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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  1. ozymandias79
    Jul 23, 2014
    3
    This show isn't worth writing an extensive review. Lets just say, it's not good. The best way to describe The Leftovers is "incoherent". And what's with the quiet cult? It must have been a hard sell to the actors, mainly because its stupid and boring. I'll look into my crystal ball...this shows gets progressively worse........and has a terrible ending.
  2. fanglemeister
    Apr 26, 2017
    7
    I watched the first two seasons in their entirety before rating and writing a review. First-off, you should not judge the series by the first 1-2 episodes, they are excruciatingly slow, and mostly pointless. Trust me: the character development becomes so ruthlessly efficient that by Ep-5, I was only continuing to watch because I hated almost every single stupid, shallow character in thisI watched the first two seasons in their entirety before rating and writing a review. First-off, you should not judge the series by the first 1-2 episodes, they are excruciatingly slow, and mostly pointless. Trust me: the character development becomes so ruthlessly efficient that by Ep-5, I was only continuing to watch because I hated almost every single stupid, shallow character in this show, and just kept watching to see how many of these loathsome people ended up being killed off. Some do meet a satisfying end, but in my opinion, too few were dealt their timely justice. But then, that is more or less the entire point of the story-- being left behind and having to deal with all the other wastes of oxygen who were also left behind.… Expand
  3. bobbydrake50
    Oct 2, 2014
    10
    Just watched the final episode last night. Excellent series with a great payoff in the final episode. I was really impressed with the acting (especially Justin and Carrie) and even though some might say it was slow I thought the pacing was exactly right. Must buy yhe score when its available as that really helped but I really haven't a bad thing to say about the series as a whole. IJust watched the final episode last night. Excellent series with a great payoff in the final episode. I was really impressed with the acting (especially Justin and Carrie) and even though some might say it was slow I thought the pacing was exactly right. Must buy yhe score when its available as that really helped but I really haven't a bad thing to say about the series as a whole. I can't wait to find out where it will go in the second series.… Expand
  4. ckmaxx
    Nov 14, 2014
    10
    I think anyone moaning about how depressing The Leftovers is are completely missing the point. It's supposed to be depressing. It's about depression. Come on folks, read between the lines. Just because there aren't explosions, **** and childish humour it's obviously a terrible show. I suppose that sums up society today and more importantly the same pathetic attitude to people who sufferI think anyone moaning about how depressing The Leftovers is are completely missing the point. It's supposed to be depressing. It's about depression. Come on folks, read between the lines. Just because there aren't explosions, **** and childish humour it's obviously a terrible show. I suppose that sums up society today and more importantly the same pathetic attitude to people who suffer from mental health problems. The Leftovers is fantastic.… Expand
  5. Sando27
    Jun 30, 2014
    0
    Incredibly stupid plot. Incredibly bad acting. I'd rather be chained to a rock and have my liver eaten out by a hawk every day than watch this again...
  6. MelkorMorgoth
    Jun 30, 2014
    2
    Damon Lindeloff, clearly hasn't learned anything from the disastrous finale of Lost nor the plot hole ridden Prometheus...upon the very first minute of watching the Leftovers the viewer is subjected to second rate actors desperately trying to evoke pathos out of second rate script that belongs no where else other than a thirty minute episode of the twilight zone. The plot according to theDamon Lindeloff, clearly hasn't learned anything from the disastrous finale of Lost nor the plot hole ridden Prometheus...upon the very first minute of watching the Leftovers the viewer is subjected to second rate actors desperately trying to evoke pathos out of second rate script that belongs no where else other than a thirty minute episode of the twilight zone. The plot according to the advertisements centers around the spontaneous disappearance of some 100 Million people which would probably make for a decent Sci-fi mystery; Damon Lindelof on the other hand, immediately retrogresses on pursuing that mystery in turn for centering around a pointlessly dreary, "character" driven show that has no stability to go beyond one season... all in all, this show isn't worth the time… Expand
  7. krschaff
    Jun 30, 2014
    0
    To add to my other review. What is going on with the critic reviews of this show...? 24 positive and 2 negative.

    to quote... Many will hate it. But there will be viewers in whom it strikes a chord so deeply that they will feel themselves overwhelmed by it in the best possible way: not like they're drowning in the misery, but like it's teaching them a new way to breathe. Yeah...I'm    To add to my other review. What is going on with the critic reviews of this show...? 24 positive and 2 negative.

    to quote...

    Many will hate it. But there will be viewers in whom it strikes a chord so deeply that they will feel themselves overwhelmed by it in the best possible way: not like they're drowning in the misery, but like it's teaching them a new way to breathe.

    Yeah...I'm suffocating.    … Expand
  8. davein310
    Apr 22, 2017
    0
    When a dog gets shot within the first few minutes of the show, I know this is a program I'm not going to like. I don't mind the fake violence of tv but seeing an animal get shot is too evil to stomach.
  9. Mike_M
    Jul 4, 2014
    1
    Unbearable, hamfisted stupidity. Terrible, terrible, terrible writing.
    I'm shocked this has a green score. Don't waste an hour of your life checking out the pilot.
  10. Perillove
    Jul 28, 2014
    0
    This is possibly the worst series I've ever attempted to watch. Sad, cause after reading about the premise I was looking forward to it. I had to force myself to watch the first episode to the end, hoping for some twist or event to capture my interest. Nothing. Just ugh. Awful show.
  11. Mcm76
    Jul 15, 2014
    1
    I have watched 3 episodes and I have to say The Leftovers tv series is how I feel about my wife's leftovers in the fridge "blah". I watched Lost and it didn't end well, but at least it had a ton of redeeming qualities you fell in love with the characters and the mystery of the island. I honestly hate every character in the leftovers and wouldn't mind if they were all killed off. I willI have watched 3 episodes and I have to say The Leftovers tv series is how I feel about my wife's leftovers in the fridge "blah". I watched Lost and it didn't end well, but at least it had a ton of redeeming qualities you fell in love with the characters and the mystery of the island. I honestly hate every character in the leftovers and wouldn't mind if they were all killed off. I will give it a few more episodes just because there aren't currently a ton of TV options. Not all series can be as interesting as True Detective.… Expand
  12. shadow47
    Jul 26, 2014
    1
    Let me preface this review by emphasizing that I have not seen a single episode of ''Lost" or any other work attributed to Mr. Lindelof, and thus hold no bias against him or his work.

    Having disclosed that fact, I must say that "The Leftovers" is absolutely dreary without any redeeming qualities. It is quite dark and brooding, but not at all engaging (for a great alternative, consider    Let me preface this review by emphasizing that I have not seen a single episode of ''Lost" or any other work attributed to Mr. Lindelof, and thus hold no bias against him or his work.

    Having disclosed that fact, I must say that "The Leftovers" is absolutely dreary without any redeeming qualities. It is quite dark and brooding, but not at all engaging (for a great alternative, consider "True Detective", which is dark and incredibly engaging). .The acting on this show is often quite lackluster, too. The actress portraying Jill Garvey, for one example,is awful...reminds me of Kristen Stewart in the "Twilight" movie series. As for the main theme, the disappearance of 2% of world's population, it has been very much sensationalized--yes, 140 million people disappeared but there are still 6.7+ billion people left...it is not the end of the world, so stop feeling sorry for yourselves! Instead of exploring the mystery of the disappearance and leading toward some meaningful answers, "The Leftovers" seems content in showing viewers random shots of how miserable all the main characters are.

    I have watched the first five episodes; I really do not know if I will tune in for episode 6. .    … Expand
  13. thebnote1
    Jul 7, 2014
    4
    As usual, I made the mistake of reading the book first. At this point, I cannot decide what this is. The book is a character driven novel that at least early on lets you know that the "event" is essentially over. The rest becomes interesting character responses to the "event." The series has created characters that don't exist in the book, along the a story line that doesn't either. So itAs usual, I made the mistake of reading the book first. At this point, I cannot decide what this is. The book is a character driven novel that at least early on lets you know that the "event" is essentially over. The rest becomes interesting character responses to the "event." The series has created characters that don't exist in the book, along the a story line that doesn't either. So it is so far very loosely based on the book, and I mean loosely!… Expand
  14. Meliss
    Jul 28, 2014
    1
    Terrible. I was so excited for this show when I saw the trailer, but this show basically IS the trailer; a bunch of emotional scenes were supposed to be provoked by. I have news for you HBO, in order to feel empathy for the characters we have to first have character development, which you should know since you have created so many amazingly written series. I'm not saying I have to likeTerrible. I was so excited for this show when I saw the trailer, but this show basically IS the trailer; a bunch of emotional scenes were supposed to be provoked by. I have news for you HBO, in order to feel empathy for the characters we have to first have character development, which you should know since you have created so many amazingly written series. I'm not saying I have to like the characters, sometimes it's even better when you don't like them, because you don't have to be liked to be interesting. Apart from the priest, whose storyline does evoke emotion, pity, and the desire to want him to be happy; everyone's character has one note. Chief Garvey is completely immature and self righteous (and its almost like he is trying to be bruding at he same time which just feels weird); why does he even want his job as chief anyway? He appears to hate every minute of it, treats everyone around him terribly, litters in his own town (throwing the baby doll out the window? Is that necessary?), and shows no compassion for a town he is supposed to watch out for.
    'The Leftovers' is a victim of each role thinking their character is the deepest, most important, most damaged, etc.. I blame this on the writers, not the actors. Except Justin Theroux. I blame him. Change your facial expression for crying out loud (his daughter seems to have this same problem as well). And this show shouldn't have the excuse of saying "well this is just how people deal with tragedy".. NO! We are still human, and after 3 years you can't expect an entire town to not only have not moved on, but to all essentially feel the same thing. Everything is cynical and depressing, and I'm sorry but it does not go on in perpetuity. Haven't you heard of "time heals all wounds"?
    I've watched the first four episodes, and only when I have nothing else I want to watch and nothing better to do. I keep hoping it will get better, but it disappoints me every time. And I want to clarify that the show doesn't depress me (because that would at least be something), it feels cheap and gimmicky and I'm left feeling annoyed at myself for having wasted my time.. Kind of like how I feel after watching the Real Housewives. I get nothing from either, but at least the latter can make me laugh.
    Please HBO, give us something "six feet under"-worthy. Now THAT was an amazing show.
    No shot this show gets a second season (unless they signed on for 2? I'm not sure how that works)    … Expand
  15. DavidPalmer-dMP
    Jul 28, 2014
    1
    Hey HBO, Stop trying to force this show to be a hit! I feel like every chance you get you force this crap down our throats. The trailers peeked my curiosity enough to watch the first episodes however after forcing myself to get through the pilot episode I was very disappointed. I tuned in because of the disappearance of 2% of the worlds population, which seems to no longer be a big deal orHey HBO, Stop trying to force this show to be a hit! I feel like every chance you get you force this crap down our throats. The trailers peeked my curiosity enough to watch the first episodes however after forcing myself to get through the pilot episode I was very disappointed. I tuned in because of the disappearance of 2% of the worlds population, which seems to no longer be a big deal or concern on the show. Which leads me to believe the question of where they went and if they will come back will never be answered. So the very thing that got me to watch the show is out the window. I almost feel lied to, like I signed up for a lecture on reproduction but got a lecture on abortion instead. This is one show you should abort. Forgetting the fact that what drew people in to watch the pilot has been abandoned almost immediately, the lack of an interesting cast of characters leaves this show hollow and straight up depressing. Luckily we get a pick me up after this crap airs thanks to "Last week tonight with John Oliver" but I can no longer sit through "The leftovers" waiting to get to John's show. Someone please put this show out of its misery!… Expand
  16. ziggy3
    Jul 7, 2014
    1
    The show stinks.After 2 episodes(unlike Lost) I could care less about any of the characters in it-except for the lead cop.So there really is no point in watching it as the show seems to have been made-on purpose- to be painfully annoying.Judge for yourself but all they seem to have accomplished here- is bringing the C word to cable TV-So Thanks and Congratulations on that.
  17. santiagodraco
    Jul 28, 2014
    1
    "The Leftovers" is an aptly named show. Much of the show feels like just that, leftovers. The acting is on average sub par, the story as well, and neither make effective use of the underpinnings of the theme. I've watched two episodes so far hoping to see something compelling but so far I'm wishing I had watched something fresh. Pun intended.
  18. Lourenco3
    Jul 1, 2014
    6
    I don't mind the slow pacing, as many of my favorite shows also don't seem prone to easy or rushed answers. But the story shown in the pilot was not enough to depict an appealing new world. Although the plot may develop into something more promising than it initially appears to be, the characters introduced so far were not interesting at all. I'll give it another chance next Sunday, though.
  19. pellete
    Aug 4, 2014
    1
    Wow, I just read a review where it says that the characters are compelling and I'd like to say that it is completely the opposite. One of the reason I cannot like this show is because of the characters. I do not care about any of them, I tried to but if they all depart tomorrow to meet the other ones that are already gone and there is no more show then to me it will be the best episodeWow, I just read a review where it says that the characters are compelling and I'd like to say that it is completely the opposite. One of the reason I cannot like this show is because of the characters. I do not care about any of them, I tried to but if they all depart tomorrow to meet the other ones that are already gone and there is no more show then to me it will be the best episode ever. I have stopped after 4 episodes...I could not take it anymore. Depressing, not very good plot, cannot stand the stupid guilty remnants, that is such an idiotic cult group.… Expand
  20. Mudget
    Aug 19, 2014
    5
    The pros - Compelling acting. Able direction. Decent script. Just enough FX, and well-done. Mysterious.

    The cons - I can't seem to get attached or even interested in any of the characters. So much 'weird', without the nuance of a seasoned 'weird' director like Lynch. Baffling plot points (dogs, smoking cult, etc.) are left to linger throughout the season - too long, stopped    The pros - Compelling acting. Able direction. Decent script. Just enough FX, and well-done. Mysterious.

    The cons - I can't seem to get attached or even interested in any of the characters. So much 'weird', without the nuance of a seasoned 'weird' director like Lynch. Baffling plot points (dogs, smoking cult, etc.) are left to linger throughout the season - too long, stopped caring. People behaving unrealistically (still driving, taking buses, subways, presumably airplanes, despite what happened? Right.)

    It's a super slow burn. I contrast this to Falling Skies, which is a fast, silly burn. Both ends of a spectrum. Both end up mediocre.    … Expand
  21. SlyckNickChick
    Jul 7, 2014
    5
    I had high expectations for this show, I have been sadly disappointed mostly by the mute smoking characters. If they are suppose to be purifying themselves, starting a new, why would they be smoking!? That's not the only disappointing thing, having millions of people disappear sounds cool, but the writers jump three years a head. Don't most story lines have a beginning before a middle!?I had high expectations for this show, I have been sadly disappointed mostly by the mute smoking characters. If they are suppose to be purifying themselves, starting a new, why would they be smoking!? That's not the only disappointing thing, having millions of people disappear sounds cool, but the writers jump three years a head. Don't most story lines have a beginning before a middle!? I do have to say the only thing that I have enjoyed so far is Justin Theroux, hope to see more of his pecs and abs.… Expand
  22. jlplatten
    Jul 25, 2014
    3
    That's it! After four episodes of nothing happening, I'm about to give up on this. One more episode to do something with this non-story. I'm not THAT curious about what happened to the missing people to put up this boredom. One more episode is all I'm giving it.
  23. Rickshaw_McGraw
    Jun 30, 2017
    0
    I honestly don't know who to throw a brick at first - Damon Lindelof or Tom Perrotta!

    Tom would be my first choice, after all this dude is the one responsible for putting pen to paper with the original novel. However Damon does trumps him! After all it's Damon who must be held accountable for putting this 'train wreck' of a TV show on our screens. "The Leftovers" is the biggest load    I honestly don't know who to throw a brick at first - Damon Lindelof or Tom Perrotta!

    Tom would be my first choice, after all this dude is the one responsible for putting pen to paper with the original novel. However Damon does trumps him! After all it's Damon who must be held accountable for putting this 'train wreck' of a TV show on our screens.

    "The Leftovers" is the biggest load of aimless, pointless, pathetic, meaningless, hopeless, disjointed, meandering dribble I have ever, ever, ever seen - period!

    It's not sci-fi, it's not drama.... it's just pragmatic crap!

    Now I don't usually interject publicly like this, however THIS show really peeved me big time.
    Despite my sticking to the show for ALL 3 seasons and continuing to offer my unfailing support for it's subject matter and central message(s), I must say that by the end, I'm compelled to conclude that the writers clearly had NO intention of explaining a single damned thing!

    I swear, if I had Damon Lindelof in the room here right now, I'd punch him straight in the face - hard!

    His only saving grace is that he did warn us earlier that he has a tendency to 'drop the ball'....
    Remember that wack-job of a show called "LOST"... yeah that was Damon too.    … Expand
  24. jeremyp
    Aug 25, 2015
    8
    Judging from the reviews this is clearly a love it or hate it series. I love it, am exasperated by it, shake my head at it, but stay glued to the set. I am not someone who needs answers, I can figure things out myself, but the biggest drawback for me is the incomprehensible motivation of most of the characters. 2% of the world goes missing and that makes the rest of us neurotic and gloomy?Judging from the reviews this is clearly a love it or hate it series. I love it, am exasperated by it, shake my head at it, but stay glued to the set. I am not someone who needs answers, I can figure things out myself, but the biggest drawback for me is the incomprehensible motivation of most of the characters. 2% of the world goes missing and that makes the rest of us neurotic and gloomy? Still that is the premise and wallow with these characters I must, since they are as they are. But they are a compelling bunch, well presented by great acting and writing, and many of them do need a good slap every so often.… Expand
  25. RCJ48
    Sep 8, 2014
    8
    It started slow but it's gotten better with each episode. The last three episodes of the first season are great, very well written, acted and directed. They also unveil a lot of things that have been a mystery all season. The show is very dark, bleak, and even depressing sometimes but there is a lot going on beneath the surface. Everything reaches a breaking point in the finale, but bringsIt started slow but it's gotten better with each episode. The last three episodes of the first season are great, very well written, acted and directed. They also unveil a lot of things that have been a mystery all season. The show is very dark, bleak, and even depressing sometimes but there is a lot going on beneath the surface. Everything reaches a breaking point in the finale, but brings up even more questions, especially concerning the ones that borderline on the supernatural. All in all, the first season was great.… Expand
  26. SoulChaos
    Jun 14, 2016
    10
    This show moved my ice heart moved me away from the darkest time of my life its legit changed me made me think ask call for help appreciate family friends people.

    This show is a story a voice that will reach and grab you and make you open up to the world and people around you a guide to the world we live in. The story is so moving it breaks physical and emotional walls it raises    This show moved my ice heart moved me away from the darkest time of my life its legit changed me made me think ask call for help appreciate family friends people.

    This show is a story a voice that will reach and grab you and make you open up to the world and people around you a guide to the world we live in.

    The story is so moving it breaks physical and emotional walls it raises emotions questions it will make you appreciate the art of story telling its art behind any art I saw on TV few people can bring you this level of artistic story telling.

    I want to end it with acting and music. Actors carry the heavy load of their characters with ease they are the most professional actors I saw on tv what they bring to the table only a handful few can do. Music is so touching it compliment the show in a way that makes it perfect every track I listen to after or during the show make me enter a safe zone it protect the listener in an emotional way.

    Thank you for reading my below average review I just wanted to write from the heart hope you enjoy this art like I did.    … Expand
  27. Vercoda
    Dec 8, 2014
    7
    From low expectations – a dreary, downbeat, nihilistic season opener – that almost totally turned me off, I gave The Leftovers a second chance – and I’m so glad I did, thanks to some terrific acting, curious but believable (and quite naturalistic) dialogue, and some great use of music and cinematography.

    Perhaps it gets some points for being a little quirky – as in different or unusual,    From low expectations – a dreary, downbeat, nihilistic season opener – that almost totally turned me off, I gave The Leftovers a second chance – and I’m so glad I did, thanks to some terrific acting, curious but believable (and quite naturalistic) dialogue, and some great use of music and cinematography.

    Perhaps it gets some points for being a little quirky – as in different or unusual, rather than goofy/daft, which this occasionally grim show resolutely isn’t – but, considering all the tired, clichéd shows still trotting out the TV stable door, The Leftovers really stood out as something new, fresh and engaging, problems aside.

    This “I hated it – now I really like it” attitude mirrors what I’ve heard from other people, who found it struck a chord, and I’d definitely like to see more from this show, and its setting.

    However, I absolutely don’t want to see another second of its “teenagers” – those segments were utterly *painful* to watch, and played out like Nihilistic Teens (as written by some middle-aged guys trying to guesstimate what teenagers are like – guys, they’re *nothing* like the weird ‘teens’ in this show; *nobody* is like Those jaded, knowitall, old-before-their-years teen characters in this show).    … Expand
  28. ThemBakerBoys
    Jul 21, 2014
    8
    Two rules that I go by when judging new TV shows: A) Is there any other show on right now that is similar to it? B) Is it unpredictable or is it a familiar formula with new HBO paint.
    The answer to A is that while there are many end-of-the-world show on right now, (all with world ending badly), none other seem to be tackling a possible biblical rapture. Yet this isn't some Left Behind    Two rules that I go by when judging new TV shows: A) Is there any other show on right now that is similar to it? B) Is it unpredictable or is it a familiar formula with new HBO paint.
    The answer to A is that while there are many end-of-the-world show on right now, (all with world ending badly), none other seem to be tackling a possible biblical rapture. Yet this isn't some Left Behind story with Christian overtones. And B, it IS unpredictable and the characters are crazily off balance, careering from one crisis to the next.
    The writing and dialogue are sharp, there is a palpable atmosphere of uncertainty in the show as characters try to come to grip with what has happened and what could possibly come next. Local government and news media are just pretending to be in control when it's clear to everyone that there is no real control.
    I started watching The Leftovers and the final season of True Blood at the same time and True Blood looks like it should be on Nickelodeon with once interesting characters playing stereotypes of themselves. The Leftovers is far superior in every way and it's one of the new shows that I actually look forward to each week. I hope it has a long and successful run.    … Expand
  29. Harmotech
    Jul 25, 2014
    8
    It really isn't for everybody. Additionally, I'm not sure how anyone could possibly pitch this story idea to anyone without it sounding like weekly hour of tedium. However, the tone is intriguing, and the cast is great. While the first couple of episodes wandered a bit, the subsequent episodes seem to be moving the story along.

    In short: give it a go. At least for the first several    It really isn't for everybody. Additionally, I'm not sure how anyone could possibly pitch this story idea to anyone without it sounding like weekly hour of tedium. However, the tone is intriguing, and the cast is great. While the first couple of episodes wandered a bit, the subsequent episodes seem to be moving the story along.

    In short: give it a go. At least for the first several episodes. If you don't like it after 4, it's probably not for you.

    The ultimate fate of this show is contained in how it will eventually end. Too many shows are hindered by having an open ended story line, and giving the impression that the writers are making things up as they go along. If there IS a vision about where this story is going, and the plans don't have that story spreading too thin across too many seasons, the Leftovers could really have something good. There doesn't even need to be an answer to the ultimate question of the series (what happened to all those missing), just a resolution for the characters to which we grow attached.    … Expand
  30. tvnewsguido
    Sep 9, 2014
    7
    I've never been so torn about a TV show.

    It's depressing and disturbing. Sometimes it's actually boring. I still can't stop watching and actually look forward to the new episodes with unbridled excitement.

    I think that means I think it's a good show? It's such an unpleasant experience most of the time. It's an absolute must see.
  31. llh1028
    Aug 11, 2014
    6
    There is waaayyy too much use of the f word in this show! With the entire English vocabulary to use, why aren't the writers smarter or more clever? It's bothering me so much! Come on, writers! Please. It's like in every sentence! It's ridiculous.
  32. mally80
    Aug 26, 2014
    7
    good show but please get to the dang point you are dragging a it a little to long and this last episode woow all that could have been covered a lot earlier i just don't know what is taking so long
  33. WJS
    Dec 7, 2015
    8
    Whenever I see Mimi Leder's name as director in the front credits of this series, I know that it will be a good episode. This series is very strange and frustrating to watch, but it's so well acted and directed, it can be forgiven its unusual quirks. Season two plays out much differently than season one, but it still proves to be compelling television, although I'm still not sure if IWhenever I see Mimi Leder's name as director in the front credits of this series, I know that it will be a good episode. This series is very strange and frustrating to watch, but it's so well acted and directed, it can be forgiven its unusual quirks. Season two plays out much differently than season one, but it still proves to be compelling television, although I'm still not sure if I understand what it's all about.… Expand
  34. samuelodog
    Jan 30, 2015
    8
    While I hated Lost, because I could tell it was written with no real plan to tie things up, I felt differently about this one. Leftovers is an intricately woven show, with threads pulling through and over each other nicely. The acting is great, the script poignant. And it has something that is very rare these days - UNPREDICTABILITY.
    People agonise over whether there will be a reveal or    While I hated Lost, because I could tell it was written with no real plan to tie things up, I felt differently about this one. Leftovers is an intricately woven show, with threads pulling through and over each other nicely. The acting is great, the script poignant. And it has something that is very rare these days - UNPREDICTABILITY.
    People agonise over whether there will be a reveal or not. The show builds mystery upon mystery. But this doesn't trouble me. My amateur reading of it is this: The show is not about those who vanished. It is not about finding an answer - it is about those left behind, and how they deal with the mystery - the 'leftovers'. In this sense it is realistic. It asks what will the affect be if 2% of the pop. vanished overnight? It is an exploration of the psyche - it is philosophical. And it is excellently executed. I love the thoughtful pace, it is beautifully shot - carefully crafted. Very good show.    … Expand
  35. RogerE
    Nov 23, 2015
    9
    This is very well put together show and season 2 is bringing it all together. The Leftovers balances a gigantic, world-changing sci-fantasy story with achingly small personal tales. I'm glad HBO is producing some amazing surreal content. Highly recommended for connoisseurs good storytelling.
  36. viny
    Jul 27, 2015
    9
    I loved it... It was really mysterious (maybe a little bit too much) and sometimes not easy to understand (that's why I put a 9 ....) I think this TV show leaves you with a hole in you heart... You see that all the characters try to cope with what happened but nothing can fully help them. The music is well chosen ... it reflects the state of mind of the characters: sad, trying to grabI loved it... It was really mysterious (maybe a little bit too much) and sometimes not easy to understand (that's why I put a 9 ....) I think this TV show leaves you with a hole in you heart... You see that all the characters try to cope with what happened but nothing can fully help them. The music is well chosen ... it reflects the state of mind of the characters: sad, trying to grab something, beautiful... I am hoping for a great season 2.… Expand
  37. bru-nonono
    Oct 22, 2015
    10
    This is my favorite TV show ever. I can't understand why people and critics underestimated the show. This is a great lesson about life, people ou love and how you can go through loss or mourning. So yes maybe the action is slow, nothing can happens for a few times but characters personality takes time to develop and the result is amazing.
  38. leandro_bot
    Nov 19, 2015
    10
    If you like strong dialogue, great acting and sci-fi this is awesome. I really hope this show is recognized during the Emmy Awards and picked for a third season. Is Patty real? Will Donna Moss ever wake up? Is this just an episode of Dr Who?
  39. slondon12
    Dec 14, 2015
    10
    I watch quite a bit of (good) television and this is absolutely one of the best shows on TV. The acting is well above par, especially considering the size of the recurring cast, and the writing is creative and full of effective and impactful symbolism and self-reference. The soundtrack is tasteful and plays into the serious and supernatural elements of the show. Anyone who gives a showI watch quite a bit of (good) television and this is absolutely one of the best shows on TV. The acting is well above par, especially considering the size of the recurring cast, and the writing is creative and full of effective and impactful symbolism and self-reference. The soundtrack is tasteful and plays into the serious and supernatural elements of the show. Anyone who gives a show like this a "0" is absolutely trolling.… Expand
  40. iffythecat1
    Feb 21, 2016
    10
    Best show on TV. Like LOST, you have to be able to follow the ins and outs. Best characters are Nora and brother Rev Matt. I hear only one more season-I cannot figure out why this show is not more popular!
  41. drlowdon
    May 12, 2018
    7
    Based on the novel of the same name The Leftovers follows the residents of the town of Mapleton three years after a global event called the "Departure", in which 2% of the worlds population (140 million people) suddenly disappear without a trace.

    The premise is an instantly intriguing one and, much like another Damon Lindelof show (Lost) The Leftovers leans heavily into the mysterious    Based on the novel of the same name The Leftovers follows the residents of the town of Mapleton three years after a global event called the "Departure", in which 2% of the worlds population (140 million people) suddenly disappear without a trace.

    The premise is an instantly intriguing one and, much like another Damon Lindelof show (Lost) The Leftovers leans heavily into the mysterious and deliberately withholds information from the audience. Until these mysteries are revealed its difficult to judge this show as a whole but this opening season was overall a bit of a mixed bag. A couple of episodes, which essentially narrow the focus down to a single character, are excellent pieces of television but the writers struggle to juggle the entire cast and its plots in a cohesive way over the course of the 10 episodes on offer here.

    Season two will apparently move beyond the scope of the original novel so I'll be interested to see the direction it takes as this is potentially a great show.    … Expand
  42. necrom33
    Sep 1, 2017
    1
    Utter claptrap and sentimentalism. This show could not decide what it wanted to be. Was it sci-fi? A thriller? A mystery? Who knows. Horrible writing which seemed more interested in extending the series, more than moving the story forward. Pass on this turkey.
  43. SquintyReviews
    Oct 4, 2015
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The series contains an amazing density of characters, reaction, emotion, and a sophisticated understanding awareness of how to precisely work the strings of audience sympathy.

    Most of the characters contain a rich set of outlooks, motivations, and faults that are put paces through the plot with a sense of almost will it or will it not realism. Kevin Garvey (Justin Theroux), as one of the main protagonists, is one of the better of this breed currently on television. He is an authority figure as the police chief, father, and mediator, but at the same time his faults make him very vulnerable, and he is not always a good man, he has hate and disgust like everyone else, he is nakedly fearful and stubbornly obstinate and the occasional **** an excellently constructed flawed figure character, with Theoroux doing a stellar job making this character real.

    The side characters are also interesting and strong with Matt Jameson (Christopher Ecceleston), a former reverend in the show, who is a fascinating depiction of a man of faith who at the same time is vociferously skeptical of the Sudden Departure being the rapture, often pointing out that departed (the term for those who disappeared) contained some rather despicable be in their ranks as well as innocent and decent ones. His particular character arc that was focused on in “Two Boats and a Helicopter,” one of the arguably best episodes of the series, showed the struggles, sheer determination, and even moments of startling but believable violence that this man goes through, and Eccelston does a great job of portraying this unassuming man who is anything but.

    The weaker end of the character chain in the show though would have to be Jill Garvey (Margaret Qualley), Kevin’s daughter. She’s not a wholly bad teenaged character, she does have some moments, but they make her so bratty and emo that it’s hard to really like her. She’s had no real development, and comes across a little to cliché; It’s more that she is there to be the cause of things to happen or to have things happen to her. Though to give Qually credit though, she does the best with what she has and is able to express those quiet moments of genuine emotion quite well, with perhaps her strongest episode being “Cairo.”

    Now the part that really shines in this show and boy howdy does it! The story.

    At first, there is a leery weariness prevalent when starting out that this is just another religious style doom and gloom, believe in the lord and ye shall be saved style of show, making it more about bible promotion then story, but this show was a pleasant surprise in that, while it does have religious themes couched in the plot, particularly the theme of faith, it’s done intelligently and unobtrusively, not being the central focus of the story, more an element of the consequences that arise from major catastrophic events that effect people. This story’s focus is more on characters in the setting of a post-event culture that sprung up.

    It also shows an amazing sophistication in blurring the lines between “sides.” Often in film and television, the main focal point that is shown within a movie or show, the protagonist traditionally, is often the one whom we as viewers want to see succeed, even if the focal character, or “side” shown can logically be said in hindsight to have values that work against our own. For example you could watch a film about an amoral drug dealing **** who is the focal point of a film, but in the end, because you are made to watch from their perspective, you become invested and root for said **** even though in real life you likely wouldn’t hop the pro-drug dealing train (or **** train if you’re a drug dealer). It’s mainly because movies and television induce an inside-looking-out perspective in viewers, always on one side of the line in the sand so to speak, an “Us vrs. Them” scenario. With that in mind, The Leftovers actually manages to effectively manipulate this empathy space relation so well that those you are meant to empathize with are unclear, the show utilizing different richly presented perspectives with a smarter use of moral ambiguity, moving the viewer around the space of the show, on the side of the “normal” towns folk of Mapleton one moment, suddenly on the side of a cult in another, turning on the Garvey family spoke, inducing a state of fluidic sympathy and empathy for pretty much all of them to the point where you are forced to face a narrative in which there is no side or person you are routing for, you are just experiencing like the characters themselves.

    A show that can do that, is a very smart show indeed!

    The Leftovers is a prime example of quality television with a dense, compelling, and intelligently constructed story, with decent plot progression, a high ratio of relatively unique cast of well-acted and very real characters; a good series for those who enjoy rich drama with just the hint of supernatural mystery.    … Expand
  44. Deckz
    Jan 6, 2018
    10
    SPOILER FREE - you can see many people rating this show very low, as they are sort of angry about it not being what they want it to be. if you let the show be it self, you will enjoy this show, it is different. it does something amazing tho, it solves so many problems that other tv shows have, with awesome dialog. it tells a story. there is no perfect answer, stop waiting for it. justSPOILER FREE - you can see many people rating this show very low, as they are sort of angry about it not being what they want it to be. if you let the show be it self, you will enjoy this show, it is different. it does something amazing tho, it solves so many problems that other tv shows have, with awesome dialog. it tells a story. there is no perfect answer, stop waiting for it. just enjoy the insanity ride of this weird and very special show.… Expand
  45. blackonblackski
    May 30, 2017
    10
    Really hits its crescendo around episode 6. From that episode forward, the momentum never stops. Episode eight with Patti's monolog is particularly gripping. The ending of the finale is breathtaking.
  46. TheOman
    Jun 1, 2017
    10
    I must say after watching the ads on Youtube about Leftovers. I got hooked right there.
    Watched all seasons and new episodes.

    Would like to support and pay HBO. But they've done it harder for me since I live in another country.
    So need to be a pirate, in order to watch it. Blaim HBO.

    I've enjoyed The Leftovers so far. Good actors as well.
  47. jaasieljunior
    Dec 3, 2017
    7
    The Leftovers inicia como uma das primeiras temporadas mais confusas da HBO. Mas o mistério é a base da série e isso pode ser uma característica positiva para que a segunda temporada seja bem mais explicativa e significativa.
  48. Felindie
    Sep 9, 2019
    7
    At times it was hard to watch, but the story is somehow captivating, definitely an interesting show.
  49. garmonbozia
    Aug 15, 2018
    10
    "The leftovers" is one of the best and the most underappreciated shows in the last decade of television. Every season can stand on it's own, but all of them share the same themes: Family, Home, Truth, Loss, Love, Faith. This show asks the most ultimate, the largest (or) the most basic questions and helps you to answer them (or not) on your own. What is the most important in life? Why are"The leftovers" is one of the best and the most underappreciated shows in the last decade of television. Every season can stand on it's own, but all of them share the same themes: Family, Home, Truth, Loss, Love, Faith. This show asks the most ultimate, the largest (or) the most basic questions and helps you to answer them (or not) on your own. What is the most important in life? Why are we here? What happens after we die? Is there a plan for all of this? If not - what matters? Why do we even believe in something?
    It's a mixture of faith and reason. Every difficult to understand event in the show is filled with that dichotomy. The series shows variety of human behaviour and attitude towards inexplicable phenomenon. What people are capable of doing to cope with their grief and how do they make sense of the world that has changed so rapidly and irreversibly. It's a dark, brutal, bleak, fantastic, visionary mysterious, emotional, depressing, mystical, funny, crazy, liberatory and sublime show. It will drag you through the dirt and then lift you up in the sky. The cast is phenomenal and their acting is mind-blowing (it's almost disgusting that actors from that show were notoriously ommited by the Emmys). I'm pretty sure that Max Richter's music in the show can move anyone to tears. I cried like a baby on so many scenes. The show moved me and will stay with me forever as one of the best shows I have ever watched.    … Expand
  50. All_ButTrU4
    Dec 18, 2021
    10
    Trying to place all the things that make this season great feel like an unfair task worthy of being a circle in dantes inferno. It's a fresh visually stunning character driven opus from a lauded writer/director. A thrill through and through that never apologises for how seriously it takes itself. This is the definition of underrated and "better with time" .it never meanders and is aTrying to place all the things that make this season great feel like an unfair task worthy of being a circle in dantes inferno. It's a fresh visually stunning character driven opus from a lauded writer/director. A thrill through and through that never apologises for how seriously it takes itself. This is the definition of underrated and "better with time" .it never meanders and is a compilation of nateographic winning shots. Truly phenomenal piece of work that still finds no comparison.… 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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