River

:

Season 1
Metascore
tbd

No score yet - based on 3 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 3
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 3
  3. Negative: 0 out of 3
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Critic Reviews

  1. The Globe and Mail (Toronto)
    Reviewed by:  John Doyle
    Jan 8, 2017
    100
    It is simply astonishing to find the police procedural as cleverly reinvented as it is in River, and with such wry, poignant force. It is brilliantly done, a little masterpiece of entertainment raised to the level of grave, heartbreaking storytelling.
  2. The New York Times
    Reviewed by: Neil Genzlinger
    Jan 4, 2016
    80
    The show’s premise could easily have made this a silly enterprise, but with Mr. Skarsgard’s tight performance anchoring things, it instead is a first-rate psychological study.
  3. We Got This Covered
    Nov 23, 2015
    80
    If you’re looking for a crime drama with elegantly plotted twists and turns, excitedly charging towards resolution, River probably will not fill that void. However, for those interested in jumping inside the mind of a tormented man? Go right on in... River is waiting to speak to you.

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
8.4

Universal acclaim- based on 38 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 33 out of 38
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 38
  3. Negative: 2 out of 38
  1. brianme
    Feb 22, 2016
    10
    Magnificent, just magnificent! Easily one of the best dramas I've ever seen on television and very likely the best. First, the script isMagnificent, just magnificent! Easily one of the best dramas I've ever seen on television and very likely the best. First, the script is brilliantly written with intelligence, beauty, and a true literary sense. The actors, beginning with Stellan and all the others play their roles with commitment and great skill. Direction is obviously strong and the visuals are complimentary.

    Normally I grouse about something, but will not this time as I find River to have been an unparalleled effort in my history of watching since the dawn of television. Enjoy!    … Full Review »
  2. NorthVanDMo
    Jan 19, 2016
    10
    Better described as a top notch, engrossing, 6 hour movie than a tv show. I had a bit of difficulty with the first episode (why would anBetter described as a top notch, engrossing, 6 hour movie than a tv show. I had a bit of difficulty with the first episode (why would an officer pursuing a fleeing suspect be accused, by the media and by fellow officers, of "chasing that suspect to death"?). I am very happy that we returned to watch the second episode. Stellan Skarskaard's performance is unparalleled. He can say more than any other actor I can think of without uttering a word. The supporting actors are also first rate, especially Leslie Manville as River's supervisor, friend and supporter. To top off a compelling story, the music and photography are cinematic. A great show!… Full Review »
  3. foxgrove
    Nov 25, 2015
    7
    A series that improves as it goes on by tantalisingly weaving a mysterious web that draws you in despite an absurd and unsatisfactory plotA series that improves as it goes on by tantalisingly weaving a mysterious web that draws you in despite an absurd and unsatisfactory plot device. Stellan Skarskaard is good in the title role of the troubled detective and Lesley Manville is as brilliant as always. Only Nicola Walker and Eddie Marsan annoy, but that is due to the nature of the aforementioned device which doesn't work. The last episode which wraps it all up does win you over and solidifies the feeling that the series has been worth the highs and lows.… Full Review »
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