The Event

:

Season 1
  • Network: NBC
  • Series Premiere Date: Sep 20, 2010
User Score
6.3

Generally favorable reviews- based on 150 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 80 out of 150
  2. Mixed: 43 out of 150
  3. Negative: 27 out of 150
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User Reviews

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  1. Dash24
    Oct 11, 2010
    10
    The flashbacks and complex plot may be annoying at some levels, but when you start putting the pieces together it get so much better. The writing is brilliant and although I have little to no clue on what is going on, it only makes me want to watch the show more and figure it out.
  2. Skyebeka
    Sep 30, 2010
    10
    There are many whining babies on here complaining about The Event so I'm gonna do my part by saying positive things about a show which I think is very intriguing. I read a user review which said the acting is bad - absolutely not true! I read another review which said that nothing is happening on the Event. But after three episodes I know for sure that that is not the case. What I haveThere are many whining babies on here complaining about The Event so I'm gonna do my part by saying positive things about a show which I think is very intriguing. I read a user review which said the acting is bad - absolutely not true! I read another review which said that nothing is happening on the Event. But after three episodes I know for sure that that is not the case. What I have seen thus far is a complex mystery plot which is unfolding by way of dramatic dialogue and light action scenes. It is evident that there is a mysterious group with two factions that don't exactly see eye to eye. This sets up future dramatic conflicts. The trailer for episode four shows mutiny within the mysterious group. To say after 1-3 episodes that this show will have no answers is simply being petty. It's got drama, action, complex mystery and it's fast paced.… Expand
  3. DrSchnitz
    Oct 29, 2010
    10
    I find this a compulsively watchable show. On the other hand, my wife won't watch it at all because it makes her nervous. I tried explaining the plot to someone last night and left the person hopelessly confused, but I wasn't. It was then that I realized what a good job the show does with interweaving numerous different subplots , some of which are clearly related, others not so much, atI find this a compulsively watchable show. On the other hand, my wife won't watch it at all because it makes her nervous. I tried explaining the plot to someone last night and left the person hopelessly confused, but I wasn't. It was then that I realized what a good job the show does with interweaving numerous different subplots , some of which are clearly related, others not so much, at least on the surface. The flashbacks seem absolutely necessary and clarify many things. Some things, however, seem inexplicable - why are the bad guys (whoever and whichever ones they are) so interested in capturing the Jason Ritter character? The acting runs the gamut. Blair Underwood, as the President, is fine as always, though his role doesn't give him much. The man who is in charge of the secret government operation, Ivan (I cannot spell, pronounce or remember his last name), is really great, as he was as the gay guilt-ridden lawyer in Damages. Jason Ritter, ostensibly the main character, is new to me. He is very appealing, with a kind of puppy-dog sincerity which, unfortunately, does not match up to his steeliness when he is in action. Most of the time, his girlfriend seems more dominant. Lesser characters range from extremely good to passable.
    Last week's episode seemed to me one of the best, partly because people began acting more realistically sensible, partly because of its deft combination of sentiment with pyrotechnic action.
    The show has nothing like the subtlety and thoughtfulness of, say, Rubicon, which my wife did watch. However, I think it may be on its way to being first-rate entertainment, not yet there, but maybe starting to reach for it.    … Expand
  4. PauliePal
    Nov 19, 2010
    10
    I have watched all 8 of the episodes so far and really have started looking forward to Monday night. This is my favorite new show. I'm really interested in several of the characters, like the President, Simon Lee, Blake Sterling, and Sophia. Not so much interested in Sean and Leila, but I don't hate them like some people seem to do. I'm looking forward to finding out the answers toI have watched all 8 of the episodes so far and really have started looking forward to Monday night. This is my favorite new show. I'm really interested in several of the characters, like the President, Simon Lee, Blake Sterling, and Sophia. Not so much interested in Sean and Leila, but I don't hate them like some people seem to do. I'm looking forward to finding out the answers to the many mysteries. Who is Dempsey? What's with Samantha and the little old girls? Who are the Inos? Where are they from and what do they want? Are there different factions? And of course, what is The Event?… Expand
  5. daconley
    Dec 1, 2010
    10
    The Event is a new, great unique show that is very fun to watch. Although recently the plot has slowed, I believe The Event has a fun ride in store for us.
  6. MicahBrown
    May 25, 2011
    10
    The Event" is an event you DON'T want to miss indeed. With well supported hype and ads, THE EVÃ
  7. foundationcitiz
    Sep 9, 2011
    10
    I love this show, it is like one long very engaging movie. It is very well filmed, great cinema photography, a nice balance between action, dialogue, character development and plot, fun and intriguing story lines, and lots of sex appeal. It is also very thought provoking, especially as the show starts to come together. It now seems the show is being canceled, and I for one am inI love this show, it is like one long very engaging movie. It is very well filmed, great cinema photography, a nice balance between action, dialogue, character development and plot, fun and intriguing story lines, and lots of sex appeal. It is also very thought provoking, especially as the show starts to come together. It now seems the show is being canceled, and I for one am in disbelief. I think it is NBC, and I do not know whether to applaud them for coming up with such a great show, even though they are now canceling it, OR whether I should ban/boycott them for being so stupid as to cancel it. I am certainly leading toward the latter.… Expand
  8. Razv
    Oct 17, 2010
    9
    It has the potential to be one of the best tv shows ever. The plot is intriguing and complex, the actors are very good and the special effects are well made and realistic. The continuous flashbacks seem to be the only negative aspect of the first episode, but overall, very good tv show and with huge potential. Let's hope they keep this up.
  9. life
    Apr 27, 2011
    9
    I think The Event is a good show but it started bad. I didn't like the storyline where Leila was kidnapped and her boyfriend was trying to find her. It wasn't interesting. The show focused too much on that. (And let's not forget the annoying flashbacks)... But The Event became so much better once that story arc was over. When the show started to focus on the President and Sophia then itI think The Event is a good show but it started bad. I didn't like the storyline where Leila was kidnapped and her boyfriend was trying to find her. It wasn't interesting. The show focused too much on that. (And let's not forget the annoying flashbacks)... But The Event became so much better once that story arc was over. When the show started to focus on the President and Sophia then it became good. The war between the "Other people" (Aliens) and humans was very interesting. The acting is good and it has some great characters. I really like Simon,Sophia , and the President.

    It's a shame the ratings aren't so good :/. I don't think season 2 will happen. :((((((( i give it 9 points because the 2nd half season was really good.    … Expand
  10. Radiant
    Sep 21, 2010
    9
    I did not know what this show was all about when I started watching. I will say that for a change I was actually excited to see the following episode. It's got good acting and what would seem to be good possibilities. I have been fooled before though I remember the first Fringe I thought was good and it just went downhill from there. We shall see!
  11. Straightup
    Sep 25, 2010
    9
    The Event is an exciting attention grabbing show that has non stop action. The suspense and storyline just raises so many questions. I hope it doesn't spiral off into another form of LOST and becomes to confusing to understand. I think the event will be the TV event of the fall.
  12. Dauko1
    Mar 13, 2011
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This one is a very good format!
    In my opinion the show can be new "LOST", but there is a lot of work to do.
    Cast is quite good and the storyline can be more interesting.    … Expand
  13. cartmenez03
    Nov 1, 2010
    8
    I understand what people say about the time-shifting, but if you can look past that, a really awesome series lays beneath. It has good acting, and I love how each episode ends with a cliffhanger. But yes, the time-shifting is a problem.
  14. FinnBarker
    Nov 9, 2010
    8
    Really like this show. It fills the 24 void and is written in similar fashion. What makes a show is the ability of a character to become likable to it's viewers. The Jason Ritter character seems to connect well with the audience. I think most people who liked 24 will also like this show. It's not going to win any awards but it sure is fun to watch. Much more exciting and fun to watch thanReally like this show. It fills the 24 void and is written in similar fashion. What makes a show is the ability of a character to become likable to it's viewers. The Jason Ritter character seems to connect well with the audience. I think most people who liked 24 will also like this show. It's not going to win any awards but it sure is fun to watch. Much more exciting and fun to watch than the new show on AMC "The Walking Stiffs" which bored me to death. (haha, no pun intended)… Expand
  15. rednas21
    Apr 19, 2011
    8
    After watching the first few episodes the show seemed kind of lame and same old generic thriller. But I continued watching it since there is nothing else good on at the same time slot. I'm fairly surprised at how this show developed quickly. It became very interesting, and there aren't that many questions to answer so it's nowhere near the complexity and confusion of "Lost". Overall, IAfter watching the first few episodes the show seemed kind of lame and same old generic thriller. But I continued watching it since there is nothing else good on at the same time slot. I'm fairly surprised at how this show developed quickly. It became very interesting, and there aren't that many questions to answer so it's nowhere near the complexity and confusion of "Lost". Overall, I like the plot now, but the characters not so much still which is not a big problem for me.… Expand
  16. MarcDoyle
    Sep 22, 2010
    7
    I have no doubt whatsoever that this series will leave us without answers in the same way that Lost did, that The X-Files did, etc. But the first episode peeled back just enough layers of the onion to keep me interested. Ritter is a perfect casting choice, and his girlfriend (fiance?) seems solid. Her father (from Gilmore Girls) is terrific - hope he survives the opening couple ofI have no doubt whatsoever that this series will leave us without answers in the same way that Lost did, that The X-Files did, etc. But the first episode peeled back just enough layers of the onion to keep me interested. Ritter is a perfect casting choice, and his girlfriend (fiance?) seems solid. Her father (from Gilmore Girls) is terrific - hope he survives the opening couple of episodes. The presidential storyline seems a little on-the-nose, as does the detainees situation. Truly "ripped from the headlines." And that bed in cabin on the cruise ship looked criminally large compared to what I've seen, but I'll let that one go. Count me in for at least another episode or two.… Expand
  17. JohnMarston
    Oct 20, 2010
    7
    It definitely holds my attention, and makes me want to watch the next episode. but other then that, its just an average syfi show that offers a lot and keeps me wondering, but its not the best directing, acting, or writing
  18. aaronp2098
    Sep 21, 2010
    7
    I really didn't expect a lot from the first episode. I do hope they don't try to make a "new Lost" cause they will fail in that aspect. From what I saw they are just using the flash forward aspect shows are now using, but that won't make the show in itself. The writing and directing of the show will what makes it a success or a failure. Oh and the Ritter kid, will be a star guaranteeI really didn't expect a lot from the first episode. I do hope they don't try to make a "new Lost" cause they will fail in that aspect. From what I saw they are just using the flash forward aspect shows are now using, but that won't make the show in itself. The writing and directing of the show will what makes it a success or a failure. Oh and the Ritter kid, will be a star guarantee it put it in the bank...… Expand
  19. FilmBuff63
    Dec 4, 2010
    7
    Yes it's a Flash Forward / Lost wannabe. However, I am still engaged enough to want to find out what's happening. Yes, I knew they were aliens; however are they good, bad or both. I'm afraid the low ratings may kill the show but let's hope the show improves over time.
  20. Ravens1294
    Jun 24, 2014
    7
    The show was really interesting, but it had a sub-par and boring first 10 episodes. Then the show got way better, but it was put through a long hiatus and it was dead.
  21. dijavantewow
    Oct 15, 2010
    6
    I can't get sucked into this like Lost and then feel nothing but disappointment after years of watching. Maybe I'll wait until it's all said and done to watch the whole series (if I'm told it was worth it), or maybe my interest in where that plane went will get the better of me by tomorrow. Who knows.
  22. fantasy
    Nov 9, 2010
    6
    I have watched The Event hoping it would get better. Instead I hate the Timeline back and forth because it tells the viewer absolutely nothing. We know that these people/aliens are in the present so what is it telling it us with the constant time shifting. The acting is excellent but every new week they add one more ridiculous thing to the subplot. In 24 there was bloody murder withoutI have watched The Event hoping it would get better. Instead I hate the Timeline back and forth because it tells the viewer absolutely nothing. We know that these people/aliens are in the present so what is it telling it us with the constant time shifting. The acting is excellent but every new week they add one more ridiculous thing to the subplot. In 24 there was bloody murder without apology. In The Event Thomas must apologize for hurting a fly. At some point they have to let the viewer in on what is going on. I will give it just a few more shows before I pull the plug on The Event.… Expand
  23. Krogg
    Sep 21, 2010
    6
    Love the cast. Hated the editing. I don't mind a few flashbacks. But the constant "X Months/Days Earlier" got nauseating quick. I'm interested enough to watch a few more. I'll decide from there whether or not to keep watching.
  24. ryben589
    Sep 21, 2010
    6
    Here's the thing:

    This show has so much promise. But because of Lost ruining that genre, it's going to be hard to succeed. "Oh great. Another show where we have no idea what the hell is going on? No thanks. Not falling for this one again." I love these kinds of shows, but Lost did ruin the genre to succeed. The characters in this episode are very dull. Except for Jason Ritter who does a    Here's the thing:

    This show has so much promise. But because of Lost ruining that genre, it's going to be hard to succeed. "Oh great. Another show where we have no idea what the hell is going on? No thanks. Not falling for this one again."

    I love these kinds of shows, but Lost did ruin the genre to succeed. The characters in this episode are very dull. Except for Jason Ritter who does a great job for his character. But that's all. And with that, the show and writers should focus on him being the main character and write the story around him. Don't write the story based around multiple characters like Lost did. Because of all the previews for this show, you already know what happens in the pilot. Which is a shame, there were no surprises for this episode at all. Not even the closing line when a big accident is about to occur, "I didn't tell you everything." Well no duh. It's a shame that Lost ruined this genre, because shows like FlashForward and "The Event" now have to suffer. Not the greatest episode, but there's still promise. But they can't keep going "17 minutes ago" or "13 months ago" or "11 days ago." It ruins it.    … Expand
  25. DataLynx
    Oct 3, 2010
    6
    It's an interesting take on the Lost Premise, however The Event is not seeking to keep all secrets for very long which is good. As it will get boring after awhile. I do not see the Event lasting for more then 3 seasons. As the title itself indicates.
  26. Matthewfox
    Oct 11, 2010
    6
    This is no LOST by any means, but a quite good substitute. I have them saved on my DVR because I have to watch them a second time cause I don't get how they were there. LOST I had never had to do that.
  27. JLB
    Nov 29, 2010
    6
    Have to give it a 6 for now. There's potential there, but the acting in some cases is weak. Yet the idea is interesting. I'm giving it more time as we're only mid-way through the season. The recent episode has revealed more behind the conspiracy.
  28. KundK
    Nov 7, 2010
    5
    "The Event" suffers from the typical "X-Files/Lost/FlashForward"syndrome which can be summed up like this: We want you to believe that something incredible and world-shattering is happening but we cannot show it to you, tell you exactly what it is or even devote the majority of time to dealing with that because we didn't really work it out well and if we spell out what we mean, it might"The Event" suffers from the typical "X-Files/Lost/FlashForward"syndrome which can be summed up like this: We want you to believe that something incredible and world-shattering is happening but we cannot show it to you, tell you exactly what it is or even devote the majority of time to dealing with that because we didn't really work it out well and if we spell out what we mean, it might sound idiotic and be really underwhelming if we ever have to give you the pay-off... therefore will go to endless (and pointless) flashbacks to prolong the back-story which does not interest anyone. Alien conspiracy plot might have been interesting (at least, more interesting than the horrible new "V") but only 15% of the show (if that) is centered around the only thing that matters. The rest is pointless back-story of a bunch of seriously bland characters and that is extremely annoying and unfair to the viewers. Watching this feels like watching a 90 minute football (soccer) match in which there is only 10 minutes of play and the rest of the time there are clips which show what the goalkeeper had for breakfast, who the midfielder was in love with five years ago and why the manager wears a white scarf on Sundays.… Expand
  29. benderrodriguez
    Oct 12, 2010
    5
    Good premise, but bad execution. None of the characters I particularly like or relate to. At least with Flash Forward, you related to the characters in some shape or form. The time shifting in the episodes is a bit jarring, I agree.
  30. MMahar
    Oct 20, 2010
    5
    Already stopped watching, unfortunately. Characters didn't do it for me, and the time shifting is annoying. For a serial drama it doesn't really end off on cliffhangers...at least I didn't feel they were.
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Awards & Rankings

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#55 Best TV Season of 2010
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#10 Most Discussed TV Season of 2010
16
#16 Most Shared TV Season of 2010

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
67

Generally favorable reviews - based on 28 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 18 out of 28
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 28
  3. Negative: 1 out of 28
  1. Philadelphia Daily News
    Reviewed by: Ellen Gray
    70
    It's too soon to tell if The Event, the latest entry in the networks' race to find the next "Lost," isn't merely the next "FlashForward," since, by the end of an intriguing-enough pilot, you won't know much more than you did coming in (including whether NBC's willing to hang in there long enough for us to get some answers). But the cast is good.
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  2. Philadelphia Inquirer
    Reviewed by: Jonathan Storm
    50
    After all those promos, people have the feeling they've seen the whole first episode, which they probably have.
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  3. The Hollywood Reporter
    Reviewed by: Barry Garron
    70
    With its large ensemble cast and frequent flashbacks--visiting and revisiting events that occurred from 23 minutes to 13 months in the past--watching Event is like riding a contraption that is half time machine and half bumper car.
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