John Adams

:

Season 1
  • Network: HBO
  • Series Premiere Date: Mar 16, 2008
User Score
8.5

Universal acclaim- based on 123 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 103 out of 123
  2. Mixed: 12 out of 123
  3. Negative: 8 out of 123
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User Reviews

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  1. RaysaJ.
    Mar 16, 2008
    0
    Are you kidding.. is this a comedy? What a mess. The casting seems to be a fatal mistake.
  2. Spielberg00
    Oct 3, 2011
    10
    JOHN ADAMS is (or, rather, was) an HBO mini-series telling of the historical figure of the same name. By the simple title and the promotional poster, you would think that this would only be a shallow feature, giving only textbook information, if that. As surprising as it is, that is definitely not true. The performances are believable, and the story introduces more facts that possibleJOHN ADAMS is (or, rather, was) an HBO mini-series telling of the historical figure of the same name. By the simple title and the promotional poster, you would think that this would only be a shallow feature, giving only textbook information, if that. As surprising as it is, that is definitely not true. The performances are believable, and the story introduces more facts that possible to learn if they were just spat out at you like a textbook (except in a video, of course). Quite surprising, worth checking out if you can find it on the Internet or re-running on HBO.… Expand
  3. BobW.
    Apr 7, 2008
    6
    Well executed, if glossed story as yet. I wait to see whether Adams' dark-side (with Hamilton) make it into the show -- the Alien and Sedition Acts used to suppress political opponents within the US on security pretexts - the historical precursor of components of the USA Patriot Act as well as Wilson's actions early in the 20th century. And where is Thomas Paine in the story? It Well executed, if glossed story as yet. I wait to see whether Adams' dark-side (with Hamilton) make it into the show -- the Alien and Sedition Acts used to suppress political opponents within the US on security pretexts - the historical precursor of components of the USA Patriot Act as well as Wilson's actions early in the 20th century. And where is Thomas Paine in the story? It is generally recognized that his pamphlet, "Common Sense," put the public call for independence to sufficient volume that the Continental Congress would act on their convictions. While a controversial figure for other writings, Paine was on the ground in this part of history.… Expand
  4. MikeG
    Apr 10, 2008
    2
    This boring show is made unwatchable by its awful cinematography. For some reason, the director thought it would be artistic to tilt the camera, do a lot of hand held camera work, and show lousy composition. The sound mix is terrible, and there are many passages of dialog that are completely unintelligible. I never knew American History could be so off putting!
  5. SusanR.
    Apr 3, 2008
    2
    Horribly cast, this is a mockery of history. Important points are glazed over or omitted entirely. Did the producers actually read David McCullough's biography?? Paul Giamatti is abominable as John Adams, a sloppy schlumpy mess. An Italian-American guy plays an English-American. Giamatti looks nothing like Adams' portraits. David Morse is also horribly mis-cast. Just all around Horribly cast, this is a mockery of history. Important points are glazed over or omitted entirely. Did the producers actually read David McCullough's biography?? Paul Giamatti is abominable as John Adams, a sloppy schlumpy mess. An Italian-American guy plays an English-American. Giamatti looks nothing like Adams' portraits. David Morse is also horribly mis-cast. Just all around garbage, except for the sets.… Expand
  6. MikeN.
    Apr 5, 2008
    10
    One of the best historical dramas that I have seen. Paul Giamatti does a wonderful job in this mini-series as does the others. I only wished it were not mini-series. This could be the start of a great run for a program.
  7. Alicson
    Apr 7, 2008
    10
    Considering the incredible monument of the subject-matter, I am especially impressed with the execution of this TV series so far. It's excellent.
  8. NancyB.
    Jan 23, 2009
    10
    David McCullough: the one true 'genius' behind delivering all this!
  9. TylerV
    Aug 1, 2009
    10
    I am a huge John Adams person. I love this movie so much that they should make an HBO movie for all the US Presidents. It was a creepy movie, but it was the best!!!!! Everyone should see this movie!
  10. WilliamC
    Mar 17, 2008
    9
    Thank you, thank you HBO. A great portrayal of early America....Linney and Giamatti are great together. The set is amazing and the costumes so authentic.....I'm hooked.
  11. JackM.
    Mar 17, 2008
    9
    John Adams almost single-handedly started the Revolutionary War after defending the British officers accused of murder in the Boston Massacre. Or so the HBO version of David McCullough's Pulitzer Prize-winning book would have us believe. Only cousin Sam Adams seems more passionately in favor of war with England. Patrick Henry and Thomas Paine are MIA. Still, the acting is stunning, John Adams almost single-handedly started the Revolutionary War after defending the British officers accused of murder in the Boston Massacre. Or so the HBO version of David McCullough's Pulitzer Prize-winning book would have us believe. Only cousin Sam Adams seems more passionately in favor of war with England. Patrick Henry and Thomas Paine are MIA. Still, the acting is stunning, especially in the characters of Abigail Adams, Benjamin Franklin and Adams himself. It is a fascinating recreation of the time.… Expand
  12. ChrisM.
    Mar 18, 2008
    10
    In an election year it's more important then ever to remember what this nation is about. This miniseries is not only entertaining but thought provoking. It is as educational as it is engaging.
  13. KathyS.
    Mar 21, 2008
    10
    After viewing two episodes, I can say that I am pleasantly surprised. Script and performances are top-notch across the board. Highly recommended.
  14. NickK.
    Mar 23, 2008
    10
    I am eagerly awaiting ALL 7 episodes, a job WELL Done HBO.
  15. KimB.
    Mar 27, 2008
    10
    some newspaper reviews say that Paul Gamatti isn't right for the role- but I totally disagree. He is totally compelling and he and Linney have great chemistry together. This is written so well- makes me long for more American History dramas from HBO, please,. We need to be reminded of the power of diverse minds in creating the country we want and need.
  16. GarL.
    Apr 1, 2008
    10
    Superb description of the very real human needs and fears that serve as the motivations for great as well as failed leadership. Terrific depiction of the emotional intelligence necessary for good diplomacy. Wonderfully directed and acted with great production values.
  17. BarbaraB.
    Apr 20, 2008
    10
    Absolutely wonderful! This series truly brought the people and events that created our country to life.
  18. HaroldM.
    Apr 22, 2008
    9
    Outstanding, but you need to read the book to fill in the gaps because of the time constraints of the series.
  19. HemanthK.
    Apr 25, 2008
    9
    I was impressed with the eye for detail in all of the miniseries. But what bothered me through all the series was the impression that Giamatti was over doing his role. I am not sure if history records him to be of a suspicious nature.
  20. TonyC.
    Apr 26, 2008
    10
    Giamonti's best effort to date from my view...and the "real" critics blame Paul for Adam's boring character.
  21. PC
    Apr 29, 2008
    10
    Paul Giamatti and Laura Linney are excellent. I enjoyed the attention to detail in the clothing, set, and script. I thought the soundtrack and audio were sublime.
  22. MichelleG.
    May 5, 2008
    10
    Learned so much! Learn more watching this Mini series than I did in school or college. I'm buying 3 copies. One for me, father, and father in-law. I'm from ME, and go to Boston All the time, New new how important John Adams was. He deserves to be on something! I'm going on a tour of his life when the weather warms. up! Thank You for teaching me!
  23. MikeO
    Jun 2, 2008
    10
    I was impressed by how true to the book the mini series stayed. I wish they would do more bio-pics that stay as close to the truth, as John Adams. I would especially love to see one on Benjamin Franklin, arguably and in my opinion, the MOST fascinating American who ever lived. He's the real life Forrest Gump. he was funny, intelligent and he was EVERYWHERE. I think he was present at I was impressed by how true to the book the mini series stayed. I wish they would do more bio-pics that stay as close to the truth, as John Adams. I would especially love to see one on Benjamin Franklin, arguably and in my opinion, the MOST fascinating American who ever lived. He's the real life Forrest Gump. he was funny, intelligent and he was EVERYWHERE. I think he was present at every famous and significant event in his time.… Expand
  24. ToddinHB
    Jul 14, 2008
    5
    I used to believe that HBO and Playtone could do no wrong, and I was really enjoying this at first, but with each successive episode, the dialogue became increasingly unintelligible and I was forced to keep the volume blasting while I went back over scenes three or four times just to get a piece of the dialogue. It is a fascinating peek into our historical roots, but not the most engaging I used to believe that HBO and Playtone could do no wrong, and I was really enjoying this at first, but with each successive episode, the dialogue became increasingly unintelligible and I was forced to keep the volume blasting while I went back over scenes three or four times just to get a piece of the dialogue. It is a fascinating peek into our historical roots, but not the most engaging and the soundtrack was infuriating!… Expand
  25. JS
    Jul 5, 2008
    3
    Acting is excellent but what is the purpose of a historical film if there are numerous inaccuracies. Even a low budget film could have easily been historically accurate. I am disappointed in that this could have been a wonderful movie to enjoy as a family but full frontal nudity especially within the first hour of the first episode. Seems there is more than early American history politics Acting is excellent but what is the purpose of a historical film if there are numerous inaccuracies. Even a low budget film could have easily been historically accurate. I am disappointed in that this could have been a wonderful movie to enjoy as a family but full frontal nudity especially within the first hour of the first episode. Seems there is more than early American history politics being sold in this film.… Expand
  26. RicardoT.
    Jul 8, 2008
    10
    This series is incredible accurate, well filmed, greatly acted. It is the best I've seen in my life. It made feel I was there. And OMG how many J Adams have I met in my life. Paul is great, the script is incredible, and Benjamin Franklyn came to life as I always saw him in my imagination. No words can describe this film.
  27. Meabarr
    Mar 16, 2008
    10
    Outstanding - typical HBO quality, by which I mean excellent.
  28. KK.
    Mar 17, 2008
    0
    Hard to watch.
  29. JoanP.
    Mar 17, 2008
    10
    Outstanding in all ways...acting, scenery, etc.
  30. LarryS.
    Mar 17, 2008
    10
    I've only seen the first two parts, but I am hooked. This mini-series vividly brings to life McCollough's biography. Paul Giamatti is brilliant. Laura Linney is perfect as Abagail. Stephen Dillane, as the phlegmatic Thomas Jefferson, had a wonderful scene off-handedly explaining his condemnation of slavery while Franklin and Adams edited it out of the Declaration of Independence.
  31. GeorgeJ.
    Mar 17, 2008
    10
    This is a powerful, moving drama. The production values are top-notch, You get the sense this is an accurate portrayal of what actually happened. It's a fantastic account one of the greatest events to happen in human history, the birth of the American nation. Do not miss this series!
  32. Tom
    Mar 22, 2008
    10
    I loved the book, love the show, so far. I have been to the re-enactment at lexington/concord and to williamsburg. this is almost as good. I hope the time in europe is not stretched out, get john home already. It's a 10, so far.
  33. JaredH.
    Mar 23, 2008
    1
    Obviously I'm in the minority here, but I think this is, so far, an unmitigated disaster. Ordinary, expositional, non-dramatic, poorly cast and like a much less interesting Biography Channel profile. I suppose many people like this kind of stately poop that lacks any real spark of imagination, but I'm not one them. It gets "1" for Laura Linney, though she is not cast well here.
  34. DanB.
    Mar 24, 2008
    8
    I hate to be cliche but, this series really makes history come alive. The personal drama between john and abigail, however, falls a bit flat for me. It is welldone and acted, but, I find myself wanting to know more about the politics and history.
  35. EricP.
    Mar 26, 2008
    10
    Rarely do I rate any TV program or movie to be a '10', but this would receive from me a rating of '20' if it were available. Although there are some missing characters the story stays true to history, and the acting is superb! Giamatti is amazing. It seems as though this role was made for him, and could well be his life's greatest. I was unfairly biased against Rarely do I rate any TV program or movie to be a '10', but this would receive from me a rating of '20' if it were available. Although there are some missing characters the story stays true to history, and the acting is superb! Giamatti is amazing. It seems as though this role was made for him, and could well be his life's greatest. I was unfairly biased against Linney from her performance in 'The Truman Show' as the selfish wretch of a wife, but here she is magnificent as Adam's wife. The boy who plays Johnny is also quite well portrayed. He seems young, wise, confused, and awestruck all at the same time. Bravo HBO for a magnificent program. Bring us more American History!… Expand
  36. TomB.
    Mar 27, 2008
    5
    Giametti is so bad that he takes down a great actor like Laura Linney.
  37. HudsonT.
    Mar 28, 2008
    10
    Best television experience since... I'm not quite sure.
  38. MitchellK.
    Mar 30, 2008
    9
    I look forward toward Sunday evenings at 9:00 now that John Adams is here. I have emailed HBO thanking them for such an historic masterpiece as John Adams. Paul Giamatti is superb, a great force. I believe that he actually has an emotional attachment to his character he's so good. I did not know until now how instrumental John Adams was in making our country (after a further I look forward toward Sunday evenings at 9:00 now that John Adams is here. I have emailed HBO thanking them for such an historic masterpiece as John Adams. Paul Giamatti is superb, a great force. I believe that he actually has an emotional attachment to his character he's so good. I did not know until now how instrumental John Adams was in making our country (after a further concurring investigation thanks to Wikepedia). This mini series makes me feel; well; patriotic to say the least, and appreciative of all the hardships our forefathers had to endure. Luckily I do have an HDTV and this series is extremely well done. The cinematography is beautiful. Long live these American States!… Expand
  39. GerardM.
    Apr 14, 2008
    10
    This is a very good show. Giammatti is good and so is Linney. This is history as drama, and pretty accurate at that.
  40. EllenK.
    Apr 14, 2008
    9
    Fascinating drama! We lived in Boston for 30 years and found the miniseries very interesting, with touching performances by Paul Giamatti, Laura Linney, David Morse (surprise as Washington) and others. See it on demand at HBO at your earliest convenience. A BIG WINNER... although if you want to quibble, Sybil, see the IMDB trivia and goofs selections. Radio Lady Ellen in Oregon.
  41. RonB.
    Apr 15, 2008
    9
    I enjoy history. This is the first portrayal of the birth of our country that I feel is believable. I'm on the edge of my seat waiting for the next big moment of how our government was created. It seems not much has changed, politicians jockeying for power. Everything seems so authentic right down to teeth rotting the older each character gets. Great job HBO!
  42. Evil-times
    Apr 16, 2008
    5
    Sloppy hand held camera ruins Paul Giamatti's incredible performance.
  43. DionT.
    Apr 16, 2008
    4
    The first four episodes were solid, but the fifth was average and the six outright boring. I don
  44. CarolineW.
    Apr 21, 2008
    10
    Paul Giamatti is astounding - surely one of the finest performances ever seen in a television drama.
  45. BobH.
    Apr 22, 2008
    7
    Great acting but this HBO series depressingly focuses on all the negative aspects of Adams life and character. It's sad.
  46. KathleenS.
    Apr 20, 2008
    10
    This is by far the best film I have ever seen in all my 65 years. I am astounded at how real every expression, scene, costume, makeup and setting was. It was like you were right there witnessing their lives. I marvel at the script, sounds, music, lighting and action. I was so moved by these actors who faithfully characterized their subjects to the last nuance with language and customs of This is by far the best film I have ever seen in all my 65 years. I am astounded at how real every expression, scene, costume, makeup and setting was. It was like you were right there witnessing their lives. I marvel at the script, sounds, music, lighting and action. I was so moved by these actors who faithfully characterized their subjects to the last nuance with language and customs of the 18th century. God Bless the director and producers and all the makers of this movie including those in Hungary!… Expand
  47. CarolynP.
    Apr 22, 2008
    9
    Really enjoyed the series. Read the McCullough book several years ago, and screenplay stayed very close to the history as recorded in letters and the book. The 3 main characters were phenomenally acted by Giamatti, Linney and Dillane. Excellent all around - would love to see the same type of series about Jefferson. Now there's a challenge.
  48. MichaelD.
    Apr 22, 2008
    10
    Despite the fact that didn't get to see any other side of JA than his angry side, this shows that if movie makers just "tell the story" it makes for great entertainment. After all, history is one great story after another. And who doesn't like a great a story?
  49. MattA.
    Apr 6, 2008
    10
    If this was a movie, It would sweep the oscars. Giamatti in his best performance of his career. The crew did a perfect job of portraying John Adams and the first 50 years of the USA.
  50. TaylorM.
    May 3, 2008
    10
    Excellent and well scripted tv show. I feel i have learned more of the nature revolving the creation of our country than any other public-school textbook or teacher could have provided. And, one must admit, with profound eloquence and thoughtful narrative. A Must See.
  51. PhilipH.
    Jun 14, 2008
    10
    Great series and historical representation of when America was born. A must see for those who love early American history.
  52. MeredithW.
    Feb 16, 2009
    7
    I seem to be alone in feeling hugely disappointed in Paul Giamatti's performance which spoils this series. For those who saw Sideways, you get Miles in a 3 cornered hat. Very grumpy and scolding, little charm or humor and he rarely makes EYE contact with the other actors-- which is strange and distancing. I read McCullough's book too and didn't get the impression Adams was I seem to be alone in feeling hugely disappointed in Paul Giamatti's performance which spoils this series. For those who saw Sideways, you get Miles in a 3 cornered hat. Very grumpy and scolding, little charm or humor and he rarely makes EYE contact with the other actors-- which is strange and distancing. I read McCullough's book too and didn't get the impression Adams was such a dour, unlikeable man. Other actors are excellent, especially David Morse as Washington (not easy to play such an icon!).… Expand
  53. GregA
    Mar 16, 2008
    10
    Bravo HBO!
  54. JeffC.
    Mar 17, 2008
    10
    I don't know how any one could say anything bad abou this series. It should be required viewing for every student in America. One of the finest mini series on any subject i have ever seen, and most certainly THE definitive modern day story telling of early America.
  55. NadineW.
    Mar 17, 2008
    10
    Excellent quality! Thank you HBO!
  56. ChrisKw.
    Mar 17, 2008
    10
    HBO may be struggling with finding its next big show but it still puts out the gret mini-series. This series will be remembered as much as Band of Brothers. Tom Hanks has proven himself to be a great producer with Playtone. I am already looking forward to the "The Pacific" in 2009.
  57. JW
    Mar 17, 2008
    10
    absolutely fantastic
  58. JoshuaH.
    Mar 17, 2008
    9
    I'm not qualified to rate it in terms of authenticity as a history but is well done as a visual period piece. The cast, writing, direction, costume design and art direction are excellent. The cinematography is at times very good at at times awful and distracting in the use of shaky hand-held technique and tilted horizons.
  59. MikeH.
    Mar 18, 2008
    9
    Historically accurate and well acted with great set design.
  60. GeriD.
    Mar 23, 2008
    10
    Giamatti and Linney are brilliant! Can't even imagine the courage it took to live at that time. What amazing decisions! What terrors to confront! This series is bringing history to life! I cannot get enough of it!
  61. MikeM.
    Mar 31, 2008
    10
    Typically well-crafted HBO production. Rousing and informing at once.
  62. JamieW.
    Mar 31, 2008
    9
    Excellent. Beautifully shot, well acted, and informative. The dialogue is the focus, not over-extended bloody battle scenes. I only wish there were more productions of this quality and depth on TV. Giamatti and Linney have chemistry together, though it is more endearing than romantic.
  63. AW
    Apr 14, 2008
    4
    It took me several episodes to realize that in the interest of condensing decades of history into a mini-series, and creating an exciting product, the producers have completely rewritten much of American history (Adams' time in Europe, his vote on the Jay Treaty, and so on). I'm fully committed to watching through to the end, but I'm becoming increasingly disappointed at It took me several episodes to realize that in the interest of condensing decades of history into a mini-series, and creating an exciting product, the producers have completely rewritten much of American history (Adams' time in Europe, his vote on the Jay Treaty, and so on). I'm fully committed to watching through to the end, but I'm becoming increasingly disappointed at the obvious lack of attention to detail.… Expand
  64. RodB.
    Apr 15, 2008
    10
    Excellent portrayal of the time in history, consistent with McCullough's narrations and the historical facts with few although little artistic license.
  65. LukeS.
    Apr 17, 2008
    10
    it is dead on history and inflammable acting to how john and the rest went about pulling Americas government to its feet.
  66. JohnK.
    Apr 21, 2008
    10
    This beautifully crafted drama captures the passions of the men and women who brought our country from a mere colony to a great nation. Paul Giamatti does a masterful job in his portrayal of John Adams, his faults and strengths. Laura Linney and the rest of the cast, are excellent. This should be seen by all people interested in the birth of our nation.
  67. PaulG
    Apr 29, 2008
    10
    I find no fault at all in this excellent series. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for thoughtful entertainment.
  68. peters.
    Feb 12, 2009
    10
    Step aside BBC, HBO has equaled if not bested the best of Masterpiece Theater with "John Adams." The only other time I've been able to say that is with "Lonesome Dove." It is the authenticity, the gritty essence of the American experience in these two films that sets them apart and evokes our deepest sense of truth. I am inspired by this moving production, and, at the same time Step aside BBC, HBO has equaled if not bested the best of Masterpiece Theater with "John Adams." The only other time I've been able to say that is with "Lonesome Dove." It is the authenticity, the gritty essence of the American experience in these two films that sets them apart and evokes our deepest sense of truth. I am inspired by this moving production, and, at the same time offended by effete critics whose response to art is too often artifice and barely disguised conceit. Give me Tom Shales, Maureen Ryan and Jill LePore to help me not to have to suffer long Allessandra Stanley, Mary McNamara and Tim Goodman. Viva HBO and commendations for Paul Giamatti's subtle portrayal of John and Laura Linney's deeply personal rendering of Abigail. I am a retired professor of American History. Would I could have been on the job when "John Adams" debuted. I would at long last have been able to move my students in the way the launching of this remarkable experiment in democracy has always moved me.… Expand
  69. JonK
    Jun 21, 2009
    10
    Excellent! I couldn't put it down. If only there were more minisiries like this that document the American Revolution.
  70. Shadow007
    Jun 24, 2011
    8
    The historical inaccuracies are somewhat inexplicable at times but the major issues and relationships are explored interestingly and faithfully. Overall, it is a wonderfully written, acted and directed examination of one of the most sidelined figures of the American revolution. The performance of a lifetime from Paul Giamatti as well as wonderful supporting roles from Laura Linney andThe historical inaccuracies are somewhat inexplicable at times but the major issues and relationships are explored interestingly and faithfully. Overall, it is a wonderfully written, acted and directed examination of one of the most sidelined figures of the American revolution. The performance of a lifetime from Paul Giamatti as well as wonderful supporting roles from Laura Linney and Stephen Dillane. It's not quite the masterpiece that it perhaps could have been but it's still a stellar production which is deserving of acknowledgement.… Expand
  71. judahjsn
    Dec 29, 2012
    5
    Paul Giamatti is a ham. Laura Linney is too in her own way, with her showy understatement as its own form of over-acting. These are actors that want you to see their acting and they are the worst part of this production. But I watched all seven episodes anyway, because there are so few re-enactments of this period in US history, which makes this a rare find. The rest of the casting is spotPaul Giamatti is a ham. Laura Linney is too in her own way, with her showy understatement as its own form of over-acting. These are actors that want you to see their acting and they are the worst part of this production. But I watched all seven episodes anyway, because there are so few re-enactments of this period in US history, which makes this a rare find. The rest of the casting is spot on though, and the other actors are so much better than the leads that it gives the strange impression throughout the story that John Adams is always the fool in the room, particularly the scenes with Stephen Dillane as Thomas Jefferson and Tom Wilkinson as Benjamin Franklin (I wish they would make a movie about either of those two characters with those actors). This is worth watching but a strange experience. I couldn't tell if the creators were trying to portray Adams as an unlikable, melodramatic boob or if that was just the accidental byproduct of Giamatti's performance. For what it's worth, I loved Giamatti in the Ides of March and I've liked Linney in other roles. I think they are just mis-cast here.… Expand
  72. jordi
    Nov 23, 2012
    9
    Gran calidad de HBO con una nueva miniserie histórica. Destacan las interpretaciones de Paul Giamatti y Laura Linney, el rigor histórico, la caracterización, la recreación histórica. Muy recomendable, más para todos aquellos que no conocíamos su historia, y la gran importancia del segundo Presidente de EEUU.
  73. worleyjamers
    Jun 4, 2013
    9
    John Adams is an essential story portrayed in brilliant fashion. Excellent direction from Tom Hooper, but it is the handful of fantastic performances that bring these iconic figures to life that really make the miniseries work. Paul Giamatti, Laura Linney, Tom Wilkinson, and Stephen Dillane in particular are stunning. John Adams is a near flawless telling of the story of colonial America.
  74. Alex_Klivecka
    Sep 2, 2013
    4
    While the broad scope of the series keeps things somewhat interesting and watchable, Giamatti as Adams is such a terrible miscasting that I could not bring myself to like this program. Additionally, Adams was apparently a very unlikable man, and so the series is left with no one to root for. Adams is not an antihero, he's just mean, cranky, and quite frankly annoying to watch for 7While the broad scope of the series keeps things somewhat interesting and watchable, Giamatti as Adams is such a terrible miscasting that I could not bring myself to like this program. Additionally, Adams was apparently a very unlikable man, and so the series is left with no one to root for. Adams is not an antihero, he's just mean, cranky, and quite frankly annoying to watch for 7 hours. Also, Giamatti is almost comical in the wigs and dress of the period, looking like a tubby, grumpy troll doll. The episodes with Benjamin Franklin save the series, and if you've got nothing else at least it's interesting from a historical perspective.… Expand
  75. Le__Xenomorph
    Jan 7, 2015
    9
    With very strong acting from Paul Giamatti, John Adams looks into the life of John Adams with major success. Especially earning praise from critics and me as well. 9/10 (Awesome)

Awards & Rankings

13
#13 Best TV Season of 2008
10
#10 Most Discussed TV Season of 2008
11
#11 Most Shared TV Season of 2008

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
78

Generally favorable reviews - based on 27 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 23 out of 27
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 27
  3. Negative: 0 out of 27
  1. Entertainment Weekly
    Reviewed by: Ken Tucker
    91
    Who says TV doesn't make history thought-provokingly exciting?
    Read full review
  2. New York Magazine (Vulture)
    Reviewed by: John Leonard
    80
    We’re in excellent company, from the Boston Massacre to the Declaration of Independence to Adams’s plenipotentiary missions to Versailles and the Court of St. James to his unsought but extremely gratifying vice-presidency in the first Washington administration.
    Read full review
  3. The New Yorker
    Reviewed by: Jill Lepore
    70
    At its best, the storytelling itself manages to accommodate a sense of historical contingency.
    Read full review
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