Watchmen (2019)

:

Season 1
  • Network: HBO
  • Series Premiere Date: Oct 20, 2019
User Score
5.8

Mixed or average reviews- based on 504 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 279 out of 504
  2. Mixed: 40 out of 504
  3. Negative: 185 out of 504

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User Reviews

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  1. joan
    Oct 26, 2019
    10
    Worth seeing just for the historical significance of the opening scene of the first episode. After seeing the pilot, I am intrigued, impressed, confused (intentionally), and eager to see more.
  2. CrimsonFlush
    Oct 26, 2019
    10
    Oh, dear, people are unhappy about their comics being too left-leaning again.

    The CW’s Batwoman was initially getting review bombed by a bunch of people (because … women and gays? Not in my Gotham!) and now that trend has continued with HBO’s Watchmen series, which premiered this weekend. According to CBR, the show has a 93% Fresh rating from critics but is scored at 49% by audiences.    Oh, dear, people are unhappy about their comics being too left-leaning again.

    The CW’s Batwoman was initially getting review bombed by a bunch of people (because … women and gays? Not in my Gotham!) and now that trend has continued with HBO’s Watchmen series, which premiered this weekend. According to CBR, the show has a 93% Fresh rating from critics but is scored at 49% by audiences. Of course, there are those with legitimate criticism of the series—as I have my own—but many other complaints are about the show’s perceived “politically correct” narrative and it being “too woke,” upset that this new series has a very political stance.

    Except that, you know, the original comic by Alan Moore is super political, left-leaning, and was created to mock a lot of things. But you know, people don’t actually like to think about it, especially when it comes to one character in particular: Rorschach, Ted Cruz’s favorite.

    In the show, there is a white supremacist group called the “Seventh Kavalry” in Tulsa that has taken to Rorschach’s black-and-white mask, and they are acting up in response to President Robert Redford’s push to implement reparations to those affected by past racial injustices. That absolutely makes sense, since Rorschach, in the comics, is outwardly (checks the list) racist, homophobic, sexist, and a total and complete fascist. Alan Moore literally wrote him to make fun of The Question, Mr. A, and a bunch of other Steve Ditko comic characters that the artist/writer used to promote his Ayn Randian ideals.

    Watchmen has always been about taking the idea of superheroes to its natural conclusion with the events in world history. That’s why, at least from my perspective, the issue of reparations makes sense in this context. For the first time in a long time, that is a serious topic of debate, and with the presidency something you can do for unlimited terms in the world of Watchmen, a president, especially a popular one, could tackle that kind of legislation. In a place like Tulsa, which has always had a racial divide and dark history of white inhabitants being antagonistic when their Black counterparts make it, this just seems like the natural conclusion—especially when Rorschach’s journals were shared with the equivalent of Breitbart News.

    These white supremacists are the logical conclusion to his rhetoric.

    Does that mean you’re a white supremacist if that was your favorite character in the comics? No … unless you actually are a white supremacist. Rorschach is an interesting character because Alan Moore is a good writer and knows how to teach without preaching. His work is layered and thoughtful but also filled with clear intent. From what I have watched of the show, while it isn’t perfect, I’m willing to give Damon Lindelof room to tell the story as long as he does the same. Well, as much room as you can give a former Lost showrunner, but that’s a whole different kettle of alien squid.

    Still, more than anything, I wish that audience reviews stopped being a way for people to drag something for being “too woke,” because it creates bad faith for everyone. We are allowed to have different tastes and have our political leaning affect out taste, but that doesn’t mean we can’t be fair.    … Expand
  3. ptea
    Dec 8, 2019
    10
    I think many of the users who gave this series low score haven't watched it past the fourth episode. That's all I'm saying.
  4. Greyking
    Oct 21, 2019
    10
    I'm curious as to how this show will connect back to the main comicbook. But so far so good. It'a sar better companion piece than the Doomsday Clock sequel.
  5. TacoSalad
    Dec 17, 2019
    10
    I knew before I came here to rate this show, that the ignorant and intolerant would be here. Most low or 0 votes seem to be from racists that are not voting for the shows merit, and voting with their xenophobic ideology. The Watchmen might me the most interesting and well crafted stories I have ever seen. It’s so layered and complex, at the same time the complexity is easily digestible.I knew before I came here to rate this show, that the ignorant and intolerant would be here. Most low or 0 votes seem to be from racists that are not voting for the shows merit, and voting with their xenophobic ideology. The Watchmen might me the most interesting and well crafted stories I have ever seen. It’s so layered and complex, at the same time the complexity is easily digestible. The story evolves into a tale that I was never expecting. This is refreshing. Most story arcs these days can be figured within the first few episodes or first half of a film. This show is simply worth your time. 10/10.… Expand
  6. Neil_D_Forrest
    Jan 12, 2020
    10
    A powerful and engaging series taking the watchmen universe into new territory.
    Great performances, visually stunning and my favourite show of 2019. I hope they make many more.
  7. SkullBoy92
    Oct 28, 2019
    10
    First episode have my curiosity second have my attention. I understand that Watchmen 2019 may be hard to understand for people outside comic book community but figuring out how this world is working is great part of fun. I think it may be not acknowledged as ground breaking now but for me it is best new show for 2019.
  8. AlexGonzSalsa
    Oct 28, 2019
    10
    There's way more to this show than what appears on the surface. Really fascinated with the direction, and with anyone saying that this show is too political...dude, the book was super political. The ugly side of extreme ideologies is the center of the show, and I cant wait to see what happens next.
  9. FIghtDucksFIght
    Nov 15, 2019
    10
    So far, so brilliant. As a fan of the work of Trent Reznor I really only tuned in to check out the score; I am pleasantly surprised with how great the show is as a whole. I tend to dislike most of anything involving superheroes, fantasy or sci-fi. There are some exceptions. The film 28 Days Later is great despite the zombies...and Game of Thrones, it’s not you, it’s me. The cast isSo far, so brilliant. As a fan of the work of Trent Reznor I really only tuned in to check out the score; I am pleasantly surprised with how great the show is as a whole. I tend to dislike most of anything involving superheroes, fantasy or sci-fi. There are some exceptions. The film 28 Days Later is great despite the zombies...and Game of Thrones, it’s not you, it’s me. The cast is awesome and I don’t mind having my imagination hang ups rested. The Bullock film Birdbox was bundles of **** and also featured a score by Reznor/Ross of Nine Inch Nails. I have no clue why I currently see a score of 5.6. It must be a purist issue; though this isn’t set in the same period as the graphic novel. If this is a 5-6 I can’t imagine what the same reviewers think of everything else streamed or broadcast at the moment.… Expand
  10. pit7
    Nov 29, 2019
    10
    Have an open mind and enjoy pure graphic novel bliss. I've read the original twice and think Lindelof takes great care to further the deep seeded themes into the 21st century. What a time to be alive.
  11. shoulderoforion
    Oct 21, 2019
    10
    Watched the movie back in the day, loved it, gets rewatched at least once a year. Last nights Premiere was excellent, but just being a pleb, what would I know, besides the fact I liked it and found it fascinating, and am eagerly looking forward to the series. Amazing seeing what sort of pushback we're seeing from the MAGA and Incel crowd, woof, doesn't bode well for when the rule of lawWatched the movie back in the day, loved it, gets rewatched at least once a year. Last nights Premiere was excellent, but just being a pleb, what would I know, besides the fact I liked it and found it fascinating, and am eagerly looking forward to the series. Amazing seeing what sort of pushback we're seeing from the MAGA and Incel crowd, woof, doesn't bode well for when the rule of law attempts to retake our fractured nation. Buy batteries, plant vegetables.… Expand
  12. southernsun
    Nov 25, 2019
    10
    Amazing TV show. Super high production quality, incredible complex and interesting story, fascinating to see an alternative history play out, definitely makes you think. Honestly no clue what all the negative reviews are about beyond the fact that they don't like that the white supremacists are the bad guys???
  13. xjcln
    Oct 27, 2019
    10
    Well shot, well acted, interesting setting, tension in first episode is palpable. Really excited to see how this show plays out.
  14. angrymax
    Dec 9, 2019
    10
    Best show on TV!! The story is amazing, and it will blow your mind! A must watch!
  15. fmancheno42
    Nov 24, 2019
    10
    It might resent some of the original fans, but Watchmen (the show) builds on the moral complexities of the comic book that preceded it. It adds new layers of social issues, puts its focus on a more diverse cast of characters, and creates an eerily accurate allegorical parallel of an America that's still uneasily navigating its history into the beginning of the 21st Century.
  16. Raphael2017
    Oct 20, 2019
    10
    Que primeiro episódio foda, fazia tempo que não via algo que me deixasse tão energizado na TV.
  17. Kursch
    Oct 25, 2019
    10
    Great pilot. For those who think that HBO's watchman is some sort of SJW power fantasy, they couldn't be more wrong. Watchman is a sci-fi show about what would happen if left wing liberals took control of the government and enacted policies to create equity, only to make the world into a dystopia. The police in this show may need permission to use their guns, but they seem to haveGreat pilot. For those who think that HBO's watchman is some sort of SJW power fantasy, they couldn't be more wrong. Watchman is a sci-fi show about what would happen if left wing liberals took control of the government and enacted policies to create equity, only to make the world into a dystopia. The police in this show may need permission to use their guns, but they seem to have unlimited authority when it comes to detaining and interrogating suspects. Fantastic sci-fi at its best.… Expand
  18. runborisrun1
    Oct 21, 2019
    10
    Another brilliant and thought provoking series from the creator of Leftovers!
  19. PedroMorgan1234
    Jan 4, 2020
    10
    This show its to much good,Hbo created one of the best show about hq of all time,so this is MY OPINION
  20. Joes
    Oct 20, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Excelente temporada una de las mejores de este año 100% reco y más si eres fan de los cómics… Expand
  21. Bone-Thugs
    Dec 8, 2019
    10
    anyone giving a low score def hasnt watched it and are calling it 'woke" all because some neo nazis are one of the antagonists. great show worth watching
  22. ExhibitAtrocity
    Oct 30, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The series has been great so far. The people who are complaining about it being woke probably haven't read the graphic novel. Also other than white supremacists who has a problem with white supremacists being portrayed as the antagonists.… Expand
  23. Columbo116
    Oct 20, 2019
    10
    Saw pilot at NYCC, one of the best in ages. Hoping they don't pull a Lost with the finale lol
  24. GuilhermeCursi
    Oct 27, 2019
    10
    Com referências aos quadrinhos, boa atuação de Regina King o episódio piloto traz mistérios e nós deixa com muita duvida do que virá pela frente.
  25. Pendar_99
    Nov 5, 2019
    10
    “Watchmen” has already provided a bounty of intelligent theories to study and debate, but it’s designed to be one helluva good time, as well."
  26. Thiago20
    Oct 20, 2019
    10
    A incredible series, with incredible actors and one big history to tell. The atmosphere and the mistery move the serie to another world. Wonderfull.
  27. TainaraCursi
    Oct 21, 2019
    10
    Grande episodio piloto, e novamente a HBO mostra por que é a maior produtora de séries de qualidade de todo o mundo
  28. oneeye
    Oct 25, 2019
    10
    Worth a shot if you are interested in an alternate present based on a continuation from the events of the comics. If you aren't familiar with the comics, you likely will be a little befuddled but might still enjoy piecing together what is going on. If you are open to a work that is inherently political and allegorical, this is for you. If not, give it a pass. And if you can't stand someWorth a shot if you are interested in an alternate present based on a continuation from the events of the comics. If you aren't familiar with the comics, you likely will be a little befuddled but might still enjoy piecing together what is going on. If you are open to a work that is inherently political and allegorical, this is for you. If not, give it a pass. And if you can't stand some politics in your media but are a rabid fan of Watchmen, you didn't pay attention to the comics.… Expand
  29. MHAKUS
    Oct 29, 2019
    10
    Love the show! 2 episodes in and I am hooked. Regina King as an action hero is fulfilling. The imagining of the world post- Watchmen (the movie) is plausible given the fractured state of domestic politics in the U.S., namely the rise of jingoism and xenophobia. The rant of the right on the screen and from critics panning it is art reflecting life, and then life imitating art; this makesLove the show! 2 episodes in and I am hooked. Regina King as an action hero is fulfilling. The imagining of the world post- Watchmen (the movie) is plausible given the fractured state of domestic politics in the U.S., namely the rise of jingoism and xenophobia. The rant of the right on the screen and from critics panning it is art reflecting life, and then life imitating art; this makes the point of the show, sadly.… Expand
  30. danielsdeboer
    Oct 31, 2019
    10
    This show understands the graphic novel much, much better than the movie did. Some of the extrapolations, especially around Rorschach becoming a mascot for white supremacists, are absolute spot on. It feels at once of a piece with but also interested in different things from the novel as well, which is great, nobody needs yet another paint-by-numbers superhero fetish piece.
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Awards & Rankings

18
#18 Best TV Season of 2019
3
#3 Most Discussed TV Season of 2019
70
#70 Most Shared TV Season of 2019

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
85

Universal acclaim - based on 35 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 33 out of 35
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 35
  3. Negative: 0 out of 35
  1. The Times
    Reviewed by: Carol Midgley
    Jan 7, 2020
    80
    Weird, weird, weird, but definitely not boring.
    Read full review
  2. The Guardian
    Reviewed by: Lucy Mangan
    Dec 3, 2019
    80
    It is a bravura series that interrogates power, storytelling and the former embedded in the latter. It has a (still unusually) diverse cast, writing team and cohort of directors in terms of both sex and class, and, even as it strays from Moore and Gibbons’ original content, it honours their underlying ambition: to deconstruct our legends and our myths, ask where they come from, what purpose they serve; and to make us think and think again about who tells us what, why – and why they are the ones who get to do so.
    Read full review
  3. TV Guide Magazine
    Reviewed by: Matt Roush
    Nov 6, 2019
    70
    You may not always be sure what you're watching, but good luck taking your eyes off Watchmen. [28 Oct - 10 Nov 2019, p.8]
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