The OA

:

Season 1
  • Network: Netflix
  • Series Premiere Date: Dec 16, 2016
Season #: 2, 1
User Score
7.4

Generally favorable reviews- based on 389 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 286 out of 389
  2. Mixed: 30 out of 389
  3. Negative: 73 out of 389
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User Reviews

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  1. All_ButTrU4
    Feb 6, 2022
    7
    What a **** ride! It's well paced mystery that unfurls unpredictably and satisfying everything it sets up. Brit is a force to be reckoned with. The story does take many liberties with coincidence that can make you cringe but nonetheless it's very sure of itself and what it wants.
  2. geewah
    Jan 29, 2021
    7
    A unique and at times bonkers show that isn't nearly as smart as it thinks it is.
  3. Marthuzala
    Sep 3, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This series is a mind-blowing experience. Its a great mix of psychology, and fantasy. A weird combination, but the show made it into a masterpiece!
    The series is by far one of my favourites. The character developments and emotional rollercoasters your taken on, throughout the show is phenomenal.
    I highly recommend for anyone who like the psychological genre.    … Expand
  4. Igelzerdrucker
    May 16, 2020
    10
    1st season is just brilliant.
    2nd one is nothing but a pretentious crap.
    100% reasonable cancelling, IMO.

    Though you can watch 1st season only and pretend that 2nd one does not exist.
  5. the1jezw
    Sep 10, 2019
    10
    The most creative, beautifully written and acted series out there. Brit and Zal have amazing imaginations. I absolutely love The OA!
  6. Zahhy
    Aug 19, 2019
    10
    I have never been so captivated by a show before. I binged the entire season as if it were water and I a woman in the desert. It is amazingly crafted and so creative and the acting is phenomenal.
  7. bmihalik
    Aug 19, 2019
    10
    Great Movie! Explains and and shows new theories about NDE. What if not just one timeline exists in the universe? What if we can reborn in another timelines - not just in another time and / or space? Good.
  8. paulssanto
    Aug 15, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The Best Shows on #Netflix are The OA 1 & 2 #SaveTheOA #WatchTheOA #TheOAisReal #Netflix @britmarling @netflix… Expand
  9. Pachita
    Aug 15, 2019
    9
    This show is so difficult to describe, but so worth the watch. The first season starts off, in my opinion, a little slow. I had to convince myself to keep watching and I did not regret it. Tame at first, it unfolds at its own pace and reveals a complex, multilayered story and a very unique atmosphere. The story is entertaining, gripping, mind-bending and somehow manages to still feelThis show is so difficult to describe, but so worth the watch. The first season starts off, in my opinion, a little slow. I had to convince myself to keep watching and I did not regret it. Tame at first, it unfolds at its own pace and reveals a complex, multilayered story and a very unique atmosphere. The story is entertaining, gripping, mind-bending and somehow manages to still feel grounded and human. Great acting and unlike anything I've ever seen before. Definitely recommended… Expand
  10. jebuechel
    Aug 15, 2019
    9
    The OA is a show like none other. Even calling it a 'show' seems like a disservice. It's not going to be for everyone, but if you like season 1 you'll love season 2. Some of the dialogue can be a bit hokey at times, but the performances make those more awkward lines feel natural and believable in the world of The OA. If you like slow burn mystery thrillers with more than enough heart toThe OA is a show like none other. Even calling it a 'show' seems like a disservice. It's not going to be for everyone, but if you like season 1 you'll love season 2. Some of the dialogue can be a bit hokey at times, but the performances make those more awkward lines feel natural and believable in the world of The OA. If you like slow burn mystery thrillers with more than enough heart to spare, give this a shot.… Expand
  11. LizCon
    Aug 14, 2019
    10
    Must watch. Intriguing, thought provoking, inspiring. Jump into the invisible river.
  12. sgilman
    Apr 4, 2019
    10
    Have never rated a show before, but thought this was unusually creative and well done— both Seasons 1 and 2. Interesting concepts. Excellent performances. Hope they make a Season 3!
  13. ShadowMan64
    Mar 23, 2019
    10
    The show is very intriguing and exciting. At times the show seems needlessly slow but I feel it is all worth it in the end. Definitely setting up some exciting things for season 2.
  14. Tss5078
    Sep 17, 2018
    7
    Netflix gives TV shows an unprecedented opportunity never before seen, and it has led to many unique and innovative shows making it on the air. The network governs itself, without any FCC oversight, it also isn't reliant on immediate ratings, and can give unique shows the time to evolve, grow, and gain a following. This is especially important for a show like The OA, which is perhaps theNetflix gives TV shows an unprecedented opportunity never before seen, and it has led to many unique and innovative shows making it on the air. The network governs itself, without any FCC oversight, it also isn't reliant on immediate ratings, and can give unique shows the time to evolve, grow, and gain a following. This is especially important for a show like The OA, which is perhaps the most unique show I've ever seen.

    After missing for eight years, Prairie Johnson (Brit Martling) is finally found, only something is dramatically different. The once blind girl can now see, but that's not all, she has weird scars on her back, and seems completely out of touch with reality. Her family try to help her cope and re-integrate, but with only limited success, as Prairie seems to be obsessed with a mission that she must complete. Before she's able to do this, Prairie must recruit the help of five people and tell them her story, where she's been, how she got there, and what happened to her. As we get to know Prairie and discover why she's so weird, we also get to know the five people who will supposedly help her on her journey. All of them are unique in their own way and all of them have their own stories, which while not the main focus of the show, offer a nice interlude from the Prairie Johnson saga.

    The OA is a strange show which features multiple dimensions, near death experiences and experimentation, even interpretive dance. If you are not a fan of Science Fiction or desire your Sci-fi with a lot of action and strange beings, you probably aren't going to like this show too much. I found the OA to be very dark, sometimes intolerably slow, and it very frequently repeats itself. That being said it is also a incredible mystery that asks a lot of questions that some people may find hard to deal with. I found the show somewhat difficult to get into but once I did, it became very addicting. I needed to know the whole story and see what happened once the story ended.

    The show has been renewed for season two, but much is the case with many Netflix shows, that was a year an half ago. I really don't understand why it takes them so long to get addition seasons of their shows produced. It is very anti-climatic when you think about it, because people who got into it when it first debuted have probably forgotten all about it by now. Not to mention, how do you just start watching a show again that you haven't seen in two years? Many people are going to forget everything except the major plot lines and not wanting to re-watch the first season, aren't going to bother with season 2. With that in mind, a second season is supposedly on it's way, and hopefully it answers the biggest question of them all.    … Expand
  15. abm0
    Mar 12, 2018
    9
    This was... I don't know what this was, but it was glorious. This is how Fantasy/Supernatural should be done. It's sort of the same thing that made the first season of True Blood exceptional: the seamless way it mixes the world we know with fantastic elements, getting you to that hair-raising point of "What if these things did actually exist?". Hell, it could even be that it's more likelyThis was... I don't know what this was, but it was glorious. This is how Fantasy/Supernatural should be done. It's sort of the same thing that made the first season of True Blood exceptional: the seamless way it mixes the world we know with fantastic elements, getting you to that hair-raising point of "What if these things did actually exist?". Hell, it could even be that it's more likely to have a big impact the more of a sceptic and the more anti-superstition you are.… Expand
  16. Papervoice
    Jan 10, 2018
    8
    Totally original work. Masterful story telling. Really, an unexpected stunner. For some reason, women seem to prefer it more than men. It is the brainchild of a woman, and gives us a wholly new look at a protagonist. Highly recommended.
  17. EludiumQ36
    Oct 6, 2017
    7
    Those that follow my reviews know that I'm hard to please, especially for tv series, so it comes as a pleasant surprise that I genuinely liked this show's inaugural season. Brit, who created and stars in this, has really built something special. I read a lot of books as a young teen regarding NDEs, OOBEs, and interdimensional travel so I was well prepared for this material. However, I canThose that follow my reviews know that I'm hard to please, especially for tv series, so it comes as a pleasant surprise that I genuinely liked this show's inaugural season. Brit, who created and stars in this, has really built something special. I read a lot of books as a young teen regarding NDEs, OOBEs, and interdimensional travel so I was well prepared for this material. However, I can understand the allergic reactions many will have if they haven't been exposed to these topics before. But if you keep an open mind and let Brit take you on a special journey then you'll come to appreciate the story. Having said that, the primal, interpretive dance they term "Movements" are just hard to watch and I personally don't think they're appropriate for the storyline. IOW, the dance moves' violent and primal nature don't jibe with the beneficial effects they impart. That much is really stupid and off kilter. Movements based on Tai Chi would've been more appropriate. However, the pace and reveals are very well timed, nicely done. Not that it matters because it is what it is, but the final scene of the finale was not satisfying, it should've left viewers with more than the ambiguity it offered. However, I'll definitely be there for season 2 in 2018.… Expand
  18. reghan_e
    Sep 10, 2017
    10
    The OA season 1 was nothing short of incredibly captivating and mind-boggling. The dramatic narrative of the main characters mixed with the unexpected sci-fi elements work together in harmony. A beautiful story full of growth, suspense, drama, and more. I couldn't recommend this show more. I can't wait for season 2!
  19. sjogro
    Aug 17, 2017
    9
    I loved this show, a whole new vibe of fantasy. Poetic, artsy, dark and full of emotion. Great new television! I hope they can keep it up and work to a closing before they can't anymore.
  20. reviewfrom19842
    Jul 24, 2017
    7
    The OA is a good show but these people are the most gullible people on the planet. Like you don't even question that maybe she is lying until the final episode. good show just that kind of bothered me
  21. DiogoOliveira
    Jul 1, 2017
    9
    irretocável, Brilhante, esteticamente lindo, uma serie que veio mudar o que estava formado. estou aguardando loucamente a segunda temporada, netflix fez um ótimo trabalho na serie.
  22. tentimes
    May 20, 2017
    10
    For the love of God watch this. Don't bother to read up anymore and just watch it. It is incredible! I will never ever forget the feeling I got in the final episode - you know when you get actual physical goosebumps all over your arms you are so amazed? That was the most amazing series I have ever seen. I feel like I want to watch it all over again.
  23. drambuie_
    Mar 25, 2017
    8
    i dont like science fiction. i hardly never see a movie/series based on that. But this one was a little bit different. i liked the characters a lot so i was anxious about them and it felt many times like a normal action/thriller series but then the science fiction came and kinda ruined it but not totally.i still wanted to see what was going to happen but of course i couldnt take iti dont like science fiction. i hardly never see a movie/series based on that. But this one was a little bit different. i liked the characters a lot so i was anxious about them and it felt many times like a normal action/thriller series but then the science fiction came and kinda ruined it but not totally.i still wanted to see what was going to happen but of course i couldnt take it seriously with such "magical" solutions they were giving. Worth watching though . solid acting and direction!… Expand
  24. Rafz
    Mar 24, 2017
    10
    people who hate it didn´t understand the nature of the oa.
    it have one of the best ends ever, one that make u thinks a lot
    just give it a try and you all see, it´s not that weird
  25. Tigeronfire
    Feb 14, 2017
    10
    I have never written a television show review before. I enjoyed this show more than any I have seen in a long time. It was creative and not formulaic like so many shows and movies, and made a dignified attempt of science fiction that could exist within our world. It took people that I feel like I could have known in my high school life - some severely troubled - and made them real to theI have never written a television show review before. I enjoyed this show more than any I have seen in a long time. It was creative and not formulaic like so many shows and movies, and made a dignified attempt of science fiction that could exist within our world. It took people that I feel like I could have known in my high school life - some severely troubled - and made them real to the audience. No one was overly beautiful, but everyone had substance. Great acting, great music, and entirely relatable. Life is full of hopeless moments. This series shows that, but it also shows how we are ravenous for hope. I am a better person because of this show..… Expand
  26. Kosmiczero
    Feb 5, 2017
    9
    The OA was something that just appeared on my Netflix one day and just sat there for several weeks before I was bored enough to give something new a chance. I would begin this journey without any expectations or prior knowledge except the small description provided by Netflix. From beginning to end I was hooked. You will gain what you put into this story, if you approach it with aThe OA was something that just appeared on my Netflix one day and just sat there for several weeks before I was bored enough to give something new a chance. I would begin this journey without any expectations or prior knowledge except the small description provided by Netflix. From beginning to end I was hooked. You will gain what you put into this story, if you approach it with a judgmental attitude then it will seem silly and even laughable. If you approach this story with an open heart and an open mind it will transport you to another dimension:) The only reason it didn't get a 10 is that there is no promise of a second season.… Expand
  27. redjet3
    Jan 30, 2017
    7
    It's a captivating story if you give it a chance. But, like many of the negative reviews have said, the complexity and truly captivating story leads to a confusing, ridiculous and majorly anti-climactic ending of the season. There is so much character development put into this story and I was honestly motivated to watch one after another in a binge fashion. The ending left me inIt's a captivating story if you give it a chance. But, like many of the negative reviews have said, the complexity and truly captivating story leads to a confusing, ridiculous and majorly anti-climactic ending of the season. There is so much character development put into this story and I was honestly motivated to watch one after another in a binge fashion. The ending left me in disappointment though, if there is a second season, hopefully it will be more of the fantastic story and less ridiculousness.… Expand
  28. sabrinamari
    Jan 18, 2017
    9
    This was an excellent series with many unexpected twists and turns. It requires serious suspension of disbelief, but if you enjoy unusual stories that combine the elements of many genres with intriguing writing and excellent acting, you may enjoy this. It walks the line between fantasy, drama, and spirituality. I found the ending interesting and unexpected. Unlike others, I did notThis was an excellent series with many unexpected twists and turns. It requires serious suspension of disbelief, but if you enjoy unusual stories that combine the elements of many genres with intriguing writing and excellent acting, you may enjoy this. It walks the line between fantasy, drama, and spirituality. I found the ending interesting and unexpected. Unlike others, I did not find the ending offensive---just unexpected. I've read a number of negative reviews and I feel as though I watched a completely different series from the one they describe. If New Age/fantasy isn;t your thing, don't watch this. If you like the idea of a character who might be an angel, might be an interstellar traveler or could just be mentally ill, give it a go. High recommendation!… Expand
  29. bublik
    Jan 14, 2017
    10
    What a surprise. Please, do not read any negative reviews (probably written by 16 year olds who quit in the middle of first episode), just see it with open mind. I've enjoyed Another Earth quite a bit, so, naturally I was looking forward to this one. Now that I've finally saw it, I'm glad that in our day and age of prepackaged spoon-fed stories people still does not afraid to be creativeWhat a surprise. Please, do not read any negative reviews (probably written by 16 year olds who quit in the middle of first episode), just see it with open mind. I've enjoyed Another Earth quite a bit, so, naturally I was looking forward to this one. Now that I've finally saw it, I'm glad that in our day and age of prepackaged spoon-fed stories people still does not afraid to be creative and deliver prime-quality entertainment. Do not expect show to explain every detail to you - some of the detective work was left to the viewer. You know, sometimes you have to work something out yourself. You now, using this thing with a lot of neurons that's supposed to be located in one's skull. Netflix, thanks, it was truly awesome and please, bring more shows like this. We really appreciate it.… Expand
  30. netlyric
    Jan 5, 2017
    10
    It is rare that I run into a show that feels so much like magic. While it took some effort to get through the first part of Episode 1 the payoff was well worth it. Please give this magical and super-interesting ride a try.
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Awards & Rankings

7
#7 Most Discussed TV Season of 2016
30
#30 Most Shared TV Season of 2016

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
61

Generally favorable reviews - based on 17 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 10 out of 17
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 17
  3. Negative: 3 out of 17
  1. Los Angeles Times
    Reviewed by: Lorraine Ali
    Dec 22, 2016
    70
    Whether her story is real or the byproduct of extreme trauma is one of many questions at the heart of this haunting, graceful and often frustratingly cryptic series.
    Read full review
  2. We Got This Covered
    Reviewed by: Joseph Falcone
    Dec 19, 2016
    80
    The less you know about it before going in the better. This is a must-watch series and if a feeling of incompleteness should fill your cavity upon completing it, simply cleanse your palette and start over again.
    Read full review
  3. The Atlantic
    Reviewed by: Sophie Gilbert
    Dec 16, 2016
    80
    Anchored by a spectacular central performance and a series of increasingly wacky ideas, The OA is frequently mind-boggling, but worth the effort.
    Read full review
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