The Strain

:

Season 1
  • Network: FX
  • Series Premiere Date: Jul 13, 2014
Season #: 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
7.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 405 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 312 out of 405
  2. Mixed: 47 out of 405
  3. Negative: 46 out of 405
Watch Now

Where To Watch

Stream On
Stream On
Buy on
Stream On
Stream On
Expand

Review this tv show

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling

User Reviews

view
per page
  1. chaznet
    Jul 13, 2014
    10
    Very entertaining, an extended summer blockbuster.

    It's good they get the CDC stuff out of the way in the first episode, it's not very authentic in many obvious ways -- but so what, no need for the bio-hazard suits after episode 1 ;-) Hopefully they'll wind up the story line in 1 season, or do 1 season for each book, and not drag it out -- it could easily turn into another Walking    Very entertaining, an extended summer blockbuster.

    It's good they get the CDC stuff out of the way in the first episode, it's not very authentic in many obvious ways -- but so what, no need for the bio-hazard suits after episode 1 ;-)

    Hopefully they'll wind up the story line in 1 season, or do 1 season for each book, and not drag it out -- it could easily turn into another Walking Dead, with luck it won't.    … Expand
  2. spartacus215
    Aug 26, 2016
    10
    I will start off by saying that I just recently binge-watched Seasons One and Two within roughly a two week time span and I absolutely love the show. P.S This is a review for both seasons 1&2. The story takes place in present day New York spanning most of the five boroughs and it's about a Vampire Plague that starts to ravage NY. The story is wonderfully executed as it does take time forI will start off by saying that I just recently binge-watched Seasons One and Two within roughly a two week time span and I absolutely love the show. P.S This is a review for both seasons 1&2. The story takes place in present day New York spanning most of the five boroughs and it's about a Vampire Plague that starts to ravage NY. The story is wonderfully executed as it does take time for the infection to spread and they don't rush that at all which I admire. The story overall is excellent especially with all the intricate and minor details that are shared and the flashbacks of key characters. The acting is remarkable for what the premise is at hand and usually one person stands out to me in a show but here there were a good three to five people that were Awesome. I mean you have Abraham,Fet, Eph and even the villain Eichorst were Superb. The actors really sell it on screen. The action is dope with the blood and gore effects being top-notch. The action scenes in S1 are cool and in S2 they are crazy and in S3 they look to be Insane. The action will not leave you disappointed at all and will leave you wanting more of it. The cinematography was executed perfectly with everything feeling in the place that it should. I will close by saying that if you have not watched this Phenomenal show yet then you're missing out especially since S3 airs this Sunday on 8/28/2016. Watch it on HULU or buy it either way please support it. Take Care.… Expand
  3. imthenoob
    Sep 18, 2014
    10
    The Strain was super hyped for me, I was interested in it the moment it was announced, and I am glad it lived up to the hype. The plot is very interesting and features a wide array of characters that can branch off into different, intersecting story lines. The acting is very good as well thanks to the experienced cast. There is violence but it's spread out, The show runners are clearlyThe Strain was super hyped for me, I was interested in it the moment it was announced, and I am glad it lived up to the hype. The plot is very interesting and features a wide array of characters that can branch off into different, intersecting story lines. The acting is very good as well thanks to the experienced cast. There is violence but it's spread out, The show runners are clearly more focused on the story aspect than the gore aspect and that's a good thing.

    Overall, It's definitely a front runner for best new show of the year. It's been very entertaining so far and I can't wait to see what happens next.    … Expand
  4. Qishere
    Sep 22, 2014
    10
    This show is the most entertaining, addictive series of the Summer Season.

    Due in large part to the influence of the Cinema Master of Horror, Guillermo Del Toro, the high production values make this a story that you eagerly tune in to every Sunday on FX. The terrible creatures that threaten humanity fascinate us due in large part to their quasi-personality of plague giver and    This show is the most entertaining, addictive series of the Summer Season.

    Due in large part to the influence of the Cinema Master of Horror, Guillermo Del Toro, the high production values make this a story that you eagerly tune in to every Sunday on FX.

    The terrible creatures that threaten humanity fascinate us due in large part to their quasi-personality of plague giver and vampire. Make no doubt, these creatures are loathsome, dark hunters without a scintilla of remorse. Nor is there even a hint of physical allure in their changed bodies. Horribly, they want only to feed and infect loved ones and any one who gets in their way. The combined CGI and acting is brilliant, making you cringe and jump with each vampire attack.

    Ultimately, it is the surviving humans and their stories that balance out the horrors they have to face. It is this balance that makes us care for the survivors and it's ultimately the tension that is created by the suspense of what is around the corner for them and will they survive it or fall prey to the plague of rapacious vampires that now populates their world.

    Will a boy who is a son help his father locate his mother before she's infected? Can an East Harlem thug deal effectively with this infection that threatens his world? Can a Holocaust survivor, with his past in dealing with this plague, organize/train a rag tag team of vampire hunters? More important, can the vampire hunters stop the plague?

    Much like The Walking Dead, this show is beautifully cast. In large part, it is the actors who enthrall us, who entertain us. I did not notice a single weakness in the cast.

    The writers creatively explore the varied human stories and do it with the style that embraces this epic story with enough variation to continue to delight. Like the survivors come to know, there is no comfort in a sure thing. Tragedy or happiness is guaranteed no one.    … Expand
  5. AthanasiosT
    Jul 16, 2014
    10
    Great vampire show, with plenty of gore and horror and enough distance from Twilight, to mark it as summer's horror favorite !! Looking forward to the next episodes !
  6. ReubenIsAGod
    Jul 16, 2014
    10
    Pretty much everything i was expecting from the talented Del Toro. The acting was sensationally solid, no character was to bland or boring, the pasting was perfect, the atmosphere was thrilling, all in all it looks like its going to be a very solid series.

    10/10
  7. CartoonHead
    Nov 6, 2014
    10
    It takes a few episodes to get going, but OMG. This show is so good and criminally underrated. Easily my favourite show on TV right now and probably only second to Game of Thrones as favourite show of all time. It is kinda similar to the Walking Dead but the monsters pose a MUCH better threat and it is not bogged down but set rules as surprises, mysteries and twists a plenty. Like theIt takes a few episodes to get going, but OMG. This show is so good and criminally underrated. Easily my favourite show on TV right now and probably only second to Game of Thrones as favourite show of all time. It is kinda similar to the Walking Dead but the monsters pose a MUCH better threat and it is not bogged down but set rules as surprises, mysteries and twists a plenty. Like the end of Episode 4 really knocked my socks off. The main character is a bit of a drip but aside from that it has Walder Frey decapitating Vampires with a walking stick sword and a silver shooting nail gun. I mean come on, this just writes itself.… Expand
  8. cesardpb10
    Jul 14, 2014
    10
    Por favor, PI LO TA SO DE PROPORCIONES BÍBLICAS ES LO DE THE STRAIN, le tenía fé pero ESTO SUPERÓ TODAS MIS EXPECTATIVAS.
    Yo creo que ya me voy a poner a leer en la que se basa la serie porque POR FAVORE, la curiosidad me está matando.
  9. lukechristiansc
    Jul 31, 2014
    10
    Guliermo Del Toro and Chuck hogan are an amazing creator of monsters but not better then stephen king. the strain is something we have never seen this in vampires, science fiction before in this generation i am glad this not some sort of Twlight movie . its awesome. del toro and hogan are creative. they should be proud of what they creative. i can't wait to watch episode 4 or 5 whateverGuliermo Del Toro and Chuck hogan are an amazing creator of monsters but not better then stephen king. the strain is something we have never seen this in vampires, science fiction before in this generation i am glad this not some sort of Twlight movie . its awesome. del toro and hogan are creative. they should be proud of what they creative. i can't wait to watch episode 4 or 5 whatever keep the series going make season 2 plz. grade A+… Expand
  10. Spaff
    Jul 13, 2014
    10
    I love it already, the characters are attractive and compelling, the atmosphere is spooky and this thing could go in a lot of directions. Should be fun!
  11. Darkdave3
    Jul 14, 2014
    10
    I think the pilot was well done, gives a lot of promise. The acting was good, although not the best. The score was excellent and the horror was well done, as well. I think this could become a new favorite of mine.
  12. Luisgar9
    Jul 14, 2014
    10
    This show has a lot of promise. The characters are interesting. The show, overall, is entertaining and brilliant, and this is just the pilot. I expect it to improve as we meet the vampires in their true form.
  13. MythicRare
    Jul 15, 2014
    10
    This was probably the best new show all year. At first, it felt as though it was going to be a really long movie, like some other new shows from this year, but later on, I dismissed that feeling. The characters were great, with few exceptions. I can't find anything wrong with this movie. It keeps viewers in the dark about what thing are, whether they're zombies, vampires, parasites, orThis was probably the best new show all year. At first, it felt as though it was going to be a really long movie, like some other new shows from this year, but later on, I dismissed that feeling. The characters were great, with few exceptions. I can't find anything wrong with this movie. It keeps viewers in the dark about what thing are, whether they're zombies, vampires, parasites, or all three. After seeing the first episode, I certainly hope that there are many more to come.… Expand
  14. hamchuck
    Jul 20, 2014
    10
    Straight to the front of the line. This show is a creepy, scary, eerie, mind altering drug of a horror show. It leaves you feeling uneasy. The acting and script are both very strong with the sets and atmosphere top notch and easily keeps up. It is shocking how many sci-fi and horror themes are being released these days, but it is a fresh and likeable trend. LOVE IT
  15. proflil
    Jul 20, 2014
    10
    I really like this show so far. Once again the del Toro bros don't disappoint. Memorable characters, a good mix of action and intrigue, as well as very good writing and production make this a future hit in my eyes.
  16. danielchagas
    Jul 23, 2014
    10
    Difícil hoje em dia encontrar uma série verdadeiramente original. Quase tudo passa necessariamente pela recriação ou recombinação de elementos vistos em outras produções. No caso, "The Strain" funciona bem e trás elementos que certamente podem ser associados a filmes como "A Hora do Espanto", "Alien", mesmo com o personagem Voldemor de "Harry Potter", entre tantos outros. O que a tornaDifícil hoje em dia encontrar uma série verdadeiramente original. Quase tudo passa necessariamente pela recriação ou recombinação de elementos vistos em outras produções. No caso, "The Strain" funciona bem e trás elementos que certamente podem ser associados a filmes como "A Hora do Espanto", "Alien", mesmo com o personagem Voldemor de "Harry Potter", entre tantos outros. O que a torna muito boa, ao menos nos dois primeiros episódios já lançados, é o enredo um pouco mais complexo que não permite compreender ao certo a natureza da ameaça e a atmosfera de suspense que isso gera (algo em falta).… Expand
  17. daroczi
    Sep 21, 2014
    10
    Finally, a dark horror series that isn't surreal and ghostly! It's just a bloody good time. This is my first review on here and I'm urged to do it just to help the odds that this series continues.
  18. Marjule
    Aug 18, 2014
    10
    Awesome! Some say the show is childish, but I don't care. It takes itself completely seriously, and that is what makes it worth watching. This from a diehard fan of the televised Salem's Lot. You gonna tell James Mason not to take his henchman role too seriously? I think not. The guy playing Eichhorst is so scary, he's terrific. No matter how ridiculous it may get, I think theAwesome! Some say the show is childish, but I don't care. It takes itself completely seriously, and that is what makes it worth watching. This from a diehard fan of the televised Salem's Lot. You gonna tell James Mason not to take his henchman role too seriously? I think not. The guy playing Eichhorst is so scary, he's terrific. No matter how ridiculous it may get, I think the Strain serves as a much-needed corrective to all the simpy, sappy and outrageously romanticized vampire porn out there. No hotties here, just monsters. Cool.… Expand
  19. strainfanboston
    Sep 1, 2014
    10
    Sorry, critics, I love this show, it is very edgy and different. Big Fan in Boston. It is super scary and well worth watching for those who love thrills and terror.
  20. GiantDad
    Oct 3, 2014
    10
    The show brings a mix of the "Walking Dead" and Morgan Freeman's "Outbreak".

    I don't see many tv shows like this very often, so this is a very big factor in how I rate it.
  21. victoriantz
    Oct 6, 2014
    10
    I love Strain.Its very entertaining,full of suspense and I love all the characters.I might say story line is original youll never know whats coming next.More power:)
  22. pete1977
    May 2, 2015
    10
    Love the series. This is the type of series that is entertaining and keeps the viewers on the edge of their seats. It is something different and not like the regular series on television. There are lots of shows that should have been cancelled after the first season. Shows like THE FLASH, AGENTS OF SHIELD, THE LAST SHIP and many others. This show is my favorite show and can't wait for season 2.
  23. rusigabedra
    Nov 15, 2014
    10
    You will enter a place where everyone can harm you. This is the real way how a vampire tv show should have be done, great! Hope there will be a chapter 2-3-4...
  24. jzyk93
    Dec 11, 2014
    10
    This is one of the most addicting and exciting shows I've ever seen! You're hooked after the first episode and the story is great. This is based off of the book series written by Chuck Hogan and Guillermo del Toro.
  25. tpotz
    Jul 17, 2015
    10
    LOVE this show! Engaging characters, new twist on vampire lore, plenty of "edge of your seat moments." Love the marriage of biological science with sci-fi vampire additions combined with futuristic political game playing. This show has it all....hope it continues for many more seasons, but no more character switches!! The team fighting the good fight must stay intact!
  26. thegamefreak
    Aug 8, 2015
    10
    the strain was an excellent show the way the plot unfolds is interesting and it keeps you wondering what will happen next i really enjoyed this show great exicution throughout
  27. Molehead
    Mar 7, 2019
    10
    I thought this series was well written! Unlike the Walking Dead, I never had moments scratching my head asking "What were they thinking!' The series ended with solid closure, which is a rarity in most shows. If you like horror, then this series is a must see!
  28. Tagirix
    Sep 26, 2016
    10
    The Strain is the most exciting TV show I have ever watched. I have no idea how they maked it so good, but the reason why it is so cool, fascinating, and addictive is that they have made up a great plot. The plot which makes you worry about the heroes. The plot which makes you watch every new episode after it comes out. That is what makes The Strain one of the greatest TV shows ever. JustThe Strain is the most exciting TV show I have ever watched. I have no idea how they maked it so good, but the reason why it is so cool, fascinating, and addictive is that they have made up a great plot. The plot which makes you worry about the heroes. The plot which makes you watch every new episode after it comes out. That is what makes The Strain one of the greatest TV shows ever. Just my humble opinion, FYI.… Expand
  29. movingpictures
    May 18, 2020
    10
    Season 1: Wonderful from the first to the last. The perfect blend of detective meets gothic meets outbreak meets adventure meets body horror. It seriously has it all! My only complaint is that the characters are a little thin, but that's 100% forgivable given the fast pace and the feeling that they're keeping it fresh with plot twists and reveals!
  30. Lisa24
    Jul 13, 2014
    9
    Love it! As you have seen from the ads and previews, the show has a fair amount of gore and creepiness. But the real reason The Strain will make you think twice about venturing downstairs to your perfectly secure kitchen in the dark is that it taps into those things that haunt us in our core. It is hard to find a show that has it now. I used to get that scary anticipation a long timeLove it! As you have seen from the ads and previews, the show has a fair amount of gore and creepiness. But the real reason The Strain will make you think twice about venturing downstairs to your perfectly secure kitchen in the dark is that it taps into those things that haunt us in our core. It is hard to find a show that has it now. I used to get that scary anticipation a long time ago watching the Creature Double Features with my grandmother on Saturday afternoons. Salem's Lot and other novels/movies by Steven King have it (It has it!). You know that logically, there is no monster in the closet, but you are scared to open the door when you are alone at 3am. The characters are interesting and it isn't over the top cheesy like American Horror Story and The Walking Dead have become. I'm hooked. I'm also leaving my bathroom light on tonight.… Expand
prev
Page:

Awards & Rankings

59
#59 Best TV Season of 2014
12
#12 Most Discussed TV Season of 2014
7
#7 Most Shared TV Season of 2014

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
72

Generally favorable reviews - based on 38 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 29 out of 38
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 38
  3. Negative: 2 out of 38
  1. The New Yorker
    Reviewed by: Emily Nussbaum
    Aug 7, 2014
    70
    he series doesn’t have the best pacing, or the best dialogue (“Well, if the mountain won’t come to Muhammad, we’re going to the morgue”), and in some areas it doesn’t even try: never has a show set in New York but filmed in Toronto felt more like a show set in New York but filmed in Toronto. (When Astoria appeared, full of burning garbage cans, all of Queens raised its eyebrows.) And yet the show overflows with greasy satisfactions, simply because it commits so fully to its own goofiness.
    Read full review
  2. Sioux City Journal
    Reviewed by: Bruce Miller
    Jul 14, 2014
    80
    Ominous, creepy and utterly engaging, The Strain is like the perfect drive-in movie.
    Read full review
  3. PopMatters
    Reviewed by: Cynthia Fuchs
    Jul 14, 2014
    80
    The series takes some time to put this team together, even in the same area of New York. And while you’re waiting for that plot turn, you’re treated to a series of lurid images, from yucky to jolting.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »