• Network: HBO
  • Series Premiere Date: Jun 2, 2002
Season #: 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
9.1

Universal acclaim- based on 856 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 58 out of 856
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User Reviews

  1. FrancisC.
    Dec 28, 2007
    10
    The best television series ever made. I've watched the first four seasons three full times now; its a masterpiece. It might be decades before anything rivals The Wire.
  2. MargeA
    Dec 26, 2007
    10
    The best show on TV hands down. I mourned the loss of Homicide but The Wire surpasses even that brilliant show on a number of levels. Hopefully it will win a well-deserved and long overdue Emmy for writing.
  3. JohnJ
    Dec 25, 2007
    10
    Simply the best.
  4. BerthaA.
    Dec 23, 2007
    10
    Doug Elfman (the Sun-Times guy) is an idiot. I was gonna hold off on reviewing season 4 until I'd seen the whole thing, but I just wanted to say that and refute his little blurb (the whole review link is dead, I think). Maybe it helps that I watch them back to back via DVD, but I've thought the pacing of every season (except maybe three, in spots) has been brilliant. I Doug Elfman (the Sun-Times guy) is an idiot. I was gonna hold off on reviewing season 4 until I'd seen the whole thing, but I just wanted to say that and refute his little blurb (the whole review link is dead, I think). Maybe it helps that I watch them back to back via DVD, but I've thought the pacing of every season (except maybe three, in spots) has been brilliant. I can't imagine someone being like, "come on, The Wire, get to the point already." If you don't have the patience for something to develop over a whole(!) season, Elfman, then you shouldn't be watching The Wire (or getting paid to review stuff). The Wire is all about details. I mean, the "first batch of episodes" has to establish the level of the kids' innocence so that the erosion of whatever is left of it becomes all that more important. And I mean actually establish something, not some Law & Order crap. I, myself, only have one bone to pick with what I've seen so far. At one point, one of the kids (the one with the ponytail) says that he'll take money as long as it's given out for free. Later on, the state senator says the exact same thing. I didn't like how on-the-nose this was. Part of The Wire's appeal is its realism; I thought this prod at the viewer to see a correlation between the street and W. Baltimore politics was too direct. Anyway, I think The Wire is a televised miracle. I can't believe I get the privilege of watching such an amazing show. How this got on television, I'll never be able to guess. Expand
  5. ColinB.
    Dec 17, 2007
    10
    I have watched every season at least twice, and this by far is the best depiction of urban environments in the US today. To say this is the best show on TV does not even do it justice.
  6. GreenA.
    Dec 3, 2007
    10
    So brilliantly acted that it boggles my mind. Where did they find such young actors who could act in such intensive, high tension scenes? Richly layered and somehow manages to develop the characters, symbolic progressions, social critique, and compelling plot all at once. This is almost unprecedented for a TV show!
  7. SeanR.
    Nov 27, 2007
    10
    Greatest show of all time. HOw this show has never won an Emmy astonishes me.
  8. SeanW.
    Nov 27, 2007
    10
    Easily the best show on television hands down... wow.
  9. LanaS.
    Nov 9, 2007
    10
    Brilliant writing, impressive directing, and spectacular acting. The greatest thing on television, period.
  10. DanielH.
    Nov 8, 2007
    10
    Probably the closest thing to perfect you can get on TV. If you find yourself getting in to this show in it's censored version on BET, get the DVD's from a rental store or a library...there's no comparison.
  11. TT
    Oct 31, 2007
    10
    My vote for the best show on TV. TV can be so painfully melodramatic which makes The Wire so refreshing. Real people, real lives.
  12. PaulD
    Oct 29, 2007
    10
    This is the finest piece of media/literature that I have seen in my lifetime. Season 4 not only met my unrealistic expectations after the first 3 seasons, it surpassed them. For those who stick with it from the 1st episode of the 1st season they will be rewarded with a masterpiece. This is our modern cities, our modern institutions etc. played out in the mold of an epic Greek tragedy.
  13. DanielP
    Oct 21, 2007
    10
    Brilliant.
  14. DavidP.
    Oct 15, 2007
    10
    What Dostoyevsky did for literature, the wire has done for contemporary pop culture, and like Dostoyevsky appreciation was far more reserved until a later period. But, I like the show's status just as it is, though small, for those who watch it are constantly rewarded. A new day is not dawning in the city of Baltimore, the Barksdale's drug empire is no where to be seen, a new What Dostoyevsky did for literature, the wire has done for contemporary pop culture, and like Dostoyevsky appreciation was far more reserved until a later period. But, I like the show's status just as it is, though small, for those who watch it are constantly rewarded. A new day is not dawning in the city of Baltimore, the Barksdale's drug empire is no where to be seen, a new prince rules the streets (Marlo Stanfield), Mcnulty's back on the beat, Bunk is unable to convict a very guilty Omar for the stash house assassination, Carcetti struggles in the race for mayor, drug lieutenants Chris Partlow and Felicia "Snoop" Pearson are stacking up bodies quicker than a drop of a hat and four school kids are at risk from it all. There is always one outstanding feature with the wire that I have constantly admired, its storytelling. Unlike the more conventional "cop" dramas where cases are solved with in a fifty minute time frame, the wire takes it toll and very slowly. In season 1 the viewers were introduced to a drug syndicate known as the Barksdale's headed by the brash Avon Barksdale and the highly intelligent Stringer Bell. That particular story lasted an immense three seasons where the viewers grew with the characters laughs were disposed as were shocks and tears. Only one of the street characters from season 1 has remained, the self proclaimed and content soldier Bodie (JD Williams) who is not quite the same person without his crew he has become irritant and angry over Marlo Stanfield's unpredictable rulings and redundant leadership. There are only three members in Bodie's crew Lex, Little Kevin and Namond - the unruly and rowdy teenager whose story develops heavily over the course of the series. From Namond we met his friends Michael, Dukie and Randy who all become a primary focus for seaon 4's story. From the perspective of law enforcement this season we follow the breakdown of the major crimes unit. Lester has been reassigned to homicide as has Kima joining Bunk, Prez has bacome a school teacher, Herc remains in major crimes as does Sydnor though Mcnulty and Carver have both decided to work the streets. From the political aspect we follow Carcetti's rise to power and Royce's sheer will to stop him. from the drug perspective we see Marlo order more assassinations than you can count and in doing so he and his high ranking members (Chris and Snoop). Yet again this show proves that good does not triumph over evil infact between it all the only moral compass is the city of Baltimore no one ever wins in the long run. Bodie and his crew are killed one by one over the course of the season and it's utterly heart breaking until the final episode where Bodie has a moment of clarity realizing there is no way out and is prepared to be killed. The kids who start with their own agenda conclude to be completely opposite by the end. Happily Carcetti wins though in doing this his obsession for winning has alienated his long term friends an colleagues leaving him to be a very lonely king. The inner circle amongst the ranks of the police department becomes more and more distant. By the end Marlo Stanfield's paranoia grows so high that his methods of keeping safe are preposterous. The wire is as engrossing as it is distant as beautiful as it is ugly and as funny as it is tragic. you can't nibble at this show because you have to devour it. Expand
  15. AlexandrosL.
    Oct 5, 2007
    10
    Simon has transferred in his play the Balzac's core conception of the plot in which the characters while they seem to act on their own through a Darwinian battle, in fact they are pawns overwhelmed by the dominant forces of the society. A true masterpiece. Art.
  16. zzt.
    Oct 1, 2007
    7
    I don't get it. To me The Wire is massively overhyped. I enjoy watching it, but it feels like a glorified "The Shield". It lacks the dynamic and dramatic style of The Sopranos. The use of music is also more effective in Sopranos. Then there are pacing issues ... at times The Wire just prods along. Yea yea, we know, its praised for bringing social issues to the forefront and its I don't get it. To me The Wire is massively overhyped. I enjoy watching it, but it feels like a glorified "The Shield". It lacks the dynamic and dramatic style of The Sopranos. The use of music is also more effective in Sopranos. Then there are pacing issues ... at times The Wire just prods along. Yea yea, we know, its praised for bringing social issues to the forefront and its "realistic" but I want to be entertained as well; sometimes its just like a documentary, a boring one at that. The Sopranos has its cerebral psychobabble moments with the flashbacks and the psychiatrist, but they are well balanced with lots of drama, sex, violence and excellent directing. Also, theres no comparison interms of individual acting achievements .. theres certainly no one as impressive as Falco, Gandolfini or Imperioli on The Wire. The Wire needs more scenes like the famous detective scene with Bunk and McNulty to balance the prodding multi-threaded drama that engulfs most of the episodes If you like slow, cerebral, cop shows, The Wire might be an interesting watch. Overall, you will get more bang for your buck from the far more well balanced Sopranos...certainly there are many more shocking and classic scenes in The Sopranos which will be etched in your memory forever. Rent seasons 1 and 2 of both the Sopranos and The Wire and do the comparison yourself. Expand
  17. ChristopherC.
    Sep 11, 2007
    10
    What else can I say that already has not been said....See the wire..it will change the way you look at TV.
  18. TiaL.
    Sep 6, 2007
    10
    I am from the urban city and this show is so true. Whoever created this must have grown up in this same situation to have captured such likeliness.
  19. TerjeD.
    Sep 4, 2007
    10
    Best show ever... no other show even close !
  20. Dave
    Sep 1, 2007
    10
    If Dostoyevsky was still alive - he would be writing for this show.
  21. Blanqui
    Aug 28, 2007
    10
    This is more than just a television show, this is something more. Watching the wire sets a new standard that makes other shows seem ridiculous. The show is so good and so educational it should be shown in schools for teenagers. It describes it as it is, no bull, no happy ending, just reality. The wie is movie art as its best.
  22. lu
    Aug 14, 2007
    10
    Best show ever.
  23. HaniY.
    Aug 13, 2007
    10
    Season 4 of The Wire happens to be the most emotional and the finest season so far. This is the most hard-hitting police drama ever to come to TV. The Wire makes every other show inferior and hopefully it will get the Emmys the show deserved for a long time now.
  24. lu
    Aug 6, 2007
    10
    Best show ever.
  25. Julian
    Aug 1, 2007
    10
    Best not-a-cop-show ever. Period.
  26. RobertB.
    Jul 31, 2007
    10
    The only major "flaw" this show has is that it doesn't appeal to what people have been conditioned to expect. It's too intelligent, too authentic, too deep, too harsh and too sad.
  27. JustinG.
    Jul 29, 2007
    10
    this show is great bring avon barksdale back
  28. LolaS
    Jul 19, 2007
    10
    I LOVE this show! Season 4 was phenomenal! It just draws you in and the suspense is so strong. I can't wait for season 5.
  29. JeromeR
    Jul 18, 2007
    10
    Awesome!
  30. SeanL
    Jul 15, 2007
    10
    The only television program of any importance ever made.
  31. ShaunD.
    Jul 11, 2007
    10
    The finest drama on TV.
  32. NandaK
    Jul 8, 2007
    10
    Simply the best show on TV; more than that, it is a piece of work that holds its own if you would like to compare it to other great works of literature -- Shakespeare included!
  33. MarieM.
    Jul 4, 2007
    10
    The Wire has a real, gritty, on the edge of your seat edge to it that no other TV show can come close to. This is THE best show on TV and I wait inpatiently for the next series. I have bought all the DVD's also. I don't want it to end. It is about time a black drama reflected life as it truly is - warts and all! The cast are quality actors - very believable. Well done to the The Wire has a real, gritty, on the edge of your seat edge to it that no other TV show can come close to. This is THE best show on TV and I wait inpatiently for the next series. I have bought all the DVD's also. I don't want it to end. It is about time a black drama reflected life as it truly is - warts and all! The cast are quality actors - very believable. Well done to the producers, directors and cast. Expand
  34. miriamh.
    Jul 2, 2007
    10
    I lied. It's and eleven!
  35. TomasI
    Jun 29, 2007
    10
    Absolutely fantastic!
  36. deniss.
    Jun 23, 2007
    10
    best show ever. period!!!
  37. PaulK.
    Jun 12, 2007
    10
    This is by far the best show I've ever watched. I haven't bought a dvd of a TV show until now.
  38. KenL.
    Jun 9, 2007
    10
    The Wire is so good it's scary.
  39. MattH
    Jun 8, 2007
    10
    True dat. I'm from the UK and was tipped off on this. Unlike a lot of the 'top drawer' TV out there now this just gets better and better with each series. Apparently The Wire was written like a novel and series 5 will be the conclusion. How can anything ever better it?
  40. TomN.
    May 30, 2007
    10
    BEST TV EVER!! Like watching a quality book...
  41. David
    May 30, 2007
    10
    let's hope that some day this show will reach the mass audience it deserves.
  42. MattN.
    May 28, 2007
    10
    Simply the greatest thing on televsion . Ever.
  43. BlahM.
    May 22, 2007
    10
    I watch pretty much every show on TV that's worth watching, and this is undeniably the best. As true-to-life as TV can get, with far more reality than any "reality" show. Waiting for the fifth season to begin is torture, which will only get worse as I realize the hole The Wire will leave when it's gone.
  44. RichC
    Apr 26, 2007
    10
    This is the show that makes all others insignificant. Season 4 is the best season yet of the most engrossing TV drama ever made. By the season's finale, you'll regard Namond, Dukie, Michael and Randy as your own children. The acting, plot, and especially the dialogue have simply never been bettered on TV.
  45. ZaneD
    Apr 22, 2007
    10
    Like some of the other comments here, my only complaint about the show is that more people have not seen it. Nothing compares, be it in television, film, or literature.
  46. JLali
    Apr 20, 2007
    10
    one of the best shows on cable period
  47. trex
    Apr 10, 2007
    10
    Not only the greatest TV show of all-time, but the greatest artistic acheivement of all-time. Just absolutely stunning. 200 years from now people will be watching this show like Shakespeare
  48. FrankR
    Apr 9, 2007
    10
    One of the best series ever produced for television, period.
  49. romanmc
    Apr 6, 2007
    10
    Trust the 160 people here who liked this show, not the two that didn't. Most phenomenal example of entertainment this decade. Can't wait for the DVD.
  50. ChrisZ
    Mar 29, 2007
    10
    One of the best filmed narratives ever produced ever. Delicately balanced. Finely observed. Intelligently executed. Sets itself apart from any other show on television.
  51. TheMightyShango
    Mar 28, 2007
    9
    If a really RREALLY great novel could be televised this would be the result. The Wire's greatest strength is that not one inch of roll of film is wasted, every single scene has rellevance to the overall story. Narrative compression at its finest. Its only flaw is the producers/Writers are not experts at Cinematography, but that can be forgiven because the main focus is on the city of If a really RREALLY great novel could be televised this would be the result. The Wire's greatest strength is that not one inch of roll of film is wasted, every single scene has rellevance to the overall story. Narrative compression at its finest. Its only flaw is the producers/Writers are not experts at Cinematography, but that can be forgiven because the main focus is on the city of Baltimore and its failing institutions (the ports, the schools, the police, politics, healthcare, it goes on) which can be translated to any major modern metropolitan city worldwide. Expand
  52. lindas
    Mar 26, 2007
    10
    being in the surrounding county and to see what takes place in the city is amazing.and to say thanks for telling it lke it is.
  53. ChuckS
    Mar 26, 2007
    10
    "The Wire" is the most thoroughly engrossing TV show I've ever watched. To my mind, It can't even really be compared to other television series.
  54. MichaelB
    Mar 25, 2007
    10
    While I wasn't too impressed with the first season, the following three seasons were absolutely brilliant. If you enjoy harsh cop dramas, don't overlook The Wire.
  55. JeffA
    Mar 23, 2007
    10
    Why does this 'cop drama' differ from anything we have ever seen... first off, an entire season dedicated to 1 case instead of each episode being and open and closed case within an hour. This captures the viewers interest not only in the characters, but the case as well. And another reason it is different, and most importantly, it shows you 2-4 angles. We are not just seeing Why does this 'cop drama' differ from anything we have ever seen... first off, an entire season dedicated to 1 case instead of each episode being and open and closed case within an hour. This captures the viewers interest not only in the characters, but the case as well. And another reason it is different, and most importantly, it shows you 2-4 angles. We are not just seeing everything from the police's view, or the street's view. Everyone can relate/agree with motives of so much variety of character. Expand
  56. JeromeR
    Mar 21, 2007
    10
    Awesome!
  57. talyab
    Mar 15, 2007
    10
    The best drama on TV, or maybe all of film, ever.
  58. MartinM
    Mar 3, 2007
    10
    The Wire is the best TV ever created.
  59. nig
    Mar 1, 2007
    10
    For you people saying this show is black explotation have obviously never seen it. It is a well written and directed drama about cops trying to hold a city together that is falling apart. It is trying to document the struggle of inner city baltimore and what it's like trying to survive. So far it's the only show that does that justice.
  60. lollol
    Feb 24, 2007
    0
    The acting is horrible.
  61. shanelees
    Feb 18, 2007
    10
    outstanding
  62. EthanS
    Feb 18, 2007
    10
    This show could only be created in a place like Baltimore. Hollywood would screw it up. Manhattan, too. Those places are theme parks; this is the story of a real city and its problems.
  63. TomY
    Feb 12, 2007
    10
    Best show ever. Spread the word!
  64. levar
    Feb 11, 2007
    10
    I,am from Baltimore!This is as real as it will ever get. The names have been changed but the people of Baltimore,(BALIMERE)no them well.
  65. Tom
    Feb 10, 2007
    10
    The best show ever, and hardly anyone knows about it.
  66. AmyW
    Jan 31, 2007
    10
    I just finished watching the season's run on my DVR. I didn't want the show to end! I loved how the show dealt with the children and their characters were so well developed.
  67. HaileD
    Jan 29, 2007
    10
    Best TV Drama show I have ever seen.
  68. PatrickM
    Jan 28, 2007
    10
    My favorite comment regarding the show: "If you're not watching The Wire, you should have your TV taken away." True that!!
  69. DianaB
    Jan 27, 2007
    10
    I love this show and can't wait for the next season to start, what is taking so long.
  70. michaelr
    Jan 23, 2007
    10
    I did'nt watch the first two seasons of the wire thinking it would'nt interest me and then one night midway through season three I caught a episode and I was hooked. I am glad BET is showing the wire from the beginning so I can veiw from start to finish. Looking foward to season four.
  71. tanyar
    Jan 19, 2007
    10
    love this show cant wait for the season to start
  72. Matt
    Jan 18, 2007
    10
    Greatest show on tv period. It requires max attention but the payoffs are worth it.
  73. TeresaW
    Jan 17, 2007
    10
    I think this is one of the best shows that has come out in the past 10 years!!!
  74. TerryG
    Jan 16, 2007
    1
    Just another black exploitation modern day minstrial show. Making lots of money for the power structure while mascurading as some kind of new art form. Consider the negative effects on young black men. HBO does have a clue and sadly seems to lack morality as most of the rap industry. We have enough real life examples of the struggles of black people both urban and rural. Nothing Just another black exploitation modern day minstrial show. Making lots of money for the power structure while mascurading as some kind of new art form. Consider the negative effects on young black men. HBO does have a clue and sadly seems to lack morality as most of the rap industry. We have enough real life examples of the struggles of black people both urban and rural. Nothing entertaining or funny about decadence and the continued loss of real blackmen. Let me add, the cowboy hollywood law enforcement officers is just another silly and disrespectful ploy of your so-called writers.. Expand
  75. elisem
    Jan 16, 2007
    10
    As a public school teacher, I can verify that the wire is "right on target" in its depiction of what goes on in an inner city school.
  76. HeatherA
    Jan 15, 2007
    10
    I have watched every season of The Wire since it first started and each one is better than the last. Being from Baltimore County I can really appreciate how well the story line and casting is. It is a rediculous that this show keeps getting passed over-extremely disapointing.
  77. Rachel
    Jan 15, 2007
    10
    Best show on tv, no question.
  78. jOHNM
    Jan 15, 2007
    10
    This show is REAL!
  79. JoshC
    Jan 14, 2007
    10
    "24" is a conservative's wet dream. For my money the best show on TV is "The Wire", but nobody watches it. There is not another show on TV that addresses the realities of race, work, manhood and urban life with the sweep and rigor of "The Wire" on HBO. "24", blistering as it is, is just flashy and empty. It's all lightning, no rain."The Wire" drenched me.
  80. JamesW
    Jan 13, 2007
    10
    The finest television show in history. I find that only people who wouldn't invest in a few episodes of the show can say it's not one of if the favorite show of all itme. Season 4 allows viewers without knowledge of the prior seasons to enjoy the storyline. But believe me, if you haven't watched the previous three seasons, do yourself a favor and watch them. Not only does The finest television show in history. I find that only people who wouldn't invest in a few episodes of the show can say it's not one of if the favorite show of all itme. Season 4 allows viewers without knowledge of the prior seasons to enjoy the storyline. But believe me, if you haven't watched the previous three seasons, do yourself a favor and watch them. Not only does it enhance the enjoyment of season 4, but if you are going to watch tv, you might as well watch the best show. When season 5 concludes, I may seriously consider whether I need a television anymore. Expand
  81. SamA
    Jan 9, 2007
    10
    Josh B put it very well, it is a show about something, and it does an excellent job of not making the "hood" or being a gangsta look romantic. It is real and effective. Living in the poorest city in America, Cleveland, I can relate to everything this show explains. Best show on TV
  82. EdM
    Jan 9, 2007
    10
    The BEST SHOW ON TV EVER. All-Caps intentional.
  83. JoshB
    Jan 8, 2007
    10
    Seinfeld was the "show about nothing." This just might be the only show ever that can legitimately be called a "show about something." The Wire reveals every other show for the superficial pap that it is.
  84. F.C.Barcelona
    Jan 8, 2007
    10
    U2: Joshua Tree: An great album Marvin Gaye: What's goin' on; Gorgeous album: Jesse Jamerson on bass is exquisite Zinedine Zidane v. Brazil: Masterclass in midfield orchestration The Wire: One wants to sing and mourn in the same breath after watching this show!
  85. BarrettD
    Jan 7, 2007
    10
    The absolute best show I've seen in my life
  86. LindaM
    Jan 7, 2007
    10
    Real, so real to life in the urban setting. Truly fabulous; couldn't wait for each episode.
  87. RN
    Jan 6, 2007
    10
    The most important piece of televison there has ever been. I've derived no greater feeling from following "The Wire" for the last 4 seasons. It's shows life, as true as it can happen. This show presents the tragedy of our current system; ignoring and failing the people, putting everything to profit and the cold protection of that profit. "The Wire" had impacted my life so The most important piece of televison there has ever been. I've derived no greater feeling from following "The Wire" for the last 4 seasons. It's shows life, as true as it can happen. This show presents the tragedy of our current system; ignoring and failing the people, putting everything to profit and the cold protection of that profit. "The Wire" had impacted my life so strongly with its story. I beg you now to start watching. By some miracle it has been picked up for its 5th and final season, which should start late 2007. Expand
  88. ZakiyaD
    Jan 3, 2007
    10
    I love the television show THE WIRE so much and just started 2 watch in mid of season 2 and have kept watching the television show ever since. My favorite character is Namond! real funny and charming
  89. DorianS
    Jan 3, 2007
    10
    The most powerful, most heartbreaking, most intelligent, most empathic, most humanistic, most truthful television series that I have ever watched. The writing on all four seasons of "The Wire" is consistently first rate, with dozens of memorable characters brought to life by the superlative cast. Complex and convoluted (yet never boring) this series demands your complete attention when The most powerful, most heartbreaking, most intelligent, most empathic, most humanistic, most truthful television series that I have ever watched. The writing on all four seasons of "The Wire" is consistently first rate, with dozens of memorable characters brought to life by the superlative cast. Complex and convoluted (yet never boring) this series demands your complete attention when watching (something that will come quite easily as anyone who has watched this show can attest to), and rewards your investment of time in spades... Expand
  90. LaMiciaT
    Jan 2, 2007
    10
    I'm crazy hooked on The Wire ever since "Namond" came on Scream Tour 5, 2 weeks ago...Where has this show been all my life it's real !!!! HBO on demand got rid of it tho (idots). Happy New Year, now i gotta buy the DVD. lata
  91. BerylW
    Jan 1, 2007
    10
    I've watch it from the first episode, I wait not even patiently for it every year. I'm so blown away this year. I recommend it to everyone. It should be required watching for the school boards. It should be required watching, because it is so very good. Maybe it's so high above the rest it rates more than any award could ever say; but it should be recognized anyway.
  92. DanM
    Dec 31, 2006
    10
    The best show ever created.
  93. KenM
    Dec 31, 2006
    9
    After "Homicide: Life on The Streets" this is the best series ever.
  94. [Anonymous]
    Dec 30, 2006
    10
    I do not exaggertae when I say this is the best show I have ever had the pleasure of sitting down in front of. So addictive I consumed the entire season in ONE SITTING.
  95. RaduD
    Dec 30, 2006
    10
    This is by far the best TV drama ever made.
  96. DavidH
    Dec 29, 2006
    10
    Simply incredible television which stands head and shoulders above anything else.
  97. LizA
    Dec 29, 2006
    10
    This show is phenomenal!!! The writing is amazing, the acting is flawless.....I love, love, love this show! It elevates the television serial to a whole new level. No other program can touch The Wire.
  98. alanf
    Dec 27, 2006
    10
    the best
  99. CandiceA
    Dec 26, 2006
    10
    As a Baltimorean and an educator, I was not eager to jump feet first into the Wire frenzy. Now, I can honestly say that the show has pierced parts of me that I have tried to keep stoic so that I can continue to live and do the "trench work" here. I am not sure if that is a good or bad thing-- but like Bubbles, I am addicted.
  100. JanH
    Dec 25, 2006
    10
    Very simply the best TV serial drama ever. ONe cares for every character no matter what they have done as the door is opened into their humanenss. aAtextbook on the problems of large urban cities. It really doesn't make any difference what your level of analysis is--it ends up being the best TV serial drama ever. Did I say the best ever? Answer is YES.
Metascore
98

Universal acclaim - based on 21 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 21 out of 21
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 21
  3. Negative: 0 out of 21
  1. 88
    Despite high praise, there are two serious problems: (a) The first new episode is crazy confusing, and (b) over the course of the first batch of episodes, the story lines don't develop quickly enough.
  2. 100
    To me, what allows “The Wire” to surpass “The Sopranos” in the pantheon of greatest American TV shows is its ambition and its anger.
  3. 100
    This is TV as great modern literature, a shattering and heartbreaking urban epic about a city (Baltimore) rotting from within.