The Knick

:

Season 1
  • Network: Cinemax
  • Series Premiere Date: Aug 8, 2014
Season #: 2, 1
User Score
8.4

Universal acclaim- based on 243 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 222 out of 243
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 243
  3. Negative: 14 out of 243
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User Reviews

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  1. lulu55
    Aug 28, 2014
    10
    "The Knick" is not only great drama with superb acting, writing and directing, but there is a gritty, realistic edge to it that as an OR nurse, it takes me back into the history of surgery and medicine -spot on! I look forward to the show unfolding its many layers, showing the reality of how medicine and surgery, specifically, have developed into the disciplines of today. There were few"The Knick" is not only great drama with superb acting, writing and directing, but there is a gritty, realistic edge to it that as an OR nurse, it takes me back into the history of surgery and medicine -spot on! I look forward to the show unfolding its many layers, showing the reality of how medicine and surgery, specifically, have developed into the disciplines of today. There were few guides, little proven science and each step was taken with unsure feet not knowing where it would lead. Excellent- we can't wait for the next show!… Expand
  2. bohmer
    Sep 8, 2014
    10
    Works on every level possible. I know I'll watch the whole series multiple times. The images and sound are hyper immersive and the Cliff Martinez score put you in just strange time travel simulation.
  3. BogKid
    Aug 9, 2014
    9
    "The Knick" is another interesting and off-beat television series to add to this summers generally quite excellent season. A struggling hospital in 1900 New York City exhibits all of the frailties of a modern city with an overlay of the abysmal medicine of the early part of the twentieth century. On the "up" side, we see the responsible doctors of the era struggling to improve their"The Knick" is another interesting and off-beat television series to add to this summers generally quite excellent season. A struggling hospital in 1900 New York City exhibits all of the frailties of a modern city with an overlay of the abysmal medicine of the early part of the twentieth century. On the "up" side, we see the responsible doctors of the era struggling to improve their profession based on the extremely limited medical technology of the time.

    The show does an excellent job of recalling the drabness and awful poverty of the era contrasted with the lifestyles of the wealthy few. The star, Clive Owen is an addict, a responsible physician, a blatant racist and probably a good illustration of the medical profession of that era.

    As an aside -- learning from the past is necessity to developing intelligence about the present.    … Expand
  4. aimeedax
    Sep 11, 2014
    10
    I am very impressed with this tv series. It is a reflection of how modern surgery has evolved through the years. the early part of the 20th century definitely pioneered modern medicine and surgery as it is at the present. clive owen is phenomenal in his part. in fact all the actors are superb. very well cast. good script. I am looking forward for the next season.
  5. BillJustBill
    Aug 12, 2014
    9
    This is a flat-out entertaining show. Yes, the surgery scenes seem so real and visceral that you will be going "Ewwww," but the dialogue is terrific, Clive Owen and all cast members are spot on and the show has plenty of interest and conflict. It looks as if they spared no expense in producing it. My wife and I look forward to future episodes.
  6. alizpeptob
    Oct 21, 2014
    10
    Like the drug it is centered around, this show is truly addicting. The Knick is a gritty series based in the early 20th century world of medicine. Just about every aspect of the show - character development, writing, directing, score- is executed very well. This is a series that isn't afraid to get its hands dirty, focusing on numerous controversial topics including drug addiction, racism,Like the drug it is centered around, this show is truly addicting. The Knick is a gritty series based in the early 20th century world of medicine. Just about every aspect of the show - character development, writing, directing, score- is executed very well. This is a series that isn't afraid to get its hands dirty, focusing on numerous controversial topics including drug addiction, racism, abortion, prostitution, and mental illness. The best part is it covers all these subjects in an intriguing and realistic manner. Owen's performances should be enough to keep you hooked, but really he is helped tremendously by the performances around him. The Knick horrifies you from the start, beats you up along the way, and leaves you completely drained yet longing for more at the finale. In the end, you're left with the haunting realization that everyone, no matter their status, is a patient at the Knick.
    I'm very pleased with the first season of this series and I will be waiting eagerly for the 2nd season to arrive.    … Expand
  7. Jimmy_McNulty01
    Oct 8, 2014
    9
    What intrigues me most about "The Knick" is how realistic it seems when you watch it. You don't realize how primitive medicine was a little more than a century ago, and how these kinds of doctors and nurses were revolutionary in how they helped evolve the practice. The shots are beautiful and well thought out, although a tad bit too shaky cam for my taste. The shot at the beginning of theWhat intrigues me most about "The Knick" is how realistic it seems when you watch it. You don't realize how primitive medicine was a little more than a century ago, and how these kinds of doctors and nurses were revolutionary in how they helped evolve the practice. The shots are beautiful and well thought out, although a tad bit too shaky cam for my taste. The shot at the beginning of the second episode showing each character arriving at the hospital was a nice touch, as well as letting Andre Holland basically steal the show from Clive Owen. Andre Holland becomes more likable with each appearance on the screen, especially when you start to learn more about his life, his family, and his ambition. Clive Owen does what he does best, and pretty well too in this case, but it's the supporting cast that makes this show stand out. It's a bit hard to watch if you're someone like me who gets squeamish at images of surgery but it's not unbearable and really interesting to observe when you see the actual struggles these men and women had to deal with that are almost non-existent today. It may be a period piece in a period that's been regurgitated several times in recent years, but it actually feels like one, not like some hastily made BBC show.… Expand
  8. Lookingforwonde
    Aug 16, 2014
    10
    Excellent period piece. Owen's character has a good blend of ego and fragility. The struggle to keep the hospital afloat is a strong story line. And the early New York atmosphere is terrific.
  9. mac5
    Sep 2, 2014
    7
    I’m a sucker for social history and the Knick doesn’t disappoint. With Dr. John Thackery who is a cocaine addled, racist egomaniac with a fondness for the female flesh and erratic lifestyle and yet manages to pull of the technical skill in the theater/auditorium. Although I’m positive men like this existed I’m not sure I want to watch his spiral of decline and then see him treated like aI’m a sucker for social history and the Knick doesn’t disappoint. With Dr. John Thackery who is a cocaine addled, racist egomaniac with a fondness for the female flesh and erratic lifestyle and yet manages to pull of the technical skill in the theater/auditorium. Although I’m positive men like this existed I’m not sure I want to watch his spiral of decline and then see him treated like a god in the surgery. I like Clive Owen as the lead with his anti-hero presence despite his accent wavering from British to American throughout. The surgery is graphic and definitely not for faint hearted as the scenes do linger uncomfortably at times. Overall it is interesting viewing and would recommend to those who don’t have a sensitive stomach and don’t mind the odd clichéd storyline.… Expand
  10. ahnehnois
    Apr 9, 2015
    8
    A surprising series, in that it's on Cinemax but has less gratuitous nudity than the other pay cable shows tend to (don't be fooled by the opening shot). Nor is it historical fantasy as we've often seen; the overall level of historical accuracy and fidelity seems high, save for a healthy dose of dramatic conceit, and an oddly electronic score that pops in from time to time.

    The world is    A surprising series, in that it's on Cinemax but has less gratuitous nudity than the other pay cable shows tend to (don't be fooled by the opening shot). Nor is it historical fantasy as we've often seen; the overall level of historical accuracy and fidelity seems high, save for a healthy dose of dramatic conceit, and an oddly electronic score that pops in from time to time.

    The world is vividly rendered, and a characteristically unironic performance from Clive Owen anchors the show. The remaining cast are largely anonymous, but convincing. Soderbergh's directorial style is evident and compelling, and also occasionally pretentious enough to make you want to punch him in the mouth. Better an auteur than the alternatives though.

    The show's purpose seems to be highlighting everything messed up in the world, both in reference to the time frame portrayed and with clear reference to the modern world. Its depictions of racism, profiteering, drug abuse, overachievers, and personal flaws are sometimes overly nail-on-the-head, but always interesting. The world of surgery was and remains bleak. Definitely worth a watch.    … Expand
  11. bhachu74
    Oct 13, 2014
    10
    Our age of medical miracles is only a 100 years from the time depicted in The knick. Your chance for surviving an illness depended on your cokehead racist doctor, embezzlers and new technology like hour long X-rays. Superb writing, incredible directing and the finest acting makes the knick a pleasure to watch.
  12. JamesIrish68
    Dec 24, 2014
    10
    There isn't one weak actor in the Knick, Every character, likeable or no, is played to a T. The futuristic sound track is beautiful and put me in a different space and perception when I watched this series. The un sung heroes of set and costume design are perfect, and there is some beautiful outstanding cinematography. Its a serious even sad series but don't let it dissuade you fromThere isn't one weak actor in the Knick, Every character, likeable or no, is played to a T. The futuristic sound track is beautiful and put me in a different space and perception when I watched this series. The un sung heroes of set and costume design are perfect, and there is some beautiful outstanding cinematography. Its a serious even sad series but don't let it dissuade you from watching. The issues raised are well addressed and have a strong contemporary ring to them. Political opinions are not shoved down your throat. The brilliance of flawed humanity is portrayed perfectly. The fragility of life in 1900 and how lucky we are to be alive today stuck me constantly. A masterpiece, Art.… Expand
  13. richyochem
    Sep 5, 2014
    9
    When viewing "The Knick" I Find myself in awe of what Early Doctors had to do with developing the Surgery Procedures,the introduction of inventions that we all take for granted. Dr.Thackery is at the fore front, of discovery, yet struggles with his Drug addiction. The secondary storyline of the struggles of Dr. Algernon Edwards trying to be recognized as an equal. I want to see more.
  14. FilmSnob
    Aug 28, 2014
    6
    I'm giving this new series 2 more episodes (seen 1 & 2) before I decide whether to ditch it. The 6/10 is for excellent acting-Clive Owen is a great choice for the lead. BUT there are so many issues on this operating table that have already been sliced open, manipulated, and explored in all their gory detail: women's rights, black struggles, human rights, god complexes. It can be veryI'm giving this new series 2 more episodes (seen 1 & 2) before I decide whether to ditch it. The 6/10 is for excellent acting-Clive Owen is a great choice for the lead. BUT there are so many issues on this operating table that have already been sliced open, manipulated, and explored in all their gory detail: women's rights, black struggles, human rights, god complexes. It can be very painful and tedious to watch. Owen's character is clearly set to become the anti-hero, drug problems, anger management issues and racism cement his calling, and that's what I don't like: the ability to predict the future storyline. Two more episodes. It better get good.… Expand
  15. unixuser101
    Aug 14, 2014
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Just seen episode 1 . Well all I can say I am glad i didn't live then. Very gritty 1900 New York hospital drama. Great acting. Sort of predictable genius but flawed main lead doctor running out of veins for his cough.. little habit. Ouch is all I can say... when you watch you will know what i mean lol. Operation scenes are good and look authentic.
    Might be a nice little summer gem this one. Hope it continues in this vein. Looking forward to the next episode.    … Expand
  16. Darius338
    Oct 23, 2014
    10
    Eludium.....you know nothing of good tv if you truthfully think The Knick is not brilliant...nay, GENIUS show. Soderbergh has hit a new level of genius directing. Every episode I found myself saying out loud "This is fing Genius directing!!!. Its a original new testament to how great TV can be. Anyone who hates this show...really should just stick to CBS, NBC, and ABC.
  17. Kacy00
    Feb 6, 2015
    9
    The Knick is America's Downton Abbey, but better.

    Strong characters meet strong actors with a fascinating time in history and little FCC restrictions equal one of the best shows on television and a must-see.
  18. silverado
    Dec 16, 2015
    0
    The racism and mysogyny in this series are useless. The dialogues are very soapy. No likeable characters. Too much blue philtering photography and awful handycam shaky images.
  19. EludiumQ36
    Aug 9, 2014
    2
    My criticism of "The Knick" parallels that of WGN's new series "Manhattan". "The Knick" dates back to when you're great grandfather would've been running around the dirt streets of NYC and who wants to see that? There's nothing interesting in this backwards period of our history and, like "Manhattan", it's not at all colorful; in fact, they might as well filmed this in black-and-whiteMy criticism of "The Knick" parallels that of WGN's new series "Manhattan". "The Knick" dates back to when you're great grandfather would've been running around the dirt streets of NYC and who wants to see that? There's nothing interesting in this backwards period of our history and, like "Manhattan", it's not at all colorful; in fact, they might as well filmed this in black-and-white because the muted grays and browns are just as bad. "The Knick" must've been pitched as "what if we mixed "House" with "Grey's Anatomy" and set it in medically ignorant 1900?" Unfortunately, the response was "yes, let's do this" instead of "get the hell out of my office and check yourself into rehab."… Expand
  20. FleshWorld
    Aug 13, 2014
    8
    The television industry is really obsessed with this general timeframe isn't it? I like the lead character quite a bit though I hope he learns to lighten up over the course of the season. Good for Cinemax and bringing some more viewers to their original programming. I'm a huge fan of straight back banshee and hunted wish unfortunately I think was canceled.
  21. Justinavery7074
    Oct 2, 2018
    8
    Outstanding television. Clive Owen has never been better. Great characters with each a compelling storyline
  22. googolendtimes
    Nov 25, 2014
    9
    "The Knick" is a terrific drama, one that rivets on account of its extraordinarily talented ensemble, Steven Soderbergh's superlative directing and complex writing that incorporates an intoxicating fusion of character-driven drama and uncompromising attention to detail, both medical and historical. The fact its rich thematic framework manages to be relevant to modern times in spite of its"The Knick" is a terrific drama, one that rivets on account of its extraordinarily talented ensemble, Steven Soderbergh's superlative directing and complex writing that incorporates an intoxicating fusion of character-driven drama and uncompromising attention to detail, both medical and historical. The fact its rich thematic framework manages to be relevant to modern times in spite of its 1900s setting is another notch on its long list of accomplishments, all of which intersect to make "The Knick" one of the best TV series of the year.… Expand
  23. CoopLc
    Aug 23, 2014
    7
    Although I admit the main idea seems very interesting AND the set construction is amazing, the pilot has a few ideas we have seen in other series, like the doctor's addiction to cocaine, his "bossy way of life" seem very House, Mad Men to me. Anyway, I don't know if I have this opinion because I watch Mad Men and Masters of Sex but the shaky camera was pretty disturbing in a bad way.
  24. roinujrino
    Dec 7, 2015
    10
    Steven Soderbergh has made a wonderful job with this show, it's just perfect. The casting, script, the directing, everything fits perfectly to a simple, but enchanting narrative.
  25. tulippeonies
    Oct 28, 2014
    7
    The Knick is a refreshingly gritty imagining of early 20th century medicine, and all the horrors it entails. The show follows the struggles of a troubled-genius by the name of Dr. John Thackery (Clive Owen). Thackery is a fictitious character, but his story has a basis in reality. His story is that of Dr. William Halsted, an esteemed physician who was as famous for his medical innovationsThe Knick is a refreshingly gritty imagining of early 20th century medicine, and all the horrors it entails. The show follows the struggles of a troubled-genius by the name of Dr. John Thackery (Clive Owen). Thackery is a fictitious character, but his story has a basis in reality. His story is that of Dr. William Halsted, an esteemed physician who was as famous for his medical innovations as his addiction to pharmaceuticals. Halsted who would later go on to found John Hopkin's Medical School while battling the throws of addiction to morphine and cocaine until his death. The show has done an excellent job of salt and peppering interesting facts about turn-of-the-century culture that was present at the time in New York City. So what are you waiting for? Get your lab coat and stethescope ready, season one is available now!… Expand
  26. sully22
    Nov 5, 2014
    8
    Very much enjoying thus far, acting is very good, good plot and characters that would start to relate to and want to do well. I would recommend the watch!
  27. Shaqfu75
    Aug 24, 2016
    10
    Each episodes getsbetter and the plot is really original. This show looks so cool! The sets of 1900 in NYC are perfectly done... i havnt even gotten to the directing or brilliant acting ! One of the best shows

Awards & Rankings

45
#45 Best TV Season of 2014
57
#57 Most Discussed TV Season of 2014
45
#45 Most Shared TV Season of 2014

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
75

Generally favorable reviews - based on 37 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 28 out of 37
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 37
  3. Negative: 0 out of 37
  1. Chicago Sun-Times
    Reviewed by: Lori Rackl
    Aug 19, 2014
    50
    This dark medical drama directed by Oscar-winner Steven Soderbergh suffers from multiple ailments, not least of which is its relentlessly grim tone.
    Read full review
  2. PopMatters
    Reviewed by: Cynthia Fuchs
    Aug 13, 2014
    70
    While the designated flawed hero John espouses an essential grasp of the purpose of medicine and the workings of disease (“Despite what you may believe,” he tells Cornelia, “Sickness isn’t a result of poor character, germs don’t examine your bankbook”), he’s also stymied, by his own prejudices as well as money concerns. That these might take him in different directions suggests the series has some sense of the difficulty of medicine then and still.
    Read full review
  3. Under The Radar
    Reviewed by: Alee Karim
    Aug 8, 2014
    60
    Under this gorgeous dressing, The Knick feels curiously hollow.
    Read full review
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