Penny Dreadful

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Season 1
Season #: 3, 2, 1
User Score
8.3

Universal acclaim- based on 442 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 378 out of 442
  2. Mixed: 39 out of 442
  3. Negative: 25 out of 442
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  1. TheQuietGamer
    May 27, 2014
    8
    One of the most unique new shows on television. With it's excellent cast and compelling universe, there's an incredibly high level of quality on display here. That being said the show does have it's slow moments and unfortunately has yet to scare me in any way despite the creepy tone it has established, which is a pretty big flaw for a horror series like this one to have. Still I amOne of the most unique new shows on television. With it's excellent cast and compelling universe, there's an incredibly high level of quality on display here. That being said the show does have it's slow moments and unfortunately has yet to scare me in any way despite the creepy tone it has established, which is a pretty big flaw for a horror series like this one to have. Still I am invested in it. After three episodes it does sometimes look like it's teetering on the edge of being something serious or something goofy thanks to some of it's characters (the inclusion of Frankenstein worried me for a bit) and some plot elements (the devil and demon plot could go either way), but as of right now it looks like a lot of concerns are unwarranted. This is a show that is often dark, disturbing, and even disgusting at times, but it is always deep and compelling. So yeah, as of right now I say this is a show worth watching. If my opinion changes as the series progresses than I'll update my review. As of right now consider this my final review.… Expand
  2. AthanasiosT
    May 20, 2014
    10
    Top horror show with great acting, effects and plot. I think it's slightly better than American Horror Story, because of the excellent twisting and mixing of various horror stories and archetypes.
  3. Windolicker
    Jun 15, 2014
    10
    Fantastically dark and sophisticated. It moves at an intellectual speed that says, "If you can't keep up, get lost." Very rarely do I find a show or film that is as macabre as this...and it is so very satisfying.
  4. jennt23
    Jul 6, 2014
    10
    At first, I was pretty skeptical about this show. I admit, the first episode is that typical type of first episode in which the plot is laid out, all the characters are introduced, and everything is so very formulaic. Things are explained and there are several 'What the **** do you people do?' statements peppered in generously in accordance with the genre. I have yet to watch aAt first, I was pretty skeptical about this show. I admit, the first episode is that typical type of first episode in which the plot is laid out, all the characters are introduced, and everything is so very formulaic. Things are explained and there are several 'What the **** do you people do?' statements peppered in generously in accordance with the genre. I have yet to watch a supernaturaly themed show without some variation of those words in the script. I have to say, I'm very glad I watched the second episode because that's where it really gets going. The characters are well-defined and interesting. The references to literature aren't wasted on those with even the lightest knowledge of Victorian fiction. The costumes match the show perfectly and firmly underscore each character. It's not a visually stunning sort of series and the visuals can be a bit dreary in accordance with the subject matter. The show prefers to gain your interest on a more auditory and emotional level. The poetry throughout is breathtaking in true Victorian fashion. The show delivers haunting monologues on life, death, and the isolation suffered by those who are different through the lenses of characters who couldn't be played more convincingly by any of the actors involved. The storytelling is sometimes eclipsed by the amount of time given to character development, but it's not a big issue. It makes some things quietly apparent and leaves you to draw your own conclusions about others. The show is as deeply emotional as the floweriest of poetry, gory like the best Gothic horror story, and full of steamy scenes and emotional payoff like the best romances. It's not for everyone, but I'd recommend it to fans of the supernatural genre, fans of Victorian literature, and fans of classic monster tales like Frankenstein's monster and Dracula. It's also good if you just like hearing lovely accents. There are plenty of those to go around with a mostly British cast and the lovely Josh Hartnett doing his best Southern drawl.… Expand
  5. abdutt
    Jul 24, 2014
    10
    I always had a thing for Gothic , Horror, Suspense which was a miss from many TV shows that i have seen lately but then comes Penny Dreadful with an eerie of horror and spectacular character building.Eva Green is Gorgeous and bring that extra something to the plot .The music sets the tone whenever required.
    I would rate this show a 10. I hope they keep the same flow with the second season.
  6. Nathonas
    Jun 26, 2014
    9
    Great show. Excellent setting with really good atmosphere. I like the use of supernatural stories all thrown together - Frankenstein, vampires, Dorian Gray, Egyptian mythology, etc. The characters are all really interesting and defy stereotypes - even the character of Ethan Chandler who at first appears to be a simple hired-gun, smooth-talking badass but becomes a lot more. The dialogue isGreat show. Excellent setting with really good atmosphere. I like the use of supernatural stories all thrown together - Frankenstein, vampires, Dorian Gray, Egyptian mythology, etc. The characters are all really interesting and defy stereotypes - even the character of Ethan Chandler who at first appears to be a simple hired-gun, smooth-talking badass but becomes a lot more. The dialogue is also excellent, although maybe at times a bit lengthy. The references to poetry and history show a lot of research to make the show really rooted in its time period.

    But above all I like the plot. You never know exactly what is going to happen. This show defies typical storytelling of the horror/supernatural genre.    … Expand
  7. SlyckNickChick
    Sep 6, 2014
    10
    Penny Dreadful a Supernatural show based on fictional characters dated from the late 1800's and early 1900's, ranging from the Ripper, Dr. Frankentstein, Van Helsing, Dorian Gray, Vampires (Dracula) and even Possession; Offering an astounding variety of episodes . From what I have seen so far it's absolutely BRILLIANT, there is no other show like it! It's a must watch that's howPenny Dreadful a Supernatural show based on fictional characters dated from the late 1800's and early 1900's, ranging from the Ripper, Dr. Frankentstein, Van Helsing, Dorian Gray, Vampires (Dracula) and even Possession; Offering an astounding variety of episodes . From what I have seen so far it's absolutely BRILLIANT, there is no other show like it! It's a must watch that's how enjoyable it is. The writing, directing, acting, special effects, everything as a whole is absolutely AMAZING! It has received excellent ratings and mostly positive reviews and has already been renewed for a season 2. If you haven't watched it you're definitely missing out!… Expand
  8. Funinsd
    Jun 10, 2014
    10
    Best gothic horror show of all time. Great performances and just enough special effects to keep it reasonable. Eva Green you make horror sexy and Josh Hartnett your just sexy!
  9. Alexlee
    Jun 2, 2015
    10
    classic novels and legendary masterpieces mashed up into one fully thrilling and astonishing TV show.
    and Eva Green is one big plus for the show. Her acting for the role is as if it's coming deeply from thing inside her. the plot is good. the background musics and SFX placement are good. overall, 'tis a good TV show for fantasy thriller fans or a Victorian London geek.
  10. Rapunzel
    Nov 2, 2014
    10
    I was sure that better television series "American horror story" nothing and never will be, but "Penny Dreadful" surpassed all my expectations and beat American horror story "! Eva Green and Josh Hartnett is awesome! Well done!
  11. SkullBoy92
    Jun 10, 2014
    10
    After watching 2 episodes 10/10 . Climate , actors and scenery are phenomenally .
    If you need something fresh in tv here is it heavy , dark and give some questions you need to answer before yourself.
  12. jazzythechef
    Jul 8, 2014
    4
    i really wanted to like this show, but it seems a real chore to get through. filled with unnecessary scenes that i quickly forget about. some great acting and attractive sets tied together by, well nothing really. another reviewer said the show gets bogged down by it's own greatness, i believe that to be a very apt observation.
  13. minerva1961
    May 21, 2014
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Watched episode two last night with my two late teenage boys - and for the first time ever they put their iphones down and actually watched the screen - yes it was that good, especially when Eva Green did the séance scene, she deserves a Tony, Bafta, Oscar and every other gong going for that scene (although the F in C did help!)… Expand
  14. CelticView
    Oct 9, 2014
    9
    Great acting, fabulously atmospheric, wonderfully weird, and... filmed in my native Dublin. The 2nd series should grow the 1st as Penny Dreadful is as good as anything on display at the moment.
  15. hamchuck
    Jul 20, 2014
    9
    First couple of episodes were tremendous. Fast and shockingly scary moments. Nice, crisp acting and script.. I absolutely love this show and I am looking forward to season 2.
  16. wash86
    Oct 12, 2015
    10
    Não sou dos maiores fãs de filmes e seriados de época, contudo, este seriado em questão me fez repensar sobre o o quanto meu preconceito e ceticismo deturpavam minha análise crítica sobre tal... um seriado bem produzido que traz uma mescla de terror clássico e drama, com uma boa dose de poesia e perfeita atuação do seleto grupo de atores que compõem o elenco tornando o seriado visceral,Não sou dos maiores fãs de filmes e seriados de época, contudo, este seriado em questão me fez repensar sobre o o quanto meu preconceito e ceticismo deturpavam minha análise crítica sobre tal... um seriado bem produzido que traz uma mescla de terror clássico e drama, com uma boa dose de poesia e perfeita atuação do seleto grupo de atores que compõem o elenco tornando o seriado visceral, emocionante e viciante com certeza.… Expand
  17. JLuis_001
    Jan 25, 2018
    7
    I loved the whole concept, the inclusion of the characters like Frankenstein and Dorian Gray.
    Eva Green is excellent, Timothy Dalton and Josh Hartnett doing a good job, maybe the best they have done in years.
    A little is lost in the middle, the narrative becomes too slow for my taste but manages to finish well and with enough intrigue for what is coming.
  18. dripping
    Dec 4, 2017
    10
    One of the most dramatic and tear-shedding series I've ever had the pleasure of seeing! Really high quality stuff here. I actually think the actors are perfectly chosen for their part, the script is awesome and the photography is extremely impressive!
  19. AvantGuardian
    May 18, 2014
    8
    Penny Dreadful's premise/plot is hard to describe, but I will do my best.
    It is sort of like, a darker, "Sanctuary", set in England, in the 19th century.
    The series follows a group of interesting characters with unique traits and dark pasts as they explore the horrific world of the supernatural as it creeps into their regular lives. The show is artistic, dark, well-scripted and acted    Penny Dreadful's premise/plot is hard to describe, but I will do my best.
    It is sort of like, a darker, "Sanctuary", set in England, in the 19th century.
    The series follows a group of interesting characters with unique traits and dark pasts as they explore the horrific world of the supernatural as it creeps into their regular lives.

    The show is artistic, dark, well-scripted and acted and does a fantastic job taking preconceived literary marvels and making them fresh and interesting again, reintroducing us to the classic characters we love to hate or fear.

    So far, my only issue with Penny Dreadful is that it is slightly confusing and a bit cryptic. Additionally, I'm not sure the events of each episode are relayed in the order that would feel the most cohesive. It jumps around between characters and their situations sort of like the typical soap opera, making the show feel slightly like Frankenstein -- stitched together rather than one smooth flowing story.

    As this is a "Showtime" series, there is lots of completely pointless, unnecessary sex that has nothing to do with the plot and lots of prostitutes. I could do without both.    … Expand
  20. jordan_ddrchs
    May 27, 2014
    8
    Beautiful to watch and intelligently written without being haughty. Let's have less Dorian Gray, keep the camp to a minimum (RE: Episode 2, final scene) and pray for a long run. Anyone comparing this to the garbage that is 'Once Upon a Time' needs to take a second look. Similarities exist only in the two's most basic premise. That is; 'modern' examination of public domain, literaryBeautiful to watch and intelligently written without being haughty. Let's have less Dorian Gray, keep the camp to a minimum (RE: Episode 2, final scene) and pray for a long run. Anyone comparing this to the garbage that is 'Once Upon a Time' needs to take a second look. Similarities exist only in the two's most basic premise. That is; 'modern' examination of public domain, literary characters. Rest assured, Penny Dreadful does not pander to the masses or beg for a prime-time spot next to Desperate Housewives. It has no f***s to give about keeping your children up at night.… Expand
  21. Spaff
    May 12, 2014
    10
    I watched both episodes and if you like sex, violence, horror and a nice period series atmosphere you will like this show. I liked all the main characters and it will be fun to watch the various monsters and villains integrate in future episodes. As for the critics, most have it right; yet a few of them want to kill a promising series before it gets up and running. This is a fun TV series,I watched both episodes and if you like sex, violence, horror and a nice period series atmosphere you will like this show. I liked all the main characters and it will be fun to watch the various monsters and villains integrate in future episodes. As for the critics, most have it right; yet a few of them want to kill a promising series before it gets up and running. This is a fun TV series, the real horror show is going on in Washington, so if you want to vent negativity you should have more than ample material there if you, or you employer have the guts to cover it.… Expand
  22. Dobian
    May 30, 2014
    5
    So far this show has been all style and no substance. It's like a monsters greatest hits with Frankenstein, Dracula, Jack the Ripper, and Dorian Gray all getting tossed into the pot. There's no compelling story so far, no real reason to root for any of the characters, who are very flat and wooden. For a horror show it's not very scary, it's actually kind of dull. The recently cancelledSo far this show has been all style and no substance. It's like a monsters greatest hits with Frankenstein, Dracula, Jack the Ripper, and Dorian Gray all getting tossed into the pot. There's no compelling story so far, no real reason to root for any of the characters, who are very flat and wooden. For a horror show it's not very scary, it's actually kind of dull. The recently cancelled Dracula on NBC had its issues, but it had some great character development, an interesting plot, and it was way more entertaining than this. I do like Billie Piper, I remember her from Secret Diaries of a Call Girl and she brings life to the show in her scenes. I'll keep watching for now, but they need to develop some decent story arcs.… Expand
  23. BogKid
    Jul 1, 2014
    9
    Initially, I thought "Penny Dreadful" was a bit ridiculous in its combining of literary characters from the Victorian era. As the initial season developed, this became one of my favorite shows. The writing is a little lurid, but really quite good. The level of acting was, I think, excellent. The slow, but deliberate, development of the plot served the show very well and served to keepInitially, I thought "Penny Dreadful" was a bit ridiculous in its combining of literary characters from the Victorian era. As the initial season developed, this became one of my favorite shows. The writing is a little lurid, but really quite good. The level of acting was, I think, excellent. The slow, but deliberate, development of the plot served the show very well and served to keep me fascinated through the very end. That's my current problem. I just watched the last show of season one and I miss "Penny Dreadful" already.… Expand
  24. Nightling13
    May 19, 2014
    10
    The cynic in me is dead. Long live Penny Dreadful! I do not want to sound like I am giving you a lot of hyperbole but it's difficult not to. I have not liked a show this much since I first discovered Dark Shadows when I was thirteen-years-old.

    Penny Dreadful begins with a slow burn pace but by the end of episode 2 everything had kicked into gear. I cannot put into words how well this    The cynic in me is dead. Long live Penny Dreadful! I do not want to sound like I am giving you a lot of hyperbole but it's difficult not to. I have not liked a show this much since I first discovered Dark Shadows when I was thirteen-years-old.

    Penny Dreadful begins with a slow burn pace but by the end of episode 2 everything had kicked into gear. I cannot put into words how well this show has taken my breath away. I would like to fully apologize for the doubts I had toward it upon seeing the early preview clips. I was utterly wrong. Nothing is what it seems and this show is the best Gothic Horror TV series I have seen in years.

    After dealing with the mediocre and pandering likes of Bitten and NBC's Dracula I had all but given up hope on my favorite genre of fiction but Penny Dreadful salvaged my faith in creativity.

    Penny dreadful is named for the 19th century slang term for a cheap pulp novel or serial such as Varney The Vampire or other Gothic classics that were originally often published in installments. Most of these works of literature dealt with terrifying and morbid premises and so were "dreadful" and obviously only cost a penny.

    The TV series Penny Dreadful pits the likes of Victor Frankenstein, his creation, the immortal Dorian Gray (from the novel The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde) and the characters of Dracula all in the same late nineteenth century setting.

    The show has managed to surprise me already within it's first two episodes and it keeps me guessing.

    The show is well acted with impressive and realistic production values. It also bears detailed and clever writing. Subtle nods to other works of classic literature are scattered through out in delightful Easter Egg quotes and references. Also so far I have not caught a single glimpse of computer generated monster effects. No. Everything I have seen thus far has been done with skillful and realistic practical effects so that everything feels real and tactile. There is no cheap, cartoonish or watery CG to draw me out of the story.

    I cannot put into words how much I love this show and hope that the third episode continues to impress me as the first two have.    … Expand
  25. Lisa24
    May 13, 2014
    8
    I think it is perfect - perfect cast, rich settings, smart and mysterious storytelling. It is what I was hoping American Horror Story would have been. I was hooked immediately and cannot wait to watch the next episode!
  26. hermanysobral
    May 11, 2014
    10
    Penny Dreadful é sem dúvidas para mim a estreia do ano, com um episódio piloto excelente com uma boa história, fotografia, atuação e atratividade excelentes com um toque bem cinematográfico,vem com certeza assumir-se como uma verdadeira série de terror, caracterizada pelos sustos e ótimos efeitos além de claro destacar e rebuscar todos os monstros tão conhecidos por nós de LondresPenny Dreadful é sem dúvidas para mim a estreia do ano, com um episódio piloto excelente com uma boa história, fotografia, atuação e atratividade excelentes com um toque bem cinematográfico,vem com certeza assumir-se como uma verdadeira série de terror, caracterizada pelos sustos e ótimos efeitos além de claro destacar e rebuscar todos os monstros tão conhecidos por nós de Londres Vitoriana, era o que eu estava buscando em uma série de terror, espero que continue sempre assim!!!!Nota 10… Expand
  27. funkeedeeva
    Aug 27, 2014
    10
    This is an awesome series. It combines all the dark characters I grew up with. Timothy Dalton adds regality to the show. I simply cannot wait for the 2nd season. 3 thumbs up!
  28. Ixoziel
    Jun 4, 2014
    5
    I really wanted to like this show. The theme and style are fantastic, I love the vibe and atmosphere that the show gives off. However, the direction of the show leaves a lot to be desired. A lot of things simply don't make sense. For example, I went for three episodes without realizing that the lead female character (Vanessa Ives) actually wasn't named Penny Dreadful (it's theI really wanted to like this show. The theme and style are fantastic, I love the vibe and atmosphere that the show gives off. However, the direction of the show leaves a lot to be desired. A lot of things simply don't make sense. For example, I went for three episodes without realizing that the lead female character (Vanessa Ives) actually wasn't named Penny Dreadful (it's the stereotypical name of a horror tabloid).

    There are a lot of scenes that just don't make a lot of sense. There's multiple scenes that jump to Ives praying, where we see spiders coming out of the walls (likely a hallucination). The fact that Ives and Malcolm trust random strangers off the streets to protect them seems a little dubious, as well. I don't mind suspending disbelief for fantasy elements, but suspending disbelief for how some of these characters behave is just a little too much for me.

    It seems like the show is trying to focus on too many different characters at once. The parts with Dr. Frankenstein are brilliant. The actors that play his creations are great as well. However, when it starts dealing with Dorian Grey, the show kind of loses its voice. He doesn't really seem to belong in the type of sci-fi dealings that are going on.

    The show can't really figure out whether it wants to be a drama, a horror show, a sci-fi show (Frankenstein and his science), or a soft porn flick (Dorian). True Blood worked because it never took itself too seriously, but I"m not sure where this series will go.    … Expand
  29. HighPriestesa
    May 17, 2014
    9
    I love it, I love it, I love it! Great characters, deep. It's easy to connect. And all the blood, and the flesh, and the blood and the flesh was awesome! They've already killed my favorite character, though :/ :(
    But this could be something realy special!
  30. igorviegas
    Aug 13, 2014
    10
    I watched all the episodes and I have to say that 'Penny Dreadful' had my attention from the first minute untill the last one. The atmosphere is absolutely amazing. Eva Green has done a perfect role. A Masterpiece!
  31. 31Style
    Jul 10, 2014
    8
    For some reason i like this tv show, i can't say there is something extra special about it but still it has some kind of magic that mix together few different plots and story's in something that revolves all the time. It's like an ice cream with pieces of chocolate, nut and something else and you try to figure what that is, well that is my opinion about Penny Dreadful. But let's continue,For some reason i like this tv show, i can't say there is something extra special about it but still it has some kind of magic that mix together few different plots and story's in something that revolves all the time. It's like an ice cream with pieces of chocolate, nut and something else and you try to figure what that is, well that is my opinion about Penny Dreadful. But let's continue, written by John Logan and directed by James Hawes, you might know John from his other works like Gladiator, The Time Machine, The Last Samurai, Rango, Skyfall…Serie involves some of well known icons that all have there story's and we all watched them, but now they all come together and show us their life that is sometime dark and sometime gray but never bright.

    Plot:

    Story take place in Victorian Britain, in time of Jack the Ripper's murder spree and fast growing industry. Sir Malcom(Timothy Dalton), hardened African explorer is on personal quest to right the wrongs of his past and in his journey he try's to pick special people that will help him. At the beginning of season one at his side is Vanessa Ives played by Eva Green, she is expert medium blessed with supernatural gifts. But her „gifts“ are also heavy burden that threaten to destroy her sanity and life. As episodes progress, they gather more special people around them and first to join was Ethan Chandler(Josh Hartnett) a gunman, on first sight charming and loved by girls but with time his dark side is getting more and more visible, he is running from something from his past and in last episode we discover he is actually warewolf. In most „group“ you need doctor and yup, they got him Dr. Victor Frankenstein(Harry Treadaway), and yes it's same one who created The Beast and in this plot also he is being hunted by creations or better to say creatures that he made with his own hands. Ok, he is not a bad guy, more like mad scientist that want to push limits of science and medicine.

    Now there are some other characters involved but for now not so close to this setup, in this journey trough story we meet also Dorian Gray (Reeve Carney). He is mystery that is fascinated by other mystery's and somehow attracted to Vanessa and yes, if you ask there is love triangle…but i will let you check show, some spoilers need to be skipped here :D. I almost forgot one really hidden character and it is Van Helsing, he is also mixed in story. Penny Dreadful is not a horror or mystery its more like a psychological thriller with elements of horror, mystery, science, action.
    My thought's:

    From watching scenes there is one thing i noticed, all characters are trying to get most of situations they are in, with there acting they put much effort on facial expressions and reading thoughts/emotions from face and body language. I have feeling that each character interaction give me small key of information, usually not noticeable in some TV shows, and with time it shows more and more bigger image and explanation for plot.

    On global scale you could say they are league of extraordinary gentlemen, sound familiar? They meet lot of different beings some of them are demons, vampires, ghosts or just strange freaky people. Penny Dreadful got high scores with critics i also give it a good score and on scale 1-10 it would be 8 because sometime i get feeling plot has no straight way and it's more like dispersed.    … Expand
  32. Bgrod
    Jun 1, 2015
    4
    It looks awesome and the acting is top notch but there is something severely lacking in Penny Dreadful such as a coherent story or characters which compel me to care about them or stay interested. Sadly, I don't find it the least bit scary or spooky, either. The beautifully spoken Shakespearean-like dialogue does makes Penny at least a little less dreadful of a series to endure.
  33. HannibalB
    Oct 24, 2018
    2
    This show is a heartbreaker. It looks good but the writing is so bad that it's impossible to like. The casting is generally bad too, especially that of Frankenstein's monster. I like the actor, but he's no monstrous. Nothing in this show really works at all. The characters all behave illogically, constantly do stupid things that don't fit with their character as established.
  34. Jraptor59
    Jun 16, 2014
    6
    This series is difficult to watch. It has a great title, but is so pretentious that it becomes bogged down in it's own "greatness". The lead female actor is terrible, overacting to the point that she become laughable. The colors are all dark browns, blacks, and reds, almost rendering it black and white. It has the now inescapable gay romance/straight romance that detracts and distractsThis series is difficult to watch. It has a great title, but is so pretentious that it becomes bogged down in it's own "greatness". The lead female actor is terrible, overacting to the point that she become laughable. The colors are all dark browns, blacks, and reds, almost rendering it black and white. It has the now inescapable gay romance/straight romance that detracts and distracts from the story. I was excited when I heard about this series, esp. with the actors and fantasy characters, I thought it couldn't miss being a hit.; they showed me the error in my thinking.… Expand
  35. steddye
    Jul 20, 2014
    4
    I would have liked to watch this show but the scenes are too dark, an effort to my eyes.
    My tv is well calibrated but this series is really really dark; disappointed.
  36. TokyoParisLondo
    Apr 2, 2015
    6
    I truly wanted to love this show, and although it starts off as hugely compelling, it quickly gets sickly and irritating. The absolutely non existent lighting is a huge bone of contention. It's like the producers are so keen to point out "hey this is a DARK and EDGY show about SHADOWY things" that they just go completely over the top.

    That's probably true of many aspects - things which    I truly wanted to love this show, and although it starts off as hugely compelling, it quickly gets sickly and irritating. The absolutely non existent lighting is a huge bone of contention. It's like the producers are so keen to point out "hey this is a DARK and EDGY show about SHADOWY things" that they just go completely over the top.

    That's probably true of many aspects - things which start off as really appealing, quickly become a constant source of irritation. Why can't Eva Green clear her throat and speak without that gravelly, hoarse voice for once? (She's meant to be seductive. WE GET IT). Why can't the writers actually get around to advancing the plot rather than shoving more and more characters into the mix?

    Dorian Gray's character is so over the top that I spend all his screen time wanting to punch him in the face for being such a simpering ****

    There are a few saving graces. The costumes are exquisite. Billie Piper seems to be the only character with any comic wit, and she plays it well. Her accent is not the worst I have ever heard. Frankenstein's monster is wonderful. Truly wonderful. In fact, the Frankenstein side story is the most well done - even though everyone knows the final traditional outcome, I suspect many hope the story will deviate from the original, and he will FINALLY get his bride (note: the book has been out for nearly 200 years. This is NOT a spoiler!)

    In summary I'd say it's a show with more atmosphere than any real substance, but you'll probably watch the whole thing just to check whether the writers ever bothered getting back to the plot at all. Or, you know, get the plot to make any sense.    … Expand
  37. naveentalari
    Aug 6, 2016
    0
    Hi guys dis is naveen.In penny dreadful s01e05 there has been a racist dialouge by peter refering indians to 'filthy wogs' even though the series is about 1800's it is being directed and produced in 20th century and they are using these kind of racist dialouges this is not cool.British people they might have ruled India and they thieved so much from India but thats in the past.We IndiansHi guys dis is naveen.In penny dreadful s01e05 there has been a racist dialouge by peter refering indians to 'filthy wogs' even though the series is about 1800's it is being directed and produced in 20th century and they are using these kind of racist dialouges this is not cool.British people they might have ruled India and they thieved so much from India but thats in the past.We Indians are very humble people and respectful to others but we will not tolerate these kind of statements and dialouges.… Expand
  38. Gherkin
    Jun 13, 2014
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The first episode was quite interesting until the final line: "My name is Victor Frankenstein." After that, it went downhill. There was a stomach-churning scene when Dorian Gray made love to a consumptive prostitute. How sick is that? The off switch came as a welcome relief.… Expand
  39. Smee
    May 16, 2014
    0
    Extremely boring and not thrilling or terrifying .Show is not scary enough maybe kids get scared ,They could have hire decent writer and an editor with the money they have spent on Art direction.TV fans don't need this sort of show because there's too many successfull horror shows.
  40. Pdfortune
    Jun 29, 2014
    5
    The lead lady is truly dreadful I wish she would die on the show but I doubt it. It is often a slow show without much of a payoff. It is a little too random with its story. The ads make the show look exciting, but it isn't very exciting.
  41. manofthemoon
    Mar 10, 2015
    5
    A mess with only the writer to blame, "Penny Dreadful" throws everything already seen in Victorian horror stories into the mix in the hope that we'll buy old cliches warmed up as new ideas for your attention. High style fails to paper over the cracks of a weak series undeserving of a second season. The real pity is that Eva Green and Timothy Dalton, amongst others, are excellent. One ofA mess with only the writer to blame, "Penny Dreadful" throws everything already seen in Victorian horror stories into the mix in the hope that we'll buy old cliches warmed up as new ideas for your attention. High style fails to paper over the cracks of a weak series undeserving of a second season. The real pity is that Eva Green and Timothy Dalton, amongst others, are excellent. One of the biggest disappointments on TV.… Expand
  42. deathweeper
    Jan 10, 2015
    1
    Penny Dreadful is a chick flick down to its bone. It provides mysteries, and horrors than are specifically catered towards women but this is harder for most people to realize since it is classified as a horror and not a romantic comedy. Overall the show is boring, yes their are some monsters but you only see them for a few seconds and the rest of the season is about the charactersPenny Dreadful is a chick flick down to its bone. It provides mysteries, and horrors than are specifically catered towards women but this is harder for most people to realize since it is classified as a horror and not a romantic comedy. Overall the show is boring, yes their are some monsters but you only see them for a few seconds and the rest of the season is about the characters fighiting against imaginary personal problems like how they're bored, or crazy or hallucinating. Their are no good guys in this show, instead everyone is just a grey mess. This is one of those shows where you would be very happy if the main characters died.… Expand
  43. TLohan
    Jul 1, 2014
    4
    The season starts off very well but deteriorates quite quickly. Production values are consistently very good but style overcomes substance as the plot gets mired in attempting to tick as many Victorian-horror-cliché boxes as possible.
  44. Soulshocker
    Jun 15, 2015
    6
    I love the show, especially as the story centres around Vanessa Yves and the characters in her orbit. This season is already better than the last. Eva Green and Josh Hartnett are really great in the show. But I must say that the Dr. Frankenstein story arc is not working, especially when 'the creature - john clare' part. I just cannot care about this character, he is neither likeable,I love the show, especially as the story centres around Vanessa Yves and the characters in her orbit. This season is already better than the last. Eva Green and Josh Hartnett are really great in the show. But I must say that the Dr. Frankenstein story arc is not working, especially when 'the creature - john clare' part. I just cannot care about this character, he is neither likeable, interesting nor a threat, but the show insists on pitting him against Frankenstein. I skip any scene concerning Dr. Frankenstein and him. Brona Croft was an interesting character that added to the story, but now that she has been sucked into the Frankenstein-Creature story I don't care about her anymore.… Expand
  45. Susannah
    Feb 1, 2016
    2
    Dreadful is the operative word here. The series is replete with so much graphic, unnecessary sex scenes and gratuitous violence and gore, and animal cruelty, that the content and storyline is overpowered. It could have otherwise been an engrossing thriller. It is really a shame. Also, the directing could have matched noirish mood better.
  46. Pooba
    Jun 13, 2016
    1
    Others have pointed it out, The show has lost all pretense as horror or drama. Is now a SJW primer for women's studies wannabees. Unless you're into pegging or femdom stuff give this crap a miss. Too bad, first season had some promise, that good will has been squandered.
  47. Morituri
    Jul 7, 2016
    9
    Dreadfull way to end a tv series, kill its hero so no more episodes can be made. Sod the loyal fans who watched this for three years. No sense in its ending at all. They could have end it more cleverly and let all creatures go about their business leaving it open to another season or not. This writers and executives obviously do not care about selling their box sets as I am sure theDreadfull way to end a tv series, kill its hero so no more episodes can be made. Sod the loyal fans who watched this for three years. No sense in its ending at all. They could have end it more cleverly and let all creatures go about their business leaving it open to another season or not. This writers and executives obviously do not care about selling their box sets as I am sure the dreadful ending will damage sales considerably. Lazy writing is behind this poor decision. Not as bad as the wonderful series called Carnival which last two season and it had reached its obvious conclusion after season two only for the last episode to create a new twist to carry it onto season three and then end it anyway. Sometimes those writers make stuff as they go along without a clear narrative ark, like the great Game of Thrones, which luckily is based on a series of novels. Goodbye Miss Ives, I shall miss you.… Expand
  48. Qishere
    Jul 5, 2015
    10
    This show is a masterpiece of horror. It is one of the best, if not the best, horror series to grace our Summer television circuit. Very, very rarely do you find the excellence in production values that regale you with this show's literate script writing and brilliant acting. Each of the "monster" characters are so balanced with loving heart and tragic horror that you will always be on theThis show is a masterpiece of horror. It is one of the best, if not the best, horror series to grace our Summer television circuit. Very, very rarely do you find the excellence in production values that regale you with this show's literate script writing and brilliant acting. Each of the "monster" characters are so balanced with loving heart and tragic horror that you will always be on the edge of fascination and repulsion for what happens next. The sets which are really an other character that creates this vivid Victorian world, will take your breath away. Not once, was I able to predict how any one character would react/survive the twisted trauma all are subjected to----and I happily enjoyed every moment of this brilliant manipulation of my emotions!! I don't remember when a Summer Series was able to attract the kind of talent of the amazing Broadway actress, Patti Lupone, and cast her as a loathsome witch who you grow to love and respect as she interacts with Vanessa (Eva Green) for only one episode. Trust me, it is a short, but unforgettable experience. This show is an emotional roller coaster you should take… Expand
  49. Ravens1294
    Aug 23, 2014
    9
    I really love this show. It was a huge surprise for me because I don't care for these kind of shows. The show is very interesting and the plot moves rather slow, but it's perfect that way. The acting is exceptional by all the actors especially Eva Green. The characters are complex and very compelling. Each character is shrouded in mystery and that really bodes well for this show. The storyI really love this show. It was a huge surprise for me because I don't care for these kind of shows. The show is very interesting and the plot moves rather slow, but it's perfect that way. The acting is exceptional by all the actors especially Eva Green. The characters are complex and very compelling. Each character is shrouded in mystery and that really bodes well for this show. The story lines are very well laid out. The best part about this show are the characters. I loved almost all of the characters throughout the season. The best scenes are with Eva Green because her character is possessed and she knocks it out of the park. The action could have been improved, but the possession sequences are great. Also, I love the opening credits to the show. Great music and scenes. Overall, the show was really good and a pleasant surprise.… Expand
  50. GreenGoblin215
    Feb 4, 2016
    10
    Enticing, Satiable and Intriguing are the first words that come into my mind after watching the first season of this show. I absolutely love this show. I mean I generally enjoy anything horror with a Victorian setting but this just blew it out of the water. I will start with the story which takes place in 1890's London and delves into a story about a man trying to find his daughter alongEnticing, Satiable and Intriguing are the first words that come into my mind after watching the first season of this show. I absolutely love this show. I mean I generally enjoy anything horror with a Victorian setting but this just blew it out of the water. I will start with the story which takes place in 1890's London and delves into a story about a man trying to find his daughter along with numerous other side plots which all are very fascinating. I will move onto the acting which in my opinion is what this show is all about. I mean I have never seen a show that has had so many relatable characters as this show. I honestly couldn't pick a favorite. I mean you have Eva Green, Josh Hartnett, Reeve Carney, Harry Treadaway, Rory Kinnear, Danny Sapani and Timothy Dalton who is a Beast. I couldn't have picked better actors and actresses who evoke so much emotion in the scenes that it creates such a palpable atmosphere. The action is Superbly crafted being as it was created by John Logan who is the writer known for the recent 007 movies as well as Gladiator and The Last Samurai. The executive producer is Sam Mendes who is the director of the past two 007 films as well as Jarhead. The action is on point with very gruesome and in your face fight scenes that are very visceral and extremely chaotic. I will now move onto the cinematography and the location which was shot expertly and they filmed in both London and Ireland which I was happy to see because the aesthetic is certainly there without a doubt. I will close by saying this is a Phenomenal show which I pray continues for many seasons to come and the third season is coming out in May,2016. I plan on watching the second season tomorrow so I will post my review for that as soon as I finish it. Penny Dreadful isn't a show that you want to miss and if you love dark and Victorian London settings with many famous characters then you will certainly be in for an entertaining ride.… Expand
  51. ozennymous
    May 27, 2015
    10
    Excepcional! La ambientación, la fotografía, el ritmo. Realmente impecables. Las interpretaciones son, sin excepción, perfectas y, en algunos casos, impresionantes. Eva Green y Rory Kinnear, quizás por el "peso" de sus papeles son realmente extraordinarios.
  52. Elkyko
    Jul 5, 2015
    10
    All this came with a surprise.

    I was hoping for a horror show but it came to me really fast that it wasn't. My disappointment was overthrown by splendid acting skills of the parts of Eva Green, Josh Hartnett, Billie Pipper and the rest of the crew. The Horror part is majorly about the atmosphere. But rest assured, the plot is good, acting skill splendid and a lot of vintage creatures    All this came with a surprise.

    I was hoping for a horror show but it came to me really fast that it wasn't. My disappointment was overthrown by splendid acting skills of the parts of Eva Green, Josh Hartnett, Billie Pipper and the rest of the crew. The Horror part is majorly about the atmosphere. But rest assured, the plot is good, acting skill splendid and a lot of vintage creatures unleashed.

    It is not one of those flashy series that we are used to and this is what it make it so special. People will complain about the lightning of the scenes, but you will remark that it is its particular flavor.There are many characters and a lot of sides of them. We see some of them most in the first season but discover more in the second. They all have a major impact in the story even if we see little of them in some episodes.

    By my opinion this is a must see serie.    … Expand
  53. CaraDavies
    Sep 6, 2015
    10
    John Logan’s criminally underrated series Penny Dreadful, pulls characters from gothic Victorian Fiction and creates a Justice League of literary heroes on a mission against Dracula and the devil himself. What could have been a cringe inducing bastardisation of canonical greats manages to pay homage to its influences, whilst creating a new and thrilling afterlife for them.

    The series    John Logan’s criminally underrated series Penny Dreadful, pulls characters from gothic Victorian Fiction and creates a Justice League of literary heroes on a mission against Dracula and the devil himself. What could have been a cringe inducing bastardisation of canonical greats manages to pay homage to its influences, whilst creating a new and thrilling afterlife for them.

    The series follows the adventures of Sir Malcom Murray (Timothy Dalton) and Vanessa Ives (Eva Green), as they attempt to rescue their respective daughter and friend, Mina, from the clutches of evil. Eva Green’s performance as the troubled and seductive psychic Vanessa Ives is enthralling, nuanced and one of the show’s greatest assets- it’s difficult to imagine anyone else being so committed to the role. While, Timothy Dalton brings a sense of gravitas to his morally ambiguous character and Josh Hartnett is surprisingly well cast as the sharpshooting, quick talking Ethan Chandler.

    Logan’s writing especially shines when he is exploring these characters motivations and relationships, which for a Victorian horror series are unusually complicated and sensitive. This especially shows in the careful handling of Brona Croft’s motivations for becoming a prostitute, Billie Piper is fantastic as the enigmatic Brona, though her Irish accent can be strange at times. The only character that falls short is Reeve Carney’s portrayal of Dorian Gray; though his lack of likability and camp brand of debauchery is true to Wilde’s novel, Carney really struggles to match the strong performances of his cast mates.

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    There are plenty of intertextual references throughout the show, for example when Dr Frankenstein proclaims he cannot get PB Shelley’s (husband of Mary Shelley) verse about death out of his head, you cannot help but feel a little nerdish glee. Plus the opportunity to observe old beloved characters in new scenarios, to imagine what happened after the end of the original books, is truly enjoyable and far better executed than previous poor attempts such as Lost in Austen.

    Penny Dreadful is a dark and twisted delight: the mixture of sardonic humour, anti-heroes and gruesome ghouls makes for compelling and entertaining viewing. The first season has mainly focused on establishing the characters and their back stories, though the main story arc has developed nicely and has left audiences with plenty of questions for season two to answer. For horror fans this series will be an absolute diamond in the rough of the usual monotone, pretty vampire shows.    … Expand
  54. asmanraj
    Oct 3, 2015
    10
    Even though season one is only the sixty-sixth best reviewed show of 2014, and I've seen 2014 shows that got better reviews (including season four of Game of Thrones), I found this show to be the most entertaining one of 2014 that I saw. Horror is my favorite genre, and this show has everything you could want in a supernatural horror series. I love the historical context of the show asEven though season one is only the sixty-sixth best reviewed show of 2014, and I've seen 2014 shows that got better reviews (including season four of Game of Thrones), I found this show to be the most entertaining one of 2014 that I saw. Horror is my favorite genre, and this show has everything you could want in a supernatural horror series. I love the historical context of the show as well. Finally, Showtime has a great horror series to fill the void left by the departure of the highly entertaining Masters of Horror. Eva Green's performance is award-worthy. The rest of the cast, especially Rory Kinnear, is excellent as well.… Expand
  55. morgsy23
    Nov 8, 2015
    9
    This show is amazing. Eva Green is a dark goddess as Vanessa Ives, I think this is some of her best work. Especially loved Patti Lupone as the cut-wife. Highlight of the season watching the two of them together on screen.
  56. georgejcoles
    Apr 26, 2016
    10
    An incredibly well directed and produced series. I would highly recommend this to anyone. I've just finished the first episode of season 3 and felt I had to jump straight on here are say I was truly blown away with some of the detail and scale of some of the sets and cinematography. This director has a great future ahead!
  57. nahira
    Jun 13, 2016
    10
    Excellent and riveting series, can't wait to see where the story takes us..A journey into darkness.
    Anxiously awaiting for a season four renewal.....
  58. ViniciusBrito
    Feb 19, 2018
    7
    The show gained me right at the beginning, the visual is insanely good, the way they depict old london is greate, you can feel that place
    in many ways, the atmosphere is foggy and depressive, the color palette has been handpicked wisely, it makes sense with the environment and the hole situation, with the horror and the suspense. The score is another part that you love, it fits with the    The show gained me right at the beginning, the visual is insanely good, the way they depict old london is greate, you can feel that place
    in many ways, the atmosphere is foggy and depressive, the color palette has been handpicked wisely, it makes sense with the environment and the hole situation, with the horror and the suspense. The score is another part that you love, it fits with the scenes. As a tv show it does have some moments for future seasons, that doesn't have a lot of sense in that moment. The main story about the rescue of a person is simple, but the characters are a lot interesting and all of them have secrets, that intrigues you and make you want more about them. The show have a philosophical footprint, shakespeare have a lot of influence in this and is quoted several times.The little amount of action in it isn't very expressive, very simple and nothing memorable in this situation. The acting at most is very good, Eva Green carry the show at most doing a great and convincing job, her character is situated in different positions and some times wiht different personalities, she interprets more than one character in the same body here, the voice, the way that she uses her eyes and the body movement is impressive, the others actors and actresses are also good, some of them are just ok and i couldn't get along with all of them. That was a very good season, that is worth to watch it for sure.    … Expand
  59. poetsofswift
    Jun 26, 2017
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. So sad it got cancelled, I wish they gave us a REAL ending instead of killing off Vanessa Ives. Still, it's my favourite tv show and Eva Green is amazing in this.… Expand
  60. Lukehat
    Jul 1, 2017
    3
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Watchable background TV while I'm doing something else. Not dreadful but didn't draw me in.
    - The main plot is simplistic and is lacking depth. The main plot for the most part feels unrealistic, haphazard and ingenuine. Lot's of avenues are opened and not explained: Who is ripping around town and why is that not concluded? Surely werewolf saga for series 2. 100% of the recruits just happen to have impossibly unique secrets that get told in backstories, which doesn't help to make the story feel genuine. I did enjoy the Frankenstein backstory more than the main plot though.
    - Every one has sex with Dorian Grey...(including Josh Hartnett, despite not being gay) without explanation. This is the type of Tv show for profit filling time crap, that doesn't immalgamate well with the main plot. It feels like many other TV shows where there isn't an original written storyline, but instead different writer(s) make up episodes off the cuff.
    - The heroes seem to be impenatrable to any damage by multiple vampires (including bites). Especially unrealistic in the case of old geezer Sir Malcom, who wields some normally useless in battle silver pokey stick - he did buy a decent gun for the end battle though. Are vampires as weak as cats? Yet the master/Eva Green have such supreme power together that they manage to poltergeist a whole room in to a mess without touching anything.
    - It's a shame the story is inconsistent and weak because the acting was good quality, which is rare in a TV series. English actors were cast for English roles, which seems a rarity in american TV. Billie Pipers accent seems believable, but maybe a native Irish speaker would disagree. I wonder if she will keep her accent as Mrs Frankenstein: not sure that would make sense.
    I liked Harry Treadaway and Josh Hartnett, and Vanessa Ives does an ok job acting a very difficult part.
    - The screen play is quite literary it seems (the word 'ephemeral' is mentioned at least 3 times), and there are numerous quotes and literary links throughout, including the name of the series. All unimportant to me.    … Expand
  61. Kojomon
    Jun 3, 2018
    0
    Absolutely insultingly terrible ending. What a waste of my time. They even had the audacity to pretend like they planned for the show to end at three seasons. AVOID.
  62. Coonaros
    Nov 25, 2021
    9
    i will write a review for this season only and i can say for the lovers of supernatural is amazing and really good.The actors are amazing and all the photografy are stunning! Eva Green at her best !

Awards & Rankings

68
#68 Best TV Season of 2014
26
#26 Most Discussed TV Season of 2014
17
#17 Most Shared TV Season of 2014

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
70

Generally favorable reviews - based on 37 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 28 out of 37
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 37
  3. Negative: 0 out of 37
  1. People Weekly
    Reviewed by: Tom Gliatto
    May 16, 2014
    63
    As the season goes on, the narrative grip will (one hopes) tighten and grow as richly decadent as the surrounding production--or Eva Green. [26 May 2014, p.39]
  2. Boston Herald
    Reviewed by: Mark A. Perigard
    May 12, 2014
    75
    There were moments when I wanted to give up on Penny Dreadful. Then there is the ending of the second episode--a horrific jolt that changes everything you thought you knew about one character--and, well, I can’t wait to see what happens next.
    Read full review
  3. Los Angeles Times
    Reviewed by: Robert Lloyd
    May 12, 2014
    80
    The elegance of its production and mostly measured pace, though it may confound those who prefer the supernatural served fast and furious, keeps the drama persuasive.
    Read full review
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