Marvel's The Punisher

:

Season 1
  • Network: Netflix
  • Series Premiere Date: Nov 17, 2017
Season #: 2, 1
User Score
8.1

Universal acclaim- based on 821 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 697 out of 821
  2. Mixed: 36 out of 821
  3. Negative: 88 out of 821
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  1. Neth3rtwist
    Nov 23, 2017
    9
    Remember that the critics usually get one or two episodes to review, and then try to base a show's review score on those episodes. The Punisher is a show that does not find its footing until the second half. I have to say that through the first 5 episodes or so, I was truly disappointed- as a John Wick made-for-TV show it was not, and that was what I had been hoping for. Alas, now thatRemember that the critics usually get one or two episodes to review, and then try to base a show's review score on those episodes. The Punisher is a show that does not find its footing until the second half. I have to say that through the first 5 episodes or so, I was truly disappointed- as a John Wick made-for-TV show it was not, and that was what I had been hoping for. Alas, now that I think about it, John Wick for 10-13 episodes would probably have gotten really stale, even with all that frightening violence. What they did here is used the first half of the season to lay groundwork and narrative before upping the ante in terms of pacing and the amount of violence in each episode. If you are a little bored during the first half of the season, don't worry, because it gets much, much better. It definitely felt better to me, after the final episode, than Luke Cage or Iron Fist. Jon Bernthal is a man amongst boys when it comes to violent roles and he carries The Punisher better than anyone before him. Stick with this show and you won't be let down!… Expand
  2. Methos
    Nov 23, 2017
    5
    If you want to see the most boring thing you can make out of a fantastic Comic Series like the Punisher than watch this TV Show.
    I don't know what they had in mind but for me as a long time Comic Fan of the Punisher this was just a giant disappointment.
    This and "Luke Cage" are the worst Marvel Series on Netflix IMO.
  3. Ravstarr
    Nov 23, 2017
    10
    Great Show, Bernthal kills it literally.

    those complaining about violence need to not be reviewing a show called the punisher and those complaining about it not going far enough or being faithful to the comics don't understand that wont work just look at the previous movie attempts. great production, loved the character development and examination of its themes, reminded me of DD    Great Show, Bernthal kills it literally.

    those complaining about violence need to not be reviewing a show called the punisher and those complaining about it not going far enough or being faithful to the comics don't understand that wont work just look at the previous movie attempts.

    great production, loved the character development and examination of its themes, reminded me of DD season 1. Just worth it for Bernthal alone, the intensity he brings is awesome.

    You like DD you will like this, don't mind the critics score!    … Expand
  4. Naessarne
    Nov 23, 2017
    9
    in order of brilliance as follows; Jessica Jones/Punisher/Daredevil/Luke Cage/Defenders/all other TV shows ever, including stuff like Made in Chelsea etc/Iron Fist

    Seriously though, half way through the Punisher and really enjoying it. Was a little shocked to see the critics score it so lowly. It has style and grit and intrigue. Great cast. A must watch if you like anything Marvel or    in order of brilliance as follows; Jessica Jones/Punisher/Daredevil/Luke Cage/Defenders/all other TV shows ever, including stuff like Made in Chelsea etc/Iron Fist

    Seriously though, half way through the Punisher and really enjoying it. Was a little shocked to see the critics score it so lowly. It has style and grit and intrigue. Great cast. A must watch if you like anything Marvel or anything CIA/FBI/Homeland related.    … Expand
  5. jerkface910
    Nov 23, 2017
    4
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. As a fan of The Punisher comic from #1 on up, I did expect to hold this to a high bar, but I also thought The Punisher was excellent in Daredevil season 2. Unfortunately the series creators were not content with rolling right along and so they decide to retire The Punisher and then provide a new origin story that unfolds at a glacial pace. Will Frank return as The Punisher? Hmmm, the series I'm watching is titled 'The Punisher' so probably. Will Frank and Micro team up? Probably!
    The overarching military conspiracy is tedious and there isn't much mystery to it after three episodes. The Punisher wears his iconic tactical outfit for perhaps fifteen minutes total in the entire season. He's often badly wounded by stuff his vest would have stopped, leaving you wondering why Frank is so dumb. Things pick up a little in the final few episodes but not by much. I literally finished the series just to see if Billy would indeed become Jigsaw.
    Hopefully there is a season 2 and it can come out guns blazing.    … Expand
  6. Trillcosbey
    Nov 22, 2017
    10
    Ignore the so called professional critics, more and more of the people in the supposed literary field are total and utter hacks. This adaptation of the frank castle punisher is the best I have seen.
    The depth of the character development is something not seen in any superhero genre.
    Frank is not just black and white and his short comings make him more human this is not the just a typical    Ignore the so called professional critics, more and more of the people in the supposed literary field are total and utter hacks. This adaptation of the frank castle punisher is the best I have seen.
    The depth of the character development is something not seen in any superhero genre.
    Frank is not just black and white and his short comings make him more human this is not the just a typical superhero adaptation and most of the critics are just part time hacks trying to phone in 100 words to get on to the next gig.
    So ignore the critics and enjoy.    … Expand
  7. Mrcool1989
    Nov 22, 2017
    10
    Please let there be a season 2 Netflix get on it. This was the punisher a lot us of had been waiting to see for along time. They stay true to the character and that might be a understatement. This really is one of marvels best TV shows right here, and one last thing the last episode is....ok just see it damnit lol
  8. Hoshi82
    Nov 22, 2017
    5
    Und wieder hat Marvel und Netflix es geschafft einen interessanten Marvelcharacter in eine totlangweilige Serie zu packen.

    Wer Punisher und Action sucht schaut besser die Filme, als diese Serie. Natürlich bietet die Serie eien Möglichkeit Frank Castle näher zu betrachten, aber die komplette erste Staffel lang? Die Action mach vielleicht 20% der Serie aus. Der Rest besteht aus einem    Und wieder hat Marvel und Netflix es geschafft einen interessanten Marvelcharacter in eine totlangweilige Serie zu packen.

    Wer Punisher und Action sucht schaut besser die Filme, als diese Serie. Natürlich bietet die Serie eien Möglichkeit Frank Castle näher zu betrachten, aber die komplette erste Staffel lang? Die Action mach vielleicht 20% der Serie aus. Der Rest besteht aus einem langweiligen Hauptplot und einem noch langweiligeren neben Plot über Posttraumatischen Stress von Soldaten.

    Punisher war nie ein tiefgründiger Charakter und eher eine Parody und übertriebene Gewalt, das was man von dem Punisher erwarten. Nichts davon wird hier geboten. Ersetzt Punisher mit einem Exsoldaten und vergesst das es auf den Marvelcharakter basiert, dann ist die Serie gerade noch so ok. Große Enttäuschung.    … Expand
  9. Elbobbo
    Nov 22, 2017
    7
    The character of the Punisher was introduced to the Marvel TV universe in 2016, during Daredevil’s second season—following three live-action films that failed to make him popular with mainstream audiences in 1989, 2004, and 2008, respectively.

    What made The Punisher so interesting in Netflix’s Daredevil was his antithetical nature to The Devil of Hell’s Kitchen. While both characters    The character of the Punisher was introduced to the Marvel TV universe in 2016, during Daredevil’s second season—following three live-action films that failed to make him popular with mainstream audiences in 1989, 2004, and 2008, respectively.

    What made The Punisher so interesting in Netflix’s Daredevil was his antithetical nature to The Devil of Hell’s Kitchen. While both characters had the same goal in mind - to rid Hell’s Kitchen of criminals - they had very different ways of going about it. As played by Jon Bernthal, Daredevil’s Punisher makes his intentions very clear from the start.

    Initially, in Daredevil, when gangsters are first being murdered all over the city, he’s mistaken for a paramilitary organization with exceptional force, but it turns out that he’s just one man, with a lot of weapons and an extraordinarily deadly aim.

    Punisher opens with Frank castle finishing of his “mission” from Daredevil after his beautiful wife and two innocent young children — gunned down when unexpectedly caught in the crossfire of a gang war in Central Park, shortly after he was discharged from serving in a mysterious black ops mission in Afghanistan—as a member of “Operation Cerebrus,” a group one soldier says has a reputation for being “the American Taliban.”

    In response, Frank, himself a former decorated Marine, committed himself to a one-man war against all crime in New York City… but in particular, the three gangs involved in that fateful shootout: the Irish, the bikers, and the cartel.

    The Punisher was a harbinger of a brutal era in comics, where heroes toting massive machine guns were suddenly the norm and the death’s-head logo emblazoned on his costume became a ubiquitous cultural symbol.

    Punisher opens with Castle finishing his crusade and then burning his regalia, you could almost say the fire represented his rebirth back into Frank Castle as he leaves that life of the vengeful Punisher behind.

    For Netflix, Frank Castle is that harbinger of death once again. Frank Castle, is the archetypal character of the retributive anti hero – one who makes his own rules and follows his own conscience – is a familiar figure in mass culture, appearing in film, television, video games, and comics. This character represents the frustrations of millions of people who feel powerless and who fantasize about striking back at their enemies, be they real or imagined.

    With all of Marvel’s works the Punisher follows the strict formula that Marvel has in place. The same style and themes creeps into every Marvel movie can be found within the Marvel television shows. And while this works in terms of getting audience and making money, it’s becoming stale and it’s not innovative anymore.

    The thing that has been lacking in both the Marvel cinematic universe and the Marvel televisions shows is the lack of an interesting villain. And that’s what's missing from the Punisher. What set Daredevil season one apart from subsequent shows was the dynamic that Vincent D'Onofrio brought as the Kingpin. That dynamic and power struggle was lacking when Daredevil and the Punisher faced off and is completely missing from the Punisher.

    It seemed the show didn’t know who to put in the Punishers crosshairs in a meaningful way. Due to Marvel setting up his motivation as retribution for his family’s death, we see that by the guilt of Castle’s failure to protect the only thing that mattered to him, his family, he has no other motivation. Tying Castle’s past to a secret military programme as the enemy within this show made no sense until you realise that they had a hand in, you guessed it, covering up the real reasons why his family was killed.

    Ends...    … Expand
  10. Whatevenisthis
    Nov 21, 2017
    9
    As somebody who has never heard or seen anything related to The Punisher, I absolutely loved this show. I didn't have SJW politically correct drivel shoved down my throat, the lead actor was absolutely fantastic, people's reactions in situations were actually believable and realistic, and overall was just a breath of fresh air. The only downside was the forced love triangle that was aAs somebody who has never heard or seen anything related to The Punisher, I absolutely loved this show. I didn't have SJW politically correct drivel shoved down my throat, the lead actor was absolutely fantastic, people's reactions in situations were actually believable and realistic, and overall was just a breath of fresh air. The only downside was the forced love triangle that was a little too predictable.

    Best show I've seen this year hands down. Would recommend to anybody that likes a no bs kind of show and doesn't tip toe around issues. Don't believe the critics. They get literally everything wrong. Lord knows how they even have jobs after rating every show so far off the mark.    … Expand
  11. EasyKill
    Nov 21, 2017
    9
    The critics messed up on this one. Jon Bernthal is perfect as Frank Castle and almost all of the supporting characters are interesting and well acted. The show also handled the morality and brutality of what Frank was doing very well, not painting Frank as a true hero, but also showing what it's like when a man without Frank's honor tries to do what Frank does. I feel as though the criticsThe critics messed up on this one. Jon Bernthal is perfect as Frank Castle and almost all of the supporting characters are interesting and well acted. The show also handled the morality and brutality of what Frank was doing very well, not painting Frank as a true hero, but also showing what it's like when a man without Frank's honor tries to do what Frank does. I feel as though the critics giving this a middling score were expecting more action and flair akin to the rest of the MCU. What we got instead was a thought provoking exploration of PTSD, justice, and morality, all punctuated by brutal violence and rage. Well done, Marvel.… Expand
  12. checker201
    Nov 21, 2017
    9
    As everyone else in the user reviews have stated ( At least those who view this show positively), Marvel's The Punisher is far superior to what the critics have made it out to be. Compared to other show's in the MCU, the Punisher keeps the downtime to a much lower level. In this way, and in many other ways, this makes the show the antithesis to one of its sister series, Jessica Jones. JonAs everyone else in the user reviews have stated ( At least those who view this show positively), Marvel's The Punisher is far superior to what the critics have made it out to be. Compared to other show's in the MCU, the Punisher keeps the downtime to a much lower level. In this way, and in many other ways, this makes the show the antithesis to one of its sister series, Jessica Jones. Jon Bernthal's performance as the Punisher is by far the best that's been seen in non-print media, and every action, statement, and FACIAL EXPRESSION he makes screams "Frank Castle". The supporting cast not only seem more competent, but hold far more depth than characters in the other Marvel series, i.e. compare Agent Madani to Electra. Of course, if you never liked the Punisher in the first place, there's a fair chance that Netflix's adaptation will not only displease you, but also make you feel uncomfortable. Still, for what it is, not only do I think it's the best MCU show, it's also a fantastic rendition of the setting and themes of The Punisher.… Expand
  13. abm0
    Nov 21, 2017
    9
    Hell yeah, Marvel is back. I was getting tired of comparing everything to Jessica Jones and finding it lacking. I might even give Daredevil S2 a shot now just because the Punisher's in it, and set aside for a moment the yawnfest of repetitive and meaningless fights that DD S1 was.

    Couldn't be more surprised to hear that some of the complaints are to the effect that this wasn't    Hell yeah, Marvel is back. I was getting tired of comparing everything to Jessica Jones and finding it lacking. I might even give Daredevil S2 a shot now just because the Punisher's in it, and set aside for a moment the yawnfest of repetitive and meaningless fights that DD S1 was.

    Couldn't be more surprised to hear that some of the complaints are to the effect that this wasn't Progressive enough. For a gory show centered on a brutal male character with an army background, I was surprised at how many hints of multiculturalism, anti-gun and anti-war rhetoric they managed to squeeze in. You just have to take it for what it is and pay some attention at what's really in there.    … Expand
  14. TheQuietGamer
    Nov 21, 2017
    9
    It was pretty much unanimous last year that the highlight of Daredevil's second season was Jon Bernthal's top-notch portrayal of the classic anti-hero "The Punisher." Turns out Marvel and Netflix were just as big of fans as we were, as they started developing this spin-off before the character's introduction to the MCU was even released. For those hoping to see a continuation of Bernthal'sIt was pretty much unanimous last year that the highlight of Daredevil's second season was Jon Bernthal's top-notch portrayal of the classic anti-hero "The Punisher." Turns out Marvel and Netflix were just as big of fans as we were, as they started developing this spin-off before the character's introduction to the MCU was even released. For those hoping to see a continuation of Bernthal's excellent work as Frank Castle, know that he doesn't leave you disappointed. His performance is absolutely incredible. The show itself is very faithful to the character and his stories. Any comic book fan will feel right at home. Just know going into this that there are some pacing issues to contend with.

    There's a lot of what feels like downtime in the plot. The show drags it's feet in it's middle episodes and I can't help but wonder if it would have been better off condensed to a shorter running time. I was certainly never bored while watching The Punisher, in fact this is the fastest I've made it through one of these Marvel/Netflix shows due to how gripping and addictive I found it to be, but it was very clear that a lot of what I was watching was filler. Certain subplots feel unnecessary and there's a lot of waiting around for the next significant plot piece to show up. It all ties in together nicely though, and this is certainly good filler. The show uses it's slower moments to build on Frank as a character, showing that he's more than just a mindless killing machine. It also tackles hot social and political topics and takes the time to make us care about all it's characters, supporting and essential. So in the end I can't complain too much. Especially since it humanizes this character in ways the movies haven't before and delivers a world that's darker and grimier than even that of Jessica Jones. Just know that you aren't always going to see The Punisher, well, punish.

    When the guns do come out, boy did they nail the brutality. This is a violent show. Very violent. The best part is how it manages to mix the gunplay with a sense of moral quandary. It manages to include the graphic depictions, make them exciting and fun to watch, without over-glorifying all of the killing. It rightfully shows that The Punisher's actions are both a result of being backed into a corner and his fragmented sanity. It doesn't pull any punches and is certainly satisfying to watch, but this isn't killing just for the sake of killing. It's done maturely so that there's a brain mixed in with all that blood.

    Simply put, I was hooked on The Punisher from the first episode. I cared about all of it's characters and their stories even when things got slow. It does total justice to a character who is just too controversial to ever be a true hit with professional critics out there. However, where this show succeeds where the movies have failed is in making Frank Castle more than just a killing machine. They gave him depth and filled his world a lot of character who are just as interesting in their own ways. This is right up there with the best of what the MCU has to offer, and I, for one, can't wait for more.    … Expand
  15. Mediawatcher
    Nov 21, 2017
    7
    Overall, a solid season, nothing spectacular but definitely a step in the right direction for Netflix, let’s hope that when season 2 gets green lit it’ll be better. There wasn’t as much action as you would expect, keep that in mind when you watch
  16. DanilaBorovkov
    Nov 21, 2017
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I just can't believe Punisher's rating is so low. May be critics just read summary on Wikipedia and found out, that series is about american soldiers doing crimes, and Afghanistan policeman investigating it, and how american soldier becomes terrorist (i am not talking about Frank). Yeah, it asks a lot of controversial questions, but this questions should be asked, and this shouldn't be a reason to rate is soo low. On the other hand, absolutely sterile Luke Cage has got 79, series with absolutely no stakes, bulletproof hero, what can be more boring.

    Bernthal acting is absolutely brilliant. This series could have been without any action, and it would be amazing just because of his performance. His relationship with Micro is very enjoyable. Action scenes are amazing, extremely powerful.    … Expand
  17. CloseyedCritics
    Nov 21, 2017
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. These critics look but do not see. Pure genius in the scene where the bomber tries to let the birds out of their cage, but the birds have been conditioned to remain despite the open cage and open window. He has a political manifesto and believes he is freeing the people. Much like the birds, the public's reaction is to stay imprisoned.

    It would be absolutely despicable if the critics are short-handing this great art due to political reasons and bias. Best marvel series ever.    … Expand
  18. bassam1985
    Nov 20, 2017
    5
    not recommended for those people who read comics, this version of The Punisher doesn't remind at all with the original, still Jon Bernthal acting is quite good, the plot is a bit slow, unnecessary episodes, violence is spected in a Punisher series, is maybe the only thing that keep you awake.
  19. JUANES4422
    Nov 20, 2017
    8
    The Punisher is the best of MARVEL on Netflix from Daredevil.
    One Batch, Two Batch, Penny And Dime is back and like never before.
    The serie could have had a duration of eight chapters or ten at the most, because there are many chapters that are left over and do not have a direct end with the plot in general. But these chapters go unnoticed by the scenes in which Frank Castle comes into    The Punisher is the best of MARVEL on Netflix from Daredevil.
    One Batch, Two Batch, Penny And Dime is back and like never before.
    The serie could have had a duration of eight chapters or ten at the most, because there are many chapters that are left over and do not have a direct end with the plot in general. But these chapters go unnoticed by the scenes in which Frank Castle comes into action, the mere presence of the character gives a feeling of euphoria and joy.
    John Bernthal makes a performance equal or superior to the view in DD season 2, his scenic skills and his character is what undoubtedly saves the series.
    There are chapters in which the plot gets stuck and can not continue to develop, but once it is achieved it is wonderful and you look forward to knowing more.
    The series is unstable in the aspect of plots, while they show you the events of secondary characters that stop the displacement of the story, suddenly they return to the main character and make a breakthrough that rewards everything you expected to see it.
    The action scenes are great, the violence is explicit, touches on deep issues about war, trauma, death and justice. Just everything you expected from a series of this vigilante.

    Score: 8.4/1.0    … Expand
  20. JoeDurp
    Nov 20, 2017
    10
    It was Punisher through and through the Jigsaw change was weird but I liked it......Ben Barnes was a great character and is up there with the other great supporting characters of Netflix MCU
  21. RJones
    Nov 20, 2017
    10
    THE BEST TV ADAPTATION OF A COMIC EVER MADE. It was gritty and dark in refreshingly new and astonishingly powerful ways. The Dark Knight movies being over a decade old and Walking Dead being on its sixth season, it managed to do this by addressing real issues like PTSD and coming to terms with the finality of death and loss. Beyond that, the directing and editing were artful. You can seeTHE BEST TV ADAPTATION OF A COMIC EVER MADE. It was gritty and dark in refreshingly new and astonishingly powerful ways. The Dark Knight movies being over a decade old and Walking Dead being on its sixth season, it managed to do this by addressing real issues like PTSD and coming to terms with the finality of death and loss. Beyond that, the directing and editing were artful. You can see the choices the writer and director made and the clear themes running through every episode. I would say that in this sense it was even better than the first season of Breaking Bad. It had a clarity of voice and a perspective, and it didn't shy away from political issues. A true masterpiece. I am truly puzzled by the critics reviews. Many state that it is plodding or slow, but its the investment in its characters in the first few episodes is what makes this story so rich. The characters are nuanced, with conflicting emotions and motivations, and throughout the entire show, you're left feeling like anything can happen at any moment which heightens the excitement. Somehow, among all this cultivation of story and character, there still manages to be those scenes that make you jump up in the air and pump your fist, or curl up in a ball and cover your eyes. I have to wonder if some of these critics are burned out and lacking in patience or just lost the ability to empathize with characters. Fatigue from over-analysis? And for the reviews that say that there is not enough action, I would argue that what we need less of is more action without a full understanding or motivation for why. That is the core of what this makes this show so amazing. That it takes these Dirty Harry/Taken/John Wick kind of action scenes, and imbues it with deeper sense of meaning. So that a gun battle isn't just a gun battle, but the physical manifestation of several well-crafted stories intersecting and colliding. Oh, and as a side-note, the action scenes are amazing! This show stands among an elite group of television series in the last few years that serve as evidence that this is truly the golden age of television.… Expand
  22. Hype2x
    Nov 20, 2017
    0
    Honestly my Expectation for Punisher was high, pretty high that i thought The Punisher can return the Marvel/Netflix brand to its early days, when they shinned with Daredevil Season 1.
    But nope, it was not only around that, but also another Mixed bag mediocre show that hasn't met the true potential of what Punisher show Can be.
    Despite that, Jon Bethernal is THE PUNISHER. His    Honestly my Expectation for Punisher was high, pretty high that i thought The Punisher can return the Marvel/Netflix brand to its early days, when they shinned with Daredevil Season 1.
    But nope, it was not only around that, but also another Mixed bag mediocre show that hasn't met the true potential of what Punisher show Can be.

    Despite that, Jon Bethernal is THE PUNISHER. His performance alone worth watching it.    … Expand
  23. Theninjew
    Nov 20, 2017
    8
    I have been a punisher fan for most of my life, and am thrilled to see him getting another shot at the screen. But like many other viewers, I think that there's just not enough material to fill in the 13 hours. If they'd condensed the entire season into the first 6 episodes, and set up a classic Frank vs. The Mob story arc in the 2nd half, it would have felt right. Bernthal isI have been a punisher fan for most of my life, and am thrilled to see him getting another shot at the screen. But like many other viewers, I think that there's just not enough material to fill in the 13 hours. If they'd condensed the entire season into the first 6 episodes, and set up a classic Frank vs. The Mob story arc in the 2nd half, it would have felt right. Bernthal is unbelievable, and so is Micro, but it's the writing that stagnates. There's so much artificial, unnecessary drama injected into the series just to fill the time that it borders on pulp TV territory. We could do with a few more 'Frank Castle vs. 100 people in 5 minutes' sequences just to remind us that he's actually The Punisher.… Expand
  24. Beepboopbop
    Nov 20, 2017
    10
    Jon Bernthal is a great Frank Castle. This is probably the second best Netflix MCU show, right up there with Jessica Jones. Hope we get a second season!
  25. ElvisofDallas
    Nov 20, 2017
    10
    This is an amazing series. Like Daredevil's first season, we don't get a ton of in-costume action, but we definitely get enough excitement to make up for that. The worst parts of this series are still better than several other Marvel TV/streaming attempts (like the really big letdown of the Inhumans).

    I highly recommend this series to anyone who likes the Punisher and anyone else who    This is an amazing series. Like Daredevil's first season, we don't get a ton of in-costume action, but we definitely get enough excitement to make up for that. The worst parts of this series are still better than several other Marvel TV/streaming attempts (like the really big letdown of the Inhumans).

    I highly recommend this series to anyone who likes the Punisher and anyone else who likes "good" violence where the bad guys get their due.    … Expand
  26. thunderbeans
    Nov 20, 2017
    1
    What a huge disappointment. Endless conversations, endless character building. With only a tiny bit of action this is not what i want from the Punisher. I found myself constantly skipping dull and boring scenes of discussion where it seemed like either filler or just stuff I already knew or could easily miss.

    The story is so boring and unimaginative, this was really the best they    What a huge disappointment. Endless conversations, endless character building. With only a tiny bit of action this is not what i want from the Punisher. I found myself constantly skipping dull and boring scenes of discussion where it seemed like either filler or just stuff I already knew or could easily miss.

    The story is so boring and unimaginative, this was really the best they could come up with? I knew exactly what was going to happen in the whole season 5 or 6 episodes in. I am truly disappointed Netflix.    … Expand
  27. UncutSuspiria
    Nov 20, 2017
    6
    The series is good, but painfully boring. There is absolutely no action from episodes 2 to 10. All action is in the first episode and last two, the middle is nothing but a long drawn out story. This is a huge letdown and not at all a good way to portray the Punisher, especially after his badassness in Daredevil. It is worth watching, but don't expect to watch a series with action.
  28. JPG127
    Nov 20, 2017
    10
    This is dark, gritty and brutal. They picked a great actor for Punisher. Gave him a flushed out story and has a decent amount of action. It's a shame the critics could not appreciate this.
  29. doubledown-hust
    Nov 20, 2017
    1
    This is not Punisher in any way !!! If you think so you have never read Punisher . The first episode was very good, Then is collapsed from there on. It's boring, the Mirco story plot is ridiculous. I'm Sorry Marvel really needs to do better with Iron fist unwatchable and The Defends just silly . Hire some real writers for these shows please. Please Read Punisher MAX!!
  30. SoulSurvivr
    Nov 20, 2017
    9
    The season finale is a bit drawn out, and there are few false notes here and there around Frank's love interests (as if), but overall, it's rock solid, and just what it aims to be, even if the critics don't appreciate what that something is.
  31. Kannibal
    Nov 20, 2017
    2
    Painfully expositional and without even a semblance of subtlety, I could barely make it through the first episode. Netflix could have done so much more with so much less, in regards to dialogue. Do audiences really need to be talked down to such degree?
  32. Wraithpk
    Nov 19, 2017
    8
    If you like The Punisher, you're going to like this show. There's plenty of brutal Punisher action in this one. Beyond that, there's some interesting intrigue, a few heart-breaking moments, and even some comedic bits that lightened the mood at times. The best part of the show, however, is how they portray the making of a domestic terrorist with one of the characters. I thought that wasIf you like The Punisher, you're going to like this show. There's plenty of brutal Punisher action in this one. Beyond that, there's some interesting intrigue, a few heart-breaking moments, and even some comedic bits that lightened the mood at times. The best part of the show, however, is how they portray the making of a domestic terrorist with one of the characters. I thought that was a really interesting look into the psyche of a troubled vet, and how someone can get caught in the downward spiral like that.

    I would say this isn't as good as Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, or Daredevil, but better than Iron Fist.    … Expand
  33. Dirk2112
    Nov 19, 2017
    8
    Ok in the plus column ... It wisely avoids both virtually any hint of death wish territory and an inevitably repetitive vs the mafia plot line. It looks great, so NYC-e that it had me me wondering anew how Iron Fist managed to make the city look like Toronto and action beats are generally suitably vivid and visceral. The leads are excellent, as are most of the supporting players, likeOk in the plus column ... It wisely avoids both virtually any hint of death wish territory and an inevitably repetitive vs the mafia plot line. It looks great, so NYC-e that it had me me wondering anew how Iron Fist managed to make the city look like Toronto and action beats are generally suitably vivid and visceral. The leads are excellent, as are most of the supporting players, like Deborah Ann Woll has never been better and Daniel Webber might deliver in Emmy worthy fashion. It also solves the B plot problem that's hurt other marvel shows. It has just enough story for its 13 eps ... not three eps too little like Jessica Jones or three too much like Daredevil season 2. In the negative ... It could literally use a little more skull and lacks a big bad who's up to the scenery chewing of David Tenant, Vincent D'Onofrio or Mahershala Ali. Though I'm not sure it really wanted to have one. The Punisher's inherently problematic and a lot of that's here but this handles him about as well as he could be.… Expand
  34. ScienceAdvisor
    Nov 19, 2017
    3
    Underwhelming, over hyped, and drawn-out. One of the most damning aspects is that the trailer is better than the show and contains at least one scene that does not take place in the entire 13 epsiode run. Unless they stop trying to turn The Punisher into a violent soap opera, this will not see a third season. Bernthal does his best to elevate the material to something more than it is,Underwhelming, over hyped, and drawn-out. One of the most damning aspects is that the trailer is better than the show and contains at least one scene that does not take place in the entire 13 epsiode run. Unless they stop trying to turn The Punisher into a violent soap opera, this will not see a third season. Bernthal does his best to elevate the material to something more than it is, but not even he can make this into the hit many claim.… Expand
  35. GunnerMcDagget
    Nov 19, 2017
    8
    The Punisher is a breath of fresh air after The Defenders and Iron Fist. It's back to the gritty dark story that made Daredevil and Jessica Jones so good. John Bernthal's portrayal of The Punisher is brilliant. Amber Rose Revah and Ebon Moss-Bachrach provide equally compelling performances as the support. The story is an interesting mix of spy game and conspiracy which can be forgiven forThe Punisher is a breath of fresh air after The Defenders and Iron Fist. It's back to the gritty dark story that made Daredevil and Jessica Jones so good. John Bernthal's portrayal of The Punisher is brilliant. Amber Rose Revah and Ebon Moss-Bachrach provide equally compelling performances as the support. The story is an interesting mix of spy game and conspiracy which can be forgiven for being a little too cliche.

    My only real gripe is the amount of episodes. There is a lot of filler here, and much like the filler found in Iron Fist and Luke Cage, it feels pointless. It seems like the extra things have been thrown in to drag out the series rather than to add to the story. This lets down an otherwise excellent show. It would have benefited from a much shorter 4-6 episode series.    … Expand
  36. Huikk4poks
    Nov 19, 2017
    7
    Punisher is back in Netflix introducing new characters and old ones from comics. Good build up for series but leaving us some wishing to season 2. To Marvel fans this is a must see but for new ones this season can be too slow.
  37. smarttcareer
    Nov 19, 2017
    9
    I know it's not a very progressive theme (hence the low critic score) but it's pretty much the quintessential antihero comic show. Not everything good requires you to think about four levels down into why you should feel your own guilt for this character. Good popcorn eating, binge watching show. Don't listen to the critics.
  38. indigovapor
    Nov 19, 2017
    9
    This show is great! The Punisher is the only Marvel character I actually care about and they did him justice with this series. Great work. Worth the watch. It is brutal, merciless, and violent. Just as The Punisher should be. The "critics" are fools. Watch this now!
  39. MrNonono
    Nov 19, 2017
    4
    People attacking 'the critics' ad hominem because they don't agree. Babbling about unrelated (American) politics. But they still give the show a 9 or 10, without a single argument. This kind of negativity and stupidity will kill off the social media factor in media.

    If you like the show, tell as detailed as possible WHY you like the show. Talk about the action, the story, the actor,    People attacking 'the critics' ad hominem because they don't agree. Babbling about unrelated (American) politics. But they still give the show a 9 or 10, without a single argument. This kind of negativity and stupidity will kill off the social media factor in media.

    If you like the show, tell as detailed as possible WHY you like the show. Talk about the action, the story, the actor, anything. But don't bother others people with your unrelated, uninteresting and predicable rant about libtards or SJW. Don't make this about you, it's about The Punisher.

    /ontopic: Good things about The Punisher: a good insight on PTSD, nice action and Bernthal. Bad things: way too long, boring and it feels like another Marvel cashcow. Not recommendable, only on a hangover day.    … Expand
  40. jackbauer91191
    Nov 19, 2017
    1
    Yet another disappointing punisher adaptation. I couldn’t make it through more than 3 episodes. I was bored to tears. I love the punisher comics and I wish some filmmakers could do the character justice. This is a such a boring mess, the dialog is sloppy, music is bland, and what little action there is will leave you going, “meh.”

    Think of this as The Bourne Identity, only with less    Yet another disappointing punisher adaptation. I couldn’t make it through more than 3 episodes. I was bored to tears. I love the punisher comics and I wish some filmmakers could do the character justice. This is a such a boring mess, the dialog is sloppy, music is bland, and what little action there is will leave you going, “meh.”

    Think of this as The Bourne Identity, only with less action and more talking. The punisher is supposed to be a gritty, action packed, revenge story and instead they turned it into a dull spy drama. Seriously?    … Expand
  41. airfix2013
    Nov 19, 2017
    10
    I would say that all of the critics are blind to the great story by a little bit of gore; he is the Punisher it is going to be gory, so get over it and pay attention.
    Definitely, worth the watch, it is gory but that shouldn't affect your view on the show. Amazing acting and great directing!
  42. vatore
    Nov 19, 2017
    0
    A Punisher show where Frank Castle is NOT the Punisher for 5 episodes, at least??? That was all I could fast forward through. WHo's bright idea was it to START the show AFTER all the action?? AFTER Castle gets his revenge and kills all his enemies?? STARTING the show with burning the Punisher outfit?? What **** garbage, Marvel's movies may be great, but the TV shows SUCK!!!
  43. SMIICE
    Nov 18, 2017
    10
    Amazing show. Best Marvel-Netflix show. This show is for grownups not little boys and girls who pretend to be adults. Critics are crazy or just sad little snowflakes who never served our country. Best show in a long time. I'm on the sixth episode now truly enjoying it somewhat reminds me of Homeland and Person of interest (which is a good thing). John is truly amazing as a Punisher.
  44. claven
    Nov 18, 2017
    10
    The critics have dropped the ball on this show in a major way. Many complain that it's long and talkative (failing to recognize the surprisingly in-depth character presentation and the surprisingly intelligent writing), some complain there's not enough action, which frankly, is not what Netflix's take on Punisher is about for the most part.
    As a Punisher fan, this is the best    The critics have dropped the ball on this show in a major way. Many complain that it's long and talkative (failing to recognize the surprisingly in-depth character presentation and the surprisingly intelligent writing), some complain there's not enough action, which frankly, is not what Netflix's take on Punisher is about for the most part.
    As a Punisher fan, this is the best representation of the comic hero (especially the MAX imprint) on screen to date by far, and the critics must be insane. Watch it. It's very, very good.    … Expand
  45. speedyzia
    Nov 18, 2017
    1
    Too much talking, not enough punishing - that's basically this entire show in a nutshell, there's barely any semblance of who Frank Castle is in the comics, it's just another cookie cutter marvel/netflix show with some cheap conspiracy.
  46. BillySpandex
    Nov 18, 2017
    10
    Once again the professional critics show that they're far too self-absorbed and elitist for their own good, and that their little shrill voices only speak to those inside their tiny little bubble. This is an amazing series, and Jon Bernthal has done to Punisher what Charlie Cox did to Daredevil. They've managed to take a character that have been misused and underutilised by other actorsOnce again the professional critics show that they're far too self-absorbed and elitist for their own good, and that their little shrill voices only speak to those inside their tiny little bubble. This is an amazing series, and Jon Bernthal has done to Punisher what Charlie Cox did to Daredevil. They've managed to take a character that have been misused and underutilised by other actors and directors, and created something quite amazing. Thank you Jon Bernthal!… Expand
  47. Injun
    Nov 18, 2017
    8
    I'm not a Marvel fanatic or knew that much about the Punisher. Only knew stuff from when he appeared in the Daredevil series. It was probably some of the better episodes of that he was in as shortly after I realised how crap Daredevil was and stopped watching.
    Overall I like the dark gritty depiction of the Punisher and of people struggling with mental illness. Makes a refreshing change    I'm not a Marvel fanatic or knew that much about the Punisher. Only knew stuff from when he appeared in the Daredevil series. It was probably some of the better episodes of that he was in as shortly after I realised how crap Daredevil was and stopped watching.
    Overall I like the dark gritty depiction of the Punisher and of people struggling with mental illness. Makes a refreshing change from the samey, touchy feely Marvel TV shoes they keep spamming out.    … Expand
  48. Locust69
    Nov 18, 2017
    10
    amazing TV show.... this is what punisher should be. Dont let MCU haters and libtards discourage you from watching it. Its not some kind of modern SJW, PC trash those people like so those so called proffessional reviewers dislike it. But man action, story, mood everything is 10/10.
  49. Nordoki
    Nov 18, 2017
    1
    In a word: B O R I N G. This is a character known for top notch action and excitement who has been written into a gab fest, touchy-feely soap opera. Great program if you have insomnia and want to be lulled to sleep.
  50. Falkirk
    Nov 18, 2017
    9
    Critics are insane.. It's the best representation of Frank Castle that has ever been done in film media. Like one critic actually complained that Franks only superhero power is rage. It's like a cook giving his feedback on an finely tuned engine. If your a marvel fan or a fan of the punisher Jon Berthanol will not let you down. "It's just me you and the truth now"
  51. jonathawill
    Nov 18, 2017
    10
    In short, the series was made for fans of the punisher, not made for the politically correct critics of the left. is bloody, violent and faithful to comics, the weak point is that some characters are weak (or actors).
  52. DarthThade
    Nov 18, 2017
    3
    I managed to get through the first five episodes and I was bored and have given up watching this show, it is a terribly written mess with too many characters getting more screen time than the Punisher himself who feels like a secondary character in his own show.

    From what I watched there is far too little focus on Frank and Micro who where the best part for and the actors seemed to have    I managed to get through the first five episodes and I was bored and have given up watching this show, it is a terribly written mess with too many characters getting more screen time than the Punisher himself who feels like a secondary character in his own show.

    From what I watched there is far too little focus on Frank and Micro who where the best part for and the actors seemed to have great chemistry however they don't get enough screen time together and far too much time is given to Franks former squad mates and two federal agents who contribute very little to the story besides complaining about how everyone else has screwed them over.

    There is some time between Frank and a woman and two children which is very well done and we get to see Frank as something other than The Punisher. Overall very little action poor story development and the action is not very well done, if you want good story,action and The Punisher then I suggest watching Daredevil season two again.    … Expand
  53. JustinOhio
    Nov 18, 2017
    10
    As a war veteran, I'll make this short and sweet: The Punisher captures the various types of PTSD while remaining a very well-acted and written show. It may be too gritty for "critics" that probably don't know much about modern warfare past "The Hurt Locker" (which is a terrible film), but as a veteran and a fan of Marvel's Netflix series, I can say without blinking that this is the BESTAs a war veteran, I'll make this short and sweet: The Punisher captures the various types of PTSD while remaining a very well-acted and written show. It may be too gritty for "critics" that probably don't know much about modern warfare past "The Hurt Locker" (which is a terrible film), but as a veteran and a fan of Marvel's Netflix series, I can say without blinking that this is the BEST SERIES YET! The narrative doesn't spin out of control, but rather keeps the focus on Castle, with a great twist on a classic Punisher villain. Don't wait for other reviews to come in. Watch the first couple of episodes, then try to stop yourself. Odds are, you'll be as glued as I was.… Expand
  54. MAZA007
    Nov 18, 2017
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Ainda bem que Netflix não faz seriado para críticos...rsrs
    Achei muito irado. Tem aquela história do família do cara que morreu ele é perturbado e tudo mais.
    O Frank o Frank e Sanguinário , maluco de pedra , frio total crazy o cara é foda, muito tiro muita ação e trilha sonora do capeta.
    Borá próxima temporada.    … Expand
  55. AL4I
    Nov 17, 2017
    10
    I can just say its perfect the space of series charcters and evrything its just awsom
    Jon Bernthal is perfect
    the story has some problames but its not realy important
    highly reccamended
  56. DonMega
    Nov 17, 2017
    10
    I don't recommend this to people that have served and are currently suffering with ptsd as right now it's 3 am where I live and I can't sleep due to my military ptsd coming back to me after watching about 7 episodes. However, I have to say I am very happy that there is finally a show that truly shows the effects of ptsd and that ptsd can be caused by anything in life. One of the sideI don't recommend this to people that have served and are currently suffering with ptsd as right now it's 3 am where I live and I can't sleep due to my military ptsd coming back to me after watching about 7 episodes. However, I have to say I am very happy that there is finally a show that truly shows the effects of ptsd and that ptsd can be caused by anything in life. One of the side characters in the show is an amazing talent and portrays ptsd to a T. I love that this will bring awareness and maybe some understanding to the masses. Other than that the show is very good. I'm really loving it, after daredevil I didn't think netflix had it in them but low and behold punisher came out.… Expand
  57. gwaiz18
    Nov 17, 2017
    10
    In what has been a horrible year for the critics , they once again show how incompetent they are at their job .This was truly an amazing series , the years best .
  58. nhand42
    Nov 17, 2017
    9
    The Punisher is an exciting mystery-drama in the grand Marvel tradition. Avoiding the gun-toting two dimensional caricature he could have been, Frank Castle is a complex nuanced anti-hero you can at least sympathise with even if you can't condone his actions. A clever look at the corruption behind a war-machine run amok and the lives of ordinary people caught up in its grinding gears,The Punisher is an exciting mystery-drama in the grand Marvel tradition. Avoiding the gun-toting two dimensional caricature he could have been, Frank Castle is a complex nuanced anti-hero you can at least sympathise with even if you can't condone his actions. A clever look at the corruption behind a war-machine run amok and the lives of ordinary people caught up in its grinding gears, pushed into impossible situations that leave psychological scars.… Expand
  59. Ankhthiel
    Nov 17, 2017
    9
    I'm 5 episodes in and enjoying it a lot. If your a fan of the Punisher you will most likely like this show too. Jon Bernthal is hands down the best Punisher to ever be on the screen. He sells the broken man hero and i'm buying. The Punisher story line is very hard to make because he is hard to sympathize with. These people are talented and the show has many strong characters. This is oneI'm 5 episodes in and enjoying it a lot. If your a fan of the Punisher you will most likely like this show too. Jon Bernthal is hands down the best Punisher to ever be on the screen. He sells the broken man hero and i'm buying. The Punisher story line is very hard to make because he is hard to sympathize with. These people are talented and the show has many strong characters. This is one the consumer and the critics will have to disagree on. 9/10… Expand
  60. Marvel_Reviews
    Nov 17, 2017
    10
    AN MCU MUST SEE!
    There I was, laying down on my couch as I started watching the first episode of 'The Punisher'. As the show progressed, I became intrigued and started sitting upright. By the end of episode one, I was already standing up and jumping around in pure excitement and adrenaline as I watched that final action sequence unfold. Jon Bernthal truly delivers an outstanding    AN MCU MUST SEE!
    There I was, laying down on my couch as I started watching the first episode of 'The Punisher'. As the show progressed, I became intrigued and started sitting upright. By the end of episode one, I was already standing up and jumping around in pure excitement and adrenaline as I watched that final action sequence unfold. Jon Bernthal truly delivers an outstanding performance as Frank Castle and I cannot wait to see more of his character in the future of the Marvel Netflix universe.    … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

4
#4 Most Discussed TV Season of 2017
7
#7 Most Shared TV Season of 2017

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
55

Mixed or average reviews - based on 20 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 20
  2. Mixed: 12 out of 20
  3. Negative: 2 out of 20
  1. The Atlantic
    Reviewed by: Sophie Gilbert
    Nov 20, 2017
    60
    All too often it’s a plodding slog. Bernthal’s performance somehow finds energy in Frank’s pain. ... Lightfoot’s breadth of storytelling is gratifying--he wants to do more than give the cultural landscape another killing machine to idolize. It makes The Punisher less uncomfortable to watch than it could be amid so many outbreaks of extreme gun violence. But it isn’t an easy ride.
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  2. Los Angeles Times
    Reviewed by: Lorraine Ali
    Nov 17, 2017
    50
    The show is well-written and Jon Bernthal ("The Walking Dead") is fantastic as Castle, the Afghanistan war veteran turned vigilante. ... But the story itself isn't dynamic enough to punch through all the cultural baggage this show is unfairly (or as some believe, justifiably) saddled with. It doesn't help that the burly character's superpower isn't a superpower at all. It's old-fashioned rage, coupled with special ops training.
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  3. RogerEbert.com
    Reviewed by: Allison Shoemaker
    Nov 17, 2017
    50
    Better too rich than too thin, to be sure, but “The Punisher” casts its net so wide that almost none of these stories get a fair shake. When they do, it’s usually the acting that closes the gap — Woll and Bernthal are so good together that it almost doesn’t matter that their scenes get snapped out quickly — but it’s hard to escape the feeling that, in giving us all that story, “The Punisher” doesn’t have much time for substance. It’s simultaneously too much and not enough.
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