The Wire

:

Season 4
  • 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. Positive: 789 out of 856
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 856
  3. Negative: 58 out of 856
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User Reviews

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  1. DavidL
    Dec 24, 2006
    10
    The Wire S4 manages to do what I hadn't thought possible - shock its fanbase into loving the show more than even the very first season. With an incredible setup for season 5, season 4 is the epitome of entertainment.
  2. KathS
    Dec 23, 2006
    10
    The best reality show on television.
  3. michaelj
    Dec 23, 2006
    10
    a show thats grabs u and makes you intranced
  4. CeceS
    Dec 21, 2006
    10
    Television at its best!!!! It's well deserving at the very least a nomination. I've been around since the first season, and everytime you think it can't possibly get any better.....It absolutely can, and does!!!!! What a journey! Thank you HBO for bringing us only the best!!!!
  5. AlexW
    Dec 21, 2006
    10
    Rivetting! Mind-blowing! I cannot stress this enough. If you haven't watched it, you need to rent, buy, or steal the DVDs, turn off all your phones, lock yourself in a room for a couple of days, and discover the best show ever created!
  6. lu
    Dec 20, 2006
    10
    Best show ever.
  7. GD
    Dec 17, 2006
    10
    The greatest show on television...ever!
  8. Toshi
    Dec 15, 2006
    10
    Probably the greatest television show ever.
  9. raymondb
    Dec 13, 2006
    10
    I've been numb ever since watching the last show, (tivo) last night. I just can't put into words the emotional rollercoster this show takes me through. At times I wish I could just reach into my TV and help these kids some way, some how. I live just outside of Baltimore and its incredible to me how THE WIRE parellels real life in bodymore....
  10. GeorgeE
    Dec 11, 2006
    10
    the wire is the best show i have ever seen in my life, i almost shed a tear during last nights final episode.
  11. DemetriusP
    Dec 10, 2006
    10
    By far, the BEST show on HBO! The Soprano's cannot hold a match to The Wire. The acting is 10x better, the plot is so...intense.... It's a shame this show doesn't get the notice it deserves
  12. DavidG
    Dec 9, 2006
    10
    Why not pile on to a good thing? A great thing actually -- the best work on television in the past decade, period.
  13. PaulP
    Dec 8, 2006
    10
    GOAT, the greatest of all times, no doubt. There will never be another show like The Wire, you feel me?
  14. TWilliams
    Dec 7, 2006
    10
    The most riveting show in TV history
  15. DorianP
    Dec 6, 2006
    10
    Best Show ever I cant even think o f a movie I like more.
  16. COLLINS
    Dec 5, 2006
    10
    The greates show of all times!!!!!
  17. RonC
    Dec 4, 2006
    10
    Incredible. Season 4 has elevetated this show to legenadary status. It has always been good, but taken together the four seasons equal, and probably surpass anything that has ever been put on television before. If I had to guess as to why it has never become a ratings star for HBO it would have to be that yes, I do live in a racist country. (Or a dumb one that doesn't have the Incredible. Season 4 has elevetated this show to legenadary status. It has always been good, but taken together the four seasons equal, and probably surpass anything that has ever been put on television before. If I had to guess as to why it has never become a ratings star for HBO it would have to be that yes, I do live in a racist country. (Or a dumb one that doesn't have the attention span it takes to follow the multiple plot lines... )… Expand
  18. JanellJ
    Nov 29, 2006
    10
    I cannot fully articulate how outstanding this show is. Without contest, the best show on television.Period.
  19. PatW
    Nov 28, 2006
    10
    I have been captivated by this show since season one. There is not a more accurate or honest show on television. It amazes me that shows like Entourage gets fans for a 20 minute episode yet the Wire never seems to recieve a bit of a following even with hour long episodes.
  20. duanebraun
    Nov 26, 2006
    10
    this show is awaome and so realistic.my favorite show
  21. ColinC
    Nov 25, 2006
    10
    This is the best show on television. Superb acting tight story lines, very underrated by mainstream viewers put off by language & the perception that it shows African-Americans in a most unfavorable light. What is missed is the core intelligence of these characters and the methods that they navigate thru their daily lives under difficult conditions.
  22. CarlA
    Nov 21, 2006
    10
    This is the only show on television that I watch regularly. It is absoluely excellent. I've heard that it is coming back for a fifth season. Thank goodness.
  23. ChrisC
    Nov 18, 2006
    10
    The experience is visceral. The best show on T.V. ever. I am unhealthily fixated on all the characters and the drama. Currently trying to turn all my smart friends on to The Wire.
  24. TONYB
    Oct 25, 2006
    10
    One of the best television series I have ever seen. NO SCRATCH THAT. This is the best television series I have ever seen.
  25. tomp
    Oct 20, 2006
    10
    The best show on televison. Maybe one of the best show ever on tv. Enjoy it while it lasts
  26. AOD
    Oct 18, 2006
    10
    "The Wire" is the best show in television history, period.
  27. jamesc
    Oct 15, 2006
    10
    The best and deepest drama on TV. The acting and writing is great.
  28. TomH
    Oct 10, 2006
    10
    I have watched this show from the beginning and I can only say that it is the best television show on today. The writing is first rate and the acting is even better. The stories will make you go through every emotion you have.
  29. JimmyV
    Oct 9, 2006
    10
    Best show on TV. When will The Wire start winning the awards it truly deserves?
  30. JaredK
    Oct 2, 2006
    10
    As usual, The Wire is proving to be the best show on television this season. The first episode, was strong but felt slightly off kilter. But this has been true of every season so far. Likely it's due to the massive cast changes and the two year layoff between seasons three and four. However, each of the next three episodes that I've seen has gotten progressively stronger, more As usual, The Wire is proving to be the best show on television this season. The first episode, was strong but felt slightly off kilter. But this has been true of every season so far. Likely it's due to the massive cast changes and the two year layoff between seasons three and four. However, each of the next three episodes that I've seen has gotten progressively stronger, more tense, better paced. Already I feel invested in the five main new characters. The Wire is just a monumentally compelling, expertly crafted show that deserves a wider audience.… Expand
  31. bigking
    Sep 29, 2006
    10
    This is currently the best show on the air, period. Hard to think how they could improve it, except by making more episodes
  32. JeremyH
    Sep 28, 2006
    10
    Best show on television. Well written and perfectly casted...no television drama can touch it with a ten foot poll...or shotgun, whichever you prefer
  33. C.Cotton
    Sep 27, 2006
    10
    The Wire sets the bar for crime dramas. This is the show I go to when I need to see what great acting and great writing is all about. After watching the first few episodes of this season I was able to review all the other shows on my list and start chopping some of them off my list just because most can't campare to this drama.
  34. brian
    Sep 27, 2006
    10
    I am obsessed with "The Wire". Only started watching a few weeks ago and have almost made it up to the current season (thanks to dvds of season 1-3)... Nothing else is like it, although it jumps off from "Homicide" and "The Corner", Baltimore shows that explored similar ground. It's not just TV... it's THE WIRE! Ya feel me? ps, if you're just starting as a Wire-o-phile, I am obsessed with "The Wire". Only started watching a few weeks ago and have almost made it up to the current season (thanks to dvds of season 1-3)... Nothing else is like it, although it jumps off from "Homicide" and "The Corner", Baltimore shows that explored similar ground. It's not just TV... it's THE WIRE! Ya feel me? ps, if you're just starting as a Wire-o-phile, turn on the subtitles… Expand
  35. LarToryaH
    Sep 25, 2006
    10
    love this show it's the best thing on tv
  36. AndreaD
    Sep 24, 2006
    10
    We watched the first 3 seasons of The Wire on demand and DVD in a marathon this summer, and found it to be as addictive as the heroin trade it often scrutinizes. The complexity of its characters, the depth of its writing, its critical eye, make it the best show ever.
  37. Christine
    Sep 24, 2006
    10
    The Wire has been the best thing on TV since its first season. How can it be that it took so long for it to be recognized (it doesn't seem to be listed in Metacritic's "Best of 2005)? Increidbly smart writing, acting, producing and editing. I dred the story coming to an end after next year.
  38. jerryb
    Sep 23, 2006
    10
    Best show ever.... I can't say much cause it'll take too long... bottom line you have to watch it from season 1 on to appreciate it..
  39. Alastair
    Sep 22, 2006
    10
    Unimpeachably brilliant. The best television show ever made.
  40. KevinW
    Sep 21, 2006
    10
    I love the wire but you almost have to watch it from the first season. Unlike most shows "The Wire" isn't about the characters or the plot. The show is about Baltimore and "the game." So you have to watch it for that, but it makes the show even more enjoyable. Your favorite character who seems to be the spotlight of the show may be dead by the next episode and that just keeps you on I love the wire but you almost have to watch it from the first season. Unlike most shows "The Wire" isn't about the characters or the plot. The show is about Baltimore and "the game." So you have to watch it for that, but it makes the show even more enjoyable. Your favorite character who seems to be the spotlight of the show may be dead by the next episode and that just keeps you on your toes.… Expand
  41. maryh
    Sep 21, 2006
    10
    This is a show that requires patience and brains; all B story and a 13 episode story arc - unthinkable on "regular" channels. Characters with flaws, soul, issues and, best of all, great acting and incredible writing.
  42. EmmanuelD
    Sep 17, 2006
    10
    The Wire is one of the best show ever to be on HBO. Only if the Emmy
  43. GordonT
    Sep 15, 2006
    8
    I really like this show. It is well written and acted. It lacks the edge of some other shows but now Im cutting hairs. I don't see why a show like this can't make it on regular TV. I mean the crap (CSI amd all its spawns) thats on regular TV now is such a waste. The plots are so obvious and the dialog so perdictable and finally the content so not challenging.This show should be on CBS!
  44. KevinJ
    Sep 14, 2006
    10
    I would give up red meat for this show. Nothing else even comes close to matching the continuing brilliance displayed in every aspect of The Wire. This show doesn't deserve an Emmy. It deserves a Nobel Prize.
  45. MichaelD
    Sep 14, 2006
    10
    The wire is the smartest and most ambitious show on television today. Its continual portrayal of the intricacies and hypocrisy of both crime and justice encourage discussion and gently nudge the necessary realization that too much of America is sad, ugly and more complicated that any of us care to know. I enjoy every minute; it almost justifies my obscene cable bill.
  46. EricS
    Sep 13, 2006
    10
    I taught in the inner city of the Baltimore City Schools System for two years. This show is not fiction - it is an accurate portrayal of reality on TV. A must see for every American.
  47. MichaelJ
    Sep 13, 2006
    10
    A great show. On top of everything else this episode was unbelievably funny. Great way to start the 1st season. Waiting for the return of Omar.
  48. Domingo
    Sep 13, 2006
    10
    This is the best show on television. It has the depth of a book played out every week on TV. We don't deserve to be treated this well.
  49. MelanieT
    Sep 12, 2006
    10
    Amazing show! Best one on television!
  50. ScotchZombie
    Sep 12, 2006
    10
    The best show on television (just beating out Deadwood in my view). If you've missed the first three seasons, read the fantastic episode guides on HBO.com - or better yet find the DVDs. Do not miss!
  51. JohnJ
    Sep 11, 2006
    10
    Simply the best.
  52. Mike
    Sep 10, 2006
    10
    This is the best television show ever made. Makes other shows like "24" look like public access television.
  53. StefanP
    Sep 10, 2006
    10
    best show i have ever seen. goddamnit, i want to have intercourse with the people who conceptualized this program. it is the sweetest show ever created in the history of modern media. i motherfucking love the wire. god bless baltimore. titties. this show is titties.
  54. WasetR
    Sep 9, 2006
    10
    For me, television could go away forever, as long as on Sunday nights, it came back on to show The Wire. This show is the greatest show ever in the history of television and I tell everyone I know and everyone I meet that very same thing.
  55. C.E.
    Sep 9, 2006
    10
    Great show. I watched all three season (37 episodes) in four days. Can't wait to see the fourth season.
  56. MarcD.
    Sep 9, 2006
    10
    The first episode was everything I expected it to be. And outstanding foundation for another good season. The first season in the Home Depot-type store is priceless. There is simply a level of authenticity in The Wire that no other show on TV can get close to. Only Homicide: LOTS is in the same ballpark. Why the Emmy folks and all those other organizations that complain about the lack of The first episode was everything I expected it to be. And outstanding foundation for another good season. The first season in the Home Depot-type store is priceless. There is simply a level of authenticity in The Wire that no other show on TV can get close to. Only Homicide: LOTS is in the same ballpark. Why the Emmy folks and all those other organizations that complain about the lack of quality roles for African American actors seem to ignore this show is beyond me.… Expand
  57. GG
    Sep 8, 2006
    10
    I love this show!
  58. rc
    Sep 7, 2006
    10
    Greatest dramatic Television series ever, truly a work of art. Season 4 appears to follow that trend, the opening scene alone is one of the Wire's best.
  59. JT
    Sep 7, 2006
    10
    Glad to see this show get its due. Such a sad tale for those 4 boys. Expect to get your heart broken. The wire is what TV should be.
  60. KJ
    Sep 7, 2006
    10
    For what the show asks of you, which is simply that you watch, the rewards are unbelievable. The Wire is funny, dark and thought-provoking all at once, and David Simon & Ed Burns are first and foremost incredible storytellers. Some of the reviews tend to make watching The Wire sound like homework, but while the show may be a bit complicated to explain, above all else it's totally For what the show asks of you, which is simply that you watch, the rewards are unbelievable. The Wire is funny, dark and thought-provoking all at once, and David Simon & Ed Burns are first and foremost incredible storytellers. Some of the reviews tend to make watching The Wire sound like homework, but while the show may be a bit complicated to explain, above all else it's totally entertaining. It's fascinating television.… Expand
  61. CO
    Sep 7, 2006
    10
    I want to find something flawed in this show, but I just can't Perfect.
  62. JC
    Sep 7, 2006
    9
    Slow from the blocks but so amazing once it builds momentum. When season 1 pilot first aired, a friend called me and asked me what I thought. My reaction "its so real, there are so many loose ends, its kind of dull." Two weeks later, the same friend called and I told him that I was watching The Wire. He asked why and I said that I didnt know and that it was kind of hypnotic. Two weeks Slow from the blocks but so amazing once it builds momentum. When season 1 pilot first aired, a friend called me and asked me what I thought. My reaction "its so real, there are so many loose ends, its kind of dull." Two weeks later, the same friend called and I told him that I was watching The Wire. He asked why and I said that I didnt know and that it was kind of hypnotic. Two weeks later, I answered the phone and said "I'll call you back I am watching the greatest show ever!" and hung up on him. If you haven't seen it, expect to find this season's pilot rather open ended and to introduce many character relationships that seem real but vague. But four weeks from now, you will be chomping at the bit for each new episode. You'll be glad you did.… Expand
  63. adamg
    Sep 7, 2006
    10
    Televison perfection at it's finest.
  64. SamD
    Sep 6, 2006
    10
    At the risk of sounding like a broken record, this show can't really be underrated. Astonishing drama. Sure, it's not easy to watch and it requires that the viewer be involved in what's going on but the rewards are more than any other show I've ever seen. Greatest show ever.
  65. DonyG
    Sep 6, 2006
    10
    This is the best show in television history. That's not an exaggeration. Tell your friends about it. 3 episodes and you're hooked. Guaranteed. If they don't give it a fifth season everyone at HBO should be arrested and then fired.
  66. DR
    Sep 6, 2006
    10
    This show is truely the best ever, yes it might sound cliche to say that about this show, but its so true. The first episode of every season is like a new first chapter, so of course its a little confusing at first, but thats the beauty of this show is that it demands your attention and you get rewarded ten fold once you get into it. I loved the season 4 opener, It starts off a year after This show is truely the best ever, yes it might sound cliche to say that about this show, but its so true. The first episode of every season is like a new first chapter, so of course its a little confusing at first, but thats the beauty of this show is that it demands your attention and you get rewarded ten fold once you get into it. I loved the season 4 opener, It starts off a year after the last season and is just awesome to see all the characters we have come to love over the years. My favorite show no doubt.… Expand
  67. GregA
    Sep 5, 2006
    10
    The greatest show ever. Period.
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Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Best TV Season of 2006
2
#2 Most Discussed TV Season of 2006
10
#10 Most Shared TV Season of 2006

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
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. Chicago Sun-Times
    Reviewed by: Doug Elfman
    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.
    Read full review
  2. Kansas City Star
    Reviewed by: Aaron Barnhart
    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.
    Read full review
  3. TV Guide Magazine
    Reviewed by: Matt Roush
    100
    This is TV as great modern literature, a shattering and heartbreaking urban epic about a city (Baltimore) rotting from within.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »