The Idol (2023)

:

Season 1
  • Network: HBO
  • Series Premiere Date: Jun 4, 2023
User Score
2.0

Generally unfavorable reviews- based on 267 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 50 out of 267
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 267
  3. Negative: 213 out of 267
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  1. andy_indierock
    Jun 5, 2023
    10
    Critics nowadays are damn stupid. This show is quite good. The soundtrack gives you the serenity you never seek before. I recommend this show for working adults that need escape from our harsh reality.
  2. dtg12
    Jun 6, 2023
    10
    Finally a decent piece of television on HBO with pleasant lead and limited amount of preaching. Enjoyable
  3. Mindurbidniss
    Jun 20, 2023
    10
    Perfect antidote to these woke remixes and reboots. So many yeah it did it's portrayal of Hollywood characters as if the previous "hero" depictions are accurate. These are filthy, egomaniacal people who do filthy egomaniacal things daily. This is probably the most accurate portrayal I've seen of these people.
  4. JeffRson
    Jul 26, 2023
    10
    Solid characters. Solid Plot. Perfect soundtrack and talented artists. A critic and caricature of the hollywood music industry, at times provocative, at times comical, at times deep on the struggle to develop a genuine creative practice in an environment that puts money first.
  5. RobertJames
    Jun 5, 2023
    10
    What's going on?? I've seen a lot of shows in my life, lot's of them considered the greatest ones, and I often if not mostly agree. But this is so misleading..they make it seem like it's absolute garbage, the worst show ever done..why??? Would never thought I say this but in this particular case I guess DO NOT trust these reviews. The start at least is way better then described and yes itWhat's going on?? I've seen a lot of shows in my life, lot's of them considered the greatest ones, and I often if not mostly agree. But this is so misleading..they make it seem like it's absolute garbage, the worst show ever done..why??? Would never thought I say this but in this particular case I guess DO NOT trust these reviews. The start at least is way better then described and yes it has that classic HBO feeling of high end, masterful production value, great subtlety in the performances..it's not trying hard at all, it's more like slowly seductively creeping under your skin..which is obvs a methaphor for the manipulative nature of the business and the toxic people it portrays. I'm definitely going to watch the rest of it. Very promising start! Trust the standing ovation at Cannes instead of the reviews I guess, makes way more sense. (Giving this a 10/10 for the beginning and because there is very obvious review bombing going on here - update will follow after episode 6)… Expand
  6. Artazanas2021
    Jun 5, 2023
    10
    The contraversy around this show proved once again without the shadow of the doubt that feminists are the most puritanical demographic along with religious fundamentalists in the world using meaningless buzzwords that they couldn't define if their life depended on it like "male gaze", objectify or sexualize just shows how weak and puritanical they are those words mean nothing they areThe contraversy around this show proved once again without the shadow of the doubt that feminists are the most puritanical demographic along with religious fundamentalists in the world using meaningless buzzwords that they couldn't define if their life depended on it like "male gaze", objectify or sexualize just shows how weak and puritanical they are those words mean nothing they are empty buzzwords meant to hide that feminists are triggered by sex scenes or any erotic expression and want to censor art and games. This show is fantastic,fun and entertaining with hot erotic scenes,but also great direction and style if you like a masterpiece like Euphoria and are not pathetic medieval level prude you will love this one too this show is entertainment,beauty and fun at it's best and we all know obese feminists hate beauty,but real man of culture with taste like me and
    millions of others love it.    … Expand
  7. RivailtonJr
    Jun 4, 2023
    10
    Perfection. I Love every single detail. The cast is amazing. Please watch in hbo
  8. Fitnesssforever
    Jun 8, 2023
    10
    Deserves way higher rating on all cites critics once again showed they are biased and can't appreciate any art that doesn't have "strong empowered woman character",critics hate anime for the same reason and now they are trying to downvote show not by objective measures,but because of their own sex negativity and purity culture ignore them this show is awesome and fantastic in all aspectsDeserves way higher rating on all cites critics once again showed they are biased and can't appreciate any art that doesn't have "strong empowered woman character",critics hate anime for the same reason and now they are trying to downvote show not by objective measures,but because of their own sex negativity and purity culture ignore them this show is awesome and fantastic in all aspects from writing to characterization to creative and unique direction storytelling masterpiece that I have no doubt will only get better we need more interesting,unique shows that push the boundaries are not afraid of promoting sex positivity and sexual liberation like Euphoria and this masterpiece. 10/10… Expand
  9. Fitnesss2022
    Jun 4, 2023
    10
    Gorgeous erotic show with beautiful sex scenes attractive actresses,good writing and great character development that triggers twitter and tumblr radfems and mentally ill male feminists prudes that are called critics now absolute W we need more shows like this,Elite or Euphoria.
  10. secularatheist
    Jun 5, 2023
    10
    Absolute amazing show gorgeous erotic scenes superb character development,incredible cinematography masterpiece from beginning to the end don't listen to mentally ill sexually repressed puritans that think violence and gore is media is okay, but are triggered by sexual expression their prude mentality makes zero sense and enjoy this aesthetic masterpiece. Feminism is cancer and sexAbsolute amazing show gorgeous erotic scenes superb character development,incredible cinematography masterpiece from beginning to the end don't listen to mentally ill sexually repressed puritans that think violence and gore is media is okay, but are triggered by sexual expression their prude mentality makes zero sense and enjoy this aesthetic masterpiece. Feminism is cancer and sex positive pro sexual liberation shows are awesome and goated.… Expand
  11. Progressivefit
    Jun 8, 2023
    10
    Amazing gorgeous sex scenes,great writing and character development awesome cinematography absolutely loved it from beginning to the end ignore whining prudes triggered by sexuality in 2023 since they are obviously insecure and mentally unwell and watch and enjoy this masterpiece of storytelling peak art that all true man of culture with taste will enjoy. This show and Euphoria areAmazing gorgeous sex scenes,great writing and character development awesome cinematography absolutely loved it from beginning to the end ignore whining prudes triggered by sexuality in 2023 since they are obviously insecure and mentally unwell and watch and enjoy this masterpiece of storytelling peak art that all true man of culture with taste will enjoy. This show and Euphoria are masterpieces no matter what prudes or radfems will say. 10/10 must watch.… Expand
  12. theamethyst
    Jun 4, 2023
    10
    This show is a breath of fresh air, admist all the phony attempts of hollywood portaying strong independent female characters, this one actually portrays them like women. It does not hold back in the slightest, neither in the nudity department, nor in its attempts to break barriers, while being extremely unapologetic and bold. Dynamic visuals and its killer music production only add to theThis show is a breath of fresh air, admist all the phony attempts of hollywood portaying strong independent female characters, this one actually portrays them like women. It does not hold back in the slightest, neither in the nudity department, nor in its attempts to break barriers, while being extremely unapologetic and bold. Dynamic visuals and its killer music production only add to the depth of the scenes. As the shows tagline reads "we all crave things that aren't good for us." This is exactly what we need in 2023.… Expand
  13. Andregarca
    Jun 4, 2023
    10
    I just love it. Lilly-Rose Depp
  14. leojesuus_
    Jun 4, 2023
    10
    amazing. if the critics hated it, then it's good. in the first episode josé is captivating and the chemistry with tredos is hot
  15. trimoth
    Jun 4, 2023
    10
    The critics belong to a hivemind and do not believe the early reviews, This is tastefully and masterfully done. This show is a mesmerizing daydream mixed with a dark nightmare fantasy, first episode based off the first episode it hits every mark. Lily Rose Depp is incredible and the supporting cast lift her up to new heights until she soars and plateaus in the best ways imaginable. AbelThe critics belong to a hivemind and do not believe the early reviews, This is tastefully and masterfully done. This show is a mesmerizing daydream mixed with a dark nightmare fantasy, first episode based off the first episode it hits every mark. Lily Rose Depp is incredible and the supporting cast lift her up to new heights until she soars and plateaus in the best ways imaginable. Abel and Sam's vision really captured that of a fraught pop star coping with young adulthood, freedom, liberation and choices is such a wonder to watch.… Expand
  16. Katsamonnatt
    Jun 5, 2023
    10
    Pretty good pilot in general, Lilly and Jennie carried the first episode. Waiting for ep 2.
  17. TheWeekndXO
    Jun 18, 2023
    10
    The amount of paid Negative Reviews on here made me create an account after 8+ years of using Metacritic. I’ve watched every show that has a 8.5 or higher User Score rating on the website. This show is clearly not a 2/10. Not sure who’s paying to ruin the rating but they must really hate Abel, Sam or HBO. This show is next level and most people are just not mentally there yet. Also, ratingThe amount of paid Negative Reviews on here made me create an account after 8+ years of using Metacritic. I’ve watched every show that has a 8.5 or higher User Score rating on the website. This show is clearly not a 2/10. Not sure who’s paying to ruin the rating but they must really hate Abel, Sam or HBO. This show is next level and most people are just not mentally there yet. Also, rating a show negatively when only 2-3 Episodes are out is peak comedy. Most of these reviews are people talking out of their a$$ because they either feel offended or just do not understand the direction in which the show is headed.… Expand
  18. frozenpinky
    Jun 14, 2023
    9
    I love it. The Weeknd is by far the weakest link as you can SEE his acting. I wish he didn't cast himself as the male lead. But the show and where they're going is intriguing, fun, dark, and promiscuous. Only two episodes so far, but it looks like there's gonna be some drama with Jocelyn, her team, Tedros, and Dyanne.
  19. demned
    Aug 15, 2023
    9
    отличный сериал. просто отличный. после всех этих черных русалочек и прочего хлама.
  20. truerock
    Jun 28, 2023
    8
    The HBO series The Idol includes a lot of graphic sex and nudity. It portrays issues that have generated a huge amount of analysis in the press and continues to be extremely relevant and critical to today's social context.

    The series has garnered incredibly poor reviews which reflects individual's inability to perceive the difference between real world reality and the fiction in a film    The HBO series The Idol includes a lot of graphic sex and nudity. It portrays issues that have generated a huge amount of analysis in the press and continues to be extremely relevant and critical to today's social context.

    The series has garnered incredibly poor reviews which reflects individual's inability to perceive the difference between real world reality and the fiction in a film or literature. Sometimes it is comical how people involve themselves in fictional entertainment and somehow forget that it is not real.

    In the case of The Idol the subject of the series and the series itself are actually very close to each other. I just finished reading a review in my local newspaper of the Idol where the critic completely lost himself in the character Tedros portrayed by Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, aka The Weekend, and was beside himself in his obvious emotional hatred of Tesfaye. Yes, it is absolutely universally accepted the Tesfaye is not a good actor, or a good person - perhaps even loathsome. But, in the context of The Idol that would be type-casting Tesfaye for the Tedros role. And, that is the issue of reality and fiction in The Idol having a juxtaposition that professional critics (and most individuals watching The Idol) cannot separate.

    The issues covered in The Idol are extremely important and extremely relevant in the context of today's social environment. But, I rate film on the quality of its product. Obviously, with an HBO/Cinemax/Discovery budget the size here - it is an almost automatic that the quality of the technical aspect of the film will be good. The editing, cinematography, staging, costumes, etc, etc will be good. The creative aspect of the film... casting, writing, acting, directing (and, well editing) can not necessarily be purchased for any amount of money. Talented people are talented and paying them more money does not make them more talented.

    So - anyway - casting Tesfay to play the role of a bad character is a completely rational thing to do. And lets' be clear... Samuel Levinson creates film that stares at things that normal people cannot abide. I find myself looking away when I can't stomach what is in his film - but, what is in Levinson's film is relevant and worthy.

    And to reiterate - the subjects of The Idol are important, complex and currently not well understood (in my opinion). I've only watched part of The Idol. I may change my rating when I have seen more of the series.

    And... oh... I almost forgot to comment on the blatant nudity and sex in The Idol. I'm not going to fractionate the issues of sex and nudity in films, literature or just life in general. Obviously, sex and nudity are an aspect of reality and there are a lot of very, very strong opinions regarding all kinds of aspects of them - especially in today's environment. I watch films that I find difficult to watch. Difficult to watch because they contain depictions of the most horrible things humanity has. Nudity and sex in and of themselves are not bad things - of course. Depicting them in film and literature is something beyond the scope of my film review of The Idol.

    **************************************************************

    I had an additional thought. I have recently written 2 reviews of films I rated highly that had a rapper for one of the lead roles. This is the second time I have said I did not like the rappers acting. There may be something about a rapper's artistic skill set that I do not understand. I'm going to self-evaluate this issue in the future.    … Expand
  21. milosz
    Jun 6, 2023
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I'm very positive after watching first episode, the negative opinions are just overreacting. I also love the music in this episode ( the scene in club with Madonna's Like a Prayer is especially climatic ) also dancing is great.… Expand
  22. Starboy_TW
    Jun 4, 2023
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Atuações muito boas, a crítica profissional passou um ar de que a série não seria boa porém ela tem potencial, somos apresentados a uma personagem com trauma buscando uma segunda opinião e acaba encontrando em alguém misterioso algo que pode ser maior que desejo.
    Atuação de Abel Tesfaye como Tedros soa misteriosa e carismática, e com toque macabro que a trilha ajuda a passar.
    Lilly Depp como Jocelyn consegue trazer de uma forma uma pessoa que busca qualquer coisa pra ser aceita, não com coisas certas porém no sexo.
    Trilha sonora incrível, cenas bem elaborados como o início, ou até mesmo as cenas na boate, com certeza incrível.

    *Cenas favoritas: conversa na boate, improviso de " Hello Angel" no banheiro, ensaio fotográfico.    … Expand
  23. Khalatoth
    Jun 5, 2023
    7
    To be honest... I expected something worst. It was a great first episode, and Tedros will be a terrific antagonist, he was scary as hell.
  24. bertobellamy
    Jun 4, 2023
    3
    Yes, the male gaze of a very feminine problem doesn't help at all, but the main problem with the first episode at least is that is boring. You don't get to care about these characters. And the plot is more preoccupied with making real-world references than developing its characters. Shame.
  25. LatinCritic13
    Jun 17, 2023
    3
    The Idol is a big beautiful, dark, twisted fantasy that Sam Levinson and The Weeknd has ever came up with after Euphoria's success. The cinematography and the production design is immaculately crafted that captivates the glitz, glamour, and gurus of superstardom, but fails to deliver a concise story that actually feels like a sleazy expensive pornography movie.
  26. Fabiancsc
    Jul 24, 2023
    3
    What a pity that something that promised quality resulye in endless bad performances and a mediocre scripIt
  27. Thor1001
    Jun 5, 2023
    3
    Amo o The Weeknd mas não sei porque todo cantor quando vai fazer um filme ou série têm que fazer com essa temática adulta. A série têm vários erros, alguns exemplos são as mulheres exploradas sexualmente de forma gratuita, e o roteiro todo bagunçado, é triste, pois tinha esperanças nessa série, a e lembrando que têm a A24 envolvida e mesmo assim é muito ruim.
  28. wtriplet
    Jun 12, 2023
    3
    It isn't as bad as some people are saying, but also isn't very good. The first problem is The Weekend can't act and he and Depp have the chemistry of 2 pot plants. The second problem is how slow and boring it is.
    But it is beautiful to look at. There are some interesting scenes between the side characters and Depp does a decent Britney impression. The whole thing could have been a decent    It isn't as bad as some people are saying, but also isn't very good. The first problem is The Weekend can't act and he and Depp have the chemistry of 2 pot plants. The second problem is how slow and boring it is.
    But it is beautiful to look at. There are some interesting scenes between the side characters and Depp does a decent Britney impression. The whole thing could have been a decent guilty pleasure, if not for The Weeknd.    … Expand
  29. PotterheadGleek
    Jun 5, 2023
    2
    If The Idol had been released 15 o 20 years ago, it could've been a moderate success. "The Weeknd plot" I don't see it as a relevant thing for the series, I believe it could've just gone with "The Joselyn plot" of the teenage pop star returning after a mental breakdown. The Weeknd is not an actor. His acting is below average and it's creepy. Lily Rose and Rachel are good, and they give aIf The Idol had been released 15 o 20 years ago, it could've been a moderate success. "The Weeknd plot" I don't see it as a relevant thing for the series, I believe it could've just gone with "The Joselyn plot" of the teenage pop star returning after a mental breakdown. The Weeknd is not an actor. His acting is below average and it's creepy. Lily Rose and Rachel are good, and they give a lot to the plot.… Expand
  30. Rebel_Panda
    Jun 9, 2023
    2
    "The Idol" kicks off with its first episode, titled "Pop Tarts & Rat Tales," but expectedly fails to live up to its potential. Set in blistering heat and uncomfortably overexposed lighting at the mansion of a pop star, Jocelyn, fresh out of the mental hospital attempting to get back in the game. The episode follows Jocelyn's management team as they navigate the aftermath of a humiliating"The Idol" kicks off with its first episode, titled "Pop Tarts & Rat Tales," but expectedly fails to live up to its potential. Set in blistering heat and uncomfortably overexposed lighting at the mansion of a pop star, Jocelyn, fresh out of the mental hospital attempting to get back in the game. The episode follows Jocelyn's management team as they navigate the aftermath of a humiliating photo leak on social media. Regrettably, the banter between the characters falls flat, leaving viewers with insufferably annoying individuals who fail to entertain in any meaningful way.

    One of the show's strengths should have been the cast, featuring talented actors like Dan Levy and Rachel Sennot, known for their comedic prowess. However, their performances suffer due to the lackluster material they are given. With no compelling characters to root for or view the drama through, the episode feels like a never-ending trainwreck that fails to engage the audience.

    Additionally, The Weekend's involvement in the series is disappointing. Rather than attempting to act, he simply appears as himself, lacking vocal inflections, body language, or facial expressions that would indicate any effort to portray a character. His aimless wandering around the set leaves much to be desired, especially for fans expecting to see his talent extend beyond his music.

    The second half of the episode takes an unpleasant turn, shifting the setting to Tedros' supposedly depraved nightclub. The strobing lights and poor lighting make it difficult to discern details, adding to the overall unpleasant viewing experience. Furthermore, a peculiarly long scene featuring Jocelyn engaging in self-pleasure seems more fetishistic and creepy than empowering, lacking the intended impact and instead veering into uncomfortable territory.

    It becomes clear that "The Idol" lacks self-awareness, as evident in a later scene where Rachel Sennot's character comments on Tedros' "rapey-vibe," and Jocelyn surprisingly responds positively to it. This unfortunate dialogue choice raises questions about the show's writing quality and the decision-making process behind such an awful script. Every attempt at satire such as this falls flat on the floor, or perhaps beneath ground level to become exactly what it attempts to satirize. Sleazy, gratuitous, and pretentious.

    Jocelyn's insecurity over her first pop-song single soon to be released is her main relatable aspect. Her conversation with Tedros in which she plays part of the song shows promise of character development. Unfortunately it is immediately followed by an awkward and out of place BDSM scene. It is frankly embarrassing that they referenced Basic Instinct, which is infinitely more provocative.

    The first episode of "The Idol" fails to impress. With uninteresting characters, a lack of humor, questionable choices in visual presentation, and poorly written dialogue, the series struggles to find its footing. Despite the talented cast involved, their efforts are hindered by the subpar material they have to work with. Maybe future episodes will address these shortcomings and offer a more engaging and thoughtfully executed viewing experience. But I won't hold my breath.    … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

8
#8 Most Discussed TV Season of 2023

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
27

Generally unfavorable reviews - based on 24 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1 out of 24
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 24
  3. Negative: 16 out of 24
  1. The Observer (UK)
    Reviewed by: Barbara Ellen
    Sep 10, 2024
    20
    On one level, The Idol is yet another risible, cliche-riddled take on the music biz in which no cast member (Hank Azaria, Jane Adams) is permitted to speak normally. On another, it’s a post-#MeToo melodrama with a lead character whose heavily semaphored empowerment puts viewers squarely at fault if they dare to question the sleaze and cynicism on display.
    Read full review
  2. ABC News
    Reviewed by: Peter Travers
    Jun 9, 2023
    0
    The only thing shocking about this vanity production from The Weeknd, whose acting runs the gamut from A to B, is how shockingly bad it is. From its leering male gaze to its juvenile eroticism and cringy dialogue, the premiere episode hits a new low in creative ineptitude.
    Read full review
  3. The Times
    Reviewed by: Carol Midgley
    Jun 7, 2023
    40
    Here is a show purporting to satirise sexual exploitation while relishing it.
    Read full review
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