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. BogKid
    Aug 9, 2014
    10
    The Starz Channel has not been notable for very high production values in its televised series shows. Things have taken a major turn for the better. Extremely high production values, good writing, and excellent actors makes this "must see" TV. A touch of science fiction, lots of Scottish history, and lots and lots of romance makes this a women's show that men will enjoy too.

    My wife    The Starz Channel has not been notable for very high production values in its televised series shows. Things have taken a major turn for the better. Extremely high production values, good writing, and excellent actors makes this "must see" TV. A touch of science fiction, lots of Scottish history, and lots and lots of romance makes this a women's show that men will enjoy too.

    My wife has read every one of the "Outlander" books and she approached this show with an extraordinary degree of suspicion, expecting a cheesy cartoon of the books she so enjoys. She is now a believer in this show and recommends it to all of Gabaldon's fans and to everyone else too.    … Expand
  2. MBPH
    Sep 20, 2014
    9
    I think this series is well done. It can not be compared to other programs. I read the books years ago when they were first published and key events have been represented well and do justice to the story while bringing in artistic changes to move the story along. I like the voice over. The nudity
    Is not needed to convey the story. I like some historic event that have been added and    I think this series is well done. It can not be compared to other programs. I read the books years ago when they were first published and key events have been represented well and do justice to the story while bringing in artistic changes to move the story along. I like the voice over. The nudity
    Is not needed to convey the story. I like some historic event that have been added and not part of the original story. Over all well done    … Expand
  3. IneSilano
    Sep 24, 2014
    9
    This show has all the components that any viewer could want in a series, the production is spectacular, the location is excellent, the photography is stunning, the story is absorbing, from various angles, historical, fantasy, romance. The performance is intriguing, perhaps hereinafter greater complementarity is achieved, the chemistry between the characters is believable, the viewer justThis show has all the components that any viewer could want in a series, the production is spectacular, the location is excellent, the photography is stunning, the story is absorbing, from various angles, historical, fantasy, romance. The performance is intriguing, perhaps hereinafter greater complementarity is achieved, the chemistry between the characters is believable, the viewer just wants to know what will happen ...… Expand
  4. dme36ny
    Sep 25, 2014
    10
    I read the books and fell in love with Scotland, Jamie and Claire and their whole adventure. What I love about how they've adapted the book to the screen is that they aren't rushing the story. I love the costumes, the actors (although Claire seemed a bit stiff in the first episode, she is definitely getting better) the accents, the authenticity to the story AND whatever adaptations thatI read the books and fell in love with Scotland, Jamie and Claire and their whole adventure. What I love about how they've adapted the book to the screen is that they aren't rushing the story. I love the costumes, the actors (although Claire seemed a bit stiff in the first episode, she is definitely getting better) the accents, the authenticity to the story AND whatever adaptations that they have made to make it good TV. I love what the director did with "The Wedding." It captured the anticipation and the intimacy that I felt in the book but did it in a different way and it worked beautifully! I love this show. I love Sam Heughan- he is different as the Jamie I imagined while reading but he has definitely stepped in as "my Jamie." He is strong, loyal and very sexy. I have also fell in love with Graham McTavish as Dougal. I love the pace of the show and I look forward to savoring each chapter of the show. I think they are doing a wonderful job and recommend to all readers and non readers alike!… Expand
  5. nikkiloohoo23
    Sep 25, 2014
    10
    Let me be honest. I watched the first episode of this show because it was something my husband was interested in. It slightly captured my attention and then I think I fell asleep. The second episode was so unmemorable to me that I honestly can't even say for certain I watched it. Then I got bored. Really bored if I was willing to watch a show that put me to sleep. I found the second timeLet me be honest. I watched the first episode of this show because it was something my husband was interested in. It slightly captured my attention and then I think I fell asleep. The second episode was so unmemorable to me that I honestly can't even say for certain I watched it. Then I got bored. Really bored if I was willing to watch a show that put me to sleep. I found the second time around, watching it for myself and no one else (add to that, the fact my husband has a tendency to talk throughout the entire episode) I really enjoyed, even more so when I got to the fourth episode. If you ever watched this and thought, ehh not for me, I BEG you to reconsider...the story is amazing, the sets/scenery is amazing, the actors are amazing, the writers are amazing and you're missing out if you're not watching.… Expand
  6. Therack2007
    Sep 25, 2014
    10
    Escapism at its best! After enjoying the books so much I'm delighted that the series has done them justice. Excellent cast with fantastic costume/production value. Completely obsessed with this show! I thought game of thrones was addictive and now I have another fantasy/historical drama in which to absorb myself.
  7. 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
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. Kse17outfan
    Aug 24, 2014
    9
    In episode 3 you left out the tender part of Claire showing Jamie the extent of his scars on his back. Her touch was loving and a hint of what was to be between them. Where was the heartwarming connection between them. When I read the book I had a warm feeling, but the episode left me feeling nothing in this scene.
  11. funkeedeeva
    Aug 27, 2014
    9
    This series is starting to warm up to me. After 3 episodes, I can say I am hooked to know what hold for Claire's future. As a sci-fi fan, I was expecting fast build up but it was a bit slow but tastefully done. I have never read the book so I am expecting the element of surprises along the way.
  12. tmikaeld
    Sep 4, 2014
    10
    Everything in this series is of very high quality, especially the writing, the characters, settings and actors. It's like literally watching a book rather than reading it. Sure, it is slow paced but after watching two episodes, you just crave to know and see more about this epic story.
  13. 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
  14. 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
  15. BillJustBill
    Aug 12, 2014
    9
    I read the book this is based on, so I can say that the first episode follows the book faithfully. Gabaldon writes a good strong narrative, pushes the story forward. It's designed for a female audience (in my humble opinion), but I liked it well enough to allow myself to get into it, even though I knew what would happen, etc. Lots of good production values and a highly professional job.I read the book this is based on, so I can say that the first episode follows the book faithfully. Gabaldon writes a good strong narrative, pushes the story forward. It's designed for a female audience (in my humble opinion), but I liked it well enough to allow myself to get into it, even though I knew what would happen, etc. Lots of good production values and a highly professional job. Gabaldon has written enough books so that the show can run forever.… Expand
  16. AutumnJan
    Sep 8, 2014
    10
    FANTASTIC!!!! I have not loved a series in years like this one. This has got to be by far one of the most accurate (by the book) series in the history of TV series, movies, mini-series etc. It's romance, sci-fi, history and SCOTTISH MEN in kilts and it's so very realistic. I can't get enough of it. Wish it was a two hour series...or on every single night.
  17. 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
  18. Profe7
    Aug 18, 2014
    10
    Having read all of Diana Gabaldon's books in the Outlander series, I have been waiting for 20 years for someone to take on the challenge of adapting them for TV. To say that I am "thrilled" with the result is an understatement--long-time fans are being rewarded with a series that is remaining very true to the source texts. While some may find the pace slow and cumbersome, I find itHaving read all of Diana Gabaldon's books in the Outlander series, I have been waiting for 20 years for someone to take on the challenge of adapting them for TV. To say that I am "thrilled" with the result is an understatement--long-time fans are being rewarded with a series that is remaining very true to the source texts. While some may find the pace slow and cumbersome, I find it refreshing: producer Ron Moore has turned away from the pitfall of trying to cram every episode full of action. Those unfamiliar with the books may not like the use of voice-over narration by Claire in some places, but since the entire story is told from her point of view, it is absolutely essential that we understand what is going through her mind.

    I am very pleased with the casting: Sam Heughan (Jamie) and Caitriona Balfe (Claire) have such terrific chemistry on the screen that the viewer can practically see the sparks fly. I was initially skeptical of casting Tobias Menzies as both Frank and Black Jack Randall, but he makes it work. And Graham McTavish as Dougal is phenomenal--one look at his eyes and you know to step carefully around him.

    One feature of the production that intrigues me is the use of the Gaelic language without subtitles. It is used just enough to make the viewer feel the disorientation of Claire as she tries to navigate this new reality in which she finds herself. The Gaelic conversations are short enough that the viewer can follow the meaning of what is being said without being so long as to cause the viewer to 'tune out'.

    Fans of Gabaldon's books will be hooked on the show as they see the story brought to life (even if their vision of the characters was different from what is portrayed); those who have never read the books should prepare for their newest addiction!    … Expand
  19. SusanBerkoff
    Aug 20, 2014
    10
    The OUTLANDER series of books has sold over 26 million copies world wide. This series has been widely anticipated for nearly 25 years. Ron Moore, Maril, and the whole casting crew did an incredible job. The entire occupation of acting is to become the person one is pretending to be and this amazing group of men and women DO THAT JOB TO PERFECTION! Books can be difficult to translate to theThe OUTLANDER series of books has sold over 26 million copies world wide. This series has been widely anticipated for nearly 25 years. Ron Moore, Maril, and the whole casting crew did an incredible job. The entire occupation of acting is to become the person one is pretending to be and this amazing group of men and women DO THAT JOB TO PERFECTION! Books can be difficult to translate to the screen because description in a book depends on a talented writer while on the screen 100 pages can translate to two shots. In the first two Episodes this has been handled perfectly with both flash backs and a small bit of narration by Claire - it is her story after all. Scotland is a major character in the story as well and is used to its beautiful advantage. Diana, I am sure, is very proud that her 26 million books have translated so well to the screen in the very capable hands of Ron D. Moore at the helm of some Very talented people who take charge of sets, dressing, the horses (who are actors in their own right also and must be directed), lighting, and research for accuracy in the historical realms as well as an expert in the Gaelic Language. This series is one of the best performed and directed and expressed from the original material that has ever hit the air. STARZ and Sony Productions along with Tall Ships Productions have worked in perfect synchronicity to come as close to the original books as is possible. Gary Lewis, Graham McTavish, Sam Heughan, Caitriona Balfe, and Tobias Menzies amongst the rest of the cast all bring to life the characters who over 26 million people around the world fell in love with. Treat yourselves Every Saturday night to STARZ at 9 PM. Read the entire series of EIGHT books in print thus far also. You will be thrilled that you did!… Expand
  20. new-things
    Sep 10, 2014
    10
    Great job adapting a compelling series into a very watchable TV genre. Scenery is beautiful, characters very believable. I'll be looking forward to Saturday evenings for many seasons to come.
  21. tigger77
    Sep 26, 2014
    10
    i have to admit, as a long-time fan of the books and audio, i was afraid to hope - and watched with trepidation. All my fears were unfounded and the dream cast of all time has been assembled - if the cast, director, script writers remain solid, this will be an amazing multi-year worthy of standing ovation saga - These people are not mere frosting, the depth of the talent and obviousi have to admit, as a long-time fan of the books and audio, i was afraid to hope - and watched with trepidation. All my fears were unfounded and the dream cast of all time has been assembled - if the cast, director, script writers remain solid, this will be an amazing multi-year worthy of standing ovation saga - These people are not mere frosting, the depth of the talent and obvious respect they have for these characters shines in every scene, every nuance and we Outlanders will accept nothing less. Jamie and Claire are people we would all aspire to be - and watching Cait and Sam transcend these amazing books and make Outlander "more" exceeded my wildest expectations. Every cast member resonates authenticity. Watching this little bit of history unfold is enthralling - and if I were Scots - I would be prouder still to know my voice is being heard… Expand
  22. maridanilidou
    Aug 11, 2014
    10
    One of the best pilots of the summer!!! It creates a beautiful atmosphere that feels magical. Stunning makeup, production design, etc. The actors do a great job to create a strong and believable chemistry between each other. The story instantly lured me in and had me begging for more.
  23. ahnehnois
    Sep 13, 2014
    9
    Where Outlander succeeds is where many other shows, from Starz and elsewhere, have failed.

    First, authenticity. The show is set in Scotland, and it's shot in Scotland, and many of the cast are Scottish. Gallic is spoken regularly, and the production values are high. It feels Scottish, in stark contrast to shows that try to fake these things. Second, restraint. The show is okay with    Where Outlander succeeds is where many other shows, from Starz and elsewhere, have failed.

    First, authenticity. The show is set in Scotland, and it's shot in Scotland, and many of the cast are Scottish. Gallic is spoken regularly, and the production values are high. It feels Scottish, in stark contrast to shows that try to fake these things.

    Second, restraint. The show is okay with having characters' motivations be unclear, or having unsubtitled conversations. Things take time to happen. It doesn't have to be in your face every week.

    Where it struggles are in some eye-rolling decisions by the main character, who seems to vacillate and complain endlessly. I don't know the source material, so I can only say it irks me. But given the creative staff behind the show and the substance of most of the narrative thusfar, I'm willing to believe it goes somewhere good.    … Expand
  24. wrkingrndma
    Aug 18, 2014
    10
    The books were amazing and for the Starz Family to produce and air the series is fantastic, They have done an amazing job of bringing it to life for me, I love it!
  25. N2books
    Aug 20, 2014
    10
    I have loved the adaptation of Outlander so far. The scripts, sets and casts are meticulous in following a much loved story. Some things must be tweaked to translate to screen but overall the spirit of the story is faithful to the book. Well done!
  26. LauraCarmichael
    Aug 23, 2014
    10
    Outlander is a riveting ride, a stunning production - this is intelligent drama, with high-stakes choices for the central characters. Historical, political, social dilemmas, with family and personal relationships at stake. My husband and I are loving this! Best thing on the screen today, by a wide margin.
  27. Mayratd
    Sep 17, 2014
    10
    I absolutely love this outlander show. I' m only sad that only 2 more episodes are left. I never eat the books outlander is based on but now that I love this show I am earring the first book. Just a note. This us the only show I am watching on tv of paid channels. Everything else is too violent.
  28. 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.
  29. Gio86
    Aug 11, 2014
    10
    Epic new show! Think Game of Thrones with a bit of Downton Abby and a hint of Alice in Wonderland. One of the best new pilots of the year. The story is captivating from minute one and only gets better by the end.
  30. nilsy
    May 1, 2015
    3
    To much romance focus to do it for me.
    Big fan of time travel escapism but this just couldnt hold my attention from the get go. Tried my best to give it a couple of episodes to get going but it was painful to say the lest.
    Didnt have a problem with any of the actors they are "ok" to me not brilliant but not bad enough i mind. The visuals are good, the music is bad, clothes and setting    To much romance focus to do it for me.
    Big fan of time travel escapism but this just couldnt hold my attention from the get go. Tried my best to give it a couple of episodes to get going but it was painful to say the lest.

    Didnt have a problem with any of the actors they are "ok" to me not brilliant but not bad enough i mind.
    The visuals are good, the music is bad, clothes and setting are good.
    Its the story that sinks the ship to me    … Expand
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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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