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. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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
  4. 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!
  5. 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
  6. DanniBoi
    Aug 9, 2014
    10
    Greetings: (I AM STOKED)

    This show is and have an incredible, outstanding and well made over the top screen play of a high production value. You can see that from the get go, but it does not stop there, the main actors along side the extras (the ones that have more than words in some scenes) are doing a great job of perpetrating a good acting, making the whole experience more immerse.    Greetings: (I AM STOKED)

    This show is and have an incredible, outstanding and well made over the top screen play of a high production value. You can see that from the get go, but it does not stop there, the main actors along side the extras (the ones that have more than words in some scenes) are doing a great job of perpetrating a good acting, making the whole experience more immerse.

    The exquisite and intriguing drama that is being unwrap and being developed along the way for the up coming episodes, are just the pure taste of a great entertaining story telling show that is already beginning with an awesome and well made pilot start.

    P.s. I was asking my self the whole time "I am watching a show or a movie? "    … Expand
  7. scartwright49
    Sep 8, 2014
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. As one of the few men who have read the book or will admit to. Its really good the scenery is beautiful the casting is spot on. While it is a little slow towards the beginning I trust that the show will pick up the pace like the book does after the (spoiler Marriage of Claire and Jamie) Having read the book I know it is about to get very good very quickly but I will then have to wait until 2015.
    Still it is the best show STARZ has done since Boss and Party Down.

    There a couple of very interesting scenes coming up which will be very interesting to see how they do it. The pace is slow but maybe necessary in order build the world of Outlander.
    I presume the many female fans were attracted to the books and now the show because of Jamie. For me one of the reasons I like watching the show is Claire played by the very attractive Caitriona Balfe. People were worried that only women would tune in but women have been watching male shows for years and men enjoy watching female lead shows. One of my favourite tv shows is Orange is the New Black and almost entirely female cast.
    Very good show those put off by the slow pace I urge to stick with it just a little longer it will pay off I promise.    … Expand
  8. 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
  9. 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!
  10. 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
  11. 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!
  12. 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.
  13. 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.
  14. wifflepoof
    Sep 7, 2014
    10
    I have read, reread & fell in love with DG's series of books many years ago & I'd always hoped for a screen version one day. But - as so often happens for me - at first - it's hard to wrap my head around the casting choices - until - if I'm lucky - the actors win me over - and they have!!

    Outlander is really,really great! So far I love it all - the cast, the set & art dec,    I have read, reread & fell in love with DG's series of books many years ago & I'd always hoped for a screen version one day. But - as so often happens for me - at first - it's hard to wrap my head around the casting choices - until - if I'm lucky - the actors win me over - and they have!!

    Outlander is really,really great!

    So far I love it all - the cast, the set & art dec, historical accuracy, costume design, direction, the pace and most of all we can really feel the chemistry building between Claire & Jamie so I expect the screen to get a little steamy this fall!

    The only curiosity I have is how/why/when the change of Claire's costume - post henge took place? I guess I missed the part when Jack removed her belt, skirt and blouse leaving her in nothing but her 'slip'/'shift'? I'm a continuity and period costume design buff.

    She came through the henge with her 40's ensemble but I didn't notice the belt and change of neck line until she stood up following a roll through the leaves down a hill. If anyone can clarify this for me I'd be most appreciative otherwise I will just wait for a repeat as I expect the entire series with be worth watching a second or third time!!

    I'm just so happy to have a TV series that appeals to my demographic. The CSI types and Vampire shows that are so popular right now are completely lost on me so I am really grateful to have something to watch this season.    … Expand
  15. 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.
  16. 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.
  17. 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.
  18. 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
  19. 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
  20. 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.
  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. 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
  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. 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
  25. 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.
  26. 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
  27. 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.
  28. 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
  29. 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.
  30. 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.
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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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