The Leftovers

:

Season 1
  • Network: HBO
  • Series Premiere Date: Jun 29, 2014
Season #: 3, 2, 1
User Score
7.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 706 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 546 out of 706
  2. Mixed: 58 out of 706
  3. Negative: 102 out of 706
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User Reviews

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  1. Floki
    Jul 13, 2014
    9
    This is my first review. I've felt compelled to write this, seeing how people can misjudge this show and comparing it with Lost because of Damon Lindelof. In fact, he does a great job with this show (which is based on a book, meaning that it will not wander around, not that Lost ever did).
    The premise is simple and it's perfect. 2% of the population went missing in a rapture- like event.    This is my first review. I've felt compelled to write this, seeing how people can misjudge this show and comparing it with Lost because of Damon Lindelof. In fact, he does a great job with this show (which is based on a book, meaning that it will not wander around, not that Lost ever did).
    The premise is simple and it's perfect. 2% of the population went missing in a rapture- like event. 3 years after the event we meet with these people trying to make sense of what happened, trying to find some sort of meaning. This single event has divided society and we can never go back to what we once were. What really happened 3 years ago doesn't matter. We might not get any answers, simply because what good will they do? There is no black and white here. Just imagine yourself being caught between the past and the future. The only thing is you don't know what happened and you don't know what's going to happen. What do you do when everything around you is covered in uncertainty? This is not your typical tv show, you don't have good people vs bad people, heroes or anti-heroes, you don't always know what kind of people are out there or how they are dealing with it.
    Oh, and the characters are amazing and really fleshed out and rich. An event like this can change a person to the point of no recognition and the cast is unbelievable in portraying that. This is an artfully crafted show, different from anything else on tv right now. I understand that it's not a show for everybody. I just wish people would stop bashing it and saying we're not gonna get a good finale after 2 episodes. Damon Lindelof gave us an amazing show in Lost, whether you liked the finale or not, he gave us some amazing stories, his stories. I know that some of you, wished for a different ending, but you cannot erase the story up until then or say it's less valuable. And also, Tom Perrotta (the author of The Leftovers) is a writer on the show.
    Watch this show with an open mind.    … Expand
  2. CJD
    Jun 29, 2014
    10
    I usually don't rate until the whole season is over because it is only fair, but I feel the need to give a 10 in an attempt to average out the stupidity. 0 after one episode? And the reviews are making assumptions that may not end up being true. Also, if 140+ million people vanished from the face of the earth with no explanation as to why, it would be international news and would be a bigI usually don't rate until the whole season is over because it is only fair, but I feel the need to give a 10 in an attempt to average out the stupidity. 0 after one episode? And the reviews are making assumptions that may not end up being true. Also, if 140+ million people vanished from the face of the earth with no explanation as to why, it would be international news and would be a big deal. People are so stupid, but I guess it is the Internet, right? Anyway, loved the pilot. Compelling and well written, and yes I will change my rating if the show ends up being less than excellent, but I'll make that decision when the season is over.… Expand
  3. Bbrian2013
    Jun 29, 2014
    10
    I loved it, the premier sets up for an amazing series if you are the kind of person who enjoys dark TV shows i'd definitely recommend it! I will definitely continue to watch to see where it goes from here...
  4. EludiumQ36
    Jun 29, 2014
    3
    So Damon hasn't learned a thing from his controversial LOST experience. It's still going to "about the characters", not neatly tying up the major mystery, which by the way will be rife with deceptive rabbit holes and impotent subplots that just end up wasting everyone's time in the end. #foolmeonce
  5. Fluffybadger
    Apr 28, 2016
    1
    This series showed up as best series 2015 Been airing since 2014, I looked at the trailer and man was I hopeful. As I'm writing this I'm not in the middle of episode 6. Another dull boring episode which does not really have anything to do with what I saw in the trailer. Oh and the chain smoking silent people in white are hilarious. This series is a joke and I will never get the hours backThis series showed up as best series 2015 Been airing since 2014, I looked at the trailer and man was I hopeful. As I'm writing this I'm not in the middle of episode 6. Another dull boring episode which does not really have anything to do with what I saw in the trailer. Oh and the chain smoking silent people in white are hilarious. This series is a joke and I will never get the hours back I spent giving this a chance.....… Expand
  6. david8983
    Sep 18, 2014
    1
    You won't get back the hours you've wasted watching this show. All the poor elements of Lost, Heroes, The Following, etc, rolled into one. And I'll guess there's no explanation / answer at the end of the series, just a cliffhanger for series 2. And it goes on and on...
  7. Rex_richards
    Dec 22, 2014
    4
    I have no idea why I watched all this, but I did.
    I am fairly sure that the creators have no idea where the series is going.
    It is very very slow and there is absolutely no suggestion at all that any of it will be resolved, ever. Virtually nothing that happens has any real sense to it. It is just a collection of weird characters being 'sad' and 'unsure what next'. I guess you could    I have no idea why I watched all this, but I did.
    I am fairly sure that the creators have no idea where the series is going.
    It is very very slow and there is absolutely no suggestion at all that any of it will be resolved, ever.
    Virtually nothing that happens has any real sense to it.
    It is just a collection of weird characters being 'sad' and 'unsure what next'.
    I guess you could sum it up by saying that it is kind of like a small child came up with a weird story about people disappearing and a bunch of actors who fancy themselves as serious decided to go all method on it.    … Expand
  8. marc5477
    May 1, 2017
    5
    The bottom line is I couldn't finish season 1. I got to episode 8 before putting it aside. I may go back to it later but for now I cant find any reason to watch. The reason is absolutely nothing happens between episodes 3 and 8. Its just filler episodes without any development or advancement of the story. On top of that, the cliche characters are tiring to watch. I acknowledge that theThe bottom line is I couldn't finish season 1. I got to episode 8 before putting it aside. I may go back to it later but for now I cant find any reason to watch. The reason is absolutely nothing happens between episodes 3 and 8. Its just filler episodes without any development or advancement of the story. On top of that, the cliche characters are tiring to watch. I acknowledge that the show still has potential and the end of season 1 might surprise me but it can also go very badly as the mystery isnt too interesting to begin with.

    2% of the population disappeared, without reason, instantly. The interest in the show is the mystery of the disappearance and everyone's actions revolves around this event. The show deliberately ignores any sort of explanations to extend the number of episodes and adds other mysterious elements to distract you from the main plot of figuring out the disappearance mystery. The problem is, I dont care about the cult (non-cult) in white. They are not interesting in the least. I also dont care about the teenagers who are no different than they are in the common world except we only see the dumbest of the dumb in this show. Again I am not writing off the show completely but the writing has me worried that the authors have no story to tell. We have all seen this before in shows like The Dome (a disaster), and Lost (ended up a disaster). I will come back to it another day and I may update this review at that time.    … Expand
  9. cdp888
    Jul 22, 2014
    4
    I tried to like this, but it's become saccharin in it's silliness and over the top violin background music blandness, that I've actually begun to view it as a comedy. Do I care about these characters, not really. The Chief's kids are moronic, the whole wife left me for a cult premise is ridiculous (they look like the most impossible couple casting could come up with...). It seems likeI tried to like this, but it's become saccharin in it's silliness and over the top violin background music blandness, that I've actually begun to view it as a comedy. Do I care about these characters, not really. The Chief's kids are moronic, the whole wife left me for a cult premise is ridiculous (they look like the most impossible couple casting could come up with...). It seems like it was made for network TV, not cable. The writing is awful, as is much of the acting (which isn't really their fault with a vehicle such as this). Even the opening title sequence, it tempts us with a Sistine chapel-esque portraits of people levitating up to a Heaven of sorts. But after the 4th episode, it's a boring as clay.… Expand
  10. TheListener
    Sep 8, 2014
    1
    I was bored with this after 15mins. I seems to be promoting smoking, weed, very bad language and non consentual rape.
    Not the best of TV and definitely not for me.
  11. ShiArch
    May 4, 2017
    5
    Not nearly as good as it was hyped up to be. Slow story which creates questions but never ever bothers to answer them (not even in the next season!). But I wont waste your time like show- In short it is - Boring, Slow, Full of plotholes, Incosistent, Overhyped and Pointless.
  12. The3AcademySins
    Oct 19, 2017
    10
    Absolutely outstanding television. This show is a hidden gem, and some of HBO's best work. Every single season, episode, and shot is a masterpiece in film making. Do not miss this show.
  13. TalulaGrey
    Jun 11, 2017
    1
    Everyone was ranting and raving about this series and I decided to give it a try. I kept waiting for it to get better and you know, it didn't. I didn't buy The Guilty Remnant, the whole idea seemed really stupid. Everyone was sad and depressed because 2% of the population just up and vanished. I sat thru the whole first season and geezus it was the most exhausting TV I've ever watched. IEveryone was ranting and raving about this series and I decided to give it a try. I kept waiting for it to get better and you know, it didn't. I didn't buy The Guilty Remnant, the whole idea seemed really stupid. Everyone was sad and depressed because 2% of the population just up and vanished. I sat thru the whole first season and geezus it was the most exhausting TV I've ever watched. I kept waiting for an answer and never got it.… Expand
  14. fenwoman
    Jun 3, 2017
    1
    after watching the first 3 episodes I'm still uncertain of the plot and bored bored bored. This series is completely missable.I decided not to watch the rest of the series and felt nothing but a sense of relief frankly.
  15. arovo
    Jun 23, 2017
    10
    Great acting, great storytelling and great music, Leftovers theme is one of my favourite ever. I really liked the faith theme recurring in the whole season.
  16. EDEN91
    Dec 17, 2017
    10
    The Leftovers is one of the best tv shows ever. It's hard to forget the feelings and emotions of this series. Congratulations to Tom Perrotta for his book, Damon Lindelof and Max Richter for his tracks.
  17. LarsVictor
    Aug 15, 2014
    10
    Must say this show is the best i have seen next after True Detective.
    I know it sounds lame the overall plot, with people missing without explanation – but it is just the trigger effect, to get the drama up and run. It is in the intense moment where people in the world realize that the pain in the world is real – and there is not much to do other than trying to do the right thing, despite    Must say this show is the best i have seen next after True Detective.
    I know it sounds lame the overall plot, with people missing without explanation – but it is just the trigger effect, to get the drama up and run. It is in the intense moment where people in the world realize that the pain in the world is real – and there is not much to do other than trying to do the right thing, despite how uncomfortable it is. How they as human beings need to trust their human sense and start do the right thing (what that ever is?). There is no help in religion in politics in society – there is only help in their own humanity. That drama – when confronted with that - is epic television.    … Expand
  18. RaiderRow
    Dec 18, 2015
    0
    Makes you wonder who is leaving all these positive reviews one after the other in order after a bunch of horrendous reviews (go figure)! I never watched Lost but I heard that all its fans complained about how they felt cheated out of hours upon hours of their lives. I guess this is the same writer so I can't judge him on whether he is continuing the same theme here: create a show whichMakes you wonder who is leaving all these positive reviews one after the other in order after a bunch of horrendous reviews (go figure)! I never watched Lost but I heard that all its fans complained about how they felt cheated out of hours upon hours of their lives. I guess this is the same writer so I can't judge him on whether he is continuing the same theme here: create a show which poses a bunch of unanswered questions and then end it without anything ever being explained! I watched 3 episodes and I quit, the characters are not captivating though the cop does a good acting job. The story is quite weak so far with societies turning to mush though the "disappeared people" issue has not been addressed once in the first 3 episodes I've watched. I could go on and on about the huge holes in this story but consider my reluctance to do so a message for you not to waste your time!… Expand
  19. JohnsJabber
    Jul 16, 2014
    8
    Unsettling and depressing with a storyline that you can't help but be intrigued by. A strong cast that showcase their abilities from the outset. While I haven't read the book it is based on, I have high hopes.
  20. ELCriticon
    Aug 18, 2014
    4
    The correct name should be " The Unanswered Tangent Show " . Basically the script goes horizontally opening situations that either go unanswered or that are forgotten. It pretends to be profound by creating a heavy overall climate with deep silences or still shots, but the lack of a good script is evident. Instead of an intelligent honest story this show is plagued by chicanery. OnlyThe correct name should be " The Unanswered Tangent Show " . Basically the script goes horizontally opening situations that either go unanswered or that are forgotten. It pretends to be profound by creating a heavy overall climate with deep silences or still shots, but the lack of a good script is evident. Instead of an intelligent honest story this show is plagued by chicanery. Only good acting saves the day a little bit. But not enough .… Expand
  21. davidkind2222
    Aug 4, 2014
    10
    and also here: where demon lindelof is involved the nerdy **** is not very far away.

    i liked the show very much - so far. for me it is not so much about the resolution. the series has it´s breathtaking moments in acting and screenwriting. and it is very slow, patient and compassionate. but the audience needs these skills too. you need to look closely you need to listen carefully. my    and also here: where demon lindelof is involved the nerdy **** is not very far away.

    i liked the show very much - so far. for me it is not so much about the resolution. the series has it´s breathtaking moments in acting and screenwriting. and it is very slow, patient and compassionate. but the audience needs these skills too. you need to look closely you need to listen carefully. my suggestion is: don´t watch this series with the mind. watch it with the heart. "the leftovers" is like a surreal dream. it´s full of questions and full of very interesting characters. if you give "the leftovers" time to grow it will pay you with some of the best moments of television this year.    … Expand
  22. Malasorte
    Aug 19, 2014
    10
    Amazing concept! Every week I want more and can't wait for the next one.

    A look into the psychology of masses of people confronted by a massive loss. Which leads to a variety of reactions among the public, cults being one of those.

    The question of the purpose of life arises when others are just gone in an instant, I'd love to find out more!
  23. minnesotanice
    Aug 25, 2014
    10
    I find Justin T to be surprisingly an amazing actor. I feel what he feels. I think all the acting is really good. It's like the left behind books, only not focused so much on the people coming to Christ, it's more on real life situations, people lost and trying to make sense of it all, without talking about the elephant in the room. Some of the story line was confusing at first. JustinI find Justin T to be surprisingly an amazing actor. I feel what he feels. I think all the acting is really good. It's like the left behind books, only not focused so much on the people coming to Christ, it's more on real life situations, people lost and trying to make sense of it all, without talking about the elephant in the room. Some of the story line was confusing at first. Justin kept me interested because of his acting skills. One more episode left.... I will give it another season!! Usually when I love something, it gets canceled.. Hope not!… Expand
  24. shoulderoforion
    May 2, 2017
    3
    Started watching this show when it first showed on HBO, only made it 4 episodes before I had to quit as it was so depressing it made me want to jump off a building. Saw the scores on the seasons started getting progressively higher, 70's to start, then 80's then this current season 3 98??? I never want to miss a good thing, so I just watched the remainder of season 1, and let me tell youStarted watching this show when it first showed on HBO, only made it 4 episodes before I had to quit as it was so depressing it made me want to jump off a building. Saw the scores on the seasons started getting progressively higher, 70's to start, then 80's then this current season 3 98??? I never want to miss a good thing, so I just watched the remainder of season 1, and let me tell you it was like pulling teeth. But I want to get the backstory so when I watch these NEWER BETTER? seasons, I'll know what's happening? This show is terrible bad, but it seems as if through some sort of mass psychosis people are thoroughly digging it. We'll see. On to season 2.… Expand
  25. vikesh2206
    Nov 10, 2014
    2
    The Leftovers is boring, dull and mundane. Not even the talented cast shines in this show which offers viewers nothing but the dourness. Nevertheless, great background music!
  26. ethangomez
    Aug 5, 2014
    10
    Finally, has television begun to create shows that allows audiences to explore greater depths of themselves and others. Shows in which individuals can learn through discussion with others. Once again, has Lindelof created a beautifully crafted series. One that not only entertains the audience, but also makes the audience think. For far too long has television delivered mind-numbingFinally, has television begun to create shows that allows audiences to explore greater depths of themselves and others. Shows in which individuals can learn through discussion with others. Once again, has Lindelof created a beautifully crafted series. One that not only entertains the audience, but also makes the audience think. For far too long has television delivered mind-numbing performances. But finally, hope has been restored to television. No thanks to the newly televised series "The Strain" or other sloppily written programs, that the average viewer could create. Is that not the point of television? To open the eyes of the everyday viewer, to expand horizons? "The Leftovers" is art.… Expand
  27. Fluid_Dynamics
    Apr 18, 2015
    4
    If you like being strung along, by writers who have a track record of stringing you along for no other purpose than manipulating you into staying engaged, then THIS IS THE SHOW FOR YOU.

    If you watch it as a metaphor for how a society reacts after 9/11 or any other traumatic event, then you're likely to get more out of it. Reality has unresolved moments. Fine. Reality also    If you like being strung along, by writers who have a track record of stringing you along for no other purpose than manipulating you into staying engaged, then THIS IS THE SHOW FOR YOU.

    If you watch it as a metaphor for how a society reacts after 9/11 or any other traumatic event, then you're likely to get more out of it. Reality has unresolved moments. Fine. Reality also occasionally provides us a sense of resolution and answers.

    I despise being strung along and manipulated. If you enjoy it, have at it.

    They've finally made the perfect show for you.    … Expand
  28. Cadwallon
    Sep 25, 2014
    10
    Wonderful, difficult and compelling. Obviously not for those with a short attention span or in need of something predigested - or easy! As one of the reviewers said, very much like Les Revenants in its mood - no easy answers or revelations here.
  29. Westdene
    Sep 4, 2014
    9
    This is a series for the thinker, the philosopher, the existentialist, the therapist. It is asking the big questions, and let the viewer try to make sense of happenings. And the main characters are very attractive in addition to their good acting skills. Not everyone's cup of tea. If you liked True Detective and Breaking Bad I think this series will also be appealing to you. I'veThis is a series for the thinker, the philosopher, the existentialist, the therapist. It is asking the big questions, and let the viewer try to make sense of happenings. And the main characters are very attractive in addition to their good acting skills. Not everyone's cup of tea. If you liked True Detective and Breaking Bad I think this series will also be appealing to you. I've watched nine episodes up till now and am fascinated. It will be offensive to fundamentalists and "sensitive-to-vioolence" viewers.… Expand
  30. hauntedChae
    Jan 29, 2016
    1
    mais não é novidade nenhuma que the leftovers é o maior lixo que já passou pelo mundo das séries
    essa serie é uma FARSA
    seus criadores pedantes tentam exaustivamente recriar a lendária LOST e óbvio falham na tentativa os fãs iludidos como são, acham que esse pedaço de bosta é a oitava maravilha do mundo quando na verdade é só mais um lixo CANCELADO, SEM AUDIÊNCIA E SEM PRÊMIOS vamos    mais não é novidade nenhuma que the leftovers é o maior lixo que já passou pelo mundo das séries
    essa serie é uma FARSA
    seus criadores pedantes tentam exaustivamente recriar a lendária LOST e óbvio falham na tentativa
    os fãs iludidos como são, acham que esse pedaço de bosta é a oitava maravilha do mundo
    quando na verdade é só mais um lixo CANCELADO, SEM AUDIÊNCIA E SEM PRÊMIOS
    vamos ter um choque de realidade? vamos
    o único prêmio que essa série foi indicada foi o critics choice awards, na segunda temporada da série
    o reconhecimento passou longe da primeira
    critics choice como sempre caridoso, ainda deu um prêmio pra essa chacota de 6 que concorriam
    VAMOS A LISTA DE SÉRIES QUE JÁ PISARAM EM LEFTOVERS, VENHAM FÃS
    O SAMBA VAI SER GOSTOSOOOOOOOOOOOO
    O MAIOR PRÊMIO DA NOITE ERA MELHOR DRAMA E OS INCOMPETENTES DE LEFTOVERS E OS FÃS ILUDIDOS FORAM MASSACRADOS POR MR, ROBOT, O SUPRASSUMO DE 2015
    EU NÃO ESPERAVA MENOOOOOOOOOOOS

    AGORA VAMOS PARA O QUE EU CONSIDERO SER A MAIOR VERGONHA DA NOITE, ANN DOWN E REGINA KING KONG
    SIM, VCS NÃO LERAM ERRADO, AS DUAS FORAM DERROTADAS EM UMA UNICA CATEGORIA
    MDS QUE VERGONHAAAAAAAAAAAA
    A PROPRIETÁRIA DE UNREAL, CONSTANCE ZIMMER NÃO TEVE PENA E DIZIMOU AS DUAS CHACOTAS DE UMA VEZ
    RAINHA    … Expand
  31. Clairedjaiminho
    Jan 29, 2016
    1
    mais não é novidade nenhuma que the leftovers é o maior lixo que já passou pelo mundo das séries
    essa serie é uma FARSA
    seus criadores pedantes tentam exaustivamente recriar a lendária LOST e óbvio falham na tentativa os fãs iludidos como são, acham que esse pedaço de bosta é a oitava maravilha do mundo quando na verdade é só mais um lixo CANCELADO, SEM AUDIÊNCIA E SEM PRÊMIOS vamos    mais não é novidade nenhuma que the leftovers é o maior lixo que já passou pelo mundo das séries
    essa serie é uma FARSA
    seus criadores pedantes tentam exaustivamente recriar a lendária LOST e óbvio falham na tentativa
    os fãs iludidos como são, acham que esse pedaço de bosta é a oitava maravilha do mundo
    quando na verdade é só mais um lixo CANCELADO, SEM AUDIÊNCIA E SEM PRÊMIOS
    vamos ter um choque de realidade? vamos
    o único prêmio que essa série foi indicada foi o critics choice awards, na segunda temporada da série
    o reconhecimento passou longe da primeira
    critics choice como sempre caridoso, ainda deu um prêmio pra essa chacota de 6 que concorriam
    VAMOS A LISTA DE SÉRIES QUE JÁ PISARAM EM LEFTOVERS, VENHAM FÃS
    O SAMBA VAI SER GOSTOSOOOOOOOOOOOO
    O MAIOR PRÊMIO DA NOITE ERA MELHOR DRAMA E OS INCOMPETENTES DE LEFTOVERS E OS FÃS ILUDIDOS FORAM MASSACRADOS POR MR, ROBOT, O SUPRASSUMO DE 2015
    EU NÃO ESPERAVA MENOOOOOOOOOOOS
    ESSA JÁ TAVA NA CARA AMORES, O FODIDO DE MERDA DO JUSTIN SÓ SERVIU PRA FICAR PELADO NA SÉRIE, PQ PRA GANHAR PREMIO FOI HUMILHADO
    RAMI MALEK REEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEI PISA MAIS EM LEFTOVERS FILHO DA PUTA
    NÃO É NOVIDADE NENHUMA QUE O REI SOZINHO EXPLODE O ELENCO DESSA SÉRIE
    AGORA VAMOS PARA O QUE EU CONSIDERO SER A MAIOR VERGONHA DA NOITE, ANN DOWN E REGINA KING KONG
    SIM, VCS NÃO LERAM ERRADO, AS DUAS FORAM DERROTADAS EM UMA UNICA CATEGORIA
    MDS QUE VERGONHAAAAAAAAAAAA
    A PROPRIETÁRIA DE UNREAL, CONSTANCE ZIMMER NÃO TEVE PENA E DIZIMOU AS DUAS CHACOTAS DE UMA VEZ
    RAINHA
    NÃO BASTOU UMA VEZ, MR. ROBOT, A PATROA DE LEFTOVERS TEVE PISAR NESSE LIXO MAIS UMA VEZ
    CHRISTIAN SLATER PISOU NO WHO IRRELEVANTE E LEVOU MAIS UM PRÊMIO PRA SÉRIE DO ANO
    KKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK
    ALÉM DE NÃO TER PRÊMIOS E SER IRRELEVANTE
    O LIXO DE 2015 NÃO TEM AUDIÊNCIA TAMBÉM
    ULTIMO EPISODIO DESSAS SERIES
    ShowTime: The Affair ‐ 1,11 milhões de espectadores e 0.3 na demo
    STARZ: Outlander ‐ 1,05 milhões de espectadores e 0.5 na demo
    STARZ: Flesh And Bone ‐ 1,03 milhões de espectadores e 0.5 na demo
    HBO: The Leftovers ‐ 993 mil espectadores e 0.4 na demo
    então é isso leftovers fãs, vcs assim como sua série são uma VERGONHA
    e mais uma vez foram massacrados
    LEFTOVERS EU TE ODEIOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO    … Expand
  32. tcastronovo
    Jul 29, 2014
    9
    How people don't find this show and its characters compelling is beyond me. I feel that this is one of the best shows to premiere in a while.
    It is shot and designed beautifully, and the acting is all around awesome. The subtle way it explores how different people deal with tragedy I find so interesting, and think the show has up to this point done very well. Any time you can feel the    How people don't find this show and its characters compelling is beyond me. I feel that this is one of the best shows to premiere in a while.
    It is shot and designed beautifully, and the acting is all around awesome. The subtle way it explores how different people deal with tragedy I find so interesting, and think the show has up to this point done very well. Any time you can feel the tension merely as the viewer shows how great the show is. Especially with an episode like Season 1 Episode 5.
    The Leftovers isn't fast paced and is subtlety executed, which is why i think most people cant enjoy it. The way the show is shrouded in mystery, just like the event that occurred, just adds to it brilliance. The characters in the show don't know what happened, i think its an effective device for the viewers to not know either. I think peoples frustration with not knowing what happened in the event further illustrates this effect. If this event actually happened the same people who are frustrated viewers would be frustrated people real life. If you are a person waiting or complaining that the event is unexplained and hope that you will in future episodes find out what caused it, you are missing the point of the show completely. The show isn't about what happened, its about how people deal with what happened.
    Stop comparing it to lost and true detective. They are both completely different shows.    … Expand
  33. Jay_Von_X
    Jul 29, 2014
    10
    Love it!!! i dont know why everybody is like, why the smoking or why the white clothes? the series has 5 episodes guys, we have to wait several seasons to know why all that stuff in Lost, have a little faith in the leftovers hahah i guess it will be a great series....
  34. RyanofIreland
    Jun 29, 2014
    8
    What we see here is a well crafted television show that follows very closely to the book, which is by all means depressing and filled with mystery. If you are watching this show hoping for it to have a nice conclusion and a happy ending where everything is explained then give up right now. The book ends on a cliffhanger with nothing to be explained, but that is what is nice about it. IWhat we see here is a well crafted television show that follows very closely to the book, which is by all means depressing and filled with mystery. If you are watching this show hoping for it to have a nice conclusion and a happy ending where everything is explained then give up right now. The book ends on a cliffhanger with nothing to be explained, but that is what is nice about it. I don't need to be fed a story and a nice wrapped up conclusion, I like to make assumptions about what happened to the people that were "taken" and that is ultimately what I believe the television show is going for. So if you want an ending that gives you all of the answers and that you don't ponder about afterward then go watch a sitcom on NBC, but if you want to watch a show that starts a conversation about religion, society, and life in general then watch The Leftovers.… Expand
  35. bones52
    Jun 30, 2014
    8
    Good start for the leftovers. This series will be dark but the writing will go deeper than your typical apocalyptic theme. There is certainly comparisons to 9/11, and Lost, such as the mysterious appearances of animals, and the internal conflicts of the major characters gives us a sense of people who are "Lost". The fun of this series is the journey the writers take you on and not theGood start for the leftovers. This series will be dark but the writing will go deeper than your typical apocalyptic theme. There is certainly comparisons to 9/11, and Lost, such as the mysterious appearances of animals, and the internal conflicts of the major characters gives us a sense of people who are "Lost". The fun of this series is the journey the writers take you on and not the ultimate answer of where the vanished went which can never be discovered anymore than where the mysterious island in Lost originated. Ultimately we all as humans must accept some parts of life as unanswerable which is where faith comes into play. I am looking forward to more episodes as this series can be seen as a microcosm of our world today post 9/11.… Expand
  36. Caliesque
    Jul 20, 2014
    2
    Pretty bad. First episode totally did not keep my interest. I'll give it 4 episodes in, because that's how long True Blood got to get me hooked. I was hoping for better.
  37. musser57
    Aug 14, 2014
    2
    I think I gave this series a chance, I watched the first four episodes and found it very frustrating. Episode 3 was alright but I just couldn't tolerate any longer how coy the producers were about shedding any light on what was happening. Example: the Guilty Remnant. The leftovers who didn't join the GRs must have known something about this cult yet none of that is shared with theI think I gave this series a chance, I watched the first four episodes and found it very frustrating. Episode 3 was alright but I just couldn't tolerate any longer how coy the producers were about shedding any light on what was happening. Example: the Guilty Remnant. The leftovers who didn't join the GRs must have known something about this cult yet none of that is shared with the viewer. After four hours all I knew was that the GRs don't speak, wear only white and smoke too much. The GRs also make the leftovers angry; well The Leftovers made ME angry. With each passing episode I felt increasingly like a schmuck for watching.… Expand
  38. chuckvw
    Jul 14, 2014
    8
    An intriguing premise supported by a solid cast. Tom Eccleston is particularly good as the conflicted clergyman. I look forward to seeing where this goes. If it ends in a fizzle a la Lost, I will be a bit ticked off, but so far I'm onboard.
  39. eagleeyeviking
    Sep 28, 2014
    2
    The Leftovers is boring, dull and mundane. Not even the talented cast shines in this show which offers viewers nothing but the dourness. Nevertheless, great background music!
  40. ashleyanderson
    Sep 11, 2014
    10
    Just watched the season finale today and loved it! the show took a couple episodes to hook me but once it got going I really enjoyed it! the main character is great and the ideas while far fetched are definitely thought provoking. I highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys darker dramas.
  41. SwanHatch-dharm
    Aug 18, 2014
    10
    Dark, Moody and like Lost (Lindelof's ground-breaking series) it doesn't pander to the less attentive and the impatient, This is an intriguing and thought provoking ride about grief and loss in the most extraordinary of circumstances.
  42. ruhsuldjimmies
    Jul 27, 2014
    10
    I don't understand all the hate for this great show....I look forward to watching this every Sunday because True Blood has been disappointing lately..
  43. AndyBear
    Aug 20, 2014
    10
    I have to say that I decided to write a review after reading the others reviews. Why ? Because it seams that a lot of people just looks for happy ending. And this is not a series with happy endings. (Maybe their lives are so miserable that they don’t want to be reminded of it) If you are looking for a realistic, what if, mystery, this is a series for you. Is a well-done script that keepsI have to say that I decided to write a review after reading the others reviews. Why ? Because it seams that a lot of people just looks for happy ending. And this is not a series with happy endings. (Maybe their lives are so miserable that they don’t want to be reminded of it) If you are looking for a realistic, what if, mystery, this is a series for you. Is a well-done script that keeps you all the way and makes you want to know more. Is one of those stories that you don’t need any special effects, Damon brings his well known story telling to a new field. Hopefully we are not going to have a silly ending like Lost, but from the first episodes you really get addicted to it. And for all of those who ever imagine a rapture, Well this is what it looks like…… Expand
  44. beht
    Jul 20, 2014
    10
    Oh please, please don't let this show disappear because a bunch of mindless numbskulls would rather watch something with an overload of "events". This is a very promising show, and after three episodes, I can easily say I am hooked. It's extremely well acted, written and produced. As soon as I read the premise, which I immediately found interesting, I expected the show to be cheesy, butOh please, please don't let this show disappear because a bunch of mindless numbskulls would rather watch something with an overload of "events". This is a very promising show, and after three episodes, I can easily say I am hooked. It's extremely well acted, written and produced. As soon as I read the premise, which I immediately found interesting, I expected the show to be cheesy, but premises and plotlines like this usually yield something disappointing. But this does not disappoint. I think any fan of France's "The Returned" should give the Leftovfers a try.… Expand
  45. Ravens1294
    Sep 8, 2014
    10
    When the first trailer was released for this show, I knew it was going to be good and the show looked very interesting. It had a very weird trailer with a lot of WTF moments and that made it different from all the other TV shows out there. Each week, this shows gets better and better. Now, it's my second favorite new show this year. The writing and directing of each episode are fantasticWhen the first trailer was released for this show, I knew it was going to be good and the show looked very interesting. It had a very weird trailer with a lot of WTF moments and that made it different from all the other TV shows out there. Each week, this shows gets better and better. Now, it's my second favorite new show this year. The writing and directing of each episode are fantastic and each episode gets protruded into more madness. The score is beautiful and they really know how to put the right music at the right time. The plot is very entertaining as more what the hell is going on and it keeps you very focused. Justin Theroux knocks it out of the park as Kevin Garvey. He plays him perfectly as the character has trouble deciding what is real and what isn't. The character continuously spirals out of control and it's awesome to see what crazy series of events happen next. Finally, teenagers I can actually like in a show. They're acting is great and they don't weigh down the series. The show has also implanted two POV episodes and that is rare for a show given its infancy. They were fantastic and a perfect way just to see 1 character that we wanted to know more. The Leftovers has so many WTF moments and characters, viewers might want to close their eyes. It's not for the faint of heart as the show is dark, bleak, and very somber. It amazingly has a few glimmers of hope there and there. Never has a show with so many bleak and dark story lines has interested me this much. The season finale ends on a high note, another amazing episode. At the end, there is hope for some of the characters. The Leftovers is definitely one of the best new shows this year. Don't just read the reviews from critics and users. Go watch it. Can't wait for season 2.… Expand
  46. Ronfrakkingswan
    Jul 1, 2014
    9
    I wouldn't usually review a show before the first season has aired, but some of these negative reviews are ridiculous.
    The show it atmospheric, has a nuanced and endlessly intriguing premise and is anchored by some great performances. Can't wait for the rest of the first season.
  47. Kimberle
    Jul 8, 2014
    1
    I was looking forward to this one, now that I've seen 2 episodes....no thank you. The show is slow, painful, and depressing. The characters are difficult to relate to, to the point that I really don't care what happens to them.
  48. SimpleMethod
    Jun 30, 2014
    8
    The pilot was interesting, it set up a lot of character arcs and asked a lot of questions, but answered frustratingly few of them. A lack of answers is understandable for a pilot though. Hopefully they can keep up the intrigue throughout the season, but it's a solid start.
  49. haw2991
    Jun 29, 2014
    4
    As most critics are expressing, the "The Leftovers" is expertly crafted however filled with unexplainable grimmness and depression, leaves you feeling inexplicably unsatisfied.
  50. whiskeyknight
    Jul 18, 2014
    10
    Why does Metacritic allow people/websites to post reviews for an entire season after only the first episode? That's like reviewing a movie after the first 15 minutes! Idiocracy!
  51. jazzythechef
    Jul 8, 2014
    8
    it seems a lot of people are punishing this show for what we experienced with lost. it s early days, and though i'll admit it could slide down the wrong side of the hill. it has me intrigued thus far. a real feeling of melancholy amongst its characters held up with some solid acting. gotta say though i don't like seeing dogs die even in fiction. nor do i enjoy any sort of religion, so itit seems a lot of people are punishing this show for what we experienced with lost. it s early days, and though i'll admit it could slide down the wrong side of the hill. it has me intrigued thus far. a real feeling of melancholy amongst its characters held up with some solid acting. gotta say though i don't like seeing dogs die even in fiction. nor do i enjoy any sort of religion, so it could loose me along the way. i would like to point out thar criticism of lost was loud and clear, if lindelof can take aspects that were done well in lost(there were plenty) and at the same time take on board the criticism, i believe he could be a master storyteller. at this stage i remain optimistic and based on only 2 episode i h ave to rate favourably .… Expand
  52. jentario
    Jul 18, 2014
    10
    This show is amazing, such a great surprise! The characters are all great, the story mysterious and intriguing, the editing and the directing absolutely fantastic. I would give the show a 9 if it wasn't for the perfect third episode (seriously, it's up there with the best episodes I've ever seen) and if it wasn't for the shear amount of misplaced hate I can see around here. I personallyThis show is amazing, such a great surprise! The characters are all great, the story mysterious and intriguing, the editing and the directing absolutely fantastic. I would give the show a 9 if it wasn't for the perfect third episode (seriously, it's up there with the best episodes I've ever seen) and if it wasn't for the shear amount of misplaced hate I can see around here. I personally recommend you give it a shot- it seems like the kind of show you either fall in love with or hate with a vengeance (going by the reviews) and I personally love it.… Expand
  53. silverado
    Nov 9, 2015
    0
    I hightly enjoyed French tv series Les Revenants / the Returned. I love mysteries and cinematography so I was really looking forward to The Leftovers, but oh boy, what a dull experience this is. I really wonder why this story is filmed? What is interesting about watching everyday life? Nothing.
  54. Juneauz
    Sep 9, 2014
    10
    Wonderfully written. Compelling characters, amazing score, great cinematography. This series started out slowly but has quickly become the best show currently on television. Don't understand all these comparisons with Lost, The Leftovers is a much "deeper" show, a cold analysis of human behaviour and modern society (with more than a little "Lynchian" touch to it). Nice job, HBO.
  55. Lookingforwonde
    Aug 18, 2014
    0
    After seven or eight episodes I am finally done with this never ending negative assault on my psyche. The death of the white dressed chain smoking leader registered nary a pump on my interest Richter scale. Who cares. The show should be pulled now. On a positive note the episode with the preacher was terrific, the cops new squeeze is sexy - but overall too little to invest even an hour a week.
  56. smpering
    Oct 6, 2014
    10
    I fail to understand how anyone can rate this show below a 7. Regardless of whether the darkness of mood suits your taste, the acting, wiring and directing are superb. I find myself drawn into this post(rapture?) world. The characters are well drawn and the relationships between them feel very real. I personally love this kind of show with its slow burn, so I’m giving it a 10!
  57. kahaluu_girl808
    Dec 22, 2015
    0
    For me, I didn't care for this show. I tired to, but I just couldn't get into the who "rapture" thing. I'm sure the book (which the TV series is based on) is much better, but for me The Leftovers is just like "leftovers" for dinner....just not feeling it! Once you had it, you are over it! Sorry :(
  58. Phoenixxl
    Aug 5, 2014
    8
    People , don't project your wants and desires on this series then be disappointed it's not what you expected.
    I was expecting 50 shades of grey to be a book filled with paint samples. Should I give it a negative quotation because it wasn't?
    Don't review things you don't understand.
    Have a nice day.
  59. MittelosKing
    Aug 18, 2014
    10
    Fantastic show!!

    Don't be fooled by the "I need answers and I need them now" brigade, This show is a mesmerizing journey of confusion and disorientation, Its characters share a pain a lot of us will never truly understand, the world has gone mad(or mad-er) and the result is combination of Lost, The twilight zone and Breaking Bad).
  60. neilrieck
    Aug 14, 2014
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Like a modern-day X-files? While I do not believe the religious mumbo-jumbo going on in the background (presented like an unnamed character), this very well-written program appears to me to be similar to a modern day X-files program (example-1: the government man offers to deal with the G.R. problem in Mapleton "if the sheriff agrees to have something done"; example-2: the government is involve in collecting/collating 180 questions provided by people trying to collect post-rapture insurance). On a different note, notice how the kids appear to be acting normal (for kids) but the adults are screwy and the older ones are just plain nuts?… Expand
  61. jhrcdn
    Sep 9, 2014
    9
    Simply one of the best, most thoughtful and well-played fictions on TV, with a truly inventive and mysterious heart. Risky in ways that most TV shows can't begin to imagine, and packs emotional and intellectual punches about who we are and our actual relationship to lost loved ones, here and elsewhere, living and gone.
  62. Not2Critical
    Sep 14, 2014
    9
    I am completely lost in this show, but in a good way! Leftover is good storytelling—so good, in fact, who really needs a story right now. I'm willing to wait for the writers mold the final image!
  63. lightningbarer
    Sep 26, 2014
    2
    I'll preface this by saying I'm an Atheist.
    With that out of the way you can guess what my opinion of this is.
    Well you're right. This is utter hogwash, Atheists the world over would dream for the Rapture to happen, so that all the insane and crazy people could disappear and we can live in a world that would quickly start forming unity. I've seen the pilot and I don't plan to see    I'll preface this by saying I'm an Atheist.
    With that out of the way you can guess what my opinion of this is.

    Well you're right. This is utter hogwash, Atheists the world over would dream for the Rapture to happen, so that all the insane and crazy people could disappear and we can live in a world that would quickly start forming unity.

    I've seen the pilot and I don't plan to see anything else on it.
    I'm done    … Expand
  64. DonMega
    Nov 8, 2015
    10
    Some episodes are just so beautiful. The music always matches whats on screen and is great. This is the only show that I always watch with my headphones on. I have a feeling this show will have a very mixed bag of feelings as to me it gives me very similar vibes to that when I watched the movie cloud atlas, which I also loved btw. This is probably the best show I have ever watchedSome episodes are just so beautiful. The music always matches whats on screen and is great. This is the only show that I always watch with my headphones on. I have a feeling this show will have a very mixed bag of feelings as to me it gives me very similar vibes to that when I watched the movie cloud atlas, which I also loved btw. This is probably the best show I have ever watched personally. Every episode just feels so complete. The casting is superb, acting is spot on and general story is riveting, sometimes sad and at times fun. It makes you go through so many different emotions and lets you feel what the characters on screen feel. I love it. My biggest worry is that it will get cancelled because like I mentioned it has a similar vibes to cloud atlas which as reviews ranging from Masterpiece to Bad movie. So this shows viewership is not as high as it should be.

    If you like any of the following: Cloud Atlas, Magnolia, Memento, Awake you will like this. If you enjoy a deep story, good music you will like this. If you are an generally an artistic person, this is a MUST.    … Expand
  65. TomasLif
    Sep 23, 2014
    8
    I just finished the first season and I am blown away. It's very beautiful and eerie. It has a nice pace, brilliant soundtrack and compelling characters. It's not trying to be more than it needs to be. It plays the low key but masterfully. I would recommend it to anyone who wants something a little bit like twin peaks and American beauty. Probably not for everyone. But that's kinda theI just finished the first season and I am blown away. It's very beautiful and eerie. It has a nice pace, brilliant soundtrack and compelling characters. It's not trying to be more than it needs to be. It plays the low key but masterfully. I would recommend it to anyone who wants something a little bit like twin peaks and American beauty. Probably not for everyone. But that's kinda the point I think. I want more.… Expand
  66. mcrancidrugburn
    Jul 13, 2014
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Just like my lazy uncle this show needs work because it's not unwatchable. It seems like the show purposely has no direction. Last episode it had this Waco style assault on the black british guys compound and it was really violent but, it didn't have a effect because the audience can't connect with the characters. It was kind of funny listening to SWAT team guy just talk crazy and curse as he's bleeding out. This show has alot of enigmatic moments. Like the police think the commissioner is going mental like his father because he's killing dogs and talking to toaster ovens. There's some lady in the forest trying to chop down a tree. There's a lady the commissioner's daughter and her friends follow because she has a gun in purse. So they follow her around which makes no sense. Wayne who I wish would be cast as Dr. Who kisses some dead guy on mouth and tries to heal the commissioner's son. There's product placement of Budweiser.
    Anyway maybe the next episode will be better. It is suppose to be about Christopher Eccleston who I think was a horrible Doctor Who. He was a good Invisible Man on Heroes though.    … Expand
  67. mtgmtgmtg
    Jul 30, 2014
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. So many questions, so little answers. I heard this is nothing like the book, which is nice since I haven't read the book. The acting is decent, except for a few minor characters including Aimee, Jill and their friends. Justin Theroux is nice to look at.… Expand
  68. Monstercat77
    Aug 9, 2014
    8
    I feel like people are really not giving this show a chance to develop. Yes! The show is dark. I keep hearing people call it depressing. I happen to be one of those people who enjoys that sort of thing and quite frankly if you don't enjoy that sort of show then this show is not for you. However if you do enjoy that sort of thing and if you can be patient with the show through the firstI feel like people are really not giving this show a chance to develop. Yes! The show is dark. I keep hearing people call it depressing. I happen to be one of those people who enjoys that sort of thing and quite frankly if you don't enjoy that sort of show then this show is not for you. However if you do enjoy that sort of thing and if you can be patient with the show through the first couple episodes you will find yourself looking forward to the next episode. People need to give this show more of a chance.… Expand
  69. nbaNUTCASE
    Sep 3, 2014
    10
    great show. class A show like sopranos and true detective. well acted and written. quite artistic and heavy. be prepared for a slow paced show... it gets better and better
  70. JSL
    Sep 4, 2014
    10
    The premise is excellent but the execution is better. The premise is haunting--what would you do if 2 percent of the world just disappeared? The characters are rich, with much thanks to the intelligent writing and the excellent acting. This psychological thriller is true to what makes us tick and, while each development is understandable after it happens, the series is creative andThe premise is excellent but the execution is better. The premise is haunting--what would you do if 2 percent of the world just disappeared? The characters are rich, with much thanks to the intelligent writing and the excellent acting. This psychological thriller is true to what makes us tick and, while each development is understandable after it happens, the series is creative and impossible to predict. Strongly recommended!… Expand
  71. DbiChias
    Sep 8, 2014
    10
    Thanks HBO, an amazing season 10/10! From the teasers trailers to the final episode, this show really got into my head. So many emotions while watching each show, and 9 and 10 were by far the best. The casting is perfect, the acting powerful. I do agree the show is not for everyone, my wife could not watch it, citing what many others agree on, too "depressing", but im not convinced that'sThanks HBO, an amazing season 10/10! From the teasers trailers to the final episode, this show really got into my head. So many emotions while watching each show, and 9 and 10 were by far the best. The casting is perfect, the acting powerful. I do agree the show is not for everyone, my wife could not watch it, citing what many others agree on, too "depressing", but im not convinced that's entirely the right word for it. I enjoyed the emotional rollerscoaster, bring on season 2 please!!… Expand
  72. NickDemola
    Sep 18, 2014
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Most negative reviews of The Leftovers are based on half-truths and assumptions. Those who watched the whole season know how gripping it actually is.

    Every episode brings you deeper into the abyss. Watching an episode of this show means opening yourself up to being dragged down further into despair.

    It was all worth it for the smile on Nora's face in the last moments of the last episode of Season 1.

    There is hope, people.

    You just have to be patient enough to see it.    … Expand
  73. notforbreakfast
    Oct 31, 2014
    10
    Yes, the tone is bleak, and, yes, the characters are dark. But "The Leftovers" is different: It brought mortality back to television. It's bold and compelling. Great acting, writing, and directing make "The Leftovers" a hit. It won't interest everyone (some will detest it), but its got mystery, wit, and poise that strikes the right kind a people with a chill down their spine.
  74. sonder
    Nov 22, 2015
    10
    I would give the leftovers a 9.5, but since so many reviewers didn't stick around to watch the show develop, I'm giving it a perfect 10. The Leftovers isn't some show with no point, and no preconceived destination, like "Lost" or "Twin Peaks." Rather, each episode builds on the last. Each character becomes deeper and more human. Towards the end of season 2, the slow burn pays off in aI would give the leftovers a 9.5, but since so many reviewers didn't stick around to watch the show develop, I'm giving it a perfect 10. The Leftovers isn't some show with no point, and no preconceived destination, like "Lost" or "Twin Peaks." Rather, each episode builds on the last. Each character becomes deeper and more human. Towards the end of season 2, the slow burn pays off in a big way. When there is so much utter **** on TV, it would break my heart if HBO pulled the plug on this show.… Expand
  75. lorilkezner
    Jan 4, 2016
    10
    My husband and I loved this show from the beginning! Creepy and captivating. We have been binge watching when we can...were just into season 2 and we still love it!
  76. vandana
    Jul 4, 2014
    1
    This must be the most pretentious show that I have ever seen. I did not know whether to cry or laugh when I saw the "people in white smoking cigarettes and writing notes to each other rather than talking" secretly knowing that it will not have a slightest impact on the plot and the whole mystery is just for the sake of mystery. Prepare for 1000 meaningless subplots and main plot that makesThis must be the most pretentious show that I have ever seen. I did not know whether to cry or laugh when I saw the "people in white smoking cigarettes and writing notes to each other rather than talking" secretly knowing that it will not have a slightest impact on the plot and the whole mystery is just for the sake of mystery. Prepare for 1000 meaningless subplots and main plot that makes no sense.

    Might I add that the writing is uninspiring, acting unconvincing and the whole thing dull to the point I fell asleep on two occasions before I tortured myself to watch this thing to the end?

    1 for music.

    Fool me once....    … Expand
  77. mac5
    Jul 15, 2014
    2
    I really wanted like this show as it has all the elements of a great and meaningful journey. I simply do not know what is going on nor do I want to know. To grab a person and keep their interest in caring for the story to unfold you have to provide something likable about either the characters or an intrigue to the storyline. I felt it failed on both counts. Am sure there would be lots ofI really wanted like this show as it has all the elements of a great and meaningful journey. I simply do not know what is going on nor do I want to know. To grab a person and keep their interest in caring for the story to unfold you have to provide something likable about either the characters or an intrigue to the storyline. I felt it failed on both counts. Am sure there would be lots of folks that love this TV Series but it’s too frustrating for me to even care. It could have been something special but it’s overly pretentious without the credence of twin peaks style intrigue. It’s simply disjointed to the point where the viewer has to try too hard to invest in its development thus appealing to a niche market.… Expand
  78. Jbadiver
    Jul 13, 2014
    1
    This series moves at a glacial pace. This is what happens when you have a story that is 2-3 hours of material and you stretch it to 10 or more hours. I don't fault the actors here as they are doing a good job. The tone and atmosphere are fine it's just that no one wants to spend an hour a week to once again learn that no one cares what happened to their loved ones. I may tune in againThis series moves at a glacial pace. This is what happens when you have a story that is 2-3 hours of material and you stretch it to 10 or more hours. I don't fault the actors here as they are doing a good job. The tone and atmosphere are fine it's just that no one wants to spend an hour a week to once again learn that no one cares what happened to their loved ones. I may tune in again at the end of season to see if they found a direction that the story should go in.… Expand
  79. Mortvicr
    Jul 23, 2014
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Coming from someone that has read the book.

    Obviously this is going to be tampered with due to the expert nonsense writer Mr MacGuffin Damon Lindelof.
    This will offer no comfort but the book is right up his ally as it is just nonsense also, nothing is explained and it just ends.

    The weird cult non-speaking, chain smoking people that looks as threatening as a WI jam making group - not explained
    The Huggy Black, young Asian girl loving cult freak - Not explained.
    Why 2% 140 million people vanished, not really explained.
    Why after 3 years everyone became dumber than the average Justin Bieber fan- no explained.

    Also just to add, nothing is explained, you will get more sense reading the telephone directory than this show, its will just do a Lost, add more nonsense on top of nonsense and you will get all confused and never have any reveal.

    Just watch The Strain, or The Last ship, or maybe True Blood, not great shows, but far better than this crap, and they don't have many if any annoying teens in them.    … Expand
  80. ak2381
    Jul 22, 2014
    0
    If you are going to be dealing with highly depressing themes, you need to think about having some positive redeeming factor, to counter-balance them. Unfortunately for the viewer, the show is entirely depressing and sad. Couple that with terrible acting, subpar writing, pretentious themes and some downright annoying subplots/story lines and you have the formula for a really bad show. I'llIf you are going to be dealing with highly depressing themes, you need to think about having some positive redeeming factor, to counter-balance them. Unfortunately for the viewer, the show is entirely depressing and sad. Couple that with terrible acting, subpar writing, pretentious themes and some downright annoying subplots/story lines and you have the formula for a really bad show. I'll give it one more episode but me writing this while watching the third episode tells you everything you need to know...… Expand
  81. iom666
    Sep 2, 2014
    0
    I want my money and those 3h back HBO. The rapture premise is basically a scam.
    There is no attempt to explain where the chosen went. Aliens, God, Flash combustion?
    Will it happen again? Will they return? Will we know? I don’t mind a philosophical show at the occasion, but it better be worth it. And this is not. An episode of The LeftOvers loses the viewer in confusion and non    I want my money and those 3h back HBO. The rapture premise is basically a scam.
    There is no attempt to explain where the chosen went. Aliens, God, Flash combustion?
    Will it happen again? Will they return? Will we know?
    I don’t mind a philosophical show at the occasion, but it better be worth it. And this is not.
    An episode of The LeftOvers loses the viewer in confusion and non happening with the feeling to have been robbed of one hour. Bad acting, bad scripting, bad story.
    Seriously HBO, cancel me that ****    … Expand
  82. becrux
    Aug 3, 2014
    0
    Godawful show. Unlike most of you who gave the show a low score, I watched several episodes before finally having mercy on myself and switching off in the middle of the latest episode. Whoever writes this show is just trying to shock people, but unlike game of thrones, which also is shocking, it fails to entertain, and just ends up being annoying. The only reason I have HBO is because ofGodawful show. Unlike most of you who gave the show a low score, I watched several episodes before finally having mercy on myself and switching off in the middle of the latest episode. Whoever writes this show is just trying to shock people, but unlike game of thrones, which also is shocking, it fails to entertain, and just ends up being annoying. The only reason I have HBO is because of the high quality of their shows....boardwalk empire, game of thrones, and many others. Why HBO would get involved with this stinkbomb eludes me.… Expand
  83. Raultv
    Jul 6, 2014
    8
    I love this type of shows at the beginning. It looks a lot like the one that started all "The Returned". They all have this premise about the people that we miss when they are gone and the dreams we have about them. It's a great start BUT by episode 5 (as in life) there are no answers, so everything becomes crappy evangelical sci fi very difficult to watch. The actors are amazing.
  84. blade01
    Jul 20, 2014
    2
    What the heck is this?Ive tried the pilot.I wont watch more of this **** kinda dumb?Some terrible actors in this too, great.And like many other people wrote here:Where are all te funny guys?It seems only depressed and bored people walk the earth in this show.Sorry, i try 3 EPs per show and then comes my conclusion.Will i watch 3 EPs of this show??The pilot was so boring and depressing illWhat the heck is this?Ive tried the pilot.I wont watch more of this **** kinda dumb?Some terrible actors in this too, great.And like many other people wrote here:Where are all te funny guys?It seems only depressed and bored people walk the earth in this show.Sorry, i try 3 EPs per show and then comes my conclusion.Will i watch 3 EPs of this show??The pilot was so boring and depressing ill quite right after it!This suckz!… Expand
  85. kopachuck
    Jul 14, 2014
    0
    Horribly dull, pretentious and unbearable crap. It's summertime yet we are supposed to watch these lifeless unlikable characters' suffering? How and why does this show have a high critic score? This is the most overrated show I've ever seen. What's with Lindelof's writing of humans? People just don't behave the way he portrays them in film or television. Lindelof's hipster defenders willHorribly dull, pretentious and unbearable crap. It's summertime yet we are supposed to watch these lifeless unlikable characters' suffering? How and why does this show have a high critic score? This is the most overrated show I've ever seen. What's with Lindelof's writing of humans? People just don't behave the way he portrays them in film or television. Lindelof's hipster defenders will retort with "Well you just don't get it because your too simple minded." No I get it. His writing is atrocious. He creates characters the average viewer could not identify or connect with.… Expand
  86. Smee
    Jul 5, 2014
    0
    Another proof that critic writers are whores who write and do anything for money.This poorly written and bit and pieces story.Acting wise its perfect but lack of powerful plot make it unwatchable.Persons who love ths either retarded or losers who has so much time to waste
  87. shanemoore83
    Jul 20, 2014
    7
    I'm still not quite sure what to make of this series, and I wouldn't be surprised if I never do. The plot is a bit convoluted, and I feel like there's too many mysteries thrown at me all at once before I've even invested enough time to care about solving them. And apparently the main mystery is never going to be solved which is a bit of let down. However, there's something about the showI'm still not quite sure what to make of this series, and I wouldn't be surprised if I never do. The plot is a bit convoluted, and I feel like there's too many mysteries thrown at me all at once before I've even invested enough time to care about solving them. And apparently the main mystery is never going to be solved which is a bit of let down. However, there's something about the show that keeps me watching. I guess I'm one of those few that actually like how dark and depressing it is. However, I'm about 99% sure that the plot will end up somewhere stupid or nowhere at all, and I'll be pissed that I spent so much time anticipating each episode. Keeping fingers crossed that I'm wrong about that.… Expand
  88. CygnusX1Bk2
    Jul 21, 2014
    1
    After 3 episodes of mediocre exposition I'm done with this thing. Get it off the air ASAP. Nothing happens and it seems to go nowhere. The latest episode title says it best.... Why are we still here?
  89. MrsLewis
    Aug 19, 2014
    0
    We've been watching it since the pilot episode. ~Yawn~. No one knows why the speechless white garbed people chain smoke. No one knows why they seem so intent on annoying the local townspeople. No one knows why the mysterious no named man with a gob of chaw in his lower lip is killing dogs.
    This show is incredibly depressing with a jerky narrative (if any at all) and too many 'showdowns'    We've been watching it since the pilot episode. ~Yawn~. No one knows why the speechless white garbed people chain smoke. No one knows why they seem so intent on annoying the local townspeople. No one knows why the mysterious no named man with a gob of chaw in his lower lip is killing dogs.
    This show is incredibly depressing with a jerky narrative (if any at all) and too many 'showdowns' for the sake of drama. I'm done.
    I'll watch the news if I care to be saddened and depressed.    … Expand
  90. BogKid
    Jun 30, 2014
    2
    How original? A large cast of disparate characters all involved in some way in some major mysterious, maybe spiritual, happening and now we'll follow all of them to see how this works out. I cannot recall watching a more pointlessly depressing television show than the first episode of "The Leftovers". Is it possible that the title actually refers to some incomplete scripts left over inHow original? A large cast of disparate characters all involved in some way in some major mysterious, maybe spiritual, happening and now we'll follow all of them to see how this works out. I cannot recall watching a more pointlessly depressing television show than the first episode of "The Leftovers". Is it possible that the title actually refers to some incomplete scripts left over in Mr. Lindelof's refrigerator.

    2% of the world's population has mysteriously disappeared. If that was a spoiler, you must be living on Mars. In our little target town, three years have passed and no one seems to have been able to get beyond this event or to get on with their lives, raising their children, stop being pointlessly rude to each other, etc., etc. The entire 75 minutes of the initial episode wallowed in depression and mystery. OK -- I don't necessarily want to watch "America's Got Talent", but I sure don't need to get down and wallow in misery with this show. I have instructed my DVR, "ENOUGH"!    … Expand
  91. micha
    Jul 17, 2014
    0
    Well, it sucks! Most of the people that have given it good ratings are Jennifer Aniston fans, therefore Justin fans by default. You can tell by looking at how many other shows they rated. In most cases it is the only show they have ever rated and they give it a 10? Hmmm.....
  92. Lisa24
    Jul 8, 2014
    3
    Huge disappointment. I loved Perotta as an author. So depressing and tedious. All the characters can get "raptured" and who would care? Also, can Amy Brenneman ever play a likeable character? She is like nails on a blackboard in every scene.
  93. JTG90046
    Jul 3, 2014
    3
    As I watched the premiere of The Leftovers, I couldn't shake the feeling that I had gone back in time to ABC's 2009/2010 season of large blockbuster flops like; Flash Forward, V and Happy Town. Shows with an interesting premise but couldn't deliver for more than a season.

    This appears to be the case with The Leftovers. I feel that the show is more about the ego of it's creator with a    As I watched the premiere of The Leftovers, I couldn't shake the feeling that I had gone back in time to ABC's 2009/2010 season of large blockbuster flops like; Flash Forward, V and Happy Town. Shows with an interesting premise but couldn't deliver for more than a season.

    This appears to be the case with The Leftovers. I feel that the show is more about the ego of it's creator with a bunch of sulking, beautiful actors. Justin Theroux's performance is so brewing that you immediately hate him. Not to mention he looks more like a cop stripper on his way to a bachelorette party, than the small town police chief.
    This show may be OK for ABC but is far beneath the caliber of HBO.    … Expand
  94. Existentialman
    Jun 30, 2014
    1
    We trusted Damon Lindelof on Lost and we all know how well that turned out. When Lost ended I wanted my 121 hours back. I won't make the same mistake twice. Once again we're being teased that everything will eventually be explained in the end. You know what? I don't care. Hopefully the all people who disappeared went off to appear in better shows than this one.
  95. shooter17
    Jun 29, 2014
    0
    I couldn't take it by the 30 minute mark. Delete series from DVR schedule. Very dreadful, depressing characters...did all the happy funny non-smoking people disappear? Real life is tough enough and you want me to sit through this? No thank you. Found myself laughing (this is not a comedy) at the chain smoking non talking cult - really? And the whole premise that 2% of the populationI couldn't take it by the 30 minute mark. Delete series from DVR schedule. Very dreadful, depressing characters...did all the happy funny non-smoking people disappear? Real life is tough enough and you want me to sit through this? No thank you. Found myself laughing (this is not a comedy) at the chain smoking non talking cult - really? And the whole premise that 2% of the population causes so much upheaval and depression is ridiculous - maybe if it was 50% or 70% of the population that disappeared...2% is a rounding error. HBO - I'm very disappointed in you. Bad show.… Expand
  96. Finn471
    Jun 30, 2014
    1
    This show is a leftover from the dystopian trend which is over. How grim must a show be to get good reviews? How slow must it be? This is both. People seem to have a knee jerk response that anything on premium cable is good. It isn't.
  97. rodericrinehart
    Jul 18, 2014
    8
    I fell asleep on BOTH attempts to watch this show. I had pretty decent expectations and it sounded intriguing, but it was incredibly boring. It had flat characters, bad pacing, and an emptiness to it.
  98. TheWaffle
    Jul 7, 2014
    3
    Having watched episode 1, the show is bland and uninspiring. Novels have tackled loss and sudden death for centuries, it is a well tread path. And while The Leftovers seems to want to be about a society in crisis, it falls into every cliche of loss. Quite simply, this is Ordinary People on steroids.

    The show's featured gimmick is a shallow one, considering that humanity has lost far    Having watched episode 1, the show is bland and uninspiring. Novels have tackled loss and sudden death for centuries, it is a well tread path. And while The Leftovers seems to want to be about a society in crisis, it falls into every cliche of loss. Quite simply, this is Ordinary People on steroids.

    The show's featured gimmick is a shallow one, considering that humanity has lost far more people dozens of times in human history. I expected the show to tackle a society in upheaval, with roles changing, new priorities, new cultural norms...but unfortunately this society has barely changed in three years since 2% of the population disappears. Everyone is glum and depressed. Kids are experimenting with drugs and sex. But otherwise, nothing has really changed. There is no new social order, just a few more creepy cults and apparently animal control has lost all its funding.

    Despite a constant and overbearing attempt to strive for mystery and meaning, The Leftovers doesn't garner much interest or emotional investment.    … Expand
  99. jesterx7769
    Jul 4, 2014
    0
    Extremely disssapointed by HBO. It is extremely unoriginal.

    The sheriff is the main character, he has drug/mental problems, doesn't get along with daughter- stopped me if you have heard this before. Then there's this weird cult people for some random reason and guess what, the Sheriff's wife is in it! Oh no opposite sides how will that work out?! Then his son is also with some    Extremely disssapointed by HBO. It is extremely unoriginal.

    The sheriff is the main character, he has drug/mental problems, doesn't get along with daughter- stopped me if you have heard this before.

    Then there's this weird cult people for some random reason and guess what, the Sheriff's wife is in it! Oh no opposite sides how will that work out?!

    Then his son is also with some weird evil guy, oh no opposite sides again! There is just so much drama.

    There is lots of animal violence for one episode as well.

    I watched episode 1, I will not be watching anymore episodes.    … Expand
  100. marco34la
    Aug 4, 2014
    0
    Good Grief!!! The title of this show suggests what it's created from... leftovers. Leftover ideas, scripts, stories that didn't make it into other films or shows... in other words it's created from dregs. There is absolutely NO PURPOSE to this show whatsoever. It goes nowhere, explains nothing, goes off on tangents and takes itself way to seriously. I had such huge hopes for this show fromGood Grief!!! The title of this show suggests what it's created from... leftovers. Leftover ideas, scripts, stories that didn't make it into other films or shows... in other words it's created from dregs. There is absolutely NO PURPOSE to this show whatsoever. It goes nowhere, explains nothing, goes off on tangents and takes itself way to seriously. I had such huge hopes for this show from the poster, trailer and pilot episode, but 5 episodes in... and I feel like I wasted 5 hours of my life. With all this said, the performances are good, the direction and mood are great, but again, audiences need some substance. Some of the characters in the show only communicate via writing on pencil and paper. It held my interest for a couple episodes, but again, we are not given any reason or point to this behavior. Don't waste your time on this show folks, there's a lot of great TV out there. Check out 'The Returned,' a french show on bbc... which has great performance, the eerie suspenseful mood... and a SCRIPT that actually tells a story!! Shame on HBO. Who would pay for Leftovers!!… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

94
#94 Best TV Season of 2014
4
#4 Most Discussed TV Season of 2014
11
#11 Most Shared TV Season of 2014

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
65

Generally favorable reviews - based on 42 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 26 out of 42
  2. Mixed: 14 out of 42
  3. Negative: 2 out of 42
  1. The New Yorker
    Reviewed by: Emily Nussbaum
    Aug 7, 2014
    70
    The narrative flow is murky and chaotic, and at times it chokes up.... But The Leftovers builds in potency.
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  2. Under The Radar
    Reviewed by: Zach Hollwedel
    Jul 3, 2014
    70
    There's enough intrigue driving the premise to set The Leftovers up as a promising series; whether the show can maintain its momentum or succumbs to the weight of the myriad, potentially frustrating mysteries behind it remains to be seen.
    Read full review
  3. Denver Post
    Reviewed by: Joanne Ostrow
    Jun 30, 2014
    40
    The lack of a coherent storyline, even in a piece dedicated to exploring the lack of coherence in the world, makes The Leftovers a frustrating challenge.
    Read full review
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