The Blacklist

:

Season 1
  • Network: NBC
  • Series Premiere Date: Sep 23, 2013
Season #: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 502 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 398 out of 502
  2. Mixed: 49 out of 502
  3. Negative: 55 out of 502
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  1. fantasy
    Nov 22, 2013
    10
    The best show on TV bar none. James Spader is riveting as he doesn't even have to speak to captivate the screen. If there is a better show on TV I haven't seen it. Word of mouth will propel this show to number one. Mr. Spader wins an Emmy. Don't miss it.
  2. mrmonster
    Sep 25, 2013
    10
    The Blacklist is an intense, fast paced, amazing, action packed drama with good plots and a story line that will make you question everything. If any new fall show deserves to be watched, it's definitely this.
  3. siftekhar
    Jan 28, 2014
    10
    After quite a while, a show worth watching on major network. I find this very entertaining and follow the Reddington (Spader) character traits - his way of looking at life. Sometime feel envious, that why I am not like him. I guess thats one of the accomplishment of a show - getting a character you feel for.
  4. joef123
    Sep 28, 2013
    10
    The Blacklist is an amazing, intense, well-acted, well-written, and well-directed. James Spader and the female lead (I forgot her name) are amazing together. I highly recommend this show
  5. Slipper
    Jan 16, 2014
    10
    After half season on the way i must say that this series is top notch. Everything is working great, cast, story, action. I am enjoying watching every episode. Megan Boone and James Spader are very good. If they keep it like that, this will be one on the best new series.
  6. AvantGuardian
    Oct 10, 2013
    10
    I don't know if you remember James Spader as Alan Shore from Boston Legal, but allow me to tell you that seeing him in court was almost like seeing Shakespeare in person. Now, I'm not personally a fan of Shakespeare, but we can't deny his brilliance and all the works that have stemmed from his. Alan Shore's speeches were shakesperian in that they were so brilliant and had so much longevityI don't know if you remember James Spader as Alan Shore from Boston Legal, but allow me to tell you that seeing him in court was almost like seeing Shakespeare in person. Now, I'm not personally a fan of Shakespeare, but we can't deny his brilliance and all the works that have stemmed from his. Alan Shore's speeches were shakesperian in that they were so brilliant and had so much longevity that if you removed them from their surroundings and just used them as words on a page, they would still be brilliant. Well, Alan Shore is back in the Blacklist as Raymond Reddington. He's every bit as brilliant, as witty and as smug, and let me tell you, James Spader was born to play smug.
    The Blacklist is a highly intelligent new drama about a man so smart, and so dastardly that he has conceived a plot to use the FBI as his own personal hit squad, taking out all of his criminal competition. He walks right into the FBI's HQ, and turns himself in, because he knows his value to them. After all, he's Raymond Reddington, the most wanted man in the world. Genius show, you must watch it.    … Expand
  7. biniyam
    Oct 12, 2013
    10
    This a very good show and I give it a 10. I don't usually rates shows above a 9, but this show takes it all. Very thrilling and and had my attention through every second. Also like almost every police drama, there are many sub plots that take place and are introduced with the first couple of episodes. The subplot of her husband's secretly life is brilliant! Mondays are going to be hype atThis a very good show and I give it a 10. I don't usually rates shows above a 9, but this show takes it all. Very thrilling and and had my attention through every second. Also like almost every police drama, there are many sub plots that take place and are introduced with the first couple of episodes. The subplot of her husband's secretly life is brilliant! Mondays are going to be hype at 10 pm!!!… Expand
  8. 10ceanis6
    Oct 15, 2013
    10
    Wow, all i can say really is Wow! I don't usually properly follow tv shows and when i do i dont bother watching every single episode but I'm soo hooked on this new show ive made sure to watch every episode and continue like this, I love it!!! Can't wait each week now for the new episodes! :D
  9. mdgrl
    Oct 17, 2013
    10
    OK, I am totally hooked on The Blacklist and am loving the fact that it has gotten a full season order! At this point, I would love to see it go beyond one season. Yes, there are elements of the show that are far-fetched and unbelievable, and would probably never happen in real ife. Dramas are serious, but aren't intended to be a true-to-life reality. I believe TV (as well as film,OK, I am totally hooked on The Blacklist and am loving the fact that it has gotten a full season order! At this point, I would love to see it go beyond one season. Yes, there are elements of the show that are far-fetched and unbelievable, and would probably never happen in real ife. Dramas are serious, but aren't intended to be a true-to-life reality. I believe TV (as well as film, music, art) is inherently escapist. When I watch or listen to something, I don't expect exactness or reality. What I do expect are things that will keep me interested and entertained. The Blacklist does this very, very well. James Spader is as close to perfect as one can get when it comes to acting. It seems like almost everything the man touches turns to gold. His tremendous skill is a huge reason why The Blacklist is so ridiculously great. Unrealistic aspects aside, the stories are incredibly engaging. There's an terrific mix of drama, action, suspense, mystery, and even comedy. The music used in the show is a very nice bonus. Hands down, this is the best new show of the 2013-2014 TV season, and I hope it sticks around for a while!… Expand
  10. Gizmo11111
    Nov 9, 2013
    10
    This is an excellent show that is very well written and acted. I must say, that after the first episode I did not like it much, however now It is probably in my top 5 favorite shows.
  11. NikiTee94
    Nov 17, 2013
    10
    Absolutely the most fun new drama on TV! Look forward to Monday night TV again....James Spader is wicked good. Each and every week leaves you saying WOW did that just happen and wanting to see the next episode immediately!
  12. Tedfitz
    Nov 18, 2013
    10
    Spader is one of my favourites....and he does not disappoint in this show. A+++ for actors, themes, and entertainment...love the show! The writers are doing a wonderful job so far....keep up the good work.
  13. Xyled777
    Nov 28, 2013
    10
    Definitely a great show to watch! I was very skeptical with the same ol same, woman cop as the lead role, but James Spayder adds the much needed intrigue, witty dialog and awesome acting to move this series to the top.
    The fam and I are soon to be long time fans of this one.
  14. Jaragon
    Jan 8, 2014
    10
    Amazing story, I'm at episode 6 at the moment at I just can't stop watching. This series has amazing acting and a nice original story. Reddington is amazingly played.
  15. catherinem
    Dec 7, 2013
    10
    This show is absolutely brilliant! The way the FBI are portrayed is very realistic, and Reddington makes the whole show. He is absolutely amazing, I am hooked! Cannot wait for the next season!!
  16. laurenvallen
    Dec 11, 2013
    10
    The Blacklist is my favourite new show of 2013, which has seen some tough competition emerge. Character development is brilliant and continually building on the basics that were established early on. Each episode has a different twist that keeps you glued to the show, and James Spader is just the perfect character.
  17. Nitestar
    Jan 18, 2014
    10
    I rarely get attached to a show or want to write a review, but this show is AMAZING. I was NOT a Spader fan before this show but I am now. It seems he has truly grown into the perfect actor. Whether he is speaking or simply looking at you, in The Blacklist, you feel mesmerized - he has really made the character of Red his own. The lead female Megan Boone is okay (I keep seeing her withI rarely get attached to a show or want to write a review, but this show is AMAZING. I was NOT a Spader fan before this show but I am now. It seems he has truly grown into the perfect actor. Whether he is speaking or simply looking at you, in The Blacklist, you feel mesmerized - he has really made the character of Red his own. The lead female Megan Boone is okay (I keep seeing her with short hair on a few episodes of Blue Blood) but when both of these two actors come together - the show truly shines. They have wonderful chemistry.

    I am also a fan of Parminder Nagra who was so brilliant in the short lived Alcatraz (also a very good show) and I feel they need to give her a larger role.

    Finally, for those who mention the violence - yes, there is a lot of it, but I think it is an integral part of the plot and moves the action along at a brilliant pace.

    Let's hope they keep this one on for a few years - network TV tends to cancel their good shows way too fast and keep the horrible ones on for years.    … Expand
  18. Azdaja
    Feb 14, 2014
    10
    Very good, its not one of the best series of course but the mystery in it is very good and very entertaiming, i suggest it to anyone ,does who dont like it are pretending to be some movie and tv knowers but they are wrong. Sorry for bad english
  19. Reinamia
    Mar 3, 2014
    10
    This serie it's amazing! I can't wait to see how ends season 1.... Intense!! I like the way Red manage the drama, he is such a great actor and Liz. Please don't stop!! We want season 3...4...5.....
  20. Spaff
    May 19, 2014
    10
    Ok boys and girls, the major networks can produce and intelligent, intriguing, captivating show when they want to as well. James Spader is as good in this as any actor in any current series, period I love the character Red. He is not alone though, whoever plays Lizzie is great too and I like the rest of the cast as well. The plots are fun and the central theme keeps viewers guessing. ThisOk boys and girls, the major networks can produce and intelligent, intriguing, captivating show when they want to as well. James Spader is as good in this as any actor in any current series, period I love the character Red. He is not alone though, whoever plays Lizzie is great too and I like the rest of the cast as well. The plots are fun and the central theme keeps viewers guessing. This is a fun show, I hope they don't dumb it down.… Expand
  21. johngh
    May 22, 2014
    10
    By far, this is the best show on TV. I looked forward to Monday evenings. It is going to be a long wait until fall. I have them recorded and watch then often. The dialog and acting is a TEN.
  22. devilslawyer
    Sep 9, 2014
    10
    Absolutely smashing! James Spader acts with his eyes. One forms an opinion at the beginning of each episode, only to have it turn on its head. The plot is well written, and the music and the background songs are great. I was wondering what after Breaking Bad...? I guess my question is answered.
  23. Intelligent
    Sep 25, 2014
    10
    Being in the military and knowing intelligence officers in the civilian sector and government. This show does correctly portray what kind of sectors and pockets of intelligence gathering groups there are. It is not a long stretch at all to have a hand full of people in this case a set of FBI individuals of a particular task work for some ranking department of justice or defense persons.Being in the military and knowing intelligence officers in the civilian sector and government. This show does correctly portray what kind of sectors and pockets of intelligence gathering groups there are. It is not a long stretch at all to have a hand full of people in this case a set of FBI individuals of a particular task work for some ranking department of justice or defense persons. These "clusters" can become organized and disbanded quickly or stay intact depending on funding, goal/objective or necessity.

    I have only enjoyed a hand full of TV shows, as I do not watch cable but I do watch this show through Netflix.
    I only started watching shows in the last year because my wife is doing acting.

    David Spader does a phenomenal job doing what's called minimalist acting, whereas his scenes of emotional portrayal are strong and vibrant because his character is normally stoic. Meaning every facial twitch and motion gives off a lot of his characters intentions. I wouldn't change a thing about him. The back drop of his character is believable as there are individuals who deal in contracting deals of legal and illegal activities. His character is of the illegal nature, who has conjured a very high rank among the black market.

    His daughter Elizabeth Keen is very emotional and actually works very well with David Spaders character and I'll explain why. The character Elizabeth Keen being a very inexperienced profiler and having only schooling as experience explains her emotional hiccups in the story line and play off of David Spaders minimalist acting and actually makes his acting more intense. It is like having a hyper barking out of control chihuahua next to a strong demeanored pit bull whereas the louder and more out of control Megan Boone becomes the more in control David Spader perceptually becomes, the contrast compliments each other. Making his character inevitably more of the leader-esque experienced mastermind type.

    The show is very good in my opinion, seemingly more to do with actions than another show I finished watching a few months ago, Breaking Bad which seemed to lean more on emotional distress than anything else...which definitely took away from the bullet points of the story becoming more of a drama instead of an adventure show which I think it tried to hit.

    The Blacklist to me is a great adventure show that keeps a decent pace. Not to fast and not to slow. Along the way introducing great "villains", from the blacklist. The show could last for a 100 episodes plus, willing the critics and viewership supports it. You might as well back this show now as it would be a shame to look back and wish that there were 5 seasons you could scour through looking for some interesting tales and quips to ponder.    … Expand
  24. Thebossman
    Feb 2, 2015
    10
    Its fresh new take on crime drama series. It features some exemplary acting by James Spader. The story line is consistent, full of action, suspense and great dialogue. Its overall a brilliant show. MUST WATCH!!!!
  25. TexasAtheist
    Mar 6, 2015
    10
    This show is absolutely incredible in every aspect but one. Megan Boone is awful. She's a terrible actress, who's hindered even further by the writing of her character, FBI Agent Elizabeth Keen. It seems the writers have a checklist of every female stereotype that exists, and took great care to check every single box as the series goes along. Hopefully they stop trying to make her an overThis show is absolutely incredible in every aspect but one. Megan Boone is awful. She's a terrible actress, who's hindered even further by the writing of her character, FBI Agent Elizabeth Keen. It seems the writers have a checklist of every female stereotype that exists, and took great care to check every single box as the series goes along. Hopefully they stop trying to make her an over emotional basket case who has absolutely no ability to critically think, and a strong role model and agent.… Expand
  26. Codytheman
    Apr 13, 2015
    10
    I love it!. James Spader is excellent as Reddington.
    The characters have a good depth.
    The plot twists keep you interested and engaged.
    The writers are amazingly skilled
    I hope it never ends
  27. rvcohen29
    Sep 13, 2015
    10
    This is my new favorite show and I enjoy binge watching it! I honestly watched it during my commute and played it through my car speakers. Not the smartest driving habits, but this show is worth it!
  28. Twestsource
    Oct 27, 2015
    10
    Spader holds his own and carries this show !!!! He is great from start to finish !! They are holding out to long on admitting lizzy is his daughter tho!!!
  29. BrandonBD85
    Feb 21, 2016
    10
    This show has crept into my top 10 as i have watched it more and more. Not since 24 i have i seen a show that keeps you watching as well as The Blacklist. I am sorry to the people who feel this show is "unrealistic". 80% of the most popular shows and movies are not actually possible. Get over yourselves.
  30. Criticview
    Dec 31, 2017
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I like this show, but Lizzie is very, very hard-headed. Her demise is her based on her stubbornness. She is very bull headed and doesn't have any regard for others sometimes. She is just too hard-headed.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

48
#48 Best TV Season of 2013
7
#7 Most Discussed TV Season of 2013
10
#10 Most Shared TV Season of 2013

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
74

Generally favorable reviews - based on 31 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 26 out of 31
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 31
  3. Negative: 0 out of 31
  1. People Weekly
    Reviewed by: Tom Gliatto
    Oct 11, 2013
    75
    [A] pleasurable, cheeky new crime drama. [21 Oct 2013, p.47]
  2. Entertainment Weekly
    Reviewed by: Jeff Jensen
    Oct 9, 2013
    83
    Here and now, The Blacklist is top-of-the-list escapism.
    Read full review
  3. New York Post
    Reviewed by: Michael Starr
    Oct 3, 2013
    75
    [Spader’s] magnetic, chewing on the scenery so much that you can’t look away from him.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »