The Man in the High Castle

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Season 1
Season #: 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
7.3

Generally favorable reviews- based on 360 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 273 out of 360
  2. Mixed: 34 out of 360
  3. Negative: 53 out of 360
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  1. SirensOfTitan
    Nov 22, 2015
    10
    For those who don't know: The show is based on a Phillip K. Dick novel exploring the alternate reality in which the Japanese and Germans won World War II. It's more addictive than House of Cards and has a lot more legroom to explore than David Fincher's fantastic work.

    The acting and the directing stand out in this show. It's filled with several homages to David Lynch and Ingmar    For those who don't know: The show is based on a Phillip K. Dick novel exploring the alternate reality in which the Japanese and Germans won World War II. It's more addictive than House of Cards and has a lot more legroom to explore than David Fincher's fantastic work.

    The acting and the directing stand out in this show. It's filled with several homages to David Lynch and Ingmar Bergman with a powerful accented cinematographic style. Rufus Sewell (The Illusionist) plays a masterful antagonist that no doubt will receive some emmy nominations.

    My only gripe with this show (after seeing all of the episodes) is that I wish they spoke in their proper languages (German and Japanese) over English everywhere. I understand that languages other than english have a potential to alienate US audiences, but I think this ruined the immersion a bit. Narcos was mostly in Spanish and (from what I know) has done quite well. Language is powerful in building impactful characters. Just the use of it can change the tone of the show.

    Overall, I'd heavily recommend this show. Ignore the haters below. They're nothing more than pseudo-intellectuals who are pining over incredibly insignificant details. One guy even complained that the use of currencies with no cents ruined the immersion for him. Another is complaining that they didn't get a large scale occupation 'right' because many of the main characters seemed indoctrinated (and he argues 15 years isn't enough). Most of the main characters are under 30, and as such would have spent most of their adult lives in occupation.    … Expand
  2. shoeone
    Dec 13, 2015
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A very enjoyable first ten episodes. The series has already gone beyond the rather slim volume penned by Philip K. Dick, but we still don't have a clear idea of how the films are produced, why there are multiple realities or why some people can seemingly move back and forth between them. Presumably that will be for season two to sort out. The CGI world-building is excellent, and the main characters are well acted. This version of the "Man in the High Castle" reminds me a lot of the South African series "Charlie Jade," but the possibilities in this series are far greater, since the source material (Nazi Germany, Imperial Japan and Occupied America) is much richer. I'm also waiting to get a look at those interplanetary colonies that the Germans have supposedly established. If memory serves, Philip K. Dick posited a Nazi colony on Venus, but that was before we knew that the temperature there exceeded 900 degrees Fahrenheit. Oh, well. Even the Greats of science fiction can't get it right all of the time.… Expand
  3. SaturnFX
    Apr 10, 2017
    10
    Absolutely fantastic show, watched season 1 and 2..and waiting for 3. This is a must see for anyone who is interested in the what if's of history, a touch of sci-fi, and a seemingly fair interpretation of what it would be like if the nazis and the japanese empire came out on top in WW3. Characters and acting is fantastic, the pace of the story is slow enough to give depth to theAbsolutely fantastic show, watched season 1 and 2..and waiting for 3. This is a must see for anyone who is interested in the what if's of history, a touch of sci-fi, and a seemingly fair interpretation of what it would be like if the nazis and the japanese empire came out on top in WW3. Characters and acting is fantastic, the pace of the story is slow enough to give depth to the characters, but fast enough to keep plot interest.… Expand
  4. raiderro
    Oct 22, 2018
    3
    The concept was awesome but the budget was minimal I'm assuming. Midway into the second season and all we've seen of this feared "resistance" is a handful of characters. It's not very believable! A lot of realities have been ignored here which makes the show somewhat disregard the realities and invalidates the whole possible outcome of the second world war and the occupation of America.The concept was awesome but the budget was minimal I'm assuming. Midway into the second season and all we've seen of this feared "resistance" is a handful of characters. It's not very believable! A lot of realities have been ignored here which makes the show somewhat disregard the realities and invalidates the whole possible outcome of the second world war and the occupation of America. The idea was awesome, execution not so much. But this is America, try to make a show too intelligent and you'll be cancelled after one season, keep that in mind!… Expand
  5. EtienneAs
    Dec 3, 2015
    10
    I was hooked with this show within 10 minutes of the first episode, so much that I've binged watched the whole season and can't wait and hope that there will be a second one. Definitely the best show of the fall!
  6. BeauFuller
    Jan 26, 2016
    10
    I don't get the bad reviews, they state a lot of irrelevant things that don't actually pertain to the show. This show had me interested start to finish. Can't say enough good things about the show.
  7. sheepshark
    Dec 11, 2015
    5
    The tone is too somber, starting with the music of the opening credits. Through 10 episodes, I already feel like wheels are turning, but nothing is happening. Rufus Sewell is excellent as the Nazi commander, better than you might think. He was cast perfectly because he has that hard, unforgiving look, but he also plays some scenes with surprising tenderness. I wish there was more BurnThe tone is too somber, starting with the music of the opening credits. Through 10 episodes, I already feel like wheels are turning, but nothing is happening. Rufus Sewell is excellent as the Nazi commander, better than you might think. He was cast perfectly because he has that hard, unforgiving look, but he also plays some scenes with surprising tenderness. I wish there was more Burn Gorman as the Marshall. That character is the best part, but even those scenes seem to move slow. I like shows with political intrigue, Battlestar Galactica for example. But I like when the intrigue is metaphorical of real-life current events. Maybe I'm too dense, but I don't see that here. I suppose I'll keep watching when they continue the series. I'm convinced that there will be some magical, sci-fi/fantasy, parallel universe reveal that makes the whole story pay off. I just don't know how long I want to wait for it, and I'm sure I'll be disappointed.… Expand
  8. goodterling
    Jun 13, 2016
    2
    Every aspect of the show--from the music, to the soft, fuzzy look, to the slow dialog, to the pacing--seems calculated to put you to sleep. I have to constantly remind myself that everything is NOT supposed to be a dream sequence, because that's the visual language they're using for every scene. And this is coming from someone who loves other slow burn shows like Hannibal. The acting isEvery aspect of the show--from the music, to the soft, fuzzy look, to the slow dialog, to the pacing--seems calculated to put you to sleep. I have to constantly remind myself that everything is NOT supposed to be a dream sequence, because that's the visual language they're using for every scene. And this is coming from someone who loves other slow burn shows like Hannibal. The acting is good, Rufus Sewell is great, but they somehow managed to transform this compelling concept, skilled actors, and great production value into an incredibly boring product.… Expand
  9. RayRainer
    Dec 19, 2015
    7
    Even though I agree with some of the negative reviews and found it torturous and a grind to watch; somehow, in the end I found it appealing and mesmerizing in a strange way. It just gives you a vision of what it would be like to live in a Fascist state. The way it captures America as a Japanese and Nazi state is done very well. The acting and costumes are very well done. It just has thisEven though I agree with some of the negative reviews and found it torturous and a grind to watch; somehow, in the end I found it appealing and mesmerizing in a strange way. It just gives you a vision of what it would be like to live in a Fascist state. The way it captures America as a Japanese and Nazi state is done very well. The acting and costumes are very well done. It just has this slow depressing melancholy pace that makes it rough to get through. But then, on the other hand, the whole idea is very depressing. So yes, I will watch more series just to see how it develops. It just might not be a show for everyone.… Expand
  10. Broyax
    Mar 28, 2019
    0
    Bien que le livre qui ait inspiré cette série soit moyen (et pas forcément très inspiré, hélas) il dépeint avec une précision glaçante ce monde alternatif au sein duquel les forces de l'Axe ont remporté la guerre et conquis l'intégralité des Etats-Unis, désormais partagés entre le Japon impérial et l'Allemagne nazie...

    Cette nouvelle géopolitique a bien été décrite par Philip K. Dick et    Bien que le livre qui ait inspiré cette série soit moyen (et pas forcément très inspiré, hélas) il dépeint avec une précision glaçante ce monde alternatif au sein duquel les forces de l'Axe ont remporté la guerre et conquis l'intégralité des Etats-Unis, désormais partagés entre le Japon impérial et l'Allemagne nazie...

    Cette nouvelle géopolitique a bien été décrite par Philip K. Dick et s'il est au moins une chose dont peut se targuer la série, c'est justement cette étrange ambiance de l'Amérique occupée. Le premier épisode de la série est déjà d'une mollesse sans précédent mais il faut bien un temps d'exposition pour nous plonger dans ce monde inédit...

    On note déjà des comédiens uniformément mauvais et un scénario bancal... et les épisodes suivants ne font que confirmer cet enlisement de l'écriture et une adaptation complètement à la masse (en dehors du cadre général bien sûr). S'il ne se passait pas grand-chose dans le livre, on atteint ici des sommets dans l'inaction et les bavardages incessants, les clichés et la somnolence.

    Et lorsqu'il arrive éventuellement un truc, c'est tout simplement invraisemblable et bien ridicule. En fait, les dialogues laissent toujours à penser qu'on va assister à quelque chose mais qui soit n'arrive pas, soit débouche sur un pétard mouillé. Les épisodes qui durent une heure donnent l'impression qu'ils en durent trois... et tout ça pour de la merde finalement !

    Et dire qu'ils ont étalé ce remplissage de conneries sur 3 saisons déjà, ça laisse pantois... Finir la première est un exploit, alors se taper les deux autres... au secours ! Immense déception donc.    … Expand
  11. yass
    Nov 28, 2015
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Can't understand the bad reviews, the writing and acting is decent? This dystopian version of history is really enjoyable to watch. A binge-watch series.

    PS: really like the people who reviewed who said it's not plausible. They did not get any of it    … Expand
  12. Knighthawk81
    Nov 20, 2015
    9
    This is the best new show of the fall. I loved the pilot when it aired during the Amazon pilot season, and I thought the second episode -- released as part of a sneak peak a few weeks ago -- was just as good. This show is based on a Phillip K. Dick short story about an alternate timeline where the Nazis and the Japanese won WWII and split the United States. That creates some strikingThis is the best new show of the fall. I loved the pilot when it aired during the Amazon pilot season, and I thought the second episode -- released as part of a sneak peak a few weeks ago -- was just as good. This show is based on a Phillip K. Dick short story about an alternate timeline where the Nazis and the Japanese won WWII and split the United States. That creates some striking images, and allows for a very fascinating story. I liked the performances and the set up, and I can't wait to see where this series goes as it develops.… Expand
  13. Mr_Maldoror
    Nov 22, 2015
    4
    It was an enjoyable ride for the first nine episodes, and completely fell apart at its finale which seemed to cop out of a lot of things to leave room for a possible second season. Originally a 7.5 but the finale brought it down to a 4.
  14. FredinToronto
    Nov 28, 2015
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I don't want give any spoilers here which makes it difficult to write this review. I can say that the dystopian premise was effectively disturbing. The 10 episodes felt much like reading a graphic novel. I was disappointed with the lazy script writing. Unreal coincidences can be forgiven in a graphic novel but why were the main characters so "stupid"? For example, why didn't Frank pick up the money as he was escaping from .... If you saw the series you know what I am talking about. And the ending! Don't get me started!!!… Expand
  15. Lalaland_ger
    Jan 7, 2016
    6
    If the characters would be half as interesting as the setting of the world is, the show could be fantastisch. It is the biggest amount of giving away opportunities per minute. All the time you think, this could have been done better. Symptomatic for the partly bad production: if you let your actors speak german, it should sound like real german but if you let Hitler speak german, it has toIf the characters would be half as interesting as the setting of the world is, the show could be fantastisch. It is the biggest amount of giving away opportunities per minute. All the time you think, this could have been done better. Symptomatic for the partly bad production: if you let your actors speak german, it should sound like real german but if you let Hitler speak german, it has to be german without any english accent or let him speak english for gods sake but dont make such a Scheiße!… Expand
  16. yrogerg123
    Feb 4, 2016
    10
    I absolutely loved this show. I thought it was beautifully shot and flawlessly executed. The acting was superb. The tension was always high, and you could always feel the stakes for the characters. If I had any gripe with the show, it's in the attention paid to the films themselves. Somehow these strange films overpower what could be an epic thriller in an engrossing alternate history ofI absolutely loved this show. I thought it was beautifully shot and flawlessly executed. The acting was superb. The tension was always high, and you could always feel the stakes for the characters. If I had any gripe with the show, it's in the attention paid to the films themselves. Somehow these strange films overpower what could be an epic thriller in an engrossing alternate history of the post-WWII world. Instead you have believable, human characters responding to unbelievable, supernatural events. While it's still interesting to watch, the show probably could have been better had it stuck with what was believable within the type of universe that any of us would inhabit, given the post-war events that transpired.

    Even so, I thought the show was remarkably well done, easily one of the best I've seen this year, and much better than many more popular shows. It's well worth the watch, and comfortably earned a 10/10 from me.    … Expand
  17. Whoupclicklike
    Dec 2, 2015
    10
    Aside from a couple character flaws, (Mainly between the woman and the man from the east coast) it's a great first season. Probably the best I've seen since Breaking Bad.
    I don't feel like typing a long review with spoilers, but it's a great season. I really hope for a season 2.

    9.5/10
  18. RokuGuru
    Jan 25, 2016
    9
    Once you get past the elements of this scenario that seem impossible, I really loved this show. My first impression was that there is no way the USA would surrender. If the Nazis got the bomb first they would have taken over Europe and maybe we would have pulled back until we finished our bomb, but attacking America would have been a bloodbath with a never ending insurgency. The ability toOnce you get past the elements of this scenario that seem impossible, I really loved this show. My first impression was that there is no way the USA would surrender. If the Nazis got the bomb first they would have taken over Europe and maybe we would have pulled back until we finished our bomb, but attacking America would have been a bloodbath with a never ending insurgency. The ability to deliver enough A-Bombs to get america to surrender just didn't exist in the 1940s

    That being said, the show is good entertainment with good characters and an interesting premise. I found myself badly wanting to watch 1 more episode, and saddened when I was done with them all. And that's exactly what you want from television. Engaging Entertainment.    … Expand
  19. tigerskin84
    Feb 4, 2016
    9
    The first season of this show was very good, i think it deserves a higher rating.The plot is a little predictable but is more than a decent plot, the performace of the actors is also very good, this show makes you hate/empathize with the characters on both sides wich i think its great, cant wait for season 2.
  20. LockeJohn
    Nov 29, 2015
    8
    It's fun. The story is a little drawn out, but it's fun. I love this show makes you sympathize with villains. The ruthless Japanese inspector and head of the SS in America appear more human as you progress through the first 10 episodes. The cast is great.
  21. moothemagiccow
    Dec 28, 2015
    8
    Gripping for the first five episodes, then it's clear they started planning for season two. A huge improvement on the book, which is slow-paced and overly concerned with antique sales and political etiquette.
  22. ourtimehascome
    Aug 28, 2017
    10
    The Man in the High Castle is an extraordinarily well-acted drama, based on the Phillip K. Dick novel of the same name. Although Dick adaptations have become common fare recently, the show makes considerable distinctions and differentiates itself from the source material in the relationships between the main characters. Their perspectives are unique and interesting, and are what move theThe Man in the High Castle is an extraordinarily well-acted drama, based on the Phillip K. Dick novel of the same name. Although Dick adaptations have become common fare recently, the show makes considerable distinctions and differentiates itself from the source material in the relationships between the main characters. Their perspectives are unique and interesting, and are what move the show forward in terms of both plot and general regard.

    As an alternate history story, it focuses on both sides of occupation. What if the United States had lost WWII? This is the hypothetical question which forces The Man in the High Castle to its inevitable conclusion of reconciling its fiction with our reality. Overall, I'd say Dick would find a lot to enjoy in the show.    … Expand
  23. 7blAGqV8SCJjw
    Nov 22, 2015
    1
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This review contains spoilers, click expand to view

    This show has to be one of the most profoundly disappointing productions in recent years, and there have been a lot of disappointing productions. Philip K Dick wrote a wonderful alternative history that allowed the reader to imagine very dark events, but the show has done little to build on the original premise. The characters’ internal motivations largely make no sense, responding half-heartedly to acts of horrific barbarism. It feels like the script leaves no room for authentic emotion, focussing instead on having the characters do whatever it takes to move the plot along. For example, the protagonist (Juliana) continually acts in a grotesquely irresponsible way. Even after her boyfriend’s family has paid with their lives for her actions, he still stays loyal, never once lashing out with the anger that would naturally result from seeing your sister, niece, and nephew gassed because of Juliana’s mistakes. She repeatedly betrays his trust, only for him to react as if there’s no injury. Moreover she lies about her work for the resistance with a psychopathic ease. She similarly takes advantage of the loyalty shown her by the trade minister.

    On the other end of the spectrum DJ Qualls’ Ed McCarthy suffers from the lack of any consistent personality. He vacillates from resolved to weakling, from astute to naive, without any explanation. The scenes between him and Rupert Evans’s Frank Fink are some of the most trying in the show. The writers bypass the much-needed work of establishing the parameters of McCarthy and Fink’s friendship, skipping to an awkward dynamic whereby McCarthy persistently pesters Evans to undertake or avoid a course of conduct. Yet it’s clear that McCarthy’s simply there to provide rhetorical counterpoint at times when Juliana is out of town and thus unable to debate Frank. The show runner never establishes why McCarthy does any of what he does. Also, the character fluctuates dramatically, in one scene acting from extreme fear and risk aversion, while suddenly shifting to volunteer to take major risks for the leading couple of the show. Such change could be the product of an interesting narrative arc, in which McCarthy came to see the importance of their work for the resistance, but the show never explains his shift. Rather, he’s just scene to flip personalities.

    Setting aside the writing and character development, the show’s cardinal flaw is that it misses the opportunity to explore the more nuanced ways that an occupation of the United States might have affected the trajectory of our economy, culture, etc. For example, in the Japan-occupied zone, nearly all the Japanese characters speak perfect english, but the Americans only speak a smattering of Japanese. This makes little sense. Given the Japanese policies in other occupied territories (such as Korea and parts of China), one could only expect that the Americans of the pacific states would be forced to speak Japanese and adopt Japanese cultural practices. Here, we see nothing of the sort, aside from the occasional Judo class or a character saying Arigato as a rhetorical flourish. Why, for example, do Japanese characters adopt the attired of the Americans, and not the opposite. On the economic front, why is America largely unscathed by war and able to achieve the same level of economic development that we achieved as a victorious post-war nation. Rather than flush out any of these points, the show seeks just to set the stage for lots of fighting/action. It’s a shame.    … Expand
  24. ninjamammoth
    Jun 13, 2016
    0
    Guys don't bother, this show is horribly boring and filled with plot holes. The main characters seem to act without thinking about the consequences. Show is just utter crap, i don't get all the great reviews surrounding this series. No one in the series seems to act but just worry and worry about what is about to happen. Long and draggy screen time. Juliana is annoying as hell btw.
  25. vgithaca
    Dec 7, 2015
    3
    I wish I had read the reviews (bad ones, for some reason amazon and netflix shows tend to have a lot of good reviews) before wasting the weekend hoping something will happen in the show.

    3 points are mostly for the first episode. It seems like it took them 2 weeks to make the first episode and2 week to make the rest 9. The show stretched so far that it felt like the Nazi's were    I wish I had read the reviews (bad ones, for some reason amazon and netflix shows tend to have a lot of good reviews) before wasting the weekend hoping something will happen in the show.

    3 points are mostly for the first episode. It seems like it took them 2 weeks to make the first episode and2 week to make the rest 9.

    The show stretched so far that it felt like the Nazi's were starting to torture me instead of the characters. Mediocre acting and so many stupid (or lazy) plots.

    I should have stuck with watching Seinfeld (hmmm.. ) reruns!    … Expand
  26. vandalaslt
    Nov 27, 2015
    9
    This series shows EXACTLY what happened after WW2 in Russia occupied territories - Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Poland ... Its interesting to watch how the world would have turned out, how bad nazis were, but most people will never understand that something like this happened 50 years ago ... Almosts every new scene proofs that, gives desperate feeling, its like watching history inThis series shows EXACTLY what happened after WW2 in Russia occupied territories - Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Poland ... Its interesting to watch how the world would have turned out, how bad nazis were, but most people will never understand that something like this happened 50 years ago ... Almosts every new scene proofs that, gives desperate feeling, its like watching history in different colours, creepy, interesting and sad all at one time ... And the all world just closed their eyes to that ...… Expand
  27. luton
    Feb 25, 2016
    3
    A dull plot with nothing more than flat characters for an otherwise potentially good (yet not in the slightest original) idea. The viewer gets the impression of almost 0 research having been put into this film. It completely pandered to a an uneducated US-american audience, fails to explore the other winners of the war (Britain and Russia), fails to connect from end of the war viaA dull plot with nothing more than flat characters for an otherwise potentially good (yet not in the slightest original) idea. The viewer gets the impression of almost 0 research having been put into this film. It completely pandered to a an uneducated US-american audience, fails to explore the other winners of the war (Britain and Russia), fails to connect from end of the war via comprehensible causal relations (militarily, economically, logistically, politically, etc.) to an occupation of North America, etc. There's also no effort to integrate proper linguistic immersion, which would have happened (everywhere an occupying force goes, it spreads its language, whether a British, American, Japanese, German, Russian, Spanish, etc.). In short, this series is so lacking, it's something a pupil could come up with at school, but nothing of the calibre, one would expect from the film industry. I ceased watching after a few episodes, I simply could not put up with this rubbish. Visually, if you turn off the sound, the series seems nice. Oh, one other thing: they sing Edelweiß... (in English!) as the title song… despite the song being österreichisch. (Facepalm!)… Expand
  28. cpontier77
    Nov 22, 2015
    3
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I very much wanted to like this series. It is so ambitious and (considering it's an Amazon headliner) during production possessed all the resources it would have needed to succeed.

    Acting was poor. Characters were thin and hard to relate to. Their emotions were poorly conveyed and their motivations were unclear. Someone close to the main character and she is essentially fine. She decides to do something and people close to her get hurt. Does she not have a heart? Or does she lack a brain?

    The entire universe that they create is laughable. As other users have pointed out, everything was stamped with a swastika. Likely because everyone constantly forgets they are being controlled by an outside power. For approximately two decades. Fat chance. Many objects/structures/vehicles were old/seemingly dysfunctional/generally crap. Yet the Germans had "superior tech" in this reality. Did they want to occupy and work hard at maintaining control in the United States just to turn it into a dump and laugh at it from Berlin? Everything within 2 episodes has cost a whole number in whatever the local currency was. 3 Yen for medicine, 2 Marks for food. 3 Marks for something else. So, no smaller denominations to pay for smaller purchases? That totally makes sense. On and on, the list of these inconsistencies grows as I begin episode 2.

    What I disliked the most was the cliché choices for environment designs. Anyone that has played Fallout or Bioshock will gag at how hard they try to replicate the vibes those games created.    … Expand
  29. real022
    Dec 27, 2015
    0
    This is so bad. Have not seen something as bad as this show for a long time.
    Stuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuupiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiid.
  30. sulli219
    Dec 3, 2015
    0
    Had to turn it off after about halfway through the first episode, there was no entertainment value to the show. The idea of the show seemed good but it completely failed.
  31. Alex_ser
    Nov 26, 2015
    3
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I never wrote reviews before. But. This series is so laughable, that I felt obliged to.

    My main issue with it - alternate reality? Really? Yes, I've read the book and found it rather pretentious, but adequate for its time. And I had a flimsy hope that this show will be concentrated more around setting itself and less - around pseudo-philosophical rubbish.

    But no. Four main storylines. Three end nowhere and the last one...

    They kill Japan prince and it changes nothing.

    They can't kill Hitler, so it changes nothing too.

    Main heroine lets the main hero slip away. Great ending! So he just dissapears and the rest of them just standing there, whatching him. Breathtaking.

    And that last one, Alternate reality one. The ultimate ending. So if you are really, really, really want to go to another reality - you just have to wish it! Really, really hard. And - why not? You can be there.

    What a waste of time! It has more or less original setting - true, but the rest... I understand why it was the big hit in 1962. Before postmodernism and all that. But now? When we have all kinds of that stuff up to a pop-culture "icon" "Matrix".

    Stop beating the dead horse. Or, at least, try to make a zombie out of it. It might be fun.    … Expand
  32. Mike_M
    Dec 9, 2015
    2
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. High production values. Decent pilot and premise. Terrible writing and acting.

    The pilot episode is solid, and the production values are very high. And although this might be enough to hook some people, the first three episodes are riddled with moments of terrible writing, acting or both, that grow more frequent along the way, culminating in episode 3's The Marshall character, which is laughably atrocious melodrama and seems to come from another show entirely. It's as if a generation of superhero movies (good and bad) have primed the audience/filmmakers to a point where a show with this high of a budget would dare try a character this ridiculous, and in a show that wasn't supposed to be 'camp'.

    The occasional bad shot or edit is also present in each episode, as when Julianna throws the man off of the bridge, with terrible, unbelievable action and shots; or a few edits that jump or don't match, for no particular reason.

    Altogether, this show is in a dangerous area where it starts well enough to hook you (especially if you like the alternative history/sci fi premise) but falls apart very quickly.    … Expand
  33. SirNilesIV
    Aug 18, 2015
    8
    Hard to know what the full series will be like, but the pilot was just great. It has little elements of Ridley Scott, but overall, I think he just provided his name. If you are expecting Bladerunner or something equally visually appealing, we'll need to wait and see if they have the budget for it. The set dressing overall was high for a pilot, but not exactly movie quality; which isn't aHard to know what the full series will be like, but the pilot was just great. It has little elements of Ridley Scott, but overall, I think he just provided his name. If you are expecting Bladerunner or something equally visually appealing, we'll need to wait and see if they have the budget for it. The set dressing overall was high for a pilot, but not exactly movie quality; which isn't a bad thing since this is a TV show, after all. I've been burned by way too many Sci-Fi TV shows (cough cough "V", "Lost", "The Sarah Connor Chronicles") that start strong and look great and then just totally flounder. I hope this isn't one of those.… Expand
  34. c700
    Dec 29, 2015
    5
    The series in itself is okay, but its effect on people is what worries me. This alternative history scenario was extremely unlikely to happen (since at the peak of the war the Nazis already had problems managing the german territories, poland, russia, skandinavia and france). So this kind of angst-fuelled nightmare is just the right excuse for conservative american patriots to praise theThe series in itself is okay, but its effect on people is what worries me. This alternative history scenario was extremely unlikely to happen (since at the peak of the war the Nazis already had problems managing the german territories, poland, russia, skandinavia and france). So this kind of angst-fuelled nightmare is just the right excuse for conservative american patriots to praise the USA over the top, without adressing its issues, and use the pretense as a need for LESS guncontrol. That is why, politically, this series is not correct. Because let's be honest here. We both know here what the target-audience is.… Expand
  35. kirkhilles
    Jul 14, 2016
    3
    I'm certainly no critic and more of an "average guy". My wife and I are 3 episodes in and watching it sucks. Its just an excuse to show a bunch of torture and war. Normally I LOVE the possibilities of "what ifs" and "alternate realities", but this isn't it. Again, WATCHING IT sucks. I'm not saying that it isn't "critically good", but I AM saying that I don't want to see it anymore nor everI'm certainly no critic and more of an "average guy". My wife and I are 3 episodes in and watching it sucks. Its just an excuse to show a bunch of torture and war. Normally I LOVE the possibilities of "what ifs" and "alternate realities", but this isn't it. Again, WATCHING IT sucks. I'm not saying that it isn't "critically good", but I AM saying that I don't want to see it anymore nor ever again and that's rare for me.

    There's nothing to be excited about. Nothing about this seems plausible in any form. There was no step-by-step of what happened, nor anything positive about what could've happened (certainly, there had to be SOMETHING good compared to our problems in our country today). Instead, its just a dreary, everybody is going to get tortured or killed type of show. It doesn't teach me anything. It doesn't get me excited about it. Frankly, I'm not really even sure what's going on as I have no reason to really focus on it. Just a bunch of boring characters.

    Pass. Too much other great TV out there. Maybe it gets better later, but I'm done with it.    … Expand
  36. ozymandias79
    Nov 29, 2015
    8
    Overall a good series. The alternate world is believable. Suspense and mystery elements are done well. A good soundtrack. The opening is excellent. That song is super creepy and fits well with the axis taking over the world. The only part that was poorly done was development of the relationship between Juliana and Joe. It was way underbaked and their actions weren't believable, consideringOverall a good series. The alternate world is believable. Suspense and mystery elements are done well. A good soundtrack. The opening is excellent. That song is super creepy and fits well with the axis taking over the world. The only part that was poorly done was development of the relationship between Juliana and Joe. It was way underbaked and their actions weren't believable, considering they were both already in relationships. Hope this gets a second series. It would be crime against good television if it doesn't.… Expand
  37. Rattazustra
    Nov 20, 2015
    0
    If you do not know ANYTHING at all about history, economics, science, politics, psychology and war, this show may be enjoyable to you. If this is not the case it is very unlikely that you will find this watchable.

    The entire setup is implausible and sloppily written and pretty much nothing makes sense. The German translations of English signs are almost all wrong and that spells    If you do not know ANYTHING at all about history, economics, science, politics, psychology and war, this show may be enjoyable to you. If this is not the case it is very unlikely that you will find this watchable.

    The entire setup is implausible and sloppily written and pretty much nothing makes sense. The German translations of English signs are almost all wrong and that spells disaster for such a production. Not because the actual text would matter, but because it is a clear sign of amateurish work and producers who don't care about their own products.

    Then there is the swastikas and the constant use of the "Nazi" term. Nazis did not call everything they did and owned "Nazi-XYZ" and they certainly did not adorn EVERYTHING with swastikas. The show however seems to think that it has to maximize the NAZIness out of even a phonebooth. "Greater Nazi Reich" is about as dumb as it comes. Nazi is short for Nationalsozialismus, national socialism, but I am sure the creators of this show do not know that. Plausible names would have been "Deutsch-Amerika", "Amerikanische Staaten von Großdeutschland", or something else along the lines. "Größeres Nazi Reich"? No, not even close. That is as if an American occupation somewhere else would call itself "Embiggened Ammie Union".

    The worst thing however is that they could not even get the concept of an occupied state right. On one hand they present everything as Nazi-occupied and tyrannical, but then they completely fail to have all the things that such systems do. Freedom of travel?! Oh, please. How infantile. No tyrannical system EVER in the entire history of mankind allowed subjugated people freedom of travel. Not even it's own citizens had such freedom. Not in the Soviet Union and not in Nazi Germany.

    Such things matter. Not every piece of it all the time, but for the eventual product.

    The behavior of the characters is even worse. If my system got murdered literally a few meters away from me, I could not even imagine reacting like the woman in the show did. Also for the amount of brainwashing that most of the characters seem to have absorbed, there was simply never enough time between 1947 and 1962. Mere 15 years are not enough to brainwash an entire nation.

    Sloppy, incorrect, implausible, incredible, badly written. The book is actually better but it is a child of it's time. It doesn't help much that the reality portrayed in the setting is factually a "false" reality. Even false realities need to make sense within themselves.    … Expand
  38. hgoldman77
    Nov 30, 2015
    0
    How could so many review this show positively? It's a preposterous premise, acted, shot and written poorly. Who the heck understands why a film would control reality? Bad.
  39. alizilla
    Jan 10, 2017
    0
    Ep 1 & 2 showed great promise , I could barley make it to EP 10.
    After watching all 10 episodes I wish I hadn't. It was almost painful to watch as the season ended.
    Quick word of warning about the vastly over the top 'average' scores shown here and other sites. Scratch the surface on the majority of the professional critic reviews who gave this show glowing 10/10 scores and you will    Ep 1 & 2 showed great promise , I could barley make it to EP 10.
    After watching all 10 episodes I wish I hadn't. It was almost painful to watch as the season ended.

    Quick word of warning about the vastly over the top 'average' scores shown here and other sites.
    Scratch the surface on the majority of the professional critic reviews who gave this show glowing 10/10 scores and you will find they only watched episode 1 / strangely some of them refer to this as 'the pilot' which I cant understand given amazon had release the first 6 episodes for review at once.

    Makes me wonder if they even watched the same show I did.. I honestly think if they watched the first series in it's entirety their scores would be massively different.    … Expand
  40. raparicio
    Jan 11, 2016
    7
    I give it a 7 and not a 6 because at least they made the show and you can have a glimpse into what might be a parallel world in which the Nazi's/Japanese won the war, which is a fascinating idea for a TV show, (fortunately just that, an idea). What I think the show really lacks is context. The Nazis winning the war is a huge deal, this means the world has changed completely, yet somehow weI give it a 7 and not a 6 because at least they made the show and you can have a glimpse into what might be a parallel world in which the Nazi's/Japanese won the war, which is a fascinating idea for a TV show, (fortunately just that, an idea). What I think the show really lacks is context. The Nazis winning the war is a huge deal, this means the world has changed completely, yet somehow we only get to know what is going on in the USA. What's going on in the UK? Let's not forget Italy was allied to Germany and Japan, what happened with that? What happened to South America, Africa, Asia, the whole world? How is the geopolitical situation and map of the world? We only get to know that the west of the US is Japanese and the east is German. Also, Nazi ideals. Maybe its too politically incorrect to mention that black people have been killed off in the Nazi side, as well as latins, jews, gays, and other people Hitler would've gotten rid of? We see a black character from the Neutral zone, but it seems he can walk around Japanese territory with no problems. The show really dwells more on the love relationship of its two main characters, but I have to say, they are not very charismatic. You don't really care if they get killed or not, you just want to see more about this parallel universe. It's great when they show Hitler at an old age, but that is as much parallel universe you get to see, aside from San Francisco and New York having Japanese and German billboard ads. Many episodes made me sleep and had to watch them again, I really did want to see the next episode in order to have more on this parallel world and understand the mystery about the films, but I kept falling asleep seeing the love triangle evolve. As said, I would give the show a 6 but I give it a 7 since at least it makes you think about this.… Expand
  41. Pleiades
    Feb 28, 2016
    10
    IMHO the best PKD adaptation so far - let's face it, none of them (with the notable exception of 'A Scanner Darkly) have been exact replicants (heh) of the original, and this is no exception. But it's better for it, for despite PKD's (not very original, but interesting) premise, there was not that much to the novel as far as I can remember - & no closure or overall explanation as such.IMHO the best PKD adaptation so far - let's face it, none of them (with the notable exception of 'A Scanner Darkly) have been exact replicants (heh) of the original, and this is no exception. But it's better for it, for despite PKD's (not very original, but interesting) premise, there was not that much to the novel as far as I can remember - & no closure or overall explanation as such.

    Neither is there in this series, at least for the moment (it's been renewed for 2016 however) - nevertheless, the characters have been fleshed out a bit, and the resistance moved to the fore, which advances the physical drama. The psychological and political drama is actually more convincing to my mind however.

    The world building, atmosphere and background are first rate, the whole environment normal on the surface but with the chilling, ever present overtones of fascism looming like a dark, judgemental cloud over everything.

    The acting is, for the most part, superb - special mentions for pretty much all the Japanese characters who embody the ruthless cruelty of the Empire, and the unquestioning obedience it demands. The Nazis, centred on the charming, confident John Smith (Rufus Sewell) are also universally effective as boot clicking sadists with ice in their blood.

    All of course is not as it seems, and the characters have hidden agendas, anxieties and loyalties, and this is the crux of the drama, as much as the insistent fear of betrayal or discovery that every episode exudes.

    Certainly there are weaknesses: Juliana Crane, whilst utterly gorgeous and sympathetic, does come across as fairly insipid. Every main character is pretty or handsome, in a way that years of war and privation wouldn't seem to merit. The Marshal (not one of the pretty ones LOL) is a cartoonish caricature of amoral evil although he's no less scary as a result.

    The usual coincidences and deus ex machina appear, inevitable in this type of fiction, but on the whole it rises above the usual tropes of the genre.

    A really pleasant surprise to be honest - I'm giving it a 10 to balance the silly zero scores but it certainly rates at least an 8+ in my eyes anyway...    … Expand
  42. Synycom
    Oct 23, 2018
    1
    Rubbish. The plot is so internally inconsistent you have to disengage your brain. The plot has more holes and character inconsistencies than Swiss cheese, it’s laughable. Difficult giving plot spoilers as it’s the video series equivalent of a compost heap. Just keep adding **** and hoping something good comes out at the end. Save yourself, it doesn’t.
  43. meldrew
    Dec 14, 2015
    7
    Even if this was a terrible show, and it certainly isn't, I'd watch it just to enjoy its beautiful look. I could turn the sound off and still love it.
  44. gmonster320
    Jan 9, 2016
    8
    A compelling season overall. The premise remains fascinating. The sets are extremely well done. The wide aerial shots of buildings draped in Nazi iconography is chilling. Wegener's drive to Hitler's lair in the Alps is beautifully shot. The attention to detail everywhere (even in Smith's and Tagomi's offices) immerse the viewer in this universe. The costuming is also crisp and on target. IA compelling season overall. The premise remains fascinating. The sets are extremely well done. The wide aerial shots of buildings draped in Nazi iconography is chilling. Wegener's drive to Hitler's lair in the Alps is beautifully shot. The attention to detail everywhere (even in Smith's and Tagomi's offices) immerse the viewer in this universe. The costuming is also crisp and on target. I cringe every time I see a closeup of a Nazi uniform.

    I still have some issues with pacing and character development though.

    Pacing-- the whole "get the film" story seems a bit flat. I know the films are the vehicle by which the viewer is introduced into this world. Shouldnt the resistance be spending more time fighting and last time looking for films though?

    Character Development- While that are some GREAT characters in "TMITHC" (Smith, Kido, Tagomi, and Frank to name a few) I'm not feeling it much for the main characters of Juliana and Joe. I know Joe Blake is meant to remain mysterious. Are we supposed to be actively rooting for Juliana? If so, I'm having a hard time. She changes her mind every two seconds. Is she really in love with Joe after everything he's done? I fear her fickleness will get Frank killed.

    I also dont understand the films. Juliana and Frank saw Frank's death at the hands of Nazi Joe. Joe viewed a film about Stalin living past 1949. How are these movies being made and what do they mean? Is there really an alternate universe that the characters can enter?    … Expand
  45. shoulderoforion
    Jan 12, 2016
    8
    This is a period drama on LSD. It's interesting, entertaining and I'm down to see where they take the story in season 2, It was enjoyable & if you like hardboiled detective fiction of the 40's you'll dig this.
  46. Marlon201725
    Dec 20, 2016
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. La serie nos sumerge en una realidad alternativa del como hubiere sido la derrota de los aliados, muy similar a lo que expone wolfenstein new order algo que como fanaticos del juego se agradece, muy interesante espero conseguir el libro luego para conocer mas… Expand
  47. Rennie
    Jan 26, 2017
    8
    I'm enjoying this show a great deal after watching Season 1 and half of Season 2. I almost wish the weird sci-fi alternate reality theme was absent, because exploring what the US would be like if we'd lost the war is interesting in and of itself. The acting is generally good. Alexa Davalos and Rufus Sewell are the acting high points. My only concern is that producers will pull a "Lost"I'm enjoying this show a great deal after watching Season 1 and half of Season 2. I almost wish the weird sci-fi alternate reality theme was absent, because exploring what the US would be like if we'd lost the war is interesting in and of itself. The acting is generally good. Alexa Davalos and Rufus Sewell are the acting high points. My only concern is that producers will pull a "Lost" on us, and writers will end up just making things up as they go along until the show ends up (unintentionally) as a farce. If they do that, mark my words, I will hate the writers/producers forever. The plot already has that feel of being made up on the fly.… Expand
  48. ehsoony
    Sep 17, 2018
    10
    breath taking.. A mixture of amazing acts & fantastic screenplay that make you wanna see the whole 2 seasons continuously... The idea of two empires really freaks me out!:)
  49. Jeddaz81
    Feb 1, 2018
    2
    the atmosphere and characters (with exceptions) are incredibly shallow and uninteresting. there is no effort made to show contemporary life in America, how the occupation has come about, how the Japanese and Germans divvied up the continent. all we see is swastikas and rising suns plastered everywhere and all the characters seem to be working poor folk living in squalor. I think thethe atmosphere and characters (with exceptions) are incredibly shallow and uninteresting. there is no effort made to show contemporary life in America, how the occupation has come about, how the Japanese and Germans divvied up the continent. all we see is swastikas and rising suns plastered everywhere and all the characters seem to be working poor folk living in squalor. I think the writers tried to make it feel like life in the Warsaw ghetto, but magnified to the continental u.s. Characters are written in haphazardly, with shadowy resistance leaders moving freely and interact with ease our protagonists. it certainly moves the plot along but certainly not in an organic way let alone in a realistic portrayal of what a police state would allow. Scenes often take place in the same settings giving off a low-budget-made-for-tv movie feel. I hope they make a proper re-make of this novel soon.… Expand
  50. WorldofLucky
    Feb 3, 2018
    8
    Nazis, alternate universe, resistance and a mysterious films showing alternate worlds, of course its great.

    The world is different, the Axis powers won and split up America. The Japanese took the western third, the Nazis took the eastern half leaving a small strip in the middle that was a neutral zone. There are main characters in the resistance, in the Nazis and in the Japanese    Nazis, alternate universe, resistance and a mysterious films showing alternate worlds, of course its great.

    The world is different, the Axis powers won and split up America. The Japanese took the western third, the Nazis took the eastern half leaving a small strip in the middle that was a neutral zone. There are main characters in the resistance, in the Nazis and in the Japanese occupying force (and Trade Minister).

    I don't want to spoil it, but all the acting is really good. Their are two main Nazi characters, both very good at their roles, one who questions what he is doing and one who is a loyal higher up officer who does his duty but has to protect his family. There is a Japanese inspector and a Trade Minister both excellent with varying views, then of course there is a grouping of Resistance actors who are all great with various outlooks.

    Its not set in World War II, its 20 years after and you get to deal with the politics of the two empires posturing over what is left of America with the threat of war (and surprisingly enough the only reason there is peace is because Hitler is still alive). There is a character in here that you will like no matter your outlook.

    Pros: Great acting, immersive sets, an compelling story.

    Cons: I don't think there is an overall con, but because there are so many roles you will probably hate someone? personally I can?t stand Joe Blake, not the fault of the actor, he is good, just don't like the character.

    Hands down a great show, can't recommend it more.    … Expand
  51. unitdwestn
    Sep 27, 2018
    5
    If you are a critical thinker you will soon get bored with this series. As one reviewer stated it's full of plot holes, delves into the metaphysical, and requires a LOT of suspension of disbelief. I'm always disappointed when an interesting scenario is ruined by what can only be described as lazy writing. The blend of reality and metaphysics just doesn't work for me. The film doesIf you are a critical thinker you will soon get bored with this series. As one reviewer stated it's full of plot holes, delves into the metaphysical, and requires a LOT of suspension of disbelief. I'm always disappointed when an interesting scenario is ruined by what can only be described as lazy writing. The blend of reality and metaphysics just doesn't work for me. The film does have its good points such as the acting and the computer generated scenery.

    Edited to add: As another review posted earlier, the character Juliana IS annoying as are others at various points in the series, but I attribute that to a poor script.    … Expand
  52. sonder
    Feb 13, 2017
    9
    The Man in the High Castle is a slow-burn show that has tremendous payoff after a long wait. Season one was a little slow. A few episodes into season 2, I couldn't keep remember of all of the names of the novel's worth of characters, so I had to read through the wikipedia episode lists just to keep track of what was going on with who. As such, I wouldn't give it a 10/10. BUT. While IThe Man in the High Castle is a slow-burn show that has tremendous payoff after a long wait. Season one was a little slow. A few episodes into season 2, I couldn't keep remember of all of the names of the novel's worth of characters, so I had to read through the wikipedia episode lists just to keep track of what was going on with who. As such, I wouldn't give it a 10/10. BUT. While I was watching early episodes mainly for the fascinating take on what a Nazi/Japanese occupied U.S. was like complete with realistic CGI, it soon became clear that the show was going somewhere, and everything was happening for a reason, and previously unimportant and disconnected plot lines were there for a reason. In this sense, the Man in the High Castle is the opposite of the typical network TV show in which 2 out of 3 shows are expendable and meaningless filler, with the only the odd episode advancing the plot. By the end of season 2, I was enthralled. The series was worth it all along. I desperately checked to make sure that a season 3 would happen, because to end the series early would be a crime. This is a fantastic show. Also, special props to the shots of Nazi Germany and Hitler's chilling "German Stadium," which fortunately was never built in this multiverse!… Expand
  53. lethalchicken56
    Jan 19, 2016
    9
    SPOILER FREE ----

    This series was thoroughly enjoyable. From the very first episode right up to the last it had be gripped. Most episodes ended with some kind of cliff hanger and with Amazon releasing all 10 episodes at one, it is perfect to binge watch or just watch one a week if you so desire. The acting throughout was fantastic. I especially liked DJ Qualls and Luke Kleintank in    SPOILER FREE ----

    This series was thoroughly enjoyable. From the very first episode right up to the last it had be gripped. Most episodes ended with some kind of cliff hanger and with Amazon releasing all 10 episodes at one, it is perfect to binge watch or just watch one a week if you so desire.

    The acting throughout was fantastic. I especially liked DJ Qualls and Luke Kleintank in this.

    Couple of weaker acting parts by other actors but not enough to take you out of the show.

    The story telling was excellent as was the character development.

    I would recommend this to most people who enjoy a "what if" or "alternative reality" kind of thing. I would say you have to have a little bit of an open mind. I see some people saying this is unbelievable, but most fiction is to an extent.    … Expand
  54. Reagan0
    Jan 13, 2017
    9
    In TV shows, once the pilot is out and shipped, often the production just assumes it has some people watching it and then it drops in quality. No such thing with these new internet TV shows. There wasn't even that great a drop from season 1 to 2 of The Man in the High Castle, the only TV show I'm keeping up with.

    People are not written off in this series like characters are often in TV    In TV shows, once the pilot is out and shipped, often the production just assumes it has some people watching it and then it drops in quality. No such thing with these new internet TV shows. There wasn't even that great a drop from season 1 to 2 of The Man in the High Castle, the only TV show I'm keeping up with.

    People are not written off in this series like characters are often in TV shows. Every single character in this film struggles, from the Man in the High Castle, to Hitler himself, to every single character you think is an antagonist or a protagonist or some side character caught up in the plot. The series explores them all in a way where you will sympathize with every one of them. To me that's awesome. The Nazis and the Japanese are not written off as bourgeois dictators or cruel monsters, nor are the subjugated written off as peasants or stupid. It gives all characters their own worldview, very easy to relate to, remarkably from either end. My favorite so far is definitely the trade minister, epitome of cool, and representative of everything good about the Japanese in the series.

    The setting grasps such an insane, twisted concept, but traps it in its jar and pops a neat little plot device over the hole on top – the films. What kind of story is written as an alternate universes, where there are alternate universes in the alternate universe? This is the purpose of the films – not your average MacGuffins. There are so many possibilities about the fate of the world with these films, from grim to utopian. No one knows where they come from or what purpose they serve. Interestingly, none of them seem to represent the world we live in.

    I was slightly disappointed that they revealed The Man at the beginning of Season 2. The mystery of him was one of the most gripping parts of the narrative's suspense. If they had managed to save it for some more pivotal moment towards the end it would have been perfect.

    One last note: this series fixes a glaring plothole in the original book - Canada is actually part of the Reich, instead of being just same ole' Canada.

    In a word – quality.    … Expand
  55. SusieQ49
    Jan 29, 2016
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Well, I am always astonished by how very differently we all perceive different programmes and with some of the negative reviews here, I am left wondering if we watched the same series. I LOVED The man in the High Castle. I was doubtful at first - how could Mr Dick's story possibly translate to film? Well , I am happy to admit I was wrong. MITHC is one of the most intelligent and thought provoking series to emerge in recent years and it is absolutely beautifully written, produced, acted and executed. The main characters are so well realised by a set of incredible performances from the actors. Rufus Sewell is just amazing as the Nazi whom you want to hate - but somehow find yourself understanding (just a little) how this complex man operates- even while you are loathing what he does! There are a few weak characters - Burn Gorman's was so over the top as to be almost laughable. But , generally I thought all the characters well drawn and real. Yes, it is sombre for lot of the time - but then it is describing a sombre state for most people and one which was experienced by those in Europe who fell under Nazi control during WW2. Concentration camps, euthanasia and institutionalised racism and anti-semitism will do that!! By contrast - the lifestyle of our Nazi officer is fabulous. The rationale for the Axis success in this alternative reality is that they got the Atom Bomb first and dropped it on Washington. This is not beyond the bounds of reason since we know the Nazis were busy working on it - so in an alternate reality - they could well have won the race. I am delighted that it has been picked up for a 2nd season. I am looking forward to catching up with Juliana, Frank, Joe et al and discovering how Hitler got hold of all these different films, where they are from and if there are other realities out there! One final comment, if you don't like sic-fi and cannot suspend disbelief then you probably don't watch Star Wars, Star Trek or Dr Who; and I guess The Man in the High Castle will just be a stretch too far!… Expand
  56. Smiles22
    Dec 28, 2015
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. In short, I really loved this show and the dysfunctional world it created. It is a world with a lot to explore. I love alternative reality settings and this immediately appealed to me. The visual effects and setting were great. The storyline was interesting and never boring to me. The directing and cinematography was excellent.

    The acting was decent, especially that of Rufus Sewell, who plays a character with two distinctive lives - one of a cold, calculating SS officer and the other of a typical American suburban family man. His character is similar to many historical Nazis such as Heydrich, Himmler, Roth in that they were terrible men who commit brutal atrocities but were ironically good family men. The Smith Family is a family who are about to undergo a incoming tragedy, I am very interested in seeing how this will develop in season 2 and the outcome in a Nazi society. I also enjoyed the chemistry between Julianna and Joe, although it was not romantic (well, they both are already in relationships) but I felt that there could have been a stronger ending. I would like to see them both again for season two.

    My only gripes are the use of language in the shows and the later turning into alternative reality jumping in the very end. I would expect Nazis, even in America, to speak good German, especially if they are speaking to German authorities. People in Japanese territories would more likely speak good Japanese. English speaking countries are not in authority and this would be reflected. I understand that many English-speaking people do not enjoy reading subtitles but for some people who don't mind and prefer realism, it can be a bit of a let down. I also hope that the alternative reality jumping or Sci-fi elements do not become too convoluted or overpower the alternative history.

    Overall, don't listen to the haters in the other reviews and make up your own mind. It's a excellent show. Although, the show is definitely not for everyone.    … Expand
  57. hectordob
    Feb 26, 2016
    9
    I have really enjoyed the 10 episodes of the first season, and I cannot understand some of the bad reviews, maybe some spectators can only enjoy shows with episodes with a lot of action and script-writing tricks. Unlike those kind of shows (which I can also enjoy very much), this series has profound and complex characters in a captivating context. And it has a great acting which shows veryI have really enjoyed the 10 episodes of the first season, and I cannot understand some of the bad reviews, maybe some spectators can only enjoy shows with episodes with a lot of action and script-writing tricks. Unlike those kind of shows (which I can also enjoy very much), this series has profound and complex characters in a captivating context. And it has a great acting which shows very real human emotions moving their actions. Who says characters should only do reasonable things? Do real people act like that in real life? Character decisions and actions are just the result of their emotions.… Expand
  58. eadams1530
    Mar 18, 2016
    8
    This show had me from the beginning. It's a bit of a "slow-burn". I love the way the show doesn't force-feed you information about what happened during the war and all of the outcomes. A lot of the horrors of the Nazi forces are simply told by a few lines of dialogue...maybe even throw-away lines that have bigger ramifications. I love the characters and the subtlety of the underlyingThis show had me from the beginning. It's a bit of a "slow-burn". I love the way the show doesn't force-feed you information about what happened during the war and all of the outcomes. A lot of the horrors of the Nazi forces are simply told by a few lines of dialogue...maybe even throw-away lines that have bigger ramifications. I love the characters and the subtlety of the underlying mystery of the show. I have no idea what's going to happen in season 2, but I'm really glad that it did well enough to get the renewal.… Expand
  59. Manjit
    Jan 26, 2017
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. this is the show you should cancel your weekend for. In an alternate ending to the second great war where the Third Reich and Japan won. Based on the Phillip K Dick book this show has great plot twists and subplots that keep the story moving.… Expand
  60. Solar_Macharius
    Jan 10, 2017
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Based on the book by Philip L. Dick, The Man in the High Castle (MHC) is about an alternate universe in which the Japanese Empire and Nazi Germany have won the Second World War.

    As a lover of history, I really wanted to like this program. But mid way through the second season my will is faltering.

    Whilst some of the actors, such as Rufus Sewell and Cari-Hiroyuki Tagawa, who play Nazi 'Obergruppenführer' John Smith and Japanese Trade Minister Nobosuke Tagomi respectively, are great actors, the two/three (who knows?!) leads of the show, Alexa Davalos playing Juliana Crane, Luke Kleintank as Joe Blake and Rupert Evans as Frank Frink are completely flat and I struggled to muster any sympathy for these dour, self loathing characters. Only late into the second season do Frank and Joe become slightly more likeable as their characters begin to gain any semblance of purpose.

    However, more so, it is the pacing of the show that hurts it the most. Almost every episode is completely forgettable, with very interesting story lines including assassinations, espionage and the simple struggles of daily life under the Japanese/Nazis lost behind long, drawn out conversations from our leads about . . . .nothing, really. And this is without going into the over arching story behind the 'films', of which even Hitler himself is trying to find, and where alternative history seems to blend with sci-fi which will leave even the most ardent fans lost and confused and needing to read the plot online for it make sense.

    Overall, whilst the theme is very interesting and the first few episode lure you in with a sense of wonder, these initial hopes are pretty much for naught. The slow pacing, confusing story line, with a whole lot of 'that's it?!' moments, will leave you wondering why this show has got such recognition.

    5/10 Would only recommend to those who can handle a very, very slow burn story.    … Expand
  61. chrissycat
    Jan 20, 2017
    10
    The only thing bad about this show is that there are only 10 episodes. I love alternate universe stories and this is one of the best. The characters are believable, the storyline is frightening in a giving me the shivers way.
  62. Oldtooly
    Jun 1, 2017
    10
    I immediately found the show disturbing since I was born only a handful of years after WWII actually ended. The intro images and music really invoke an angry emotional response from me as well. But after a short time I fell in love with the accuracy of many details, especially the old trucks. And then the story took hold and characters began to have a bit of depth. I am now hooked. MuchI immediately found the show disturbing since I was born only a handful of years after WWII actually ended. The intro images and music really invoke an angry emotional response from me as well. But after a short time I fell in love with the accuracy of many details, especially the old trucks. And then the story took hold and characters began to have a bit of depth. I am now hooked. Much of the criticism of other reviewers is valid but if you just let go (just as the Trade Minister is learning to do) the first 2 seasons are quite engaging and enjoyable. I look forward to up coming episodes. Watching them again has also deepened my appreciation of the detail and work that has been put into it since certain things went right by me the first time through. And I am in love with the Reich's Rocket Airliners having grown up admiring craft like the XB-70 which is very similar in design though not a passenger craft in any way. I have not read the book, and probably won't since I am enjoying the story as is. Maybe later.… Expand
  63. goldnsx1488
    Aug 10, 2017
    10
    Sieg Heil

    For those who don't know: The show is based on a Phillip K. Dick novel exploring the alternate reality in which the Japanese and Germans won World War II. It's more addictive than House of Cards and has a lot more legroom to explore than David Fincher's fantastic work.
  64. Avalancheee
    Nov 1, 2017
    10
    This show transports you to another world like nothing ever seen before. Truly unique storylines all woven together, and not one a throw-away. I've never seen a TV show or movie that's better than the book. THIS SHOW BLOWS THE BOOK AWAY! Cannot wait for the next season.
    BTW: This is the best cast on the TV.
  65. Emperorfaris
    Mar 11, 2018
    8
    it's a pretty good show with a very good story and potential , it really explores the concepts of "what if" like of course what if the axis powers won ww2?, what if hitler lived a long life?, what if project Atlantropa is actually executed? and many others, for me the only cons or negative side of this show is it's slow story telling but other than that it's a good show.
  66. GarethB
    Jan 4, 2019
    7
    A great premise with the axis winning the war and there are several interesting plots and compelling characters, but the middle part of the season is slow and lacks pace and I almost gave up on it. But the last couple of episodes with the plot against Hitler pick it up
  67. SaraBurton
    Nov 4, 2018
    9
    I fell in love with this show right from the start because the overall story about what the world would be like if the Hitler and the Axis powers won WWII intrigued me. The various story lines that are followed offered different perspectives, which I think really help because without them the show would seem too one-sided. The various story lines also help to keep the viewers attentionI fell in love with this show right from the start because the overall story about what the world would be like if the Hitler and the Axis powers won WWII intrigued me. The various story lines that are followed offered different perspectives, which I think really help because without them the show would seem too one-sided. The various story lines also help to keep the viewers attention because my only complaint is that some scenes can kind of drag out. I know most of these scenes are meant to provide information to build the story, but they can get boring when you just want to know what happens next.
    I did appreciate how historically accurate they try to keep the scenes and I think this makes the vision of an Axis powered world seem believable.
    This was a very addicting show and I always wanted to watch several episodes in a row, but the episodes vary in time length, with most of them around an hour, which made it difficult to watch more than one or two max.    … Expand
  68. DasBentley
    Mar 22, 2019
    9
    Strong 1st season had me hooked all the way trough! The actors do an incredible job paired with the good writing,directing and you have yourself a banger of a show.
    Take my advice watch it, i promise it will be good.
  69. Poochingus
    Nov 20, 2019
    6
    Decent enough show. When I had nothing else to watch I finally put it on. What is clear from the start is that the skill of acting between some of the cast is like night and day. Most of the acting is middling from the core cast, which is a shame. At first I put it off as the characters themselves being still in their young and unshapen forms. But as the characters developed, the actingDecent enough show. When I had nothing else to watch I finally put it on. What is clear from the start is that the skill of acting between some of the cast is like night and day. Most of the acting is middling from the core cast, which is a shame. At first I put it off as the characters themselves being still in their young and unshapen forms. But as the characters developed, the acting did not reflect the words coming out of their mouths. They still felt like children, and infact the female lead's character never seemed to grow much or change. Everyone else thankfully did go through real character development.

    The biggest problem with the premise I think is that it feels a little too silly at times, and I sometimes found myself asking the question of "but would it really be that way?" We all like to sit around and ask "what if" about history or in our own lives. The premise is a bit hard to get over without great story telling, and it just doesn't quite pull it off for me. Still, It is worth a watch if you aren't picky like me, and even if you are somewhat picky, it is good to put on in the background while doing chores.    … Expand

Awards & Rankings

52
#52 Best TV Season of 2015
18
#18 Most Discussed TV Season of 2015
26
#26 Most Shared TV Season of 2015

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
77

Generally favorable reviews - based on 30 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 27 out of 30
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 30
  3. Negative: 0 out of 30
  1. New York Post
    Reviewed by: Michael Starr
    Dec 8, 2015
    63
    The series, in large part, fails to deliver on its fascinating premise. Simply put, it’s plodding, moves at a glacial pace and overreaches with too many diffuse narrative strands.
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  2. Sioux City Journal
    Reviewed by: Bruce Miller
    Nov 23, 2015
    80
    Directed by David Semel, the first episode (now available on Amazon) sets a visual tone that immediately sets this apart from other thrillers.... By the second episode, you’ll want to know who’s really good and who’s bad and how the latter will meet their untimely deaths.
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  3. We Got This Covered
    Reviewed by: Isaac Feldberg
    Nov 23, 2015
    90
    The first six episodes (all those provided to press ahead of release) consistently surprise in how they deepen those characters and weave their journeys together.
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