The Bastard Executioner

:

Season 1
  • Network: FX
  • Series Premiere Date: Sep 15, 2015
User Score
6.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 92 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 52 out of 92
  2. Mixed: 16 out of 92
  3. Negative: 24 out of 92
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  1. FlyYouFools
    Oct 15, 2015
    8
    The background characters are pretty forgettable and the beginnings of the episodes could be better. But other then that, I absolutely love this show. The plot, the Characters, the world, everything.
  2. jeremyp
    Sep 24, 2015
    5
    I always approach a Sutter series with an " open with care" attitude. His characters are edgy and loose with their morals but strong with their tribal values. This one is a jump for him. Instead of showing modern day humans acting medievally he takes us back to where his vision probably took root. Plenty violent, and Kate Sagal as not just **** but witchy. I'm guessing that creature sheI always approach a Sutter series with an " open with care" attitude. His characters are edgy and loose with their morals but strong with their tribal values. This one is a jump for him. Instead of showing modern day humans acting medievally he takes us back to where his vision probably took root. Plenty violent, and Kate Sagal as not just **** but witchy. I'm guessing that creature she cohabits with is Sutter. It's Game Of Thrones for the country western crowd.… Expand
  3. Neravarine
    Sep 24, 2015
    8
    Well every medieval themed tv show, movie, anime is good in my book, and this seems that it is going to have a lot of promise, but there are some things that I can not forgive and please do not take this as racist or homophobic( stupid word) : Every american tvshow/move must have black people and gay people now days, even if they do not fit the plot at all, I know that there were blackWell every medieval themed tv show, movie, anime is good in my book, and this seems that it is going to have a lot of promise, but there are some things that I can not forgive and please do not take this as racist or homophobic( stupid word) : Every american tvshow/move must have black people and gay people now days, even if they do not fit the plot at all, I know that there were black people then, but there were rare, rly rare in the island, and not to talk about gay people a.k.a sodomites at that time, they could not do it openly even if they were god damn royalty, they would get executed. This is why I am giving 8. But I do understand that there are factions in the industry that push those things.… Expand
  4. mcbevo
    Oct 19, 2015
    9
    I am really taken with this show--find it a good watch and period dramw while waiting for return of Outlander. Better I feel than BBCA's Last Kingdom. Enjoy how the mythology and characters are revealed slowly. allowing me to ruminate after each episode how I think things might develop. Love the 'historic' period and the Welsh settings. Glad to see Matthew Rhys guesting and Lee JonesI am really taken with this show--find it a good watch and period dramw while waiting for return of Outlander. Better I feel than BBCA's Last Kingdom. Enjoy how the mythology and characters are revealed slowly. allowing me to ruminate after each episode how I think things might develop. Love the 'historic' period and the Welsh settings. Glad to see Matthew Rhys guesting and Lee Jones is a hunky promising newcomer. Good to see Moyer again, no longer undead. Interesting how more shows are employing Australian actors and UK settings. Expect to see an Irish-set historic drama in a season or three. Hope Executioner succeeds and is renewed. I've watched each episode twice so far and am anticipating the remainder of first season. Violence and gore are expected in this historic period and, well, with an executioner as the leading character! There is a nobility and vulnerability about the executioner that coupled with the period depicted makes the violence mpre 'acceptable and expected. The moral crisis WIlken faces gives pause in each episode.… Expand
  5. agroeber
    Oct 14, 2015
    10
    The show starts off slowly with violence kind of ruling the roost. Soon after episodes 3 and 4 you notice you're becoming more involved with the characters and learning more about their past. You can't just jump in and base this show off it's pilot as it's clearly got a lot to bring to bear but takes a while to dust off the diamond that is hiding beneath the rocks.

    ****Update - One    The show starts off slowly with violence kind of ruling the roost. Soon after episodes 3 and 4 you notice you're becoming more involved with the characters and learning more about their past. You can't just jump in and base this show off it's pilot as it's clearly got a lot to bring to bear but takes a while to dust off the diamond that is hiding beneath the rocks.

    ****Update - One thing to note - Look at what I'm saying and when - Everyone else who critiqued the show did so when it first aired. No one really since then. Take a chance on the show and enjoy the ride it's well worth it's time and I imagine Sutter will reel you in like he has before.    … Expand
  6. DianaBr
    Oct 30, 2015
    0
    I was a big fan of sons which is a big reason why I looked forward to this show; however, I strongly dislike it. I have watched every episode but the last and have no idea where its going plotwise. I wont be watching it. Disappointed.
  7. LamontRaymond
    Sep 16, 2015
    9
    I'm not sure where the real criticism is coming from because I was enthralled by the first 2-hour episode. The lead actor is entirely watchable, and the story pulls you in. I know there is MUCH more about the basic plot that has yet to be revealed, but I'm impressed by what I've seen. The only weakness so far has been Katy. She was awesome in Sons, but her accent makes me cringe a bitI'm not sure where the real criticism is coming from because I was enthralled by the first 2-hour episode. The lead actor is entirely watchable, and the story pulls you in. I know there is MUCH more about the basic plot that has yet to be revealed, but I'm impressed by what I've seen. The only weakness so far has been Katy. She was awesome in Sons, but her accent makes me cringe a bit here. Hope she cleans that up as things roll along.… Expand
  8. Qishere
    Sep 16, 2015
    8
    Be warned; this Medieval world can be a dark, over-the-top violent world that goes beyond brutal, but it is also an idyllic Bruegel painting filled with kindness, love and humanity, and that's what makes this show an engrossing entertainment. From the first historic English battle to the gentle appearance of an angel/witch (?) who seems to rescue the warrior-soldier , these moments ofBe warned; this Medieval world can be a dark, over-the-top violent world that goes beyond brutal, but it is also an idyllic Bruegel painting filled with kindness, love and humanity, and that's what makes this show an engrossing entertainment. From the first historic English battle to the gentle appearance of an angel/witch (?) who seems to rescue the warrior-soldier , these moments of dread and love had me glued to the TV screen--this two hour pilot just flew by. If casting is 80% the reason for the success of the show, then this show has a 90% casting success. All of the characters, who are so multifaceted, are flesh and blood people who survive this violent time by their own morality code which clashes with each other---and sometimes they are helped along to their destiny by super-natural forces. I can't fathom why there are any negative reviews of this show, but let me predict, when the word gets out, this show will be a ratings winner.… Expand
  9. cheinric
    Sep 17, 2015
    9
    Hard to watch all of the violence and gore and I am hoping that this will not be a usual and customary format but rather delve more into the history of the times
  10. TonyaMcCann
    Nov 12, 2015
    10
    My husband and I absolutely cannot wait for Tuesday nights! It is by far one of our new favorite shows. It literally keeps me on the edge of my seat. I love the characters, the setting, very intriguing. Its very different from everything else that is on TV. It is a refreshing change and the suspense is so addicting. We absolutely 100% love this show. The Bastard Executioner is our #1 pickMy husband and I absolutely cannot wait for Tuesday nights! It is by far one of our new favorite shows. It literally keeps me on the edge of my seat. I love the characters, the setting, very intriguing. Its very different from everything else that is on TV. It is a refreshing change and the suspense is so addicting. We absolutely 100% love this show. The Bastard Executioner is our #1 pick for new shows. I even told my husband the other night, "What are we going to do after the season finale?" I just wish it would stay on year around. I rate this show 5 stars!!!!… Expand
  11. suvoth
    Sep 18, 2015
    2
    OMG...I'm in so much shock. Being an avid SOA fan and After so much anticipation for this show, what a let down. The first scene (dream) was an absolute waste and shouldn't have been shown at all in my opinion. That actors "war cry" was more like a welp cry. If you don't have the conviction to do it, cut it out. Ugh. And while Katey Segal was absolutely brilliant in SOA, she doesn't feelOMG...I'm in so much shock. Being an avid SOA fan and After so much anticipation for this show, what a let down. The first scene (dream) was an absolute waste and shouldn't have been shown at all in my opinion. That actors "war cry" was more like a welp cry. If you don't have the conviction to do it, cut it out. Ugh. And while Katey Segal was absolutely brilliant in SOA, she doesn't feel right for this part at all. Perhaps it's the bad accent? Whatever it is, she doesn't fit. Stephen Moyer is great and more natural in this (I wasn't a fan of him in Trueblood). My favourite character is the guy who loves the animals and talks to them. And let's not even get started on how poorly done that white/grey castle in the background (and up close) is. Heck, when the band came across their entire village being killed, I felt like they lost their livestock...it was so bad (especially the primary actor). This felt like I was watching a high school play. Some actors were believable, but I think the failure here is on Sutter for how it plays out in the end. I hope they flesh it out and I hope it becomes brilliant...I don't think I will keep watching it though.… Expand
  12. kozzy420
    Sep 16, 2015
    10
    Amazing show! Great characters, good story and enjoyable dialogue. Also great gritty look to the show and some good cinematography. Nice acting all around and the violence is well done. Thankfully it isn't just about the gore though, this really is a wonderful mix of good writing and action.

    Kurt Sutter has hit another homerun with this, it is like a gumbo pot mix of Game of Thrones,    Amazing show! Great characters, good story and enjoyable dialogue. Also great gritty look to the show and some good cinematography. Nice acting all around and the violence is well done. Thankfully it isn't just about the gore though, this really is a wonderful mix of good writing and action.

    Kurt Sutter has hit another homerun with this, it is like a gumbo pot mix of Game of Thrones, Tudoors, Braveheart and Robin Hood. He did very well writing on The Shield and not to bad on Sons of Anarchy to, so far this is a great start!

    Alot of reviewers complain about it being to slow? A slog? What? This and Mr Robot have had the best Pilot eps so far this year imo. Can't wait for next weeks episode. This is another great show from FX to go with Justified, Fargo, The Shield and Sons Of Anarchy over the years.    … Expand
  13. katezoe
    Sep 20, 2015
    0
    Terrible acting. The writing is sophomoric. The story is not engaging. Lots of blood, gore, and boring sexual encounters. Bad televison show and a waste of time.
  14. bob516
    Sep 16, 2015
    0
    I was really hoping to like this show, thinking it would be on the same level as The Americans, Fargo, The Bridge, and Tyrant (first season). What I found was a trite, simplistic, melodramatic show in a setting, both geographic and political, that had such great potential. I struggled, really struggled to keep on watching the first episode. Don't see any reason to continue with this show.
  15. jazzythechef
    Nov 2, 2015
    3
    pretty mediocre stuff in my opinion. it feels like it went to screen at the idea stage, before the story and characters were fleshed out. ive noticed some praise for the main actor, i have to diagree in my opinion his atempts at any emotions are a little embarassing. moyer is a bit of a relief when he's on screen. this show really doesn't take me there, ive cringed through 7 episodes, ipretty mediocre stuff in my opinion. it feels like it went to screen at the idea stage, before the story and characters were fleshed out. ive noticed some praise for the main actor, i have to diagree in my opinion his atempts at any emotions are a little embarassing. moyer is a bit of a relief when he's on screen. this show really doesn't take me there, ive cringed through 7 episodes, i see no improvement.… Expand
  16. akila1
    Oct 7, 2015
    1
    These are the talented people who created Sons of Anarchy. This show is terrible. Take a break and recharge you batteries. Then hit reset and come back with something much better!
  17. Vaako
    Oct 3, 2015
    2
    Basically, this show is poor attempt to write a story around torture porn. Peg Bundy is miscast. She provides the show with a bad accent and even worse acting. I liked Sons of Anarchy so I thought I would this a try, but I'm out after three episodes.
  18. Skeletor71
    Sep 21, 2015
    6
    I had high hopes for this, but it was really disappointing. Come for the blood and gore, stay for the ... nothing really. It's full of your basic medieval fantasy stuff and most of the characters are just boring. Katey Sagal is just cringeworthy in her fake German accent. I'll give it one more episode, because I feel like I owe it to Kurt Sutter, but if it doesn't improve I'm done.
  19. dtherese83
    Oct 25, 2015
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I really enjoy this show. Lee does an amazing job showing Wilkin's torment. I do feel like there are some rocky parts that need tying up. I am up to Episode 7 and am hanging on the edge of my seat for some resolution between Wilkin and Love and if Love's heir issue is resolved. But their interactions are as awkward as they are romantic...with him being the one seemingly taking the lead where you would think due to impropriety it would be her. It has been in his full power to tell her how corrupt chancelor is but he hasn't. I'm excited and frustrated for the next episode. As an Outlander fan this has been a very exciting interim show to watch. Please keep for more seasons!… Expand
  20. RWilli
    Nov 1, 2015
    5
    The first hour of the first episode was almost impossible to sit through. In fact, if it were not for having guests to watch the first episode I would not have continued watching it. Fortunately, things really livened up after the first hour. Unfortunately, ever eposide since has been just as inconsistent. At times I think that it is really good, other times I think it is unwatchable.
  21. DrBruce77
    Nov 20, 2015
    9
    Original plot, good writing, entertaining and talented actors. I highly recommend the way religion is portrayed in this fascinating show. I look forward to each new episode.
  22. sternblend
    Nov 23, 2015
    9
    I have issues with the main character. Not sure what it is maybe the inability to show many emotions except pain. Takes a few episodes to get going but when it does it is actually a great show. Does have the feel like it wasn't prepared to start filming but despite that the story line is good and by the end it leaves you wanting more. Plenty of action and interesting characters.
    I feel    I have issues with the main character. Not sure what it is maybe the inability to show many emotions except pain. Takes a few episodes to get going but when it does it is actually a great show. Does have the feel like it wasn't prepared to start filming but despite that the story line is good and by the end it leaves you wanting more. Plenty of action and interesting characters.
    I feel its been cancelled because too many people want everything to be high quality, special effects and none stop action. They judge a show by its first few episodes and then cant appreciate it and have their minds changed when it does pick up.
    Shame for those that got into it and appreciate a good show.    … Expand
  23. slickato
    Dec 1, 2015
    7
    For the most part a good show but as with most shows these days they had to slip their political agenda into the script. Almost every new show, no matter the network almost certainly has a homosexual in it. They are 2-3% of the population yet they are inserted into everything. Kurt has had gays or a tranny in all of the shows he has been a part or in charge of. The show also takes itsFor the most part a good show but as with most shows these days they had to slip their political agenda into the script. Almost every new show, no matter the network almost certainly has a homosexual in it. They are 2-3% of the population yet they are inserted into everything. Kurt has had gays or a tranny in all of the shows he has been a part or in charge of. The show also takes its shot at Christianity by glorifying a conspiracy theory of Christ not dying on the cross but fleeing to Italy, marrying and boring children and creating a holy blood line. Don't get me wrong, I like his shows but there are too many things that are not necessary to the plot line that he inserts into his shows as part of a liberal agenda. So I put myself in mindless drone mode when I go to watch it.… Expand
  24. maggieschnauzer
    Dec 21, 2015
    10
    I loved this Show. The characters and the story line was great. Please bring it back. I love the shows bringing the early European stories to life. Sometimes I wish I could change the history but I also want to watch how history played out.
  25. Devnatris
    Oct 2, 2016
    10
    There were tons of other shows to cancel. That show was fire and you poured water on it . Thanks fx......niw i have to write a book to tell you that you made a big mistake. You should have given it another season and not left views hanging. Where are you getting your rating from. This was dvr set show. You could have gotten rid of that boring predictable Tyrant.
  26. bastardisgreat
    Oct 7, 2016
    10
    i loved this series and i`m gutted there won`t be a follow on as it left me wanting more.
    I found it quite easy to follow and was also quite surprised at there being hardly any mumbling for a change.
    True there is a lot of blood and guts,but the times it was set in was very much like that and if you like history as i do,most folk would know that. please bring the show back ,i`d love to    i loved this series and i`m gutted there won`t be a follow on as it left me wanting more.
    I found it quite easy to follow and was also quite surprised at there being hardly any mumbling for a change.
    True there is a lot of blood and guts,but the times it was set in was very much like that and if you like history as i do,most folk would know that.
    please bring the show back ,i`d love to know what happens next!    … Expand

Awards & Rankings

58
#58 Most Discussed TV Season of 2015
81
#81 Most Shared TV Season of 2015

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
55

Mixed or average reviews - based on 38 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 38
  2. Mixed: 24 out of 38
  3. Negative: 2 out of 38
  1. The Atlantic
    Reviewed by: Spencer Kornhaber
    Sep 25, 2015
    40
    The Bastard Executioner feels a bit more like people playing dress up than the best works in its genre should. The only characters to not fall into cliched dichotomies of rag-tag rebels and power-mad gentry are the women--a mystic of unclear purpose and unclear accent, played by Katey Sagal, and a demure but calculating baroness, played with quiet intelligence by Flora Spencer-Longhurst. Outside of them, the intrigue factor is low.
    Read full review
  2. TV Guide Magazine
    Reviewed by: Matt Roush
    Sep 17, 2015
    40
    This is one pretentious Bastard. [21-27 Sept 2015, p.17]
  3. Washington Post
    Reviewed by: Hank Stuever
    Sep 16, 2015
    75
    The double-episode premiere drags like it has all the time in the world, leaving a viewer time to wonder if he or she has much room left for another show with swords, beheadings and rapey pillagings. But Sutter is skilled at balancing emotion and gore, and it isn’t long before you start to believe in this place and these people.
    Read full review
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