Justified

:

Season 1
  • Network: FX
  • Series Premiere Date: Mar 16, 2010
Season #: 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
9.1

Universal acclaim- based on 544 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 515 out of 544
  2. Mixed: 20 out of 544
  3. Negative: 9 out of 544
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  1. jonnyohio
    Jul 19, 2011
    9
    Has to be one of the best shows on TV at the moment. People who cannot pay attention to a continuing plot line need not watch. This is a TV show that tells a story in a sort of wild-west way, except this takes place in modern times and Kentucky. It is not reality TV. It's a great show with some really good writing behind it. Season two is even better. I don't understand how anyoneHas to be one of the best shows on TV at the moment. People who cannot pay attention to a continuing plot line need not watch. This is a TV show that tells a story in a sort of wild-west way, except this takes place in modern times and Kentucky. It is not reality TV. It's a great show with some really good writing behind it. Season two is even better. I don't understand how anyone can just give the show a 0 lol....they must have no taste in TV at all.… Expand
  2. bailchanis
    Nov 27, 2013
    9
    Great acting, interesting storyline and some of the best lines ever.
    -Why can't you bail him out?
    - Those are the first words out of your mouth?
    - I'll start again. I see you're still smoking.
  3. evilnewton
    Feb 17, 2014
    10
    Continuing the latest trend of flawed heroes and villains loved more than their counterparts, Justified takes a wonderful series of novels and the characterisation of a flawed Marshall who, despite his desire to always achieve the right result, is quite plainly a bad lawman.

    Timothy Olyphant does a masterful job of portraying this character, as does Goggins in his portrayal of    Continuing the latest trend of flawed heroes and villains loved more than their counterparts, Justified takes a wonderful series of novels and the characterisation of a flawed Marshall who, despite his desire to always achieve the right result, is quite plainly a bad lawman.

    Timothy Olyphant does a masterful job of portraying this character, as does Goggins in his portrayal of deceptively insightful and intelligent criminal Boyd Crowder. The show displays real and consistent character development that stays with the characters beyond the initial story arc, and is well worth the time    … Expand
  4. codfather96
    Jul 31, 2011
    9
    Definitely one of the best newcomers on television, the characters may at first seem a little generic and used but as soon as the Kentucky background is seen for the first time everything takes on a life of its own and makes for a entertaining and nail biting show
  5. Rogelirulo
    Apr 1, 2012
    9
    I'm learning a lot about another world from watching, "Justified", that I've only vaguely been aware of, most of it based on my own family's history in Arkansas and Tennessee. There are plenty of very real characters portrayed in this series that could very easily be members of my family. It feels a little weird to get acquainted this way but its a whole lot safer than in person.I'm learning a lot about another world from watching, "Justified", that I've only vaguely been aware of, most of it based on my own family's history in Arkansas and Tennessee. There are plenty of very real characters portrayed in this series that could very easily be members of my family. It feels a little weird to get acquainted this way but its a whole lot safer than in person. Winter's Bone is movie that I would highly recommend for those who find this program worth watching.… Expand
  6. chughead
    Jan 16, 2012
    9
    Mayberry vs The Hillbillies! This role was made for Timothy Olyphant so was Deadwood. Walking Tall lives.
    Raylan nemesis Boyd Crowder makes the show his own and grows ratings. Everybody's cousins in town!
  7. rcj
    Feb 2, 2013
    10
    Perfect on all counts writing, directing, casting and acting. One of the few shows of all time that I've been addicted to. I've seen all through season 3.
  8. toliverjohn
    Jul 26, 2013
    10
    This is probably the best show on American TV right now. It is gritty. It is entertaining and the characters ring true. Most people from the south see nothing but stereotypes on regular TV. The characters on Justified ring true.
  9. Slam
    Feb 14, 2013
    10
    Every man who watches this show wishes he was Raylan Givens. Handsome, quietly confident, wry sense of humor, and kills bad guys, but only when it's wait for it justified. Several great supporting characters. The screen crackles when Raylan and Boyd Crowder have a scene together. Gorgeous actresses. GREAT villians. Fun twisty unpredictable stories. Somebody finally figured out how toEvery man who watches this show wishes he was Raylan Givens. Handsome, quietly confident, wry sense of humor, and kills bad guys, but only when it's wait for it justified. Several great supporting characters. The screen crackles when Raylan and Boyd Crowder have a scene together. Gorgeous actresses. GREAT villians. Fun twisty unpredictable stories. Somebody finally figured out how to "do" Elmore Leonard. My favorite show on TV… Expand
  10. th3uglytruth
    Jan 25, 2015
    9
    The good: always been a well written show from season 1 till 5. The acting is superb and the character (even some of the bad guys) are just loveable. This and Longmier has been the best "Western" themed shows that I've seen on the tube over the past 5 years.

    The bad: there ain't no more seasons after this year! Shame....truly.
  11. XavierBlaq
    Dec 26, 2013
    9
    Starting strong and finishing even stronger, this first season of Justified delivered strong with great action and writing that is acted about as excellently as possible. I won't pick a stand-out character because that is impossible among the more than a dozen people like Raylan, Art, Tim, Ava, Boyd, Dewey, and Bo, but suffice it to say that the show is more entertaining in between theStarting strong and finishing even stronger, this first season of Justified delivered strong with great action and writing that is acted about as excellently as possible. I won't pick a stand-out character because that is impossible among the more than a dozen people like Raylan, Art, Tim, Ava, Boyd, Dewey, and Bo, but suffice it to say that the show is more entertaining in between the gunfights than during, which is saying a lot.… Expand
  12. hammun
    May 26, 2011
    10
    The last episode of this second season has left me breathless and proves that the series has tremendous staying power and can get even better than it already is. What sets this series apart from everything else that's on TV right now (and frankly, has been for the past few years) is plot and character development. Not only is the central plot gripping and innovative, all the subplots thusThe last episode of this second season has left me breathless and proves that the series has tremendous staying power and can get even better than it already is. What sets this series apart from everything else that's on TV right now (and frankly, has been for the past few years) is plot and character development. Not only is the central plot gripping and innovative, all the subplots thus far presented serve it amazingly well and are worthy in their own right. The same can be said about characters. As if characters as rich and multi-layered as Raylan and Boyd weren't enough, we still get marvelous supporting characters for them to play off of, such as the whole of the Bennett family. Elmore Leonard is a freaking genius!!!… Expand
  13. Tony
    Mar 20, 2011
    8
    Timothy Olyphant is a treasure as Raylan Givens and the show, although erratic in its quality throughout the season, often achieved brilliance. The last two episodes were some of the best television in recent memory.
  14. MarcDoyle
    Aug 13, 2010
    9
    Outstanding series. I agree with Whit (the man from Kentucky) that it's got the balls to tell stories like they should be told instead of reverting to the same old Hollywood patterns. It's a perfect offering for FX. The casting for the lead characters ex-wife was perfect. She was incredible in Dirty Sexy Money and even better on this show.
  15. PCElitist
    Mar 16, 2011
    10
    This show rocks. Plenty of gunfights, awesome characters, especially Givens, Neo-Nazi turned evangelical preacher Boyd Crowder (who happens to be an old friend of Givens', and they continue to be friends, which is fascinating), and fatherly hardass boss Marshal Art Mullen, and a cable show not afraid of the FCC, which I appreciate. But you all know, from critic reviews, that this show isThis show rocks. Plenty of gunfights, awesome characters, especially Givens, Neo-Nazi turned evangelical preacher Boyd Crowder (who happens to be an old friend of Givens', and they continue to be friends, which is fascinating), and fatherly hardass boss Marshal Art Mullen, and a cable show not afraid of the FCC, which I appreciate. But you all know, from critic reviews, that this show is awesome. I want to respond to some of the truly idiotic comments, especially from 'poppacastro.' First, the Marshal's office is in Lexington, Kentucky, a city of three hundred and fifty thousand people. Much of the action takes place in Harlan County, Kentucky, where Givens grew up, population 33,000. Most of the bad guys are from his hometown, also called Harlan, because it's the county seat, but the principal bad guys, mostly childhood acquaintances or friends of Givens', draw their manpower from all over this county. And the rocket launcher used to destroy the black church/pot dealership was a Vietnam era-LAW (light antitank weapon), and I'd be willing to bet you could get those for about two hundred bucks, with a new unit cost of $1000, and this weapon was emphatically not new. Definitely worth it to take out the competition. As to everyone being uneducated hicks, this is coal country, home of the most productive coal mines in the US. And coal mining takes MANPOWER. Education tends to be subpar in places with large industrial apparatuses capable of consuming legions of barely-literate high school graduates (given the rate at which such professions use up its practitioners). Detroit was the same until American cars went belly-up. That said, he is kind of a sap at times, though I hardly think that he's anything like a combination of House, Jack Bauer, and Don Draper. He's more like a combination of Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday.… Expand
  16. hagbardceline
    Apr 30, 2011
    6
    It's as if they have two sets of writers for this show. One set for dialog and one for plot. The dialog is great the plots are ludicrous. The main character just happens to always be at the right place at the right time. Another thing, they're still showing white chalk marks for bodies at crime scenes. Everyone knows, by now (except the crappy writers on this show) that those aren'tIt's as if they have two sets of writers for this show. One set for dialog and one for plot. The dialog is great the plots are ludicrous. The main character just happens to always be at the right place at the right time. Another thing, they're still showing white chalk marks for bodies at crime scenes. Everyone knows, by now (except the crappy writers on this show) that those aren't never actually used and are solely a Hollywood convention from the 1930's. The acting is fine, the dialog is great, but please get some better people to hash out the plot.… Expand
  17. nessington
    Dec 18, 2011
    10
    I know Olyphant from Deadwood, one of the best shows ever made. While this isn't quite in that category of greatness, Justified is a well-written show with a handful (though small) of interesting characters. Especially interesting is the relationship between Olyphant and the character Boyd, who seemingly becomes a born-again Christian after being locked up by Olyphant's character. OfI know Olyphant from Deadwood, one of the best shows ever made. While this isn't quite in that category of greatness, Justified is a well-written show with a handful (though small) of interesting characters. Especially interesting is the relationship between Olyphant and the character Boyd, who seemingly becomes a born-again Christian after being locked up by Olyphant's character. Of course, Olyphant isn't buying it one bit. Nice pacing with some genuinely funny moments, Justified is the only show I'm watching at the moment (other than Breaking Bad) where I don't have my expectations set in the toilet.… Expand
  18. whit
    Aug 5, 2010
    8
    Great show-- well acted, and has the balls to go in some directions you would not expect. Doesn't hurt that it is set very near where I grew up-- but I do remember most residents being slightly less armed than portrayed on the show...
  19. thebettingman
    Apr 22, 2011
    10
    'Justified' captures the mood of Elmore Leonard better than any other previous adaptation of his works. Olyphant's Raylan Givens has enough swagger to fill any scene, but any time he is joined on screen by Walton Goggins' Boyd Crowder, the whole thing goes up a notch. Love me some Justified
  20. FilmNoir
    Apr 21, 2011
    10
    I heart Timothy Olyphant. I have ever since he starred in Deadwood and even as far back as Go. Not that I want to see him typecasted but this is the type of role that he was made to play. He excels as the tough but fair lawman with a sensitive and oh so dreamy underbelly. This show has excellent dialogue, writing, editing and the acting is perfect. I am hoping that season two is just asI heart Timothy Olyphant. I have ever since he starred in Deadwood and even as far back as Go. Not that I want to see him typecasted but this is the type of role that he was made to play. He excels as the tough but fair lawman with a sensitive and oh so dreamy underbelly. This show has excellent dialogue, writing, editing and the acting is perfect. I am hoping that season two is just as good and am excitedly awaiting it's release to DVD. I highly recommend this show to anyone who enjoys a good old fashioned ass kicking, hard loving, tough guy sort of show. Bravo FX!… Expand
  21. raporgi
    Mar 2, 2016
    3
    Cheesy and predictable. Its a GunSmoke wannabe with the most cliche sterotypes, with none of the weight and grit of the original. TV comfort food at its mediocre best.
  22. StickyFingersAJ
    Nov 13, 2013
    10
    It's laughable that someone can watch a single episode of a show and then try and say something about it to people who are up to date. I try to give shows the benefit of the doubt until they at least have two, preferably three seasons under their belt certainly before giving a proper review. I don't consider the show to be off of the ground until the third season is finished and the fourthIt's laughable that someone can watch a single episode of a show and then try and say something about it to people who are up to date. I try to give shows the benefit of the doubt until they at least have two, preferably three seasons under their belt certainly before giving a proper review. I don't consider the show to be off of the ground until the third season is finished and the fourth has been greenlit. Justified is the best non sci-fi show that I have ever watched; and yes I was an avid viewer of Breaking Bad and the last season of that was utter garbage it completely disgraced everything the show had built itself up to be but that's okay because that show never gripped me like Justified does, I never cared about any of the characters in Breaking Bad they were all mind numbingly stupid not to mention boring and down right annoying, in season 1 of Justified you get to see what meth operations really look like not fantasy world where a geezer can just up and start cooking residential meth and pull the flukiest and cartoon-ish escapes from situations that are already farfetched I felt like it was a cartoon honestly the amount of ridiculously implausible occurrences that happen it's a joke; and at the end he admits that everything that happened in the whole show was pointless and just dies. Lamest ending of the season and yes I was a Dexter fan as well I still say nothing could possibly be as bad as that whole fifth season. Any way we're here fro A great show and praise it shall have... cheers to Justified a truly badass show… Expand
  23. Krby71
    Sep 22, 2010
    8
    Good first season, had a few lulls, but got back to being a quality FX program. Acting is good, attachment to the characters is there, and understanding of each person's actions is solid. This show really helps to fill the void left after The Shield.
  24. niale
    Oct 16, 2010
    9
    Brilliant show, especially for fans of Elmore Leonard's writing. Timothy Olyphant inhabits the laconic character with ease, grace and wit. Episodes are unhurried, thoughtful, and amusing. Violence is addressed in an understated manner, and even minor characters appear interesting and well cast. Long may it last!
  25. claire
    Jan 9, 2011
    10
    I missed season one, but added it to my Tivo wish list, and lo and behold I found three episodes this morning. My husband and I watched the first episode, then ended up watching all three. The Raylan Givens character played by Timothy Olyphant is a tough character and a bit of a rogue, but tough and charming make a nice mix. I like watching him. So far he is the only character theI missed season one, but added it to my Tivo wish list, and lo and behold I found three episodes this morning. My husband and I watched the first episode, then ended up watching all three. The Raylan Givens character played by Timothy Olyphant is a tough character and a bit of a rogue, but tough and charming make a nice mix. I like watching him. So far he is the only character the writers have developed to any degree. It is a violent show, but I'm not averse to violence. It also has a sense of humor, and I love that it's in KY (rather than LA, LV or NY, etc.), which makes for an interesting backdrop. Three more episodes will be on in the wee hours next week, and I am already anticipating them. (Anyone else recording them should add about ten minutes to the third show as each show, running consecutively, came up short and by the third, we had missed five or so minutes.)… Expand
  26. Daggard
    Feb 12, 2011
    10
    Here's a show that is unpredictable, funny, dark and entertaining all at once. Combining the procedural cop show with the Western is a great move, made even greater by the witty scripts and the great talent of the performers, Olyphant being the stand out. A show that embraces the Western but somehow manages to avoid most of the tired cop show cliches, this is brilliant stuff. Roll on Season 2!
  27. SonOfSap
    Feb 15, 2011
    0
    Now this may just be one of the sappiest shows I have seen in a long, long time. Timothy Olyphant may be a fine actor for a television commercial, but dress him up in a cheesy cowboy hat at your own peril. While the premise of the show may be interesting, one should note that it's set in Nowhere, Kentucky, and how many people can he really shoot in a town of 57 habitants? I've seen ol' TimNow this may just be one of the sappiest shows I have seen in a long, long time. Timothy Olyphant may be a fine actor for a television commercial, but dress him up in a cheesy cowboy hat at your own peril. While the premise of the show may be interesting, one should note that it's set in Nowhere, Kentucky, and how many people can he really shoot in a town of 57 habitants? I've seen ol' Tim play a bunch of terrible bad guys in movies and television before and I really wanted him to do well in this one. He doesn't seem like too bad of a guy and why not cheer for the Working Man's Hero, but the writing in this show is truly brutal. Why even attempt to turn this guy into some sort of mutant television character with Jack Bauer's mean streak, Dr House's wit and Don Draper's womanizing charm? I'd rather saw off my own foot with a rusty saw from 8th grade shop class than be forced to watch this tripe. After all, it's just like my old man used to say: you can't make chicken salad from chicken ****… Expand
  28. fritzperls
    Aug 15, 2010
    2
    Certainly starts well, but quickly degenerated into a confusion of crime thriller with teenage type comedy. Script lacked tightness and development, instead remaining lightweight and superficial. What a waste of Timothy Olyphant.
  29. MikeK
    Sep 4, 2010
    9
    Since I canceled my subscriptions to premium channels, FX and AMC are the only channels keeping me from canceling my cable deal. Justified is a prime example of why. Admittedly, the show takes about half a season to really get off the ground, but the writing remains strong throughout and once it gets off the ground, it's propelled into the stratosphere. Walton Goggins is fantastic.
  30. TVCritical
    Jan 31, 2012
    6
    The thing that makes this show Remarkable is the acting plain and simple the acting in this show is pure supremacy but, too bad that's the only thing this show has.Other things that are good include the unique filming, suprise twists that happen rarely, and very realistic look of the country southern american setting.
  31. Swati
    Feb 21, 2013
    7
    It was too disjointed for me to enjoy. I like good plotting and characterization, and although the latter was there, the lack of the former was evident until later in the season. The last few episodes managed to weave the whole story together somewhat but it wasn't enough. There are definitely better first seasons out there. This season was overrated and did not make me want to watch theIt was too disjointed for me to enjoy. I like good plotting and characterization, and although the latter was there, the lack of the former was evident until later in the season. The last few episodes managed to weave the whole story together somewhat but it wasn't enough. There are definitely better first seasons out there. This season was overrated and did not make me want to watch the next season.… Expand
  32. SeniorTVwatcher
    Mar 2, 2013
    2
    I started out liking this show but I must have been confused thinking it was a western-type police show. Although I like the main character it seems it has morphed into nothing but a never ending soap opera as I haven't seen "the Marshall" do any investigating or arresting in the last three shows. I am old-fashioned in liking shows that the good guys win and the show has a conclusionI started out liking this show but I must have been confused thinking it was a western-type police show. Although I like the main character it seems it has morphed into nothing but a never ending soap opera as I haven't seen "the Marshall" do any investigating or arresting in the last three shows. I am old-fashioned in liking shows that the good guys win and the show has a conclusion after one hour. No longer on my list.… Expand
  33. LilGypsy
    Mar 14, 2013
    5
    I have mixed feelings about this show. I love some of the characters Olyphant channels a good Clint Eastwood vibe. But the writing is splintered where is Natalie Zea (the ex-wife)? Why not involve other marshals more fully (which is usually done)? The actress who plays "Boyd's" fiance has the worst fake accent I think I have ever heard it's distracting and her character has lost a lotI have mixed feelings about this show. I love some of the characters Olyphant channels a good Clint Eastwood vibe. But the writing is splintered where is Natalie Zea (the ex-wife)? Why not involve other marshals more fully (which is usually done)? The actress who plays "Boyd's" fiance has the worst fake accent I think I have ever heard it's distracting and her character has lost a lot of strength. That character would have been more interesting by toeing the line between Crowder (bad) and Givens (good). The writing leads to obvious conclusions with dead-ends for continuance. And ugh, the editing. It's horrible. Discrepancies in almost every scene glasses are on a table, then gone in the next shot. The contrast even varies shot to shot. There are mountains in the background (Kentucky has green hills), and worse yet, our local Santa Clarita numbers on some signs in the background. Hey guys look me up lauramhealy1 at g mail. I work as a freelance editor and consultant. I bet I could do a better job for less money. The setting should be more authentic I grew up in the Midwest before coming out here. Kentucky has bluegrass (not sand), maples and elms (not desert scrub trees), huge expanses of green fields (not dusty desert roads/highways), songbirds (not many crows), black dirt (not sand), lots of horses and loose dogs (the only animals are dead hanging hogs), and a lot of people who smoke. It would be pretty inexpensive to actually film in Kentucky. A little more authenticity and sharper writing (and basic editing!) could make this show a blockbuster.… Expand
  34. totallyspun
    Mar 30, 2013
    1
    I cannot fathom why the accolades for this show abound. I think just about everything to do with this show is below par. There is absolutely zero realism.. In all of the first season, the Marshall has done actual marshal work only two or three times. He spends 90% of his time pursuing personal grudges and disobeying his directives, harassing people with no evidence, and it usually ends inI cannot fathom why the accolades for this show abound. I think just about everything to do with this show is below par. There is absolutely zero realism.. In all of the first season, the Marshall has done actual marshal work only two or three times. He spends 90% of his time pursuing personal grudges and disobeying his directives, harassing people with no evidence, and it usually ends in bloodshed; but at the end of most episodes he's applauded for doing great work? The scope of characters is far too narrow and in every single episode it comes back to the same villains, who are jokes of bad guys. The plot is over simple as are the characters. Timothy Olyphant does look good in his hat, but that's only worth 1 out of 10.… Expand
  35. PStakhiv
    May 27, 2013
    6
    Now lets be honest the start of series "Justified" wasn't something impressive, it was more generic, unoriginal. But as the show went on it build some interesting characters. But overall season 1 fairy engaging, just above average!
  36. apaeth
    Apr 3, 2013
    9
    A great show with excellent dialogue, dry humor and quality actors. It has it's downfalls and poorly written episodes like every other show but overall it is a fun ride.
  37. MonopolyBag
    Apr 11, 2012
    10
    I give it a 10 out of 10, although not as good as Sons of Anarchy, the show does not deserve less than ten. Maybe Sons gets a 10.5. The show hardly ever gets cheesy, keeps me on my toes, and offers a great story to follow, without leaving any show boring. It should be watched from the beginning, S01E01, or you may miss much. But I love this show, and even after Season 3, it still is great,I give it a 10 out of 10, although not as good as Sons of Anarchy, the show does not deserve less than ten. Maybe Sons gets a 10.5. The show hardly ever gets cheesy, keeps me on my toes, and offers a great story to follow, without leaving any show boring. It should be watched from the beginning, S01E01, or you may miss much. But I love this show, and even after Season 3, it still is great, actually, it is better.… Expand
  38. drlowdon
    Oct 11, 2015
    8
    Having been involved in a high profile, and rather questionable shooting, US Marshal Raylan Givens is transferred from Miami back to his home town in Kentucky and soon becomes tangled up in business he thought he'd left behind for good.

    Justified is one of those those shows that hits the ground running from the very first scene and, thanks to some very good writing and performances,    Having been involved in a high profile, and rather questionable shooting, US Marshal Raylan Givens is transferred from Miami back to his home town in Kentucky and soon becomes tangled up in business he thought he'd left behind for good.

    Justified is one of those those shows that hits the ground running from the very first scene and, thanks to some very good writing and performances, makes for a great watch throughout the thirteen episodes on offer here.    … Expand
  39. MitcheyBabes
    May 29, 2011
    9
    This show is awesome. Every aspect of it. The stories are interesting, the characters well developed and Olyphant is very potent. The reviews are right, it takes time to get off the ground but it is worth being patient.
  40. cheapsheep
    Aug 4, 2011
    9
    One of the only a few shows that I will watch as soon as an episode is available. The show doesn't take itself to seriously and helps keep the viewer interested with some wild story lines. I'm surprised how much the show has put these characters through in only two seasons. I would highly suggest to anyone looking for something to watch over the summer.
  41. SJMechEngr
    Mar 21, 2012
    9
    Justified is another cop drama, but with a fresh spin on the played out genre. A well-rounded cast and solid writing have kept me coming back every week since the pilot aired.

    Initially, every episode resulted in Raylan solving every scenario with a well-timed shot, but the stories have been taking a different direction this season and have renewed my interest in the plot and where it's    Justified is another cop drama, but with a fresh spin on the played out genre. A well-rounded cast and solid writing have kept me coming back every week since the pilot aired.

    Initially, every episode resulted in Raylan solving every scenario with a well-timed shot, but the stories have been taking a different direction this season and have renewed my interest in the plot and where it's going. Well worth the watch.    … Expand
  42. imthenoob
    Feb 2, 2012
    8
    It got off on a rather slow start but it definently picked up later on in the season. The cast is good and the plot is interesting. I would say the huge flaw of the show is that it just took soon long for it to get interesting, They definently gotta fix that for next season. Still, Its a good show that is well worth the watch.
  43. kstaterhater
    Mar 16, 2012
    9
    This show has a cool factor. Raylan Givens and Boyd Crowder are the main guys, and everyone else will likely die in this or a future episode, and that's ok... Not a typical shoot em up law show. Usually some unexpected turns. Always give kudos to shows where they make you root for the good guys and the bad guys at the same time.
  44. LJQ
    Apr 19, 2012
    10
    It's a fantastic series and I don't know how we are going to wait until the next season starts! It had me hanging on the edge of my seat and hankering for more when every episode was over. I love the laconic humor and unexpected twists. The only two criticisms I have are - there isn't a whole lot of intelligent police work happening (eg when Arlow confesses to the shooting at the end ofIt's a fantastic series and I don't know how we are going to wait until the next season starts! It had me hanging on the edge of my seat and hankering for more when every episode was over. I love the laconic humor and unexpected twists. The only two criticisms I have are - there isn't a whole lot of intelligent police work happening (eg when Arlow confesses to the shooting at the end of the series- they just believe him without any evidence) Not that I want this show to turn into another CSI because I hate those shows, but it just seems a little silly that it's not a factor. The other criticism is that Timothy Olyphant doesn't take his shirt off enough! I don't know why he isn't cast in more movie roles because we love his work.… Expand
  45. bigpapa
    Aug 2, 2012
    10
    Hands down the best of the cop shows on TV. Timothy Olyphant is superb with hardly a missed beat by any of the support players. Well written, note perfect acting and a great balance in genre. There is solid action with romance that doesn't seem to be added 'just because we need the chick demographics'. Some well thought out drama tempered with great elements of comic relief (Damon HerrimanHands down the best of the cop shows on TV. Timothy Olyphant is superb with hardly a missed beat by any of the support players. Well written, note perfect acting and a great balance in genre. There is solid action with romance that doesn't seem to be added 'just because we need the chick demographics'. Some well thought out drama tempered with great elements of comic relief (Damon Herriman as Dewey Crowe is brilliant). Can't rightly think why this would get anything less than 6. Matt Passmore from The Glades should take notes from Timothy Olyphant on how to play smart tough and cool.… Expand
  46. Gterv
    Aug 24, 2012
    10
    Smart, funny, great complex and interesting characters excellent writing... I enjoy every episode and I can't t wait for next season. Olyphant is amazing in this show.
  47. georgio
    May 18, 2016
    9
    Now as a preface this is a review of not only season 1 but the whole series. Also I watched Season 1 year or two ago and then stopped for some reason. I returned recetnly since I had nothing else to watch and do not regret it.

    However be warned that Justified is not your regular TV Show. If there can be a comparison with different shows it would be that of "The Wire". And now before    Now as a preface this is a review of not only season 1 but the whole series. Also I watched Season 1 year or two ago and then stopped for some reason. I returned recetnly since I had nothing else to watch and do not regret it.

    However be warned that Justified is not your regular TV Show. If there can be a comparison with different shows it would be that of "The Wire". And now before hard fans of that fantastic TV Show raise their pitchforks - think about it. Justified tells not only story of its main Protagonist. You get to see the life in Harlan County displayed from different angles via stories of main heroes and villains. Some characters stay for a long time, others jump into the scene here and there and many more meet their untimely deaths.

    Justified is masterpiece of story and character building, but it needs some investment from the viewer. It is very dynamic so if you don't like where some story or character arc leads more likely than not you will be positively surprised later. The world of Harlan County is very well fleshed out and very believable, the acting is top notch together with intelligent dialogues.

    In my opinion one of the best TV Shows of all times.    … Expand
  48. niknintil07
    Dec 29, 2012
    10
    LOVE this show! If I could rate it higher I would. The acting is great, Timothy O is absolutely amazing, the modern day Clint Eastwood! The writing is fantastic and the series flows from show to show. Each season has gotten better than the previous one and it keeps you on the end of your seat, no one and nothing is sacred or protected. I can't count the number of times I have said outLOVE this show! If I could rate it higher I would. The acting is great, Timothy O is absolutely amazing, the modern day Clint Eastwood! The writing is fantastic and the series flows from show to show. Each season has gotten better than the previous one and it keeps you on the end of your seat, no one and nothing is sacred or protected. I can't count the number of times I have said out loud, "ohh wow, holy crap!" (and I usually watch it alone!! It is the show you want to have a quiet household to watch with no interruptions or distractions. Phones off!! Bring on Marshal Givens!!!!… Expand
  49. krnology
    Feb 21, 2013
    8
    Justified is a solid character driven show that delivers in creating unique plots and season long story arcs. I enjoy that justified attempts to be unpredictable while still maintaining a consistent storyline that's compelling to follow. I also like how each season successfully delves into a unique dilemma that has to be solved or averted in cliffhanger fashion. Other strengths of theJustified is a solid character driven show that delivers in creating unique plots and season long story arcs. I enjoy that justified attempts to be unpredictable while still maintaining a consistent storyline that's compelling to follow. I also like how each season successfully delves into a unique dilemma that has to be solved or averted in cliffhanger fashion. Other strengths of the show center on the excellent villains, strong acting, and frequent sarcastic humor. However, I find that Justified typically lacks a positive vibe (a lot of backstabbing, betrayal), leaving me wondering if I even care whether the main character fails. Still though, the series is solid and I continue to look forward to each new season with anticipation.… Expand
  50. DolphinGirl
    May 28, 2013
    10
    Justified is currently my favorite show on TV. The casting, writing, and acting all come together to create a thoroughly entertaining television experience. It's a drama, but it can also be witty, hilarious. The dialog is snap crackle popping smart, in the always enjoyable style of Elmore Leonard. The dance between the US Marshals and the bad guys is choreographed in a way thatJustified is currently my favorite show on TV. The casting, writing, and acting all come together to create a thoroughly entertaining television experience. It's a drama, but it can also be witty, hilarious. The dialog is snap crackle popping smart, in the always enjoyable style of Elmore Leonard. The dance between the US Marshals and the bad guys is choreographed in a way that reminds me of the Road Runner and Wiley E. Coyote.

    Timothy Olyphant is so super cool in his portrayal of US Deputy Marshal Raylan Givens. Walton Goggins as Raylan's 'frenemy,' Boyd Crowder is outstanding. And every single cast member and guest star is equally well suited for his/her role. I love them all.    … Expand
  51. lager96
    Nov 20, 2017
    8
    Season one is a great start to what can be an excellent show. A majority of the episodes were episodic plots that didn't have the punch that the premiere had. Within those episodes, however, we had great characters that will be remembered. Timothy Olyphant and Walter Goggins make their characters worth remembering. The final three episodes picked up the pace and had more overarchingSeason one is a great start to what can be an excellent show. A majority of the episodes were episodic plots that didn't have the punch that the premiere had. Within those episodes, however, we had great characters that will be remembered. Timothy Olyphant and Walter Goggins make their characters worth remembering. The final three episodes picked up the pace and had more overarching character arcs. The ending sets up for what can be a fantastic second season.… Expand
  52. samuelreeds
    Nov 26, 2013
    9
    Old-school U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens (Timmy Olyphant- Damages) comes back to his childhood home in the poor, rural coal-mining towns in Eastern Kentucky. While battling out his past with Boyd Crowder (Walton Goggins The Shield) and his other associates. At the beginning of the start of the show you catch Raylan in a situation where he has illegally shot a known suspect in Miami Beach, asOld-school U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens (Timmy Olyphant- Damages) comes back to his childhood home in the poor, rural coal-mining towns in Eastern Kentucky. While battling out his past with Boyd Crowder (Walton Goggins The Shield) and his other associates. At the beginning of the start of the show you catch Raylan in a situation where he has illegally shot a known suspect in Miami Beach, as the Marshal Service try to justify this incident,they end up reassigning him to Kentucky.

    As for the shows plot line, Its great with broad characters and many episodes to find out who they really are and what their capable of. Boyd and Rayland often get in fuss together as both try to conduct their business one of the law and the other of a criminal enterprise, which also makes the show interesting but often dull. But as you find out about both characters pasts together it becomes a lot more intriguing. Other criminals come into harlan county to start a stir (dixe mafia, etc) and follows specifically Raylan and Boyds interactions with the present situation. Most seasons start and end with a new character being killed off for whatever mess they got into but Boyd and Raylan still prevail.

    Bottom line I completely recommend this show, has fantastic writing and I absolutely love all of the characters. Episodes are sometimes dull but when the time comes when something major in the series surfaces it becomes really intense. Definitely on my top 10 favorites.    … Expand
  53. Firebala
    Sep 17, 2013
    8
    I must say, one of today's most charming series! Fortunately, not crime-related rather nice country atmosphere spiced action-drama series and say good-western influences.
  54. DrOoohKillEm
    Nov 22, 2013
    10
    This is a cumulative review of all 4 seasons of this show so far:
    One of the best shows on television. I'd put it behind Breaking Bad, Homeland and Game of Thrones but one could certainly argue that is could be second behind Breaking Bad for current or recently ended shows (so long Breaking Bad). There is no one element that makes this show spectacular but rather the combination of    This is a cumulative review of all 4 seasons of this show so far:
    One of the best shows on television. I'd put it behind Breaking Bad, Homeland and Game of Thrones but one could certainly argue that is could be second behind Breaking Bad for current or recently ended shows (so long Breaking Bad). There is no one element that makes this show spectacular but rather the combination of excellent acting by brilliantly cast characters in a very strong story directed to the nines.    … Expand
  55. Ellacopter
    Jan 1, 2014
    10
    Una de las mejores series del panorama actual, totalmente imprescindible. La relación Raylan-Boyd es totalmente impresionante, le da vida a toda la trama, los giros, la acción. No tiene desperdicio.
  56. Pookster
    Apr 17, 2014
    9
    I found this show in the middle of I think it was season 3, and was immediately hooked. I've kept up religiously since then. Only in the past few weeks did I finally get around to starting from the beginning and filling in the gap. So glad I did. It's been more fun and satisfying than I ever expected to see where Raylon, Boyd, Ava, Dewey, etc., started together, and how they got to howI found this show in the middle of I think it was season 3, and was immediately hooked. I've kept up religiously since then. Only in the past few weeks did I finally get around to starting from the beginning and filling in the gap. So glad I did. It's been more fun and satisfying than I ever expected to see where Raylon, Boyd, Ava, Dewey, etc., started together, and how they got to how they relate now. Brilliant.… Expand
  57. kimramey
    Sep 15, 2016
    10
    Why oh why did this series have to end? I loved this show. Raylan is so dang funny and I love the way he cuts through the BS and red tape and gets the bad guys off the street by killing those who need killing before they can kill him. Holy sad day when this show ended.
  58. WorldofLucky
    Feb 3, 2018
    8
    Definitely a good show, especially if you liked Timothy Olyphant in Deadwood and Walton Goggins in the Shield. It definitely has a western feel to it, not as much as Longmire, but its there.

    I cheated a bit though, I watched the first few episodes when it first came out and I really liked it. However, like most things life caught up and I wasn't able to finish the season. Following    Definitely a good show, especially if you liked Timothy Olyphant in Deadwood and Walton Goggins in the Shield. It definitely has a western feel to it, not as much as Longmire, but its there.

    I cheated a bit though, I watched the first few episodes when it first came out and I really liked it. However, like most things life caught up and I wasn't able to finish the season.

    Following US Marshall Raylan Givens (Elephant) as he is transferred back to his home state as a punishment due to his proclivity to shoot bad guys down. There he meets with an old friend named Boyd Crowder (Goggins) who is part of the criminal world there.

    It tells about why Raylan left his small town along with his family, friends and history and how he tries to avoid dealing with it when he comes back. Combine that with him attempting to take down the Crowder clan, full of criminals, especially Boyd it makes for pretty good tv. The writing and acting are great, and it goes by quick. I sometimes wonder if 13 episode seasons aren't the best way to do tv since it forces them to make it tight storytelling.

    Pros: Great acting, writing, etc. Pretty much all of it is in the top 10% of television.

    Cons: I get a little uncomfortable with how they portray people from very small towns in Kentucky. It feels a bit tropey, and I can't tell how accurate it is. So sometimes I wince a little.

    Already halfway through Season 2 because it is that good, and I hadn't seen Season 2 before.    … Expand
  59. jorgos4567
    May 10, 2018
    9
    Especially season 3 is some of the best tv show I have seen in a long time! Great characters, witty dialogue!
  60. Montenegro4bori
    Jul 30, 2019
    4
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The series was only good to watch because of amazing actors Walton Goggins, Jeremy Davies and Damon Herriman making me love the series. The way they live the role make me wait the scene where they are to smile to feel bad, happy because of them just because they have acted they roles how it should be. Everything else was just bad trying to make the series be good. Main character is incomplete, a formula meant to jump in unplanned and cut the action of the series episode whatever. Series is so stupid and frustrating that you want to see main character dead or on suspension that the series became interesting because with him showing everything interesting is lost. You know what is going to happen.
    The funny thing is that even without him justice is happening more then it should be. Someone created Mr Givens so when he shows up that we ejeculate and nothing else. He is maybe meant to be a new James Dean, but if he could see himself he would probably declined to act in this series.    … Expand

Awards & Rankings

19
#19 Best TV Season of 2010
6
#6 Most Discussed TV Season of 2010
4
#4 Most Shared TV Season of 2010

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
80

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
    100
    Olyphant is surrounded by a terrific supporting cast, including Dirty Sexy Money's Natalie Zea as Raylan's ex-wife and Nick Searcy (Deke Slayton in From the Earth to the Moon) as his deceptively cornpone boss. But in the end, it comes down to hard stares and that combination of drawled amusement and sudden violence that make him so cool yet exciting.
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  2. People Weekly
    Reviewed by: Tom Gliatto
    88
    Olyphant plays this laconic, loping lawman with a smiling minimalism that makes Givens both iconic and contemporary.
  3. Time
    Reviewed by: James Poniewozik
    80
    The result is a new-style western that's both entertaining and as mesmerizing as Givens' cold-blooded speech to the crook with the scattergun.
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