Outlander (2014)

:

Season 1
  • Network: Starz
  • Series Premiere Date: Aug 9, 2014
Season #: 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
8.3

Universal acclaim- based on 317 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 261 out of 317
  2. Mixed: 28 out of 317
  3. Negative: 28 out of 317
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  1. All_ButTrU4
    Jan 3, 2022
    10
    Perfect. It takes it's time but is in no way slow. Relationships form realistically and the story is aware of it's time period. Adapted from Diana Gabon time travel romance epic ,brilliant performances all around.
  2. Felindie
    Jul 15, 2019
    7
    I feel 'Outlander' has too much to offer, however first season came short. It's good though.
  3. Beholder1984
    Dec 15, 2017
    10
    I absolutely love Outlander. The story is amazing, the characters are well developed and the cast is fabulous. Outlander always keeps me on the edge of my seat. I can't wait for the next season. Hopefully they will continue to make Outlander after season 4 otherwise I would definitely have to start reading the books.
  4. JayJoy
    Jan 14, 2017
    10
    By far one of the best shows I have ever watched. I enjoy this series so much! The books are amazing but this show just adds to it. Thank you Diana for this amazing show!
  5. MrsY
    Jan 4, 2017
    10
    I am always a bit scared to watch things based on books because not every adaptation is a good one. But I am in love with the series. They really chose the perfect cast and by that I mean not only the leading roles ( Sam Heughan & Caitriona Balfe) but also the actors and actresses with a smaller part. Another thing that I admire is that they're staying close to the books. No major changesI am always a bit scared to watch things based on books because not every adaptation is a good one. But I am in love with the series. They really chose the perfect cast and by that I mean not only the leading roles ( Sam Heughan & Caitriona Balfe) but also the actors and actresses with a smaller part. Another thing that I admire is that they're staying close to the books. No major changes which is amazing. I would recommend everyone to watch Outlander… Expand
  6. Nicholash6321
    Sep 29, 2016
    10
    I did share many criticisms at first on the seemingly wooden characters and as Claire as just the epitome of feminism within changing environments, however as the series progressed, I was utterly enthralled at how Outlander managed to subvert my expectations and turn into a compelling, provocative, beautiful and sometimes downright dark masterpiece that although does not see to itself toI did share many criticisms at first on the seemingly wooden characters and as Claire as just the epitome of feminism within changing environments, however as the series progressed, I was utterly enthralled at how Outlander managed to subvert my expectations and turn into a compelling, provocative, beautiful and sometimes downright dark masterpiece that although does not see to itself to make a contemporary statement like so many viewers expect, it is damn entertaining.… Expand
  7. TheApplegnome
    Aug 2, 2016
    7
    Prepare for an accurate perspective on history. A more romantic & science fiction-ish journey into the earlier Scotland -- a voyage with a brand new take on love, attachment & the past.

    It’s based on the ‘Outlander series’ written by Diana Gabaldon, and strictly follows the books -- and doesn’t take any wild turns from its source material. It’s a beautifully directed show that’s highly    Prepare for an accurate perspective on history. A more romantic & science fiction-ish journey into the earlier Scotland -- a voyage with a brand new take on love, attachment & the past.

    It’s based on the ‘Outlander series’ written by Diana Gabaldon, and strictly follows the books -- and doesn’t take any wild turns from its source material. It’s a beautifully directed show that’s highly realistic due to its big focus on history and location shooting. History comes real and it feels like a totally different world. Characters come alive in this 1700s -- they give you this inside to how it was to live in this, to us -- strange world. Its vast focus on this is a major plus -- but can, for some, be its greatest “meh-factor”. The plot is interesting, got exciting revelations -- but it can be draggy. The plot takes its time to develop, but when it does it’s a great one! The characters do on the other hand not take long to feel attachment to. Just the realistic chemistry, extensive ardor and the splendid character depth. Wow! Add a never seen before antagonist and a love/hate relationship with the protagonist, just wow! Our main character Claire Randall is a wonder. Expositions are told in a fascinating way through her -- and the story firmly follows her, one step at a time. Yes; lack of plot development is a fact -- and on a personal level is this the show's greatest problem. But other than that; well -- it’s almost flawless.

    Overall personal rating for each episode: 72.8/100

    Personal rating: 73/100
    Critical rating: 90/100    … Expand
  8. vanhuizum
    Jul 4, 2016
    10
    I am not usually one for period pieces and yet this series has me captivated. Very intense in every aspect including romance that heats up the screen along with scenery of the beautiful country of Scotland that captivates your heart. The story line is always moving and exciting... truly a gem!
  9. writingal
    Jun 21, 2016
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. As many have noted, there's no one genre to which this fascinating, often terrifying, romantic and amazing story belongs which may, perhaps, be part of its charm. Who could have better guides for each week's journey than the clear-eyed, level-headed Clare and the brave and strong Jamie?
    Season 201's opening horrified me--the very idea that Clare should ever be with pudding-face (and Black Jack Randall face) Frank again instead of Jamie is too horrifying to bear. (I pray that is a dream or one possible future and Clare goes back through the stones...)
    The actors are so fine, they do justice to the writing and make the words their own--so it is impossible not to think of the actors as real. Wonderful show! And the only reason I subscribe to Starz.    … Expand
  10. cfrees
    Jun 6, 2016
    10
    it's interesting to read other user reviews, particularly those who get upset because the source material's description of the character doesn't match the actor cast. Don't they know that it's irrelevant? Just because the book character has amber eyes, the fact that the actress doesn't hardly means that was bad casting. It's entirely not important.

    What makes Outlander a great show,    it's interesting to read other user reviews, particularly those who get upset because the source material's description of the character doesn't match the actor cast. Don't they know that it's irrelevant? Just because the book character has amber eyes, the fact that the actress doesn't hardly means that was bad casting. It's entirely not important.

    What makes Outlander a great show, after a full season and a half, is the way it looks at people and relationships and how they change over time. They handle tough issues like rape, and miscarriages with a delicacy not usually found in television. The show is building toward something. If you have patience, you will get a payoff. If you are not, well the show is better off without you.    … Expand
  11. wudgee
    May 22, 2016
    10
    Amazing series. Casting is interesting and perfect and the acting fantastic. The characters are realistic and sometimes surprising. The storyline is really good and grips you. I watched series one on Amazon Prime UK in a marathon of TV viewing as I just had to see the next one, and watching series two week by week is painful. It's so refreshing to see a series like this instead of theAmazing series. Casting is interesting and perfect and the acting fantastic. The characters are realistic and sometimes surprising. The storyline is really good and grips you. I watched series one on Amazon Prime UK in a marathon of TV viewing as I just had to see the next one, and watching series two week by week is painful. It's so refreshing to see a series like this instead of the rubbish often on, I think it's the best thing on TV. The sex is dealt with beautifully, and you really get absorbed into the story. Jamie is gorgeous and other characters are so well-cast that you are fascinated by them, and there are nuances in their movements or acting, just the slightest thing, which really bring them to life and adds to their depth. I love this series and the fact it's based in Scotland. I love seeing the countryside and costumes and hearing the languages. There's something for everyone in these series. What can we say about Randall - ooh the bad, bad man.… Expand
  12. grumo89fr
    Apr 7, 2016
    10
    l'intrigue et bien prenante, le casting très bien réussi et les acteur très bon, les décors donne envie de visité l'Ecosse. super série vivement la saison 2
  13. Sheebs11
    Apr 3, 2016
    10
    I love love this show. I love that it is not rushed so it contains all the details the books do. I cannot wait for the new season to start. It's truly captivating and well produced. Cinematography is incredible. Sam Heughan is also incredible.
  14. smithy633
    Jan 4, 2016
    9
    I don't usually watch box sets but this one took my eye and I thought I would give it a go and boy was I hooked . I couldn't switch it off , great acting and lovely scenery and a brilliant story all in one series. Cant wait on series two HURRY HURRY HURRY
  15. Drakan
    Sep 21, 2015
    8
    Brilliant mini-series. Great acting. Kudos to leading actress (she's Irish, would have never guessed) and the actor that plays as Dougal. Great music score. Despite being a series that , in my opinion, is focused more to women I've got to say I love it. Looking forward to season 2.
  16. imperialcj
    Aug 6, 2015
    10
    This is one of the best shows on TV. The actors, writing, costumes, adaptation, music_ I could go on and on. The chemistry between Jamie and Claire is even greater onscreen than in the book. I binge read the 10 books over a two month period.. I've ruined my eyes but I think it gave me an even greater appreciation for the series. The series provides a succinct portrayal of the bookThis is one of the best shows on TV. The actors, writing, costumes, adaptation, music_ I could go on and on. The chemistry between Jamie and Claire is even greater onscreen than in the book. I binge read the 10 books over a two month period.. I've ruined my eyes but I think it gave me an even greater appreciation for the series. The series provides a succinct portrayal of the book chapter by chapter.

    I am very pleased with the series and hope it continues for many of the books to come. I do take exception to some of the critics of the cast. It is a marvelous cast and pointing out body parts to criticize is ridiculous. I hope Catriona never sees these. She has a real woman's body, not implants and other fake parts. Did you ever see the real tears in her eyes and the realistic crying scenes? She is terrific.

    Sam is a dreamboat. He's beautiful, sexy, hunky, believable and a great actor. He rocks my socks off and I am an old lady. The other cast members are great as well.

    As I read the books I thought if I were going to try and portray the books ion the screen, which parts would I use? I think the writers have done a fantastic job. I can't wait to see Season 2.!!    … Expand
  17. rdoughan1287
    Jul 19, 2015
    9
    Just finished watching the first season of the show and I have to say, I really enjoyed it. At first, it seemed a little forced and the concept seemed a little weird to me, but after watching about 3-4 episodes I was hooked. Give the characters a chance to develop and you will really enjoy it too. I am also a big fan of game of thrones and i dare to compare captain jack randall to theJust finished watching the first season of the show and I have to say, I really enjoyed it. At first, it seemed a little forced and the concept seemed a little weird to me, but after watching about 3-4 episodes I was hooked. Give the characters a chance to develop and you will really enjoy it too. I am also a big fan of game of thrones and i dare to compare captain jack randall to the likes of ramsey bolton. I don't pick up a new show easily, but this one has made it on my list. Great show. Way to go Starz. MIGHT, just might, even pick up the books now!… Expand
  18. Mominchgo
    Jul 16, 2015
    10
    Great adaptation of the great series. Spot on with casting, costumes, music, and settings. For true fans there are small differences in the TV series, but it is like LOR, the adaptation is brilliant. Romance, adventure, history, with a touch of science fiction, time travel. I wish this team of production would also do an adaptation of Connie Willis' Doomsday Book.
  19. bioid
    Jun 8, 2015
    7
    While it hasn't exactly met my expectations in a lot of aspects, it managed to surprise me in others. I never read the books, for the record.

    I didn't like the pacing - it felt as though there were a lot of idle moments and episodes could have been shorter. The abundance of sex scenes came across as unnecessary sometimes or even silly. I also failed to grow attached to most recurring    While it hasn't exactly met my expectations in a lot of aspects, it managed to surprise me in others. I never read the books, for the record.

    I didn't like the pacing - it felt as though there were a lot of idle moments and episodes could have been shorter. The abundance of sex scenes came across as unnecessary sometimes or even silly. I also failed to grow attached to most recurring characters, except for the two regulars Claire and Jamie; and even that took a fairly long time.

    Now on the positive experiences: I think the 3 main actors did a good job, if not consistently. The art direction and the costumes made the series very pleasing to watch, but what really impressed me was the atmospheric and sometimes even catchy soundtrack. I liked the grounded approach of the fantasy side of the story, even though I still want answers for the questions they raised. Additionally, the two final episodes were very powerful in my opinion, however hard it was to watch.

    Finally, I liked it and had a pretty good time watching. Would probably not re-watch anytime soon, though. 7.4/10    … Expand
  20. wornoutspines
    Jun 2, 2015
    9
    I am impressed with this show. The premise desn’t sound like much but it’s a good show. Thank goodness I was bored enough one day to check it out. The theme song is just wonderful and intoxicating, a great choice for the show that it is. The pilot set everything up nicely, at least the first part of things, we got to know Claire's life in 1945 before diving deep in 1743's Scotland.

    The    I am impressed with this show. The premise desn’t sound like much but it’s a good show. Thank goodness I was bored enough one day to check it out. The theme song is just wonderful and intoxicating, a great choice for the show that it is. The pilot set everything up nicely, at least the first part of things, we got to know Claire's life in 1945 before diving deep in 1743's Scotland.

    The characters and the plots are slowly introduced and developed that they quickly feel real. The slow pace the show took created a solid base to amp up the drama, relate to the characters, and set up the era. I felt like with each episodes I learned a little bit more about Scottish culture. The voice over stayed throughout the season but I didn't mind it. It was on point, adding to the information that the images and/or the great performances were giving. It also made boring shots (people walking around, landscape shots - however beautiful they were) more interesting.

    The show is full of little references, I did not expect to find e.g. "When you eliminate the impossible whatever remain, however improbable, must be the truth." a quote that many of you have heard in Sherlock.

    The pilot's development on Claire's life in 1945 made even more sense once they started to use flashbacks. I don't know if the flashbacks would have made any sense if they hadn't spent a good portion of the pilot in 45. Claire strong, pigheaded AND annoying at times. Jack Randall is amazing, powerful, which is even more impressive when you compare the actor’s performance as Clair’s husband in 1945.

    The further we went with the show, the more riveting, and beautiful Outlander was. I was giddy and excited to watch the show. Outlander was a little bit all over the place when it came to categorize it, it was a bit sappy, cheesy but it also got dark, I mean really DARK, which was a direction I didn’t exactly expect. Not having any spoilers from the books I thought I was imaging Jack Randall's proclivities but I wasn’t! It made the show all the more sweater because the creative team was not afraid to get into the sadism, get gritty, and graphic. It got so disturbing but the way it was edited made it bearable.

    Outlander is an emotionally charged and riveting new show, arguably one of the best that came out this year. @wornoutspines    … Expand
  21. chiodo
    May 20, 2015
    10
    I enjoyed very much this season, dialogs well done, fascinating plot. There are just two "filling" episodes in the all season, which is good. No fantasy, no battles but it's ok for me. Something to watch after Game of Thrones.
  22. dansLady
    May 19, 2015
    10
    Ron Moore, the writers, the cast produce magic when blended with Diana Gabaldon's detailed historical romance series. The care taken with detail brings the story to life with the amazing acting skills of Sam, Cait and Tobias. I couldn't be happier! While I have been a dedicated reader of this series for almost 20 years with visions in my head of the settings and characters, I've beenRon Moore, the writers, the cast produce magic when blended with Diana Gabaldon's detailed historical romance series. The care taken with detail brings the story to life with the amazing acting skills of Sam, Cait and Tobias. I couldn't be happier! While I have been a dedicated reader of this series for almost 20 years with visions in my head of the settings and characters, I've been excited to see everyone come to life in the adaptation. I'll never re-read the books now without seeing Sam as Jamie, Cait as Claire and the stunning portrail of Black Jack Randall by Tobias.… Expand
  23. jocelynflack
    May 19, 2015
    10
    This show is absolutely amazing! They did a fantastic job creating the book into a tv series. I am hooked! The actors and actresses do such a great job bringing the characters to life. I can't wait for season 2!
  24. jrsgrandma
    Apr 21, 2015
    9
    One of the best adaptations of book source material ever. The first half of the season seemed slowly paced to get to know the characters and historical setting, but the second half has turned into a roller coaster of emotions. Perfect casting (and chemistry), great writing, costuming, and beautiful scenery. Kudos all around!
  25. podaddy
    Jan 29, 2015
    9
    I started watching Outlander when it first came out (about a year ago or so), and although I liked it, I was hooked on shows like Fargo, The Honorable Woman and Rectify and just never made time to stay with it. At that time, it would have been worthy of a 7 rating to me, but I have watched episodes 4 thru 7 very recently and the show has really found its footing. The writing, casting, aI started watching Outlander when it first came out (about a year ago or so), and although I liked it, I was hooked on shows like Fargo, The Honorable Woman and Rectify and just never made time to stay with it. At that time, it would have been worthy of a 7 rating to me, but I have watched episodes 4 thru 7 very recently and the show has really found its footing. The writing, casting, a cinematography were always top notch, but the show really has hit stride mid-season and reached another level. I'd highly recommend this show, very much a slow burn at the outset, but well worth the wait.… Expand
  26. 2expressmyview
    Nov 4, 2014
    8
    This is an excellent show. The acting is very good and the storyline is interesting and, I believe, reflective of the relationship between England and Scotland during this period in history.

    I hope this show will continue for several seasons but am not sure it can continue past the battle between the British and the Scots.
  27. SweeneyT
    Oct 7, 2014
    10
    Loved the books, love this tv series. Beautiful cinematography, amazing sets and costume design, great details of daily life in Scotland in the 1740s. Had a difficult time at first with the casting of both Jaimie and Claire, but by the second episode, I was in love with both of the actors playing these roles ( even though Claire should have amber colored eyes). Completely hooked now on theLoved the books, love this tv series. Beautiful cinematography, amazing sets and costume design, great details of daily life in Scotland in the 1740s. Had a difficult time at first with the casting of both Jaimie and Claire, but by the second episode, I was in love with both of the actors playing these roles ( even though Claire should have amber colored eyes). Completely hooked now on the series, in a way that was totally unexpected. Suffering withdrawal now as the show is on hiatus for 6 months.… Expand
  28. h2gold
    Oct 2, 2014
    10
    A hidden gem of a show. Great chemistry between the leads, neither of whom I had heard of before but after watching them here I couldn't believe I hadn't because they just shine. With Battlestar Alumnus Ronald D Moore at the helm I shouldn't have been surprised at the attention to characterisation, including the smallest of parts. This show may have one of the best getting to know youA hidden gem of a show. Great chemistry between the leads, neither of whom I had heard of before but after watching them here I couldn't believe I hadn't because they just shine. With Battlestar Alumnus Ronald D Moore at the helm I shouldn't have been surprised at the attention to characterisation, including the smallest of parts. This show may have one of the best getting to know you wedding nights ever.… Expand
  29. enridem
    Sep 28, 2014
    9
    "Captivating" - that's the best way to describe this show in a single word.

    Unlike so many others I never had the privilege of reading the books and in all honesty I don't really consider that a loss. The story is so well told and the atmosphere so palpable that it draws you in and captures the imagination. While the show had a strong first episode it was really the second episode that    "Captivating" - that's the best way to describe this show in a single word.

    Unlike so many others I never had the privilege of reading the books and in all honesty I don't really consider that a loss. The story is so well told and the atmosphere so palpable that it draws you in and captures the imagination. While the show had a strong first episode it was really the second episode that sealed the deal. The depiction of life in the Scottish highlands feels authentic and the actors, whom are mostly unknown, completely inhabit their characters.

    From reading the comments I understand that some of the characters are not aesthetically identical to their novel counterparts. This was enough to warrant lower scores for some reviewers. I find this puzzling as the show stands so well on it's own. Who cares if someones hair was longer in the book? Does it really detract from the experience?

    I would have given the show a 10 if not for the somewhat cynical side of me believing that nothing is ever perfect. I also have a personal gripe with the fair amount of nudity. While the nudity itself doesn't offend me, I felt it was forced in a bid to compete with shows like Game of Thrones and the like. It's unnecessary to have nudity only for the sake of nudity. Claire's expletive of choice also feels forced and rarely comes across as a natural reaction to a given situation. In the end these concerns are minimal in the bigger scheme of things and should not deter anyone from enjoying this masterpiece.    … Expand
  30. SAMSUNG2653
    Sep 28, 2014
    9
    The cast is impeccable,the writing as well .A perfect mix of Romance and Adventure with a little bit of SF.One of the best this year and a must see of this genre.
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Awards & Rankings

56
#56 Best TV Season of 2014
16
#16 Most Discussed TV Season of 2014
20
#20 Most Shared TV Season of 2014

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
73

Generally favorable reviews - based on 34 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 26 out of 34
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 34
  3. Negative: 0 out of 34
  1. The New Yorker
    Reviewed by: Emily Nussbaum
    Sep 9, 2014
    80
    The show is more than tit for tat: it’s sheer pleasure, no guilt allowed.
    Read full review
  2. Chicago Sun-Times
    Reviewed by: Lori Rackl
    Aug 19, 2014
    75
    Some episodes chug along faster than others, but the stellar production values render even the slower-paced installments worthwhile viewing.
    Read full review
  3. Philadelphia Inquirer
    Reviewed by: David Hiltbrand
    Aug 11, 2014
    80
    The show is wonderfully conceived and executed (if a little pokey pace-wise).
    Read full review
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