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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  1. 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)
  2. 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
  3. 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.
  4. 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
  5. 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.
  6. 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
  7. 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
  8. 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!
  9. 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.
  10. 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
  11. 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
  12. NancyB.
    Jan 23, 2009
    10
    David McCullough: the one true 'genius' behind delivering all this!
  13. 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
  14. 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.
  15. 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
  16. 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.
  17. 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
  18. 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!
  19. 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.
  20. 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.
  21. 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.
  22. 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.
  23. 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.
  24. 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.
  25. 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.
  26. 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?
  27. 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.
  28. 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.
  29. CarolineW.
    Apr 21, 2008
    10
    Paul Giamatti is astounding - surely one of the finest performances ever seen in a television drama.
  30. 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
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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?
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  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.
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  3. The New Yorker
    Reviewed by: Jill Lepore
    70
    At its best, the storytelling itself manages to accommodate a sense of historical contingency.
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