instead of dialogue, and not much character development. The dialogue is iffy. This seems to be a take off from "Murder in the First" which also lacked people with humanity and was a similar genre full of people with no humanity. Perhaps it's really a vampire or dead-people story with "humans" replacing the vampires to pull people in. (Insert lawyer joke here).

    I've watched every episode because there's something compelling--moth to a light. But each time I watch, I go away feeling my soul has been dirtied and compromised.    … Expand
  13. shellview
    Jan 10, 2015
    3
    "How to Get Away With Murder" has almost nothing redeeming about it. I started watching this show when they started the reruns because of the critic reviews. It can be summed up with two words, "murder" and "sex". Not a single likable character, not a plausible plot line and not a single moment of joy. Everything is dark and sleazy. The wonderful show "The Walking Dead", even"How to Get Away With Murder" has almost nothing redeeming about it. I started watching this show when they started the reruns because of the critic reviews. It can be summed up with two words, "murder" and "sex". Not a single likable character, not a plausible plot line and not a single moment of joy. Everything is dark and sleazy. The wonderful show "The Walking Dead", even though gory and gruesome at times, gives us moments of joy and sophisticated, multi-layered characters. HTGAWM gives us nothing that is interesting or enjoyable. The sex is joyless and the characters are soulless. A three for some good acting otherwise ugh!… Expand
  14. alangee
    Oct 13, 2014
    0
    Idiotic, sophomoric, pretentious and boring. All of the characters are totally unlikeable. Total waste of air time. It can't get cancelled soon enough.
  15. mac5
    Nov 14, 2014
    2
    It details the breaking down of young idealistic people into amoral, cynical and cutthroat individuals within the (fictional) legal defense world. With a flawed, arrogant hedonist at the helm, the faithful students are heading to a point of no return upon which the flash-forwards constantly remind the viewer of their slippery slope. Together with the completely unnecessary sex scenesIt details the breaking down of young idealistic people into amoral, cynical and cutthroat individuals within the (fictional) legal defense world. With a flawed, arrogant hedonist at the helm, the faithful students are heading to a point of no return upon which the flash-forwards constantly remind the viewer of their slippery slope. Together with the completely unnecessary sex scenes and its narrow nihilistic theme, it is pretty distasteful and somewhat seedy viewing.… Expand
  16. AliceofX
    Aug 27, 2015
    2
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. There's a common saying that if you don't like it then don't watch. Basically a way to categorize critics away as haters. It would be possible to simply stop watching a series that was wholly, completely repulsive, but How To Get Away With Murder, like many such examples, carries some sparks of brilliance that keeps you hanging on.

    I wanted to quit many times. The four main characters have nothing likable about them. I was hoping that that would be the point. That this would be the show about amoral people eventually digging their own grave. Sadly what we got was this mess.

    And of course no review of How To Get Away With Murder can go on without mentioning the unnecessary gratuitous sex scenes that did nothing but repulse me.

    The only real spark of this show was Annalise. Viola Davis creates an amazing character that is a great combination of strength and weakness that makes her believable. But, sadly, I couldn't recommend this show even for her.

    And then of course there is the mystery. Till the end I was hoping this series would have a smart ending, something to blow you away. But all we got was a B grade ending of "you will never guess it was this character even though it makes no sense and feels like they made it up at the last minute".

    In short I hold this series as trash and I have no desire to watch the second season.    … Expand
  17. rileyblue
    Jun 21, 2015
    10
    This deserves to be above 90 in metacritic score, it's honestly one of the best shows on television at the moment. The characters are all great and are never what they appear to be, as the show goes on we see different sides to the characters that you wouldn't think existed. The story is brilliant and is always shocking because you never know what will happen next, seriously unpredictable.
  18. analogkid280
    Sep 29, 2014
    4
    A jumbled mess of subplots and introductions that it does nothing with. Also, it succeeds in making everyone in the whole show as unlikeable as possible. I believe a more linear storytelling would of been more effective in its 44 minute run time as that is more suited to the 2 hour movie market than TV. This show does one thing good though I am not sure it is right for a returning series.A jumbled mess of subplots and introductions that it does nothing with. Also, it succeeds in making everyone in the whole show as unlikeable as possible. I believe a more linear storytelling would of been more effective in its 44 minute run time as that is more suited to the 2 hour movie market than TV. This show does one thing good though I am not sure it is right for a returning series. See, the professor starts out as a strong intelligent lead that you could really get behind and her character dissolves into a typical boring list of tropes all in one episode. Also, she has time to teach in law school and defend cases? This show can be summed up in one word. Absurd!!!… Expand
  19. 20thcentury
    Oct 2, 2014
    1
    Sophmoric, predictable and politically correct, typical and boring. Can't believe I gave it 20 minuties. Ok, first the stereotypical cast: dumb white guy, hispanic girl, gay white guy, Mchelle Obama professor, super smart black girl and an likable but unlikely protagonist.
    At best the banter is supposedly current, but it is not smart or funny. Protest very poor entertainment and change    Sophmoric, predictable and politically correct, typical and boring. Can't believe I gave it 20 minuties. Ok, first the stereotypical cast: dumb white guy, hispanic girl, gay white guy, Mchelle Obama professor, super smart black girl and an likable but unlikely protagonist.
    At best the banter is supposedly current, but it is not smart or funny. Protest very poor entertainment and change the channel quickly. There are 467 more channels.    … Expand
  20. BogKid
    Sep 25, 2014
    5
    One of the most improbably new shows I have seen. The plot was borderline looney. The courtroom scenes were ridiculous. I could go on and on but I don't see much point. If you love "The Good Wife", you will not like this show. If you love "Grey's Anatomy", you'll probably like it.

    Two good things. Viola Davis and the show is shot in and around Philadelphia. Not much else.
  21. IneSilano
    Sep 26, 2014
    10
    Viola Davis takes over every scene, the viewer is still waiting for a trigger sequence that satisfies the natural order, and fails ... instead each subsequent event only leads to a major milestone. Although the use of flashbacks have become routine and boring, in this case only leads to the top of the unexpected. So far it is unclear who Annalise (Viola) is, the only thing certain is thatViola Davis takes over every scene, the viewer is still waiting for a trigger sequence that satisfies the natural order, and fails ... instead each subsequent event only leads to a major milestone. Although the use of flashbacks have become routine and boring, in this case only leads to the top of the unexpected. So far it is unclear who Annalise (Viola) is, the only thing certain is that Viola, hypnotized by her performance and does not allow prosecutions.… Expand
  22. PoeticDumpling
    Sep 26, 2014
    7
    I am giving it a 7 with room to grow. Yes, there were some issues that didn't make it as strong as The Good Wife, but overall I felt this show is like a great blend of both TGW and Scandal. The pilot was confident and captivating despite any weaknesses. The actors and actresses I am not familiar with held their own. Viola Davis is THE reason to watch. I love Kerry Washington, butI am giving it a 7 with room to grow. Yes, there were some issues that didn't make it as strong as The Good Wife, but overall I felt this show is like a great blend of both TGW and Scandal. The pilot was confident and captivating despite any weaknesses. The actors and actresses I am not familiar with held their own. Viola Davis is THE reason to watch. I love Kerry Washington, but Viola is even greater an actress than she. Looks like BogKid has admirably high standards since he/she likes The Good wife, but BK is also being too harsh on this show. I believe it will keep a confident footing and take us on a worthy wild ride. One issue with the pilot - I was hoping the burned body would remain a mystery until the end of the season... That would have been fun.… Expand
  23. sincerelyjane
    Mar 2, 2015
    8
    I must say that I absolutely love this show. The only thing about it that I wish we could see more of is the relationship development between the characters. The relationships between the characters are vaguely explained. But the show has amazing emotion and plot twists. All of the plot twists are also, while at first extreme, are always explained and somehow plausible. The show isI must say that I absolutely love this show. The only thing about it that I wish we could see more of is the relationship development between the characters. The relationships between the characters are vaguely explained. But the show has amazing emotion and plot twists. All of the plot twists are also, while at first extreme, are always explained and somehow plausible. The show is scandalous but not outlandish.… Expand
  24. Macdealer
    Jan 17, 2015
    4
    This show lacks depth. The characters don't have connection and harmony with each other, I didn't like any of them. 100% of all relationship in this series are filled up with infidelity or some low quality polemic.
    Too stereotyped characters, and everything was super predictable. I just voted 4 score, because it can "entertain" a bit. Just that.
  25. jbrown8989
    Jan 7, 2016
    7
    I like the alternating timelines getting pieced together as the show goes along. Yes there are some plot holes but overall it is a good watch and very entertaining.
  26. Tyree09
    Aug 31, 2015
    8
    In its freshman outing, How to Get Away with Murder (HTGAWM) proved that Shondaland knows how to pump out hits.

    I've watched Grey's from the beginning and over recent years the quality has started to dip. Scandal was never my cup of tea and so when this new show from Shondaland productions (Shonda is producer, not creator of this one) came along I thought it'd be what I needed to get me    In its freshman outing, How to Get Away with Murder (HTGAWM) proved that Shondaland knows how to pump out hits.

    I've watched Grey's from the beginning and over recent years the quality has started to dip. Scandal was never my cup of tea and so when this new show from Shondaland productions (Shonda is producer, not creator of this one) came along I thought it'd be what I needed to get me back on the Shonda track.

    The show follows Annalise Keating who is a successful defense attorney as well as a reputable law professor. She and a group of her law students get entangled in a murder mystery that encompasses the entirety of the first season. Through flashbacks you get bits of information of what happened on "Murder Night" as well as some character development on Annalise and the students.

    As others have said before, the characters are a mixed bag. There may be one or two you relate to or you could hate all of them and hope they all go to the slammer. The dynamic between them all is pretty intriguing though. Watch the bantering between Connor and Michaela and try not to smirk at least once. Either way, the murder mystery as well as a couple of interesting cases that Annalise and Co. work on should be enough to get you through the first season. By season's end, you will definitely know if this is a show worth keeping up with. I will say, though, if you decide not to continue on after the first season, you'll definitely be left unsatisfied based on the season finale.

    In typical Shonda fashion, there is diversity, love, angst, sexual tension as well as some pretty steamy scenes that only Shonda Rhimes and protégés know how to deliver. The premise will only take the show but so far, so if I were to guess, I would assume it could get in at least a good 5 seasons before getting axed.

    With the second season set to premiere in September, we will see if lightning can strike twice.    … Expand
  27. nickdario
    Oct 18, 2015
    7
    Acting: 7
    Plot: 5
    Character Development: 3 HTGAWM is a fast paced drama that relies heavily on hiding information from its audience. All the characters have secrets, and are in collusion with other characters and their secrets, thereby creating suspense in almost every encounter. This suspense is the strongest aspect of the show, and makes it fun to watch. The episodes are almost an    Acting: 7
    Plot: 5
    Character Development: 3
    HTGAWM is a fast paced drama that relies heavily on hiding information from its audience. All the characters have secrets, and are in collusion with other characters and their secrets, thereby creating suspense in almost every encounter.
    This suspense is the strongest aspect of the show, and makes it fun to watch.
    The episodes are almost an hour of nonstop creation and discovery of secrets. Thankfully there is generally a dip in the middle of the episode that offers a nice breather from this whiplashing style.
    The weakest aspect of the show is it's character development.
    The acting is above most TV dramas, but the characters are hollow. It seems that this must be the case for the show to offer so many turns, no one is who you think they are, and they consistently refuse to be who you think they are. The characters seem to be capable of anything, but in the same instant, it is impossible to answer "What would [he/she] do in this situation"    … Expand
  28. NancyPorter
    Sep 27, 2014
    10
    This show is amazing, sexy, and addictive. Viola Davis has such presence as a ruthless law professor. If you like a good mystery that's told very intelligently, then you'll love this.
  29. OpinionatedGuy
    Mar 22, 2015
    8
    The shows that were produced by Shonda Rhimes has this known reputation that it can be soap opera-y at times. However, for this show, the words “soap opera” never occurred to me when I think about How to Get Away with Murder.

    How to Get Away with Murder is such an addictive experience. The way how the story is told is very interesting and I liked how all of the episodes have a concise    The shows that were produced by Shonda Rhimes has this known reputation that it can be soap opera-y at times. However, for this show, the words “soap opera” never occurred to me when I think about How to Get Away with Murder.

    How to Get Away with Murder is such an addictive experience. The way how the story is told is very interesting and I liked how all of the episodes have a concise story. Even the filler episodes were important to the season arc because if you miss one episode, you’re going to be lost with the arc already.

    The use of the flashfowards in the first half of the season with the occasional use of flashbacks also makes the viewers (including myself) intrigued and excited on what’s happening.

    The ensemble cast in this show were really good. The tense between the Keating Five were real, uncomfortable and a pleasant watch thanks to the presence of Alfred Enoch, Jack Falahee, Aja Naomi King, Matt McGorry and Karla Souza. But the real winner is Viola Davis. Her performance as Annalise Keating makes her an Emmy contender. She was nominated for an Oscar for a reason and that’s because she is an excellent actress. (On a sidenote, because of her performance, I can’t wait to see her on the upcoming DC movie Suicide Squad!)

    How to Get Away with Murder is an addictive TV show thanks to its intriguing, concise story arc as well as great ensemble cast performances with the real star Viola Davis.    … Expand
  30. Capri
    Sep 30, 2014
    2
    I had high expectations for this show, especially Viola Davis but was greatly disappointed with the first show. Viola was great and had an almost perfect depiction of her character. I found the show confusing with all the flashbacks and upset at her unnecessary implied attempted seduction of one of her students. As a married women, her having an affair added nothing to the show and wasI had high expectations for this show, especially Viola Davis but was greatly disappointed with the first show. Viola was great and had an almost perfect depiction of her character. I found the show confusing with all the flashbacks and upset at her unnecessary implied attempted seduction of one of her students. As a married women, her having an affair added nothing to the show and was also unnecessary. Finally the gratuitous and unnecessary homosexual scene drove me further from the show At this time I am not sure I will bother watching the show again. Viola herself could carry the show to great heights but perhaps it is the writers that need to be changed.… Expand
  31. ana_melinte90
    Nov 17, 2014
    10
    What an excellent show! Great choice of actors. I watch a lot of tv series, but his one i would watch all the time. It's not one of those boring shows that makes you want to just skip to the action. I highly recommend it!
  32. cdsmusicchart
    Sep 26, 2014
    10
    One of Fall 2014's best new shows! "How To Get Away With Murder" had an action packed premiere that kept me guessing the entire way through. As for the courtroom scenes, while they were a tad ridiculous, I could actually see something like this happening in real life.

    I'll be tuning in for the rest of the season.
  33. buffnfaith
    Sep 29, 2014
    8
    It's like a mix between The Good Wife (a strong prominent female figure as a top-notch lawyer) and Pretty Little Liars (a murder mystery revolving around five students). I can see Viola Davis getting a lot of nominations. I sense this will be appointment TV for many including me.
  34. goins1119
    Nov 16, 2014
    9
    I love it. The show has kept me on the edge of my seat. Sam was a hot mess. I wouldn't be surprised if it was the wife who actually killed him. I can't wait to see the show this week.
  35. MattArmando
    Sep 26, 2014
    10
    A sharp, crisp, and smart legal thriller. Intricately written by Peter Nowalk, Emmy-worthy performance from Viola Davis, and beautifully directed in the same style of 'Scandal', 'How To Get Away..' is a fast paced, quality Network TV drama series.
  36. emperorpenguin
    Oct 8, 2014
    9
    I never like procedural show, but when the main storyline is this great i'd watched it everyday. Viola Davis gives a really emmy-worthy performance in this. Her brilliant acting and smart writing make her character so appealing. The other young talented actors make this series really fresh to watch.
  37. Rgw
    Oct 3, 2014
    4
    I was very excited about this show. I watched the first episode and although I felt the "politically-correctedness was pushed to the limits and in my face, I decided to give it another episode. To my disappointment it was shoved in my face yet again and multiple times. This show had me wanting to find out what happened next, but has it really gotten to this point in today's world? I am allI was very excited about this show. I watched the first episode and although I felt the "politically-correctedness was pushed to the limits and in my face, I decided to give it another episode. To my disappointment it was shoved in my face yet again and multiple times. This show had me wanting to find out what happened next, but has it really gotten to this point in today's world? I am all about equality, but do we really need to go over the top and completely take focus off of the plot of the episode for that purpose? I had set this show to record every week, but unfortunately I will not be continuing.… Expand
  38. edyflyfalcon
    Nov 15, 2014
    10
    This show keeps me on the edge of my seat every single episode. Suspense, sex, murder, what more could you want in a TV show? This surely surpassed Scandal and Grey's Anatomy in views and quality, and I'm not surprised. Will be watching this show until the series finale, which is not anytime soon.
  39. vvcrazy01
    Sep 30, 2014
    10
    This show is one I recommend to everybody. It is well-directed with a good cast. The actors do a pretty good job, and big hats off to Viola Davis who plays Annalise Keating in the show. Hopefully, this show won't take us towards cliches and give us a new experience.
  40. JCat
    Jan 26, 2018
    0
    An hour of hateful millenials getting mixed up in and out of plots. Love Viola Davis, but getting sick of whiney Shonda Rhimes series. And what's up with the overuse of color filters. Yuk!!
  41. TheQuietGamer
    Aug 4, 2016
    9
    Starts off small and gradually evolves into a tale of betrayals, romances, and dark secrets. It's essentially a story revolving around a group of competing law students and their ice cold teacher. The entire cast is fantastic and the story reveals are near-constant and change how you look at the show at every turn. Oh, and there's murder.

    It's amazing watching the story grow. As the    Starts off small and gradually evolves into a tale of betrayals, romances, and dark secrets. It's essentially a story revolving around a group of competing law students and their ice cold teacher. The entire cast is fantastic and the story reveals are near-constant and change how you look at the show at every turn. Oh, and there's murder.

    It's amazing watching the story grow. As the core plot grows more complex we are treated to shocking reveals and amazing character moments. To make things even more impressive it manages to do all of this while having the majority of the episodes revolve partially around their own, self-contained cases.

    That's right, this is also part court room drama. A case a week type of thing. However the character focused drama is the real focus. With complex characters and a compelling plot it succeeds marvelously.

    Some flaws in regards to it's statements regarding things like religion and race are noticeable. However the actual amount of flaws that hurt the overall writing are almost nonexistent. It's an excellent first season for a very compelling drama. One with a stellar cast and phenomenal characters that are able to be cared about even if you don't necessarily like them.    … Expand
  42. jeneboe
    Nov 30, 2014
    5
    I have to credit the show for its progressive approach, but the writing is far too melodramatic than real life. Viola Davis' character has cried in every single episode (8) thus far, and the law students have already been morphed into caricatures. There has been little attempt to delve further into character development.
  43. cspencere
    Feb 15, 2016
    10
    Season 2 of HTGAWM is SO WILD. Every single episode has kept me on the edge of my seat since the chaos from season 1, which was also nonstop CRAZY. I'm obsessed! Thank you Shonda for a wild thrill ride of a show!
  44. thejanraphaelbc
    Nov 27, 2014
    10
    Shonda Rhimes has done it again. A compelling new political drama where a lawyer and 4 students learn how to get away with murder. It has it's up and downs but the fact that Shonda broke boundaries with this show says a lot. The amazing writing together with the impeccable performance of Viola Davis and the other casts creates the shows natural atmosphere (even if it's far from reality).
  45. ManuJNair
    Sep 26, 2015
    8
    The show definitely stands out for its entertaining premise. Though it gets pulled back due to bits of scattered plot and lack of performance from certain cast members, the story grips the audience. The story telling can definitely be improved. Viola Davis, as usual stood out with her performance. She does full justice to her role though the character doesn't to her. Annalise Keating is aThe show definitely stands out for its entertaining premise. Though it gets pulled back due to bits of scattered plot and lack of performance from certain cast members, the story grips the audience. The story telling can definitely be improved. Viola Davis, as usual stood out with her performance. She does full justice to her role though the character doesn't to her. Annalise Keating is a character torn between powerful and depressed, and sometimes make the character tiring. Its Davis who makes her well.. the Annalise we want her to be... Hope the show would raise the bar set by this season with its season 2...… Expand
  46. alehmarchiori
    Oct 23, 2015
    10
    I watch the first season on Netflix and is AMAZING!! After watching i really understand why Viola Davis won the emmy! I really hope that the second one is going be that good.
  47. PedroFerreira
    Sep 29, 2014
    8
    A great new show from ABC that keeps us stuck to TV, each scene is refreshing and captivating. With a good cast and a seductive argument this series will keep us stuck (again :P) and looking forward to the events of the next episodes. I can not wait for the next episodes.
  48. Jvc2412
    Sep 29, 2014
    10
    This show has more twists and turns than a roller coaster! It kept me glued to the TV and wanting more! Viola Davis is amazing as Annalise Keating! Best new show of the year,
  49. khusidas21
    Oct 17, 2014
    10
    i cant understand why does this show has below 90 rating..this is classy sexy n terrific.....i wish ppl wud sit n notice...hoping 4 d best.....viola davis is extraordinary..
  50. GabrielWAlmeida
    Dec 19, 2014
    9
    Thrilling, addictive, such a great tv show. Viola Davis is as blossoming as ever and the student's cast is also marvelous. The episodes are a little bit repetitive but the criminal cases are as exciting as the main case.
  51. williamcido
    Oct 11, 2015
    10
    "how to get away with murder" is really an amazing series, the way it is presented the facts surrounding the death of Professor Sam the core group of the plot and actions of the past that brought them the day of such an act are given so that the viewer can not stop his hunger for the next episode. Viola Davis and the cast to the producers built a number that can not be ignored by the media
  52. nikkianetra
    Oct 22, 2015
    10
    Over the top drama, but I appreciate that the characters are not two dimensional. Keeps the tension high. It's
    "murder" though watching this is real time. Reccomend waiting until the season is over and marathoning it.
  53. Himaymay
    Nov 23, 2015
    9
    The cast is very likable, diverse and interesting especially Annaliese and Connor. The developing relationships between the main cast is intriguing and even though most of the main cast, if not all are morally ambiguous at best, despite their flaws you end up caring about them and about what happens to them.
  54. tobeery
    Dec 29, 2015
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. In terms of the story, it's textbook drama. Effective use of cliffhangers keeping you hooked and how we gradually catch up with the flash-forward is a pretty cool and refreshing narrative structure. Its style is incredibly raw and it's not afraid to push boundaries, but it's not too in your face at the same time.

    Viola Davis is pretty amazing as expected but the character development is surprisingly shallow with the other characters (even Davis' character until about half-way through). The characters seem to be connected through their deceit and fear of consequences rather than through genuine emotional connections etc. with Keating right at the top controlling their every movement. This does admittedly make for an interesting dynamic but at the same time, it makes it fairly hard to really connect with many of the characters on a deeper level.

    I really enjoyed it overall but there were moments where I was slightly underwhelmed, especially with some of the big reveals.    … Expand
  55. Psikolog
    Apr 2, 2016
    9
    The best thing about this series is Viola Davis' performance, and almost every episode is well written. Sometimes storyline goes too fast but everything is planned overall. From time to time cast fail to catch Davis but they're not bad at all. HTGAWM manages to shock people especially at the end of nearly all episodes, which makes the viewer to want to see the next episode immediately.
  56. lucassilva07
    Jul 22, 2016
    7
    The series is good, it is worth highlighting the performance of the viola that is surprising, the performance of trainees is normal, except for Connor that is a little above. The series hits in places like the mystery and find the time to reveal the secret, the flash-forwards is well used and the trainees are very good together, but the show misses elsewhere, using the convenience to solveThe series is good, it is worth highlighting the performance of the viola that is surprising, the performance of trainees is normal, except for Connor that is a little above. The series hits in places like the mystery and find the time to reveal the secret, the flash-forwards is well used and the trainees are very good together, but the show misses elsewhere, using the convenience to solve the weekly cases that besides not being very interesting pass tangent to the feelings of the characters.… Expand
  57. whitmorgan7
    Mar 10, 2017
    8
    One of the better newer shows on television. Each week is another twist and every episode will leave you on the edge of your seat. Be prepared to cry, get mad, and be absolutely shocked by each new thing you learn. Compelling characters, and good story lines.
  58. hierax
    Jun 14, 2017
    4
    The story is ok, nothing special, but all the forced PC/SJW/LGBT stuff is just insane. Every second person in this series is gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender. Im half into season two and im waiting for a disabled midget to appear in the cast, because this is the only minority missing so far. I got no problem with gay people in series or in general, but its just unrealistic whatThe story is ok, nothing special, but all the forced PC/SJW/LGBT stuff is just insane. Every second person in this series is gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender. Im half into season two and im waiting for a disabled midget to appear in the cast, because this is the only minority missing so far. I got no problem with gay people in series or in general, but its just unrealistic what amounts of people are homo- or bisexual in this series. I cant recommend this, its just mediocre with forced political correctness far over the top. And they are having sex in EVERY episode, just to show some people naked. Bland and boring.… Expand
  59. PipePVelasco
    Mar 22, 2015
    9
    It is definitely well written. Everything is planned. The cast is so good. Viola Davis is perfect, and she deserved the Golden Globe for a true performance for an original and complex character. I'm not giving it 10, because I feel arriving to the night when Sam was killed was suddenly so quickly, and I think the show could take a couple of episodes more for arriving to that night, inIt is definitely well written. Everything is planned. The cast is so good. Viola Davis is perfect, and she deserved the Golden Globe for a true performance for an original and complex character. I'm not giving it 10, because I feel arriving to the night when Sam was killed was suddenly so quickly, and I think the show could take a couple of episodes more for arriving to that night, in order to keep the speed the show was having the first 6, 7 episodes. But I really appreciate that the season concludes with the 2 more important questions: Who Killed Sam and Who Killed Lila.… Expand
  60. lexxlander
    Dec 18, 2015
    4
    I watched the whole season after Viola Davis won, so I had high hopes. After only a few episodes I began to question the judgment of those who gave a positive review of this show, and the much-hyped admiration for Ms Davis's performance. Well, the show's plot and subplots have so many twists and turns that it was difficult to follow with logic. I discovered early on that it's a soapI watched the whole season after Viola Davis won, so I had high hopes. After only a few episodes I began to question the judgment of those who gave a positive review of this show, and the much-hyped admiration for Ms Davis's performance. Well, the show's plot and subplots have so many twists and turns that it was difficult to follow with logic. I discovered early on that it's a soap opera, so never mind how unrealistic the story gets. What's also difficult to understand was why Ms Davis performance was admired. She was so good in the movie "Doubt," but here whatever acting talent she has was negated by bad writing. All I did was wonder when is she going to cry (she cries "ghetto" tears, OBVIOUSLY acting! nothing understated). There were episodes she cried at least three times, even when it was not necessary. What a letdown!… Expand
  61. jer2911tx
    Aug 18, 2017
    1
    i REALLY wanted to like this show...love the idea behind it, but ended up disliking pretty much everything about it. The terrible script/dialogue/acting didn't help, and since I had just recently finished law school, there were WAY too many things that were just plain over the top as far as artistic liberty with anything in the show being believable in any way. 1st-year law students havei REALLY wanted to like this show...love the idea behind it, but ended up disliking pretty much everything about it. The terrible script/dialogue/acting didn't help, and since I had just recently finished law school, there were WAY too many things that were just plain over the top as far as artistic liberty with anything in the show being believable in any way. 1st-year law students have ZERO free time and are the last people anyone wants representing them or even working on their case when they do have to go to court, none of my professors would risk the malpractice suit by using 1st-year law students to assist with a case going to trial, and 1st-yr law students don't know enough to actually help. At a minimum, they could have said they were 2nd or 3rd-yr students and ended up getting involved due to them taking a clinic as part of their course requirements.
    Aside from being so disconnected with reality of a 1st-year law student, the crappy dialogue, acting, and flash-forwards were just too much to overlook and stay interested in such a poor effort at what seemed like such a good initial concept. I'd love to see someone do the same concept, but actually do it well.    … Expand
  62. erreburst
    Oct 2, 2017
    7
    black Jesuse, twelve judas, so many pilates ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
  63. manningn15
    Nov 26, 2018
    10
    The best murder thriller drama ever. This is my favorite new show of 2014. The screenplays and storylines are fantastic. The cast all give stupendous performances especially Viola Davis, Jack Falahee, Carla Souza, Alfred Enoch, Katie Findlay, Liza Weil, Aja Naomi King, and Billy Brown.
  64. McNews4
    Dec 19, 2017
    3
    I have suffered through 6 episodes for the sake of my sister who enjoys sharing the storyline with me. So many things wrong with this series, and others have said it better, but for starters: Unlikable characters, unbelievable plot, huge amounts gratuitous sex, shoddy writing, mocks religion, average acting--with the exception of Viola Davis, of course. I'm done.
  65. Felindie
    Jul 15, 2019
    6
    I was not impressed, but I hope this could be better with the upcoming seasons.
  66. tv_watcher123
    Oct 14, 2018
    0
    Used to love this show, and recommend to everyone. Now I am starting to hate it. Each season is worse than the previous. The most annoying part is the political messaging, it gets stronger each season.

    I just watched the 1st episode in season 5, and I feel overwhelmed. You can't go 2 minutes without left-leaning political propaganda. Gross misrepresentation of reality too. Police are    Used to love this show, and recommend to everyone. Now I am starting to hate it. Each season is worse than the previous. The most annoying part is the political messaging, it gets stronger each season.

    I just watched the 1st episode in season 5, and I feel overwhelmed. You can't go 2 minutes without left-leaning political propaganda. Gross misrepresentation of reality too. Police are evil, criminals are actually innocent, etc, etc.. It gets too repetitive.

    I watch a TV show to be entertained, I don't like to have a political message forced on me. I am not watching this TV show anymore. So sad and disappointed.    … Expand
  67. tdumolien
    Nov 1, 2018
    10
    This show is extremely addicting! It has major plot twists, and whenever you think you are able to guess what is going to happen, it goes in a completely different direction. What is unique about this show in my opinion is that at the beginning of every season they show a clip indicating that someone has died. Most of the time, you don't know which character has died, and the entire seasonThis show is extremely addicting! It has major plot twists, and whenever you think you are able to guess what is going to happen, it goes in a completely different direction. What is unique about this show in my opinion is that at the beginning of every season they show a clip indicating that someone has died. Most of the time, you don't know which character has died, and the entire season keeps showing you more and more of the clip until at the end you finally know who died and how.

    That main plot line keeps you engaged as it is. However, this show also brings in humor, relationships between the characters, past drama they have been involved in, etc. that really adds to the main plot. You become very involved in all of the characters lives and find yourself judging all of the decisions they all make!

    After I watch this show i immediately need to talk about it with a friend that also watches it. So much happens in an episode that you need to discuss everything as soon as you watch it before you forget!

    The acting is also extremely good on this show. The storyline is amazing, but it would not be nearly as good if the actors and actresses didn't do a good job.

    Highly recommend!!    … Expand
  68. All_ButTrU4
    Jan 10, 2022
    8
    another fresh drama from the legendary shonda rhymes. a lawyer show hat askew's it's genre cliche's whilst creating new one's. viola davis is an intimidating force as the stern dysfunctional Annalise Keating and her whirlwind associates.
  69. Petej86
    Mar 1, 2020
    3
    So far blinding convoluted pace that's almost unwatchable and feels almost juvenile. Zero meaningful character development. Ironically would be more enengaging with less non-stop 'imperative' action.
  70. KJ_20
    Mar 26, 2022
    9
    Season 1 is emotional, thrilling and gripping. It's a wonderful story that will keep you engrossed again and again. The scenes are wonderfully crafted, well-acted, and has an amazing story.

Awards & Rankings

79
#79 Best TV Season of 2014
20
#20 Most Discussed TV Season of 2014
22
#22 Most Shared TV Season of 2014

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
68

Generally favorable reviews - based on 30 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 20 out of 30
  2. Mixed: 10 out of 30
  3. Negative: 0 out of 30
  1. The Hollywood Reporter
    Reviewed by: Tim Goodman
    Sep 25, 2014
    40
    Davis is riveting throughout.... Unfortunately, Murder has a number of flaws.
    Read full review
  2. People Weekly
    Reviewed by: Patrick Gomez
    Sep 25, 2014
    75
    It actually improves upon the successful formula by downplaying any romantic entanglements, which, at times, have weighed down the leads of Rhimes's other shows.
    Read full review
  3. Slant Magazine
    Reviewed by: Matt Brennan
    Sep 25, 2014
    75
    How to Get Away with Murder screams "Shondaland" through and through, a sudsy primetime potboiler rooted in a belief that the experience of adulthood can be just as sexy as the bloom of youth.
    Read full review
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