Once Upon a Time

:

Season 1
  • Network: ABC
  • Series Premiere Date: Oct 23, 2011
Season #: 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 522 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 420 out of 522
  2. Mixed: 45 out of 522
  3. Negative: 57 out of 522
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  1. brijay
    Mar 6, 2017
    10
    Have you ever thought ‘Is it possible that we live in a fairy tale?’ I have not myself, but Do you believe in fairy tales? Well I do! Once Upon A Time is a American television series about fairy tales. The catch to this show is the fairy tale characters think that they are real, but they do not know that they are just characters. These characters have been cursed, do not know that they areHave you ever thought ‘Is it possible that we live in a fairy tale?’ I have not myself, but Do you believe in fairy tales? Well I do! Once Upon A Time is a American television series about fairy tales. The catch to this show is the fairy tale characters think that they are real, but they do not know that they are just characters. These characters have been cursed, do not know that they are fairy tale characters, and live in our reality. This series shows you the past and present, so you can get a better understanding about what is going on. Some key characteristics would be, the fact that all the characters in this show are based from fairy tale stories that were commonly told to us as at a younger age.
    If the viewers watching this show did not know as much as I do, they would need to know the basic concept of the show. By basics I mean a back round of the basic fairy tale stories. For example, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Snow White, the Dwarfs, Prince Charming and the Evil Queen is the most common fairy tale that the viewers would need to know about. Every fairy tale that they put in this show has a twist to it. If you do not know the regular fairy tale story, you definitely would not understand the twist added to it. Another fairy tale story example is Hansel and Gretel. The regular story is basically their stepmother wanted to abandon them, their father was opposed to the plan, but ended up agreeing. Hansel and Gretel was lured in by a witch with candy, cakes and all types of sweets. The witch was going to eat them, but they ended up killing the witch. They made it back to their father safely, with a happy ending. The twist to the story is Hansel and Gretel was given up for adoption, but their father knew nothing about them. They ended up reunited with their father and he kept them.
    Personally, I love this show. It grabbed my attention from the moment I watched season one, episode one. This show is full of action, drama, suspense, and cannot forget the romantic vibes. Let me explain the reasons I feel this strongly about this show. In my opinion, there is not one moment in the show where you would second guess about wanting to stop watching. This show will always have you coming back for more, and I cannot get enough of it. Every time you think you understand what is going on, they change it up and hit you with something new. There is never a dull moment for me watching this show, you never know what expect. One minute you have a fairy tale story you understand with the directors added twists, and then the next minute you have other fairy tales/movie characters you are not familiar with. This show has so much going on that it makes you feel as if you constantly have this need to keep watching to see what is going to happen next. A great example would be the characters Emma and Henry. Emma in this show is Snow White’s daughter, and Henry is Emma’s biological child. Henry is also the Evil Queen’s son by adoption in ‘reality’. First of all in the regular stories of Snow White, she has never had a child, because her happy ending was true loves kiss and getting married. This was my ‘WOW’ moment because it threw me off when I figured out Emma was Snow White and Charming’s daughter, which makes Henry their grandchild. Aside from being Emma’s son, and Snow White and Charming’s grandson, it is a strong possibility that he is also the Evil Queen’s father.
    Once Upon A Time falls in the category of fantasy. At the same time, I think it also falls in the categories of drama, romantic, and action. This show has the its moments where the characters can be so dramatic, that it is so extra for the scene. Then again there are moments where there is so much action, that you would think you are watching an action based television show. Then there are moments you think you have figured the genre out, then here they come being romantic like if you were watching The Fault in Our Stars. Like I mentioned before, this show will keep you wanting more and more.    … Expand
  2. Melb13
    Oct 25, 2011
    10
    I loved the concept of the show its different from what's on television at the moment and it makes you want to watch it and the cast does a fantastic job! I can not wait to continue watching the show and see how the storyline develops.
  3. shipwreck58
    Dec 30, 2011
    9
    I came into this show a little late, catching up on Hulu right now. Its pretty good. I enjoy that its a pleasant mix of the fairy tale world and RL. It avoids the vanity of going heavy on CGI to do the fairy tale stuff. It has the feel of Lost-Lite which is fine. Pretty solid acting, especially from the woman playing the Wicked Queen/Mayor. Once I get caught up I am putting it on theI came into this show a little late, catching up on Hulu right now. Its pretty good. I enjoy that its a pleasant mix of the fairy tale world and RL. It avoids the vanity of going heavy on CGI to do the fairy tale stuff. It has the feel of Lost-Lite which is fine. Pretty solid acting, especially from the woman playing the Wicked Queen/Mayor. Once I get caught up I am putting it on the regular viewing list. Good job ABC.… Expand
  4. Murchaidh
    Oct 13, 2012
    10
    Absolutely love this show. One of the few I hate to miss. And as Dessy states; although I also like Grimm, this show is far superior and much more entertaining. To each his own, I guess.
  5. iamacritic
    Nov 5, 2011
    10
    Some people may not have a sense of imagination or fun, but this show is a way to escape from the bad economy or your family issues etc. Once Upon a Time is a creative, imaginative, interesting show. It keeps you on your toes for the entire week, waiting for the next episode. The story line is is "out-of-the-box" and the acting is well done. I am addicted.
  6. Gaby1983
    Nov 18, 2011
    10
    Original, well acted, beautifully shot and directed. This has to be one of the best new shows on TV. The creators of ¨Lost¨proved once again that they can grab our attention hopefully they keep a hold on it.
  7. heyitsmegrif4
    Apr 1, 2012
    8
    Despite its plot issues. Once Upon a Time is a creative, entertaining visually beautiful, fantastically acted ,piece of art. Once Upon a Time is soon to be one of the best shows on television.
  8. horacep3000
    Dec 5, 2011
    10
    This is one of the new shows this season that is actually really good. When I first saw commercials, I wasn't sure how it would turn out. Now I see its clever, compelling storytelling as a work of art. The show reminds me of lost, as it was created by a few of its producers. It lives in the present and the past, which keeps me so intrigued. I hope this show is here to last.
  9. docfeelgood
    Mar 15, 2012
    10
    This is an amazingly entertaining show. My girlfriend and I are obsessed with catching every minute of every episode. I am amazed that some people think this show is just for kids. Most kids will not get it. Why someone would take the time to rate it a "0" is more astonishing. Must be a hateful person. Keep these episodes coming!
  10. mgyukeri
    Sep 9, 2012
    8
    I'm plesantly surprised with Once Upon a Time. On the surface, it's pretty much a complete carbon copy of the comic series "Fables", but it quickly becomes something very different. The pilot was cheesy, and the story starts slow, but it definitely improves over the season. Henry's the most pretentious kid on TV, however.
  11. lelefoxx00
    Jun 13, 2015
    10
    This show is by far one of my favorites of all time! I absolutely love the casting (spot on with the characters) and the twists to some of the fairy tales are very clever and interesting! This show has made me cry, laugh, and has definitely hooked me for the long run. I highly recommend it, especially for those who love any fairy tales, even the Wizard of Oz.
  12. Gizmo11111
    Nov 9, 2013
    10
    This show is very interesting and similar to lost. It is one of the most fascinating shows out these. These days most shows are the ordinary cookie cutter dramas so this is something new and different. The characters are very well written and played, however the story is starting to head in the wrong direction. The show needs to start getting more intense, as so far in the 3rd seasonThis show is very interesting and similar to lost. It is one of the most fascinating shows out these. These days most shows are the ordinary cookie cutter dramas so this is something new and different. The characters are very well written and played, however the story is starting to head in the wrong direction. The show needs to start getting more intense, as so far in the 3rd season nothing super spectacular has happened.… Expand
  13. khan2705
    Feb 2, 2012
    7
    The one thing that works in this show is the theme of it, the absolute fresh and new concept that really makes it a good time watch. It reminds me of Lost where every episode had a different character story on the island connected with their past and here ... the storybrooke people and their past where they are story book characters. Story is really good however it needs to improve a bitThe one thing that works in this show is the theme of it, the absolute fresh and new concept that really makes it a good time watch. It reminds me of Lost where every episode had a different character story on the island connected with their past and here ... the storybrooke people and their past where they are story book characters. Story is really good however it needs to improve a bit in writing department and it gets bit dull and hollow at times so not a perfect show but really worth watching. It offers romance, excitement, thrill, drama and everything. Your favorite story characters with twists.… Expand
  14. Kerrio
    Jan 31, 2012
    9
    The idea of taking fairy tales and deconstructing them is a very original idea, I totally disagree with the other reviewer, no one has done it quite like Once Upon a Time. The writers of Lost have found another niche that the American public can consume. The story lines of people that, from the outside, look normal, but their back story goes on forever. We have been promised SherlockThe idea of taking fairy tales and deconstructing them is a very original idea, I totally disagree with the other reviewer, no one has done it quite like Once Upon a Time. The writers of Lost have found another niche that the American public can consume. The story lines of people that, from the outside, look normal, but their back story goes on forever. We have been promised Sherlock Holmes and possibly other fictional characters, as well. Which is intriguing. My only gripe would be a few of the supporting "bit" actors that are truly BAD. Whomever is doing the casting is either deaf and blind, or has a lot of favors to pay back. But that is a small complaint. I think the series will do well, and is one of the few shows I record on my DVC. I recommend this for kids 12 and up and the Mom of the family. :)… Expand
  15. permanentrose
    Nov 16, 2011
    10
    I'm in love with the fairytale world this show has created. just wish there was more of it. this show is amazing. i've been waiting months for it to come out and when it did i wasn't disappointed. Goodwin and Dallas are wonderful as Snow White/Mary Margaret Blanchet and Prince Charming/David Nolan and they have such amazing chemistry. So much potential here and i can't wait to see how thisI'm in love with the fairytale world this show has created. just wish there was more of it. this show is amazing. i've been waiting months for it to come out and when it did i wasn't disappointed. Goodwin and Dallas are wonderful as Snow White/Mary Margaret Blanchet and Prince Charming/David Nolan and they have such amazing chemistry. So much potential here and i can't wait to see how this story unfolds… Expand
  16. Jenno
    Nov 28, 2011
    10
    Very cleaver! Like the details, like the storyline, actors, charactors, etc. what a fun show. I have told several people about it and they are watching now. Cant wait to see more.
  17. inuyashalover
    Jul 11, 2012
    10
    loved this series i can't wait and am hoping for a season 2 i love how Rumpelstiltskin is the beast in beauty and the beast and how everything is tied together through him and the queen/mayor
  18. Dessy
    Oct 23, 2011
    10
    There have been many comparisons between this show and Grimm, I assure you, this is the superior series. An extremely good Pilot; definitely the best of the year. I just watched it again and again and again.It was stunning;the sets and production value, with an amazing Cast, all breathing electric life into their roles, and Intriguing storyline. I cannot wait for more.
  19. Spellkid
    Oct 30, 2011
    10
    It was much much better than grimm by far and I am so addicted to it. ABC's new show is the falls best highlight in drama by far. I love the story line and the Acting is believable, I just cant believe something could be so good. I can see being around 5 or 6 seasons and it could totally be Emmy worthy.
  20. Akkhar
    Oct 24, 2011
    8
    Its Different ......its really good ! Jennifer Morrison is awesome ! Once Upon a Time in Mexico is an amazing mixer with The Brother's Grimm Tales and Modern world ! Abc's best Drama of 2011 !
  21. mustard_tiger
    May 14, 2012
    7
    Not a bad show, even after the disadvantages of TV quality CG, the horrible schlocky, talentless production values of everything filmed in Vancouver the stories are not that bad if not majorly influenced by Lost. Its kind of game of thrones for kids but count how many times characters say "lets just say..." it drives me crazy
  22. Irishblue
    Nov 14, 2011
    8
    I am loving this show! I like the way the story telling is being handled. Love that they have taken fairytales and brought them back closer to the real story. Not everything has a happy ending. I am all for happy endings, but the original fairytales where stories of warnings. If you strayed from the straight and narrow road, you will be eaten by a wolf. Keep up the great storytellingI am loving this show! I like the way the story telling is being handled. Love that they have taken fairytales and brought them back closer to the real story. Not everything has a happy ending. I am all for happy endings, but the original fairytales where stories of warnings. If you strayed from the straight and narrow road, you will be eaten by a wolf. Keep up the great storytelling ABC. Please don't solve the mysteries too quickly. Keep us guessing!… Expand
  23. TvAddict
    Dec 16, 2011
    10
    I love it. It's so smartly written and brought to the screen so well. Not predictable. Nothing with this type of mystery and whimsy has ever been brought to our tv screens with such dept. I aplaud the creators
  24. rbalsamo88
    Apr 23, 2012
    10
    I finally found a show based on a book that I enjoyed when i was a child. Snow White should have a TV series. I am thoroughly enjoying the producer, director's & writers of this series idea to tie-in other Disney characters from other fairy tales. I think its wonderfully done and I cannot wait to see where the show will take us.
  25. happyheame
    Jun 2, 2012
    10
    My first impression of Once Upon a Time was that it was going to be some lame drama that got canceled after the first season, or even a couple of episodes.
    However, that is not the case! Once Upon a Time is a family friendly drama that will tug at your heartstrings and that is definitely worth watching. The characters are amazing, and built well, even if the secondary characters may be a    My first impression of Once Upon a Time was that it was going to be some lame drama that got canceled after the first season, or even a couple of episodes.
    However, that is not the case! Once Upon a Time is a family friendly drama that will tug at your heartstrings and that is definitely worth watching. The characters are amazing, and built well, even if the secondary characters may be a little flat. However, their backstories make up for it.    … Expand
  26. ladylu01
    Nov 11, 2011
    10
    I really like this show! It's unique & different & the plot has me wanting to see what's going to happen next! I really like how they flash back on every show to show the lives of popular fairy tale characters. I can't wait to see it next Sunday!
  27. Dobby
    Nov 13, 2011
    10
    Excellent show with a very unique and creative script. I love the way they integrate the various fairytales into the main plot and I like the fact that the writers do not rigidly adhere to the original stories, which makes them a lot more interesting (for example, the story of Snow White in the 3 rd episode). I'm already hooked on it! If you're avoiding this show because you think thatExcellent show with a very unique and creative script. I love the way they integrate the various fairytales into the main plot and I like the fact that the writers do not rigidly adhere to the original stories, which makes them a lot more interesting (for example, the story of Snow White in the 3 rd episode). I'm already hooked on it! If you're avoiding this show because you think that it will be cheesy, I'd recommend giving it a try. You'll be pleasantly surprised. The only criticism I have is with the casting of some of the main characters. However, so far, it hasn't really mattered.… Expand
  28. cfh
    Mar 24, 2013
    9
    I love this show, I watch it whenever I can. Yes sometimes the plot does not move along, but the show is kind of like a mystery on how the characters are always changing and new twists and turns every episode. I suggest that anyone who like mystery stories or puzzles should watch this show.
  29. AwesomeReviewer
    Mar 14, 2013
    9
    “Once Upon a Time” is about fairy tale characters that get trapped in the real world because of a curse by the evil witch Regina. None of the other characters besides Regina, has any recollection of their life before the curse. However, there is a savior who can save them all, but she doesn’t believe. Emma Swan is this savior, the daughter of Snow White and Prince Charming, but because of“Once Upon a Time” is about fairy tale characters that get trapped in the real world because of a curse by the evil witch Regina. None of the other characters besides Regina, has any recollection of their life before the curse. However, there is a savior who can save them all, but she doesn’t believe. Emma Swan is this savior, the daughter of Snow White and Prince Charming, but because of her troubled childhood she doesn’t have time to believe in fairy tales or curses that is until her son Henry comes back into her life. Emma and Regina go head to head as the mysteries of Storybrooke unfold in front of us.

    This is one heck of a show. It has strong writing and tackles themes of true love, motherhood, friendship, and believing. The show adds a new twist to the fairy tale lore as we get to see classic characters interact with one another. Stories jump back and forth from the present, which take place in our realm, to the past, which takes place in the fairy tale world, in a single episode. Each story event in the fairy tale world tells the story of what is happening at this moment or a back story of a particular character(s). It is interestingly done and keeps us involved as we try to piece each event together to the point of when the curse takes place. The part is finding all the references to the Disney version of these stories and characters. Disney/ABC put a lot of money into the show as the special effects and visuals are top notch for television. The costumes and make-up are extravagant as well. The musical score is at the heart of the story as each character or group of characters have their own themes.

    Actors range from good to decent. Emma and Henry are the weakest parts of the show for me. Henry comes off as annoying and a bit of a brat, but the writers and produces grow aware as his appearance becomes less and more tamed as the show progresses. The standout by far and worth watching are Regina and Rumpelstiltskin. Regina is vicious, but there is heart to her. Rumpelstiltskin is flamboyant, but very understated in the real world. One thing particularly great about this show is how no one character is just one note. There are layers to each character, even the most evil of them.

    Overall, “Once Upon a Time” is a really great show with some strong writing and high production values. Each character is highlighted well in their particular episode and we’re left guessing what happens next. As the season comes to an end, we learn more and more about certain characters that change our perspective on them. And the finale answers a lot of questions, but leaves us with a bunch of new ones. I give it 4.5/5, great writing, impressive production values, and a cast of colorful, but relateable characters.    … Expand
  30. Sincerey
    Sep 4, 2012
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I've been hooked since the trailers came out! Toward the middle of the season, I ignored everyone and was in my world. After reading the synopsis out loud to one of my friends, I thought the writers were crazy and on drugs! It is an AMAZING series and I can't wait to see how they incorporate everyone's new found memory in the second season! :) I'M IN LOVE WITH THIS SERIES!… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

68
#68 Best TV Season of 2011
7
#7 Most Discussed TV Season of 2011
15
#15 Most Shared TV Season of 2011

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
66

Generally favorable reviews - based on 26 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 16 out of 26
  2. Mixed: 10 out of 26
  3. Negative: 0 out of 26
  1. Slate
    Reviewed by: Troy Patterson
    Oct 28, 2011
    40
    The series, fueling itself with folklore, proceeds as if no characterization is required.
    Read full review
  2. The Hollywood Reporter
    Reviewed by: Tim Goodman
    Oct 24, 2011
    50
    The show is a bold idea, and there's hope for the modern-world portions, but it doesn't quite know what it is (or maybe it does, but the audience won't).
    Read full review
  3. Zap2it (Inside the Box)
    Reviewed by: Rick Porter
    Oct 24, 2011
    60
    No other new show this fall is attempting to tell a bigger story, and we're hoping the rough patches smooth out and it fulfills the potential that's there in its very strong cast and premise.
    Read full review
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