True Detective

:

Season 1
  • Network: HBO
  • Series Premiere Date: Jan 12, 2014
Season #: 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
9.1

Universal acclaim- based on 2021 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,907 out of 2021
  2. Mixed: 46 out of 2021
  3. Negative: 68 out of 2021
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User Reviews

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  1. jpalame
    Jan 30, 2014
    10
    True Detective features a murder investigation, but the show's central inquiry settles on its two leads. McConaughey portrays a philosophical, nihilistic skeptic and Harrelson a run-of-the-mill by-the-book cop, husband, and father. However, the two characters surpass their archetypes, guided by strong (if a bit on-the-nose) dialogue and outstanding performances. Furthermore, the settingTrue Detective features a murder investigation, but the show's central inquiry settles on its two leads. McConaughey portrays a philosophical, nihilistic skeptic and Harrelson a run-of-the-mill by-the-book cop, husband, and father. However, the two characters surpass their archetypes, guided by strong (if a bit on-the-nose) dialogue and outstanding performances. Furthermore, the setting and environment are hauntingly beautiful. The plot is slow-burning much like Sundance's Rectify, and its steady pace of development has benefited it three episodes in.… Expand
  2. lazaq
    Jan 29, 2014
    10
    Judging from the first episodes, this could be another milestone in the modern TV drama wonder so far. It's lovingly crafted in every aspect, from the visual and directing to the writing and the acting. Sure, it's slow and brooding but never unnecessarily so. In fact, the low tempo makes it all the more enjoyable. There is a confidence, a knowingness to it. True Detective is aware of it'sJudging from the first episodes, this could be another milestone in the modern TV drama wonder so far. It's lovingly crafted in every aspect, from the visual and directing to the writing and the acting. Sure, it's slow and brooding but never unnecessarily so. In fact, the low tempo makes it all the more enjoyable. There is a confidence, a knowingness to it. True Detective is aware of it's own strengths and plays them to very max. Let's just hope they keep it up throughout the season.… Expand
  3. RachelMelbourne
    Jan 29, 2014
    9
    Moody, hypnotic, philosophical, biting, moving, complex: just three episodes down and I'm completely captivated by this new HBO series. The acting is masterful. The dialogue is believable (a rare treat). The self-reflective story line demands that the audience watches and waits; so we look forward to being invited in on each secret. Television for grown-ups.
  4. ChipyTrike
    Jan 27, 2014
    9
    Not a huge fan of the so called "procedural" but everything about this show is top notch. The acting is superb, the setting is perfectly dark but not overwhelmingly so. There's some humor to be found in this project, showcased best during the banter between Rust and Marty. T-Bone Burnett delivers a memorable and appropriately spooky soundtrack. The story is slow-burning and the writersNot a huge fan of the so called "procedural" but everything about this show is top notch. The acting is superb, the setting is perfectly dark but not overwhelmingly so. There's some humor to be found in this project, showcased best during the banter between Rust and Marty. T-Bone Burnett delivers a memorable and appropriately spooky soundtrack. The story is slow-burning and the writers take off the little kid gloves when it comes to plot and pacing. This show wouldn't work if it were on any other network. Keep it coming HBO! We love it.… Expand
  5. RaeRae27
    Jan 27, 2014
    5
    Great potential to be a winner. McCon's acting is fantastic, his paralytic pain, and detachment. My rating would be a lot higher if the show didn't shove male masturbatory material in my face. As the mom says to her daughter in ep 3, "It's ugly. It makes something that should be nice ugly." Well, the story is not a pretty one, I concede, however the female characters could have more depthGreat potential to be a winner. McCon's acting is fantastic, his paralytic pain, and detachment. My rating would be a lot higher if the show didn't shove male masturbatory material in my face. As the mom says to her daughter in ep 3, "It's ugly. It makes something that should be nice ugly." Well, the story is not a pretty one, I concede, however the female characters could have more depth and dimension than the same old, sexually available (ass in face), dead and naked, happy hooker and nagging wife. Spread legs and shots of female body parts, even in opening credit sequence, are what hinders my experience of the show. What a shame.… Expand
  6. wolfshades
    Jan 27, 2014
    10
    This series is surprisingly compelling and well worth the effort to go back and see the first few episodes, if you're late getting into the game. The subject matter is dark, and the two main characters are not easily categorized. You have no choice but to watch them carefully for clues into what motivates them. Clearly, the series writer has no interest in pandering to those who likeThis series is surprisingly compelling and well worth the effort to go back and see the first few episodes, if you're late getting into the game. The subject matter is dark, and the two main characters are not easily categorized. You have no choice but to watch them carefully for clues into what motivates them. Clearly, the series writer has no interest in pandering to those who like their TV stories to be "quick hits": there is an assumption of viewer intelligence, which pleases me to no end.

    This isn't just a show about detectives, or about crime. Like life, there is an overall experience to consider, layers of an onion that just won't quit. The two actors are in their element, which characters that interact on many levels.    … Expand
  7. rose112165
    Jan 26, 2014
    10
    The plot is good, but it's the acting that's worth the watch. There are truly fine performances in this miniseries.The pacing is part of the amazing stuff. It's atmosphere just works. I'm glad they came to the small screen for a bit and gave us this little gem. You can't watch it like a TV show, you've got to watch it like a movie in a theater. or at least understand that's what it filmsThe plot is good, but it's the acting that's worth the watch. There are truly fine performances in this miniseries.The pacing is part of the amazing stuff. It's atmosphere just works. I'm glad they came to the small screen for a bit and gave us this little gem. You can't watch it like a TV show, you've got to watch it like a movie in a theater. or at least understand that's what it films like. It;s brilliant! There have been perhaps other shows with similar themes but this one is leading much more so than following. It's smart, slick and with performers like these guys honoring us on the small screen? You can't get any better. Thank god and just in time too. I thought all was lost when "Breaking Bad" ended. To bad it's only a miniseries and one can only hope it ends with a big bang!

    .    … Expand
  8. venicementor
    Jan 26, 2014
    10
    I find a couple of the negative POV's rather interesting about the fact they find True Detective "slow." As slow as watching "paint dry," I believe one person said. All I can say is that you guys must live outrageously interesting lives where there is something is going on constantly, every moment in your waking hours, nothing contemplative or quiet ever, not even for a moment. Wow!.I find a couple of the negative POV's rather interesting about the fact they find True Detective "slow." As slow as watching "paint dry," I believe one person said. All I can say is that you guys must live outrageously interesting lives where there is something is going on constantly, every moment in your waking hours, nothing contemplative or quiet ever, not even for a moment. Wow!. Frankly, the fact that there are no "quiet" moments/times in your lives indicated to me that you may have some significant psychological problems. Must be the significant increase in ADS in our populous these days.

    Great show, visuals and the fact that the there is no assault on the ears every moment it is on the screen, that alone makes it worth watching - makes one think!    … Expand
  9. rockets
    Jan 25, 2014
    2
    Slow as a slug this show. I can't believe all these good reviews? What am I missing? I get set up the first for the first few episodes but unless this makes a drastic turn by bye bye!!! Cast means nothing without good writing and plot line. I am so lost with these 2 characters. Their back and forth banter does nothing for me. I'd rather watch paint dry.
  10. Vhiner
    Jan 25, 2014
    9
    This is what happens when writers are allowed to fulfill their vision. Finally, we get to watch a drama that hasn't been written to be stretched out to 5 ridiculous seasons or to fill auditoriums with 13-year-olds. So far, it stands up there with the best dramas in any medium. Superb writing and Oscar level acting.

    Mike Hale of the New York Times called the dialogue "writerly." Read    This is what happens when writers are allowed to fulfill their vision. Finally, we get to watch a drama that hasn't been written to be stretched out to 5 ridiculous seasons or to fill auditoriums with 13-year-olds. So far, it stands up there with the best dramas in any medium. Superb writing and Oscar level acting.

    Mike Hale of the New York Times called the dialogue "writerly." Read some of Mr. Hale's other tv reviews and you'll understand how ironic and cheap that shot is. Hale would have whined about Flannery O'Connor being "too obvious" because he's the kind of critic who won't let anyone forget he writes for the New York F***ing Times. He should write for Pitchfork. If average folk have already found it, it can't be good. He panned Breaking Bad, so that should tell you something.    … Expand
  11. lijow16
    Jan 25, 2014
    10
    A TV show which shows a lot of promise. At first I was sceptical given the slow nature of the show, but as I watched I became more and more invested in the plot and moreover the complex characters impressively portrayed by Harrelson and McConaughey. I have very high hopes for this series and hope support for it will continue to build over the coming months. Well done!
  12. stevenboy256
    Jan 25, 2014
    9
    A worthy replacement for the closing Boardwalk empire and newsroom era, surprisingly great acting from Matthew McConaughey even worthy of an Emmy and golden globe........Oproblem though, Where is the plot going?
  13. NeilChad
    Jan 25, 2014
    10
    Really enjoyed this HBO production. everything from the layered character development, the exceptional acting, and steady building of the plot. Pizzolatto has created a show that absorbs the viewer into this procedural - this show is one of few that can be compared to settling into a good book.
  14. 1nsider
    Jan 25, 2014
    10
    It doesn't look like TV-series, more like AAA full-budget movie title. The script, the actors, the visuals -- everything is of highest quality as far as 1st season opening goes. Be warned thought that story is not so much about your usual criminal investigations but a journey into somewhat of men's darker side set in creepy Southern US scenes. Haunting and intimidating -- could be one ofIt doesn't look like TV-series, more like AAA full-budget movie title. The script, the actors, the visuals -- everything is of highest quality as far as 1st season opening goes. Be warned thought that story is not so much about your usual criminal investigations but a journey into somewhat of men's darker side set in creepy Southern US scenes. Haunting and intimidating -- could be one of the best in TV series so far.… Expand
  15. samuelreeds
    Jan 24, 2014
    8
    True Detectives choreography is different than most traditional television shows. To be honest we need this kind of creativity in the television department. Television is getting WAY too cliché. So here, we have true detective. A mix of a narrative and a period drama. So far its been alright, to say the most episode one did not have me yet. I enjoyed episode two knowing the characters andTrue Detectives choreography is different than most traditional television shows. To be honest we need this kind of creativity in the television department. Television is getting WAY too cliché. So here, we have true detective. A mix of a narrative and a period drama. So far its been alright, to say the most episode one did not have me yet. I enjoyed episode two knowing the characters and their lives, made me more interested. We need more this creative TV and I'm glad to see it here, especially with Woody and Matthew. There's some hope for the television drama and this is a sign.… Expand
  16. quoddity
    Jan 24, 2014
    4
    In a word: riveting - like a rivet straight into my forehead. I gave this a "4" because of the visual imagery and the acting.
    But ... wow is it slow. I suspect some 90 year olds on walkers go faster than this piece of crap storyline.
    For example, the most substance so far in the script is the tacit substance abuse of the McConneghy detective. To be fair, its visual appeal and to a large    In a word: riveting - like a rivet straight into my forehead. I gave this a "4" because of the visual imagery and the acting.
    But ... wow is it slow. I suspect some 90 year olds on walkers go faster than this piece of crap storyline.
    For example, the most substance so far in the script is the tacit substance abuse of the McConneghy detective.
    To be fair, its visual appeal and to a large extent, the acting, is very impressive.
    And it starts out interesting enough, but about halfway through the second episode I had to ask myself things like: "Do I care?" and "Why are they spending so much time on... NOT THE MURDER."

    So if you want to watch something visually appealing, but completely intellectually vapid and focused almost exclusively on the lives of people who just incidentally happen to be detectives, then this might be great to watch!

    For me, unless it starts actually spending some time on the murder (or murders) in the next episode or two- instead of the banal lifestyles of the two main detectives- I'd have to conclude that this is not anything more than a very boring drama, with a bit of drinking and sex to keep it only slightly interesting.
    I just cannot fathom how people can hail this show about "6".    … Expand
  17. Hattrick58
    Jan 23, 2014
    10
    Very good show. MM plays such a tortured spirit with a touch of narcissism. However, unlike most humans he is keenly aware of his faults, knows we're he's been and knows where he's going. EMMY!
  18. Nurseval9
    Jan 20, 2014
    9
    Watched the first episode last week, can't wait to see more. Best new show in years. Acting is superb, the plot is riveting. Do yourself a favor and watch it.
  19. Urah
    Jan 20, 2014
    10
    I write this too late already: after watching the second episode.

    I should have come here sooner to say to you that if you enjoy good things, you can't miss this.
    It's like missing Seven, that movie, but eight hours long, which means it can become even better than such classic.

    12 out of 10
  20. TheKiddy
    Jan 20, 2014
    5
    It's absolutely all there: great performances by leads and supporting actors. Terrific directing. Incredible photography. Producers, writers, and the director should be congratulated. And yet...sometimes, no often, with certain television series especially on HBO, one can feel that it just isn't OK to express doubts. Like Treme' this is so intelligent, so grown up. How can it NOT beIt's absolutely all there: great performances by leads and supporting actors. Terrific directing. Incredible photography. Producers, writers, and the director should be congratulated. And yet...sometimes, no often, with certain television series especially on HBO, one can feel that it just isn't OK to express doubts. Like Treme' this is so intelligent, so grown up. How can it NOT be entertaining? How can it NOT be great? Indeed, most of the critics will tell you it IS great. Maybe I will be sorry later for writing this, but, this is a beautifully executed, atmospheric, serial killer story, too heavily influenced by Henning Menkell's work (without saying so) but without Wallander at its center. And that's what it is, a story about ritual serial killing and two cops playing the Wallender role. It does not make me love it or even care about its protagonists. I will keep watching because it is so intelligent but never look forward to it..oh and one slightly spoiler snark: the cops drive out to a burned out church in the middle of nowhere and there is the iconography of the killer and it is supposed to be what, a moment of insight? a thrilling but terrifying reveal? I lack the rhetorical power to say what happened there but I think, just maybe, at its simplest, it was unoriginal.… Expand
  21. dannyconan
    Jan 19, 2014
    2
    Louisiana, two dysfunctional cops, a fiendish killer, a psychobabble script….may I suggest that James Lee Burke get a screen credit and a fat royalty. Speaking of credits, I’m certain there is a production designer, but you can’t tell from watching. Of course there is a scriptwriter, but unfortunately, the script is as poorly constructed as the wigs that serve as visual time machines,Louisiana, two dysfunctional cops, a fiendish killer, a psychobabble script….may I suggest that James Lee Burke get a screen credit and a fat royalty. Speaking of credits, I’m certain there is a production designer, but you can’t tell from watching. Of course there is a scriptwriter, but unfortunately, the script is as poorly constructed as the wigs that serve as visual time machines, and the dialogue between Cohle and Hart is so poorly conceived it is painful to hear. I know that I am swimming against the tide of public opinion, but unless this series gets infinitely better, I think you will find that the tide will turn and my review will be the first of many that will suggest that you meet your need for entertainment elsewhere. For example, if you are looking for a good mystery, set in Louisiana, featuring two dysfunctional cops, read a James Lee Burke novel.… Expand
  22. shooter17
    Jan 19, 2014
    3
    Incredibly slow moving and sullen, dark...very depressing. Lots of drinking by the detectives, makes you wonder how they function to solve this crime. Good acting but the story doesn't move fast enough for me.
  23. TheQuietGamer
    Jan 19, 2014
    10
    I've never reviewed a show after only two episodes, but I think that I need to say that if you are not watching this show then you need to start now before you miss too much. So far everything about the show is near-perfect. Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson are playing characters who are incredibly complex and human, and they are doing amazing jobs at their performances. That praiseI've never reviewed a show after only two episodes, but I think that I need to say that if you are not watching this show then you need to start now before you miss too much. So far everything about the show is near-perfect. Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson are playing characters who are incredibly complex and human, and they are doing amazing jobs at their performances. That praise is extended to the whole cast.

    I cannot get over how believable everything feels. The case is complex, deep, dark, and mysterious. I can't wait to see where they take it from here. By far the best part of the show are the moments outside of the case, that help make these characters feel like real people. The dialog here is amazing. I truly believe that these are things that real people would say. The whole thing is just amazing and excellently shot.

    Like I said it has only been two episodes, so if I feel that my opinion has changed as the show progresses I will update my review. As of right now 2014 has only just started and we already have what will probably be one the best shows of this year. All I can say now is that if you are not watching it I highly recommend that you start. I am completely blown away at how excellent this whole show has been after only two episodes, and I can't wait for the next.    … Expand
  24. Fozzy
    Jan 16, 2014
    9
    From what I'm seeing now, this may very well be one of the best shows on the telly in 2013. You've got recent Golden Globe winner (and now Oscar nominee) Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson in the lead roles, and they both do superbly. The supporting cast is brilliant, and it's got a great premise and story so far. And, even though aforementioned story and premise is slightly cliche',From what I'm seeing now, this may very well be one of the best shows on the telly in 2013. You've got recent Golden Globe winner (and now Oscar nominee) Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson in the lead roles, and they both do superbly. The supporting cast is brilliant, and it's got a great premise and story so far. And, even though aforementioned story and premise is slightly cliche', they get around that by having a new take on the idea. The show has atmosphere, great writing, great performances, great everything. Let's hope they keep it up, ay?… Expand
  25. theJCKRBBT
    Jan 15, 2014
    10
    This show began so slowly, I was a bit nervous. Then I realized i was so absorbed in the show that it was already over. The care put into the characters is mesmerizing, particularly how they've changed over the years.
  26. Slipper
    Jan 14, 2014
    10
    Very good first episode. Everything is in place. Let's kick back and enjoy the rest of the season. Casting is great, story very good. In one word AWESOME. My score is pure 10.
  27. REZAXIO
    Jan 14, 2014
    10
    not bad...Beautifully shot, superbly acted with an utterly enthralling plot introduction, I think this is the beginning of a love affair. Like the opening pages of a book you can't seem to put down, the first episode of True Detective wholly captured my attention. Of course with two Hollywood heavyweights like Harrelson and McConaughey I expected no less.
  28. Michaelgr
    Jan 14, 2014
    10
    This show is incredible. Probably the best crime drama since "The Wire". The acting, writing, scenery, language and characters are all amazing. I can't wait until the next episode!
  29. BogKid
    Jan 13, 2014
    10
    Just another lover of "True Detective". Yes, it does remind me of several other detective/procedural series on TV but it is so much more subtle, so much better acted. Harrelson and McConneghy are far from being among my favorite actors but on "True Detective", they simply show how it is done. Excellent!
  30. mos11charlie
    Jan 13, 2014
    10
    So far, so good. Oh, and by "good", I mean that this show made me remember what it was like to watch really great television. I'm impressed, and can't wait to watch more!
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Awards & Rankings

13
#13 Best TV Season of 2014
1
#1 Most Discussed TV Season of 2014
5
#5 Most Shared TV Season of 2014

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
87

Universal acclaim - based on 41 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 37 out of 41
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 41
  3. Negative: 1 out of 41
  1. The Lincoln Journal Star
    Reviewed by: Jeff Korbelik
    Mar 27, 2014
    100
    The drama is quite riveting.
    Read full review
  2. The New Yorker
    Reviewed by: Emily Nussbaum
    Mar 27, 2014
    30
    Whatever the length of the show’s much admired tracking shot (six minutes, uncut!), it feels less hardboiled than softheaded. Which might be O.K. if True Detective were dumb fun, but, good God, it’s not: it’s got so much gravitas it could run for President.
    Read full review
  3. RogerEbert.com
    Reviewed by: Brian Tallerico
    Feb 20, 2014
    100
    HBO's program is not just an actor's showcase for two greats. It is dense, complex, rewarding storytelling, heightened by a sense of location from its writer and director that is mesmerizing and a character-driven storytelling aesthetic that brings to mind great films like David Fincher's "Zodiac" and Bong Joon-ho's "Memories of Murder."
    Read full review
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