In 1972 there was a short-lived series called SEARCH starring Hugh Obrian about investigators who went into the field "wired" with state of the art tech such as remote mics, remote cameras and access to a central "computer" at their base. This was achieved via a giant pendant that hung around their necks because -- duh -- microprocessors had not been invented yet. The show was not successful mainly because (to this reviewer) the audience had trouble trying to figure out if they were rooting for the technology ... or the man? This update 40 years later, using a chip surgically implanted which has access to the entire "wired" world, is trying to avoid that pitfall from the getgo by giving Holloway's character personality to spare, along with a secret mission to find his missing wife. It also brings back to the big (flat?) screen Marg Helgenberger, a face an entire generation grew up watching weekly on CSI. (And, for the record, there are worse ways to grow up.) Channeling Judy Dench from the new Bond films, we see a clear feminine bias in high-level intelligence here, a far cry from the 60s when the only women in a spy story wore go-go boots and plastic skirts. (In the first episode, she meets her counterpart in Chinese intelligence who -- whoda guessed -- is also a woman. Whatta surprise!) Now this is the point in the review where I am supposed to tell you how wonderful this is to watch, and how interesting Holloway and Helgenberger are. But the fact is, the first episode was mediocre. The supporting cast was mainly recycled familiar faces from other TV shows, Holloway's boyish charms were lost on me, and, 4 decades later, I still could not determine if I was rooting for the man ... or the computer. Plus ca change...
87 Reviews
Reincarnation of 1972's SEARCH... with the same problems
A_Different_Drummer10 January 2014
Warning: Spoilers
Interesting Action Show With a Good Cast
Jbtullisorder8 January 2014
Josh Holloway stars as Gabriel, an ex-Delta Force war veteran who has had a top-secret, super- chip surgically implanted in his brain. While he possesses no physical enhancements, mentally he becomes a walking router that can mentally pull and process data from other computers (exactly how isn't made clear). Obviously, the show's title "Intelligence" isn't meant to mean "superior intelligence," rather it means an enhanced ability to acquire and apply information.
Called a hero, yet deemed reckless and sometimes insubordinate by his boss, he is assigned a capable and attractive female partner to work as his bodyguard--since he's one of a kind the U.S. Cyber Command doesn't want anything happening to him because Gabriel has some pretty amazing abilities. He can look at people, do a facial recognition scan, and then retrieve all available data about that person by accessing computer databases. Video data appears like a holographic projection that he can walk through (what he calls cyber-rendering). Exactly how that works isn't fully explained either, but the concept and presentation are presented well. The good side of that is that the show doesn't wear you down with technical detail, while presenting an innovative presentation of using it.
Abiding by the time-tested formula for action partners--Gabriel and his new partner have their share of bantering, budding sexual tension, and bonding through crisis management. However, even though that aspect of the plot may seem predictable, the acting is solid, and the characters interesting and believable.
This is an action show, so there is a fair amount of fighting and shooting, however its not over- the-top, and isn't too graphic. The Pilot presents the characters, provides an initial storyline, and although slightly confusing at first, eventually explains the capabilities that we see Gabriel using.
All in all, I thought it was a pretty good show worth watching again. The overall theme is original, but the biggest challenge for the writers will be to keep the show from becoming a stereotype of action shows. Given the great cast and judging by the Pilot, I think something good is being delivered to television audiences that will keep people watching.
Called a hero, yet deemed reckless and sometimes insubordinate by his boss, he is assigned a capable and attractive female partner to work as his bodyguard--since he's one of a kind the U.S. Cyber Command doesn't want anything happening to him because Gabriel has some pretty amazing abilities. He can look at people, do a facial recognition scan, and then retrieve all available data about that person by accessing computer databases. Video data appears like a holographic projection that he can walk through (what he calls cyber-rendering). Exactly how that works isn't fully explained either, but the concept and presentation are presented well. The good side of that is that the show doesn't wear you down with technical detail, while presenting an innovative presentation of using it.
Abiding by the time-tested formula for action partners--Gabriel and his new partner have their share of bantering, budding sexual tension, and bonding through crisis management. However, even though that aspect of the plot may seem predictable, the acting is solid, and the characters interesting and believable.
This is an action show, so there is a fair amount of fighting and shooting, however its not over- the-top, and isn't too graphic. The Pilot presents the characters, provides an initial storyline, and although slightly confusing at first, eventually explains the capabilities that we see Gabriel using.
All in all, I thought it was a pretty good show worth watching again. The overall theme is original, but the biggest challenge for the writers will be to keep the show from becoming a stereotype of action shows. Given the great cast and judging by the Pilot, I think something good is being delivered to television audiences that will keep people watching.
Has good potential
Loki-King-of-Asgard8 January 2014
I'm a big fan in general of spy dramas (counting "Nikita", "Covert Affairs", "Alias", and "Chuck" among my favourite TV shows), so maybe I was biased towards this show from the outset, but I found it to be a very enjoyable and solid spy show. It had somewhat of a slow start for me and I hope to see more from Meghan Ory's character, who I have a feeling has a lot more to give on this show, but I think I'll be with this series for the long haul, as it has a charismatic leading man in Josh Holloway, an attractive and gifted female lead in Ory, and a good supporting role for Marg Helgenberger.
I look forward to what this show has to offer in future episodes.
I look forward to what this show has to offer in future episodes.
Six Million Dollar Man for the Information Age
JasonDanielBaker7 January 2014
Steve Austin meets Sherlock Holmes in a secret agent character (portrayed by Josh Holloway) and his adventures which capture the excitement of the very best of episodic television during its years before the medium became dominated by 'reality show' piffle.
This is a bold attempt at bringing back the kind of series which used to be a consistent ratings winner. This show, with stereotypical casting and solid (but unoriginal) writing touches all the bases adequately showing promise without reaching its full potential in its debut. It will get better via the ground laid by its premiere episode. The first episode is a field-goal. Touchdowns will follow.
Where it may grow tiresome is in the contrived relationship between hero Gabriel and his female partner which appears to be heading in the formulaic direction of so many other shows i.e. sexual tension interspersed with moments of grudging professional admiration and wisecracking camaraderie. Shows feature it because audiences still like it even though a lot of us have seen it so often.
High-minded viewers won't see the human insight of 'Game of Thrones', exploration of class consciousness in 'Downton Abbey' or sophisticated examination of power dynamics of 'the Borgias'. What they will get is a fun show they can watch with their kids.
This is a bold attempt at bringing back the kind of series which used to be a consistent ratings winner. This show, with stereotypical casting and solid (but unoriginal) writing touches all the bases adequately showing promise without reaching its full potential in its debut. It will get better via the ground laid by its premiere episode. The first episode is a field-goal. Touchdowns will follow.
Where it may grow tiresome is in the contrived relationship between hero Gabriel and his female partner which appears to be heading in the formulaic direction of so many other shows i.e. sexual tension interspersed with moments of grudging professional admiration and wisecracking camaraderie. Shows feature it because audiences still like it even though a lot of us have seen it so often.
High-minded viewers won't see the human insight of 'Game of Thrones', exploration of class consciousness in 'Downton Abbey' or sophisticated examination of power dynamics of 'the Borgias'. What they will get is a fun show they can watch with their kids.
I like it but it's similar to other espionage shows
Liz9912 January 2014
I really liked the Intelligence pilot but, on the other hand, I also like Nikita, Alias, Covert Affairs, Person of Interest, Numb3rs, Burn Notice, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Arrow, Tomorrow People, The Blacklist, Orphan Black, Torchwood, The Unit, Almost Human, Homeland, 24... basically, all shows about espionage or spies, either as part of the higher level government security agencies (often secret ones) or free agent spies, trying to combat sinister terrorist organizations, corrupt governments and evil multinational corporations, with individuals who frequently have enhanced abilities (knowledge, fighting skills or super powers).
So, this show is right up my alley. But the question isn't if Intelligence is good, it's is it good enough in 2014 to not be canceled? Will the plots and characters be distinctive enough to distinguish this show from many other series that have the same episodic structure and design? And this question just considers spy-oriented shows, this series also has similarities to cop shows like Elementary or even procedural crime series that are basically 60 minute mysteries with, often, a long- arc story tying the season together.
After just seeing the pilot, I like the characters (or, at least, the actors) well enough but for this show to succeed, it will really rely on the talent of the writers and production crew. Espionage shows already demand a great suspension of disbelief because they reside in a world of secrets and lies that are hidden from ordinary citizens. Viewers won't compare Intelligence to life but to other espionage series and whether the world it creates is consistent to the one we have come to know in similar shows.
Right now, besides a likable cast of actors, Intelligence is trying to distinguish itself through the premise that a computer chip implanted in his brain enables the Gabriel Vaughn character to somehow download every fact that exists anywhere online, even behind firewalls and, seemingly on hard drives as well. It's accepting this premise that seems to be the main dividing line in user reviews of whether people like or dislike this show. While visually, it's stunning to watch Gabriel "cyber-render" a scenario, this show will succeed or fail on whether this goes beyond science fiction into fantasy territory. Will viewers buy this?
The other factor is scheduling and Monday nights at 10 pm is a tough time slot with audience-pleaser Castle and the very promising The Blacklist as opposition. It's hard to see the mid-season Intelligence ranking anywhere other than #3 and it would be wise for CBS to move the series to a less competitive night like Wednesdays or, even Friday nights where it will be more likely to develop an audience. I see this program as one that people DVR and may (or may not) ever watch later. While other shows survive being second choice viewing, it's not a good place for a new series to start from.
Personally, I hope the series last more than 10 or 14 episodes and lasts to a second season, hopefully on a different night of the week.
So, this show is right up my alley. But the question isn't if Intelligence is good, it's is it good enough in 2014 to not be canceled? Will the plots and characters be distinctive enough to distinguish this show from many other series that have the same episodic structure and design? And this question just considers spy-oriented shows, this series also has similarities to cop shows like Elementary or even procedural crime series that are basically 60 minute mysteries with, often, a long- arc story tying the season together.
After just seeing the pilot, I like the characters (or, at least, the actors) well enough but for this show to succeed, it will really rely on the talent of the writers and production crew. Espionage shows already demand a great suspension of disbelief because they reside in a world of secrets and lies that are hidden from ordinary citizens. Viewers won't compare Intelligence to life but to other espionage series and whether the world it creates is consistent to the one we have come to know in similar shows.
Right now, besides a likable cast of actors, Intelligence is trying to distinguish itself through the premise that a computer chip implanted in his brain enables the Gabriel Vaughn character to somehow download every fact that exists anywhere online, even behind firewalls and, seemingly on hard drives as well. It's accepting this premise that seems to be the main dividing line in user reviews of whether people like or dislike this show. While visually, it's stunning to watch Gabriel "cyber-render" a scenario, this show will succeed or fail on whether this goes beyond science fiction into fantasy territory. Will viewers buy this?
The other factor is scheduling and Monday nights at 10 pm is a tough time slot with audience-pleaser Castle and the very promising The Blacklist as opposition. It's hard to see the mid-season Intelligence ranking anywhere other than #3 and it would be wise for CBS to move the series to a less competitive night like Wednesdays or, even Friday nights where it will be more likely to develop an audience. I see this program as one that people DVR and may (or may not) ever watch later. While other shows survive being second choice viewing, it's not a good place for a new series to start from.
Personally, I hope the series last more than 10 or 14 episodes and lasts to a second season, hopefully on a different night of the week.
Acceptable network TV action show
SnoopyStyle5 April 2014
Gabriel Vaughn (Josh Holloway) is a former soldier who gets implanted with a microchip in his brain designed by Dr. Cassidy (John Billingsley). He is now an operative for the US Cyber Command run by Lillian Strand (Marg Helgenberger). She assigns Secret Service agent Riley Neal (Meghan Ory) to guard and protect this new valuable asset.
I want to like this more, but it's reminds me too much of Chuck without the comedy. There is a need for more realism. But it's pretty standard network TV fare. With such a valuable and unique asset, it's unreasonable that they give just one partner to protect him and using the overused tiny female superfighter. It would be much more real to keep Gabriel in an armor command vehicle as he guides a team of special forces. The one big thing in the show is called rendering. Gabriel takes in all the information to project an virtual reality image. It's a passable network TV action show, and I do like Holloway. So I don't mind watching it but I'm not surprised that this midseason replacement got canceled after its half season run.
I want to like this more, but it's reminds me too much of Chuck without the comedy. There is a need for more realism. But it's pretty standard network TV fare. With such a valuable and unique asset, it's unreasonable that they give just one partner to protect him and using the overused tiny female superfighter. It would be much more real to keep Gabriel in an armor command vehicle as he guides a team of special forces. The one big thing in the show is called rendering. Gabriel takes in all the information to project an virtual reality image. It's a passable network TV action show, and I do like Holloway. So I don't mind watching it but I'm not surprised that this midseason replacement got canceled after its half season run.
love it
juicemonster69130 March 2014
Please CBS give this show the chance it and the cast deserves. This is a real good action, scifi show with some good humor thrown in.The Actors are really settling in to their roles can't wait for finale Monday. Would love to see it back on after Unforgettable has finale cause we almost lost that too which woulda sucked. Good time slot and shows would compliment each other in my life for years to come. Love CBS shows don't hurt me by removing good shows. You managed to steal Josh Holloway before any one else did Do not give him up.You got Marge back out there. Just like you kept my man who started as a real awesome vampire and is now Hawaii 50 favorite actor Alex O'Loughlin. I REALLY HOPE THIS GETS TO THOSE WHO MATTER AND THEY DO NOT CANCEL!
Great but...
rickey_venicci8 January 2014
Warning: Spoilers
Spoilers! of episode 1-----------------------
"Josh Holloway stars as Gabriel, an ex-Delta Force war veteran who has had a top-secret, super- chip surgically implanted in his brain. While he possesses no physical enhancements, mentally he becomes a walking supercomputer that can mentally pull and process data from other computers."
I love the storyline and idea of the show. I like the sciency super-chip and the "hero" aspect(one person better than the others). Just like in a lot of other series/TV shows the hero or team of heroes is stronger, faster, smarter than the others. So I watched the first episode hoping the writers weren't going to pull a "chuck" on me. (Chuck, the TV series where Chuck gets intelligence and later fighting abilities... later in the series everyone else gets them too. Like if everyone could have Superman's powers just by putting on his suit...).
SPOILER! Alas I was disappointed (not in the show but in the writers)... In the very first episode we find out that the enemy has the same chip, which is faster and more efficient with possibly more options. Making the hero no longer the greatest. This means that it's no longer about the chip but more going to be about the "human touch", making the great new angle of the show obsolete.
I think the writers could still fix this by killing of the enemy character or making the chip not function for them. There are other ways of making the show interesting. Like for example making the "hero" hackable and in need of updates and high tech security.
"Josh Holloway stars as Gabriel, an ex-Delta Force war veteran who has had a top-secret, super- chip surgically implanted in his brain. While he possesses no physical enhancements, mentally he becomes a walking supercomputer that can mentally pull and process data from other computers."
I love the storyline and idea of the show. I like the sciency super-chip and the "hero" aspect(one person better than the others). Just like in a lot of other series/TV shows the hero or team of heroes is stronger, faster, smarter than the others. So I watched the first episode hoping the writers weren't going to pull a "chuck" on me. (Chuck, the TV series where Chuck gets intelligence and later fighting abilities... later in the series everyone else gets them too. Like if everyone could have Superman's powers just by putting on his suit...).
SPOILER! Alas I was disappointed (not in the show but in the writers)... In the very first episode we find out that the enemy has the same chip, which is faster and more efficient with possibly more options. Making the hero no longer the greatest. This means that it's no longer about the chip but more going to be about the "human touch", making the great new angle of the show obsolete.
I think the writers could still fix this by killing of the enemy character or making the chip not function for them. There are other ways of making the show interesting. Like for example making the "hero" hackable and in need of updates and high tech security.
Know what your watching...
uh60blackhawk30 June 2014
After reading a very un-intelligent review on here, I'll just say this: The title "intelligence" wasn't about the guy's intelligence, it was about spying and collecting "intelligence" on "bad guys".
It wasn't supposed to be about a super-smart person, it was supposed to be about a person who had access to more data than anyone else, without the need of a computer.
That said, I loved the show. Seems like most of the ones I like get canceled these days...
I would like to know why it was canceled. Was it ratings? If so, was it mid-season ratings...when they only play re-runs? Pretty stupid reason to cancel a show, but it's happened before...
It wasn't supposed to be about a super-smart person, it was supposed to be about a person who had access to more data than anyone else, without the need of a computer.
That said, I loved the show. Seems like most of the ones I like get canceled these days...
I would like to know why it was canceled. Was it ratings? If so, was it mid-season ratings...when they only play re-runs? Pretty stupid reason to cancel a show, but it's happened before...
Falls Short of Expectations
youknow-theguyfromthepla20 January 2014
My wife and I sat down and watched the pilot when it originally aired three weeks ago. Both of us were amazed at how far the producers of the show went to get women involved in the action. So much so that it was well beyond the suspension of disbelief. The main's partner is the most glaring example of said offense. Here's the for-instance:
The main is reportedly an awesome agent, one of if not thee best out there. His biggest failing is believing that his wife (presumed dead after turning into a rogue agent) is innocent of the claims against her, and his desire to prove these charges wrong is what fuels him. Bring in his new partner, the open secret is she (Ice Man + Maverick (I know, already an oxymoron) in the form of the first most-bestest woman secret service agent ever) is there to keep the main in-check (read not let him investigate the circumstances involving his wife). The main and Ice-rick get in a tussle with some baddies, a shootout ensues, main seemingly taking care of business, all of a sudden Ice-rick body checks main into some garbage cans so she can put a couple bullets down range, and she gets grazed by a bullet. Show claims partner saved main's life... ugghhh.
The show seems like the Terminator playing Chuck (actually mostly pretty cool), with little buddy (Gilligan) there to get in the way, I mean save the day. The Little Buddy thing is what really got to me and my wife. Ice-Rick is always ready to save the day (heck without her the main would've 'died' 20 minutes into the pilot episode) even when the day doesn't need to be saved. The characters are so one dimensional that they seem to only be there so the show can meet some sort of demographic requirements and to occasionally act as minor plot devices.
I was excited at the premise of the show, "a serious Chuck, awesome", I even thought it would be good to see Josh Holloway as a protagonist, but when I watched it I couldn't help but shudder at the sheer awfulness that this show is.
The main is reportedly an awesome agent, one of if not thee best out there. His biggest failing is believing that his wife (presumed dead after turning into a rogue agent) is innocent of the claims against her, and his desire to prove these charges wrong is what fuels him. Bring in his new partner, the open secret is she (Ice Man + Maverick (I know, already an oxymoron) in the form of the first most-bestest woman secret service agent ever) is there to keep the main in-check (read not let him investigate the circumstances involving his wife). The main and Ice-rick get in a tussle with some baddies, a shootout ensues, main seemingly taking care of business, all of a sudden Ice-rick body checks main into some garbage cans so she can put a couple bullets down range, and she gets grazed by a bullet. Show claims partner saved main's life... ugghhh.
The show seems like the Terminator playing Chuck (actually mostly pretty cool), with little buddy (Gilligan) there to get in the way, I mean save the day. The Little Buddy thing is what really got to me and my wife. Ice-Rick is always ready to save the day (heck without her the main would've 'died' 20 minutes into the pilot episode) even when the day doesn't need to be saved. The characters are so one dimensional that they seem to only be there so the show can meet some sort of demographic requirements and to occasionally act as minor plot devices.
I was excited at the premise of the show, "a serious Chuck, awesome", I even thought it would be good to see Josh Holloway as a protagonist, but when I watched it I couldn't help but shudder at the sheer awfulness that this show is.
So Disappointed
OrbitalNoggin12 January 2014
Warning: Spoilers
I wanted to like this show. I really did. What a great concept! Sure it's been done before, but this had a pretty cool and unique aspect. A chip in the head with super fast internet access. But the first episode was so bad in so many ways that I can't bear to give it a second chance. Let me count the ways:
1) Bad location management: I don't have any issue with filming in Vancouver, but every scene from around the world being quintessential Vancouver is pretty lame. I'm only surprised that Grouse Mountain wasn't in the first episode "disguised" as Mt. Fuji.
2) Bad casting: Didn't really think about this one, but somebody else pointed out the overused pretty girl that kicks butt.
3) Bad acting: Marg. Oh Marg! I really liked you in CSI. Did you forget how to act or did you just phone this one in? I haven't seen you in anything but CSI, and now I'm not sure I want to. The rest of the ensemble was not quite as good as a community theater.
4) Bad writing: Such great potential to write a smart show. I guess you are going for the tween crowd.
5) Bad direction: The actors couldn't all be that bad by themselves. The action scenes were unbelievable and poorly done.
I wish CBS would pull this show, then do it right and bring it back.
1) Bad location management: I don't have any issue with filming in Vancouver, but every scene from around the world being quintessential Vancouver is pretty lame. I'm only surprised that Grouse Mountain wasn't in the first episode "disguised" as Mt. Fuji.
2) Bad casting: Didn't really think about this one, but somebody else pointed out the overused pretty girl that kicks butt.
3) Bad acting: Marg. Oh Marg! I really liked you in CSI. Did you forget how to act or did you just phone this one in? I haven't seen you in anything but CSI, and now I'm not sure I want to. The rest of the ensemble was not quite as good as a community theater.
4) Bad writing: Such great potential to write a smart show. I guess you are going for the tween crowd.
5) Bad direction: The actors couldn't all be that bad by themselves. The action scenes were unbelievable and poorly done.
I wish CBS would pull this show, then do it right and bring it back.
i thought it was great
matty_lee9996 April 2014
i know that it has been done before, Jake 2.0 with nano-bots and chuck with the intersect. intelligence is with a micro-chip in the brain, there all similar, but you cannot say this one is poor because the others may be better, chuck is the best out of the 3 yes but this has different and exiting elements, the fight scenes are good, the plot is good, the acting is good, all round in my opinion this is a great show, you've just got to see it like it hasn't been done before and see it for how good it actually is, i think this show deserves a second series and i want to see the romance. once you get into the series, just like any good show you want to continue and see what happens next and i really do hope that what happened to Jake 2.0 does not happen to intelligence, it shouldn't be cancelled and there should be as many seasons as they can think of, for me its 10/10, great TV series. keep them coming. think about it guys if you love chuck or Jake 2.0 this is the closest thing you're going to get because they cancelled Jake 2,0 and they ran out of ideas for chuck.
Not too bad but no point getting invested.
Shopaholic3530 May 2014
This show is kind of good. It has all the elements to be a good show but it just doesn't quite get there. It reminds me of that show Jake 2.0. but I enjoyed that show more. I was disappointed when it was cancelled...Intelligence not so much. I could take it or leave it.
There's some great and very talented actors but when you think about it honestly, all the cast are supporting actors not leads. Josh Holloway attempts to carry the show but with limited success and while I love Marg Helgenberger's work in CSI, she hasn't captured my interest with her new role.
If you are yet to start watching this show then give it a miss. You won't regret not watching it as it fades into the past but you potentially may find yourself regretting watching it.
There's some great and very talented actors but when you think about it honestly, all the cast are supporting actors not leads. Josh Holloway attempts to carry the show but with limited success and while I love Marg Helgenberger's work in CSI, she hasn't captured my interest with her new role.
If you are yet to start watching this show then give it a miss. You won't regret not watching it as it fades into the past but you potentially may find yourself regretting watching it.
Spectacular lack of any "intelligence"
findingdevotion26 January 2014
Warning: Spoilers
Just when I was wondering what became of Marg Helgenberger in her post- CSI era and after finishing going again through Lost and wondering why I haven't seen Josh Holloway anywhere else, I came across the pilot of this TV series.
The premise has great potential: take army man, add The Internet and a load of acronyms (aka spy stuff) and see what happens. In the wake of the recent internal espionage scandals, it seems like a bold move with great promise.
Yet just as the shows starts off, it falls flat. Add pretty girl (as bodyguard) for forced sexual tension/frustration, cheap cockiness, loads and loads of senseless technobabble (really, in the age of ubiquitous internet access and technological literacy, Hollywood still tries to get away with this? insult!) and serve it cold.
As a sample, check this out: the chip, as described, should give Holloway's character instant access to information. Yet it also gains instant connectivity as well: when he's next to a phone, no matter what phone, the innocent little device suddenly turns on and gets connected to him. Is he a functional GSM antenna that somehow gives a data connection even to phones that don't normally have a data connection? Seems like that.
To make the show 'better', every plot serves as a bit of pro-NSA propaganda that doesn't even bother trying to justify itself: they have the right to spy on everyone on a hunch, borders and international relations don't matter at all - as a super secret government spy agency they can do as they please all over the world. It goes without saying that being good guys, they don't need to bother with details or justification.
In the end, it comes off as lacking any 'intelligent' plot whatsoever, the dialogue is dry and bland with one liners flying around aimlessly.
The premise has great potential: take army man, add The Internet and a load of acronyms (aka spy stuff) and see what happens. In the wake of the recent internal espionage scandals, it seems like a bold move with great promise.
Yet just as the shows starts off, it falls flat. Add pretty girl (as bodyguard) for forced sexual tension/frustration, cheap cockiness, loads and loads of senseless technobabble (really, in the age of ubiquitous internet access and technological literacy, Hollywood still tries to get away with this? insult!) and serve it cold.
As a sample, check this out: the chip, as described, should give Holloway's character instant access to information. Yet it also gains instant connectivity as well: when he's next to a phone, no matter what phone, the innocent little device suddenly turns on and gets connected to him. Is he a functional GSM antenna that somehow gives a data connection even to phones that don't normally have a data connection? Seems like that.
To make the show 'better', every plot serves as a bit of pro-NSA propaganda that doesn't even bother trying to justify itself: they have the right to spy on everyone on a hunch, borders and international relations don't matter at all - as a super secret government spy agency they can do as they please all over the world. It goes without saying that being good guys, they don't need to bother with details or justification.
In the end, it comes off as lacking any 'intelligent' plot whatsoever, the dialogue is dry and bland with one liners flying around aimlessly.
a good program to watch
angell-an-wright31 May 2014
Warning: Spoilers
Most of modern TV these days is filled with weird documentaries. So when i found this program i was quite pleased.
When i decided to watch it i didn't have high hopes at all. I thought it would just be another pile of rubbish that TV sticks on so we don't get bored and decide stop watching TV and actually go outside for once.
When i watched it i was extremely pleased. It had a good storyline, pretty good acting and didn't drag on so much that it got repetitive.
Now i am like most people that watch a lot of TV and i tend to find that after watching the first or second episode i can start to guess what is going to happen next and it be correct. With this i found i couldn't predict it and had many plot twists in it
I do recommend you watch this if you have nothing else to watch as it is good quality and quite entertaining. You will find yourself wanting to watch it more as you continue to watch it :D
When i decided to watch it i didn't have high hopes at all. I thought it would just be another pile of rubbish that TV sticks on so we don't get bored and decide stop watching TV and actually go outside for once.
When i watched it i was extremely pleased. It had a good storyline, pretty good acting and didn't drag on so much that it got repetitive.
Now i am like most people that watch a lot of TV and i tend to find that after watching the first or second episode i can start to guess what is going to happen next and it be correct. With this i found i couldn't predict it and had many plot twists in it
I do recommend you watch this if you have nothing else to watch as it is good quality and quite entertaining. You will find yourself wanting to watch it more as you continue to watch it :D
Predictable
bluesquirrel200422 November 2017
Having just binge watched this show over three days, I am writing this 10 minutes after watching the final episode.
I like the concept, but it is not hard to see why the show was cancelled before the first season finished airing.
It is flat and predictable. We are just along for the ride, knowing at the end of the journey all will be OK. No matter how badly the characters are injured, you just know they will survive and you already know they will complete their mission. Everything just seems to work out for them. So this is one of those shows you put on in the background while you mentally zoom away to other, more important areas of your life. When you come back, you just pick up the story-line with ease.
The American "We are right, always" is a bit overdone and becomes tiresome after three or four episodes.
The father/son scientists were rather irritating. How P.J. Byrne is able to find work is something that has me stumped. His personality in this role is one of a 14 year old boy stuck in a mans body, with his silly jokes that seem to fall flat, and idiotic attempt at intelligent speak whilst jumping and groping the other cast in excitement. Please...
If a second season had come out, I would have invested the time to watch it, though.
I like the concept, but it is not hard to see why the show was cancelled before the first season finished airing.
It is flat and predictable. We are just along for the ride, knowing at the end of the journey all will be OK. No matter how badly the characters are injured, you just know they will survive and you already know they will complete their mission. Everything just seems to work out for them. So this is one of those shows you put on in the background while you mentally zoom away to other, more important areas of your life. When you come back, you just pick up the story-line with ease.
The American "We are right, always" is a bit overdone and becomes tiresome after three or four episodes.
The father/son scientists were rather irritating. How P.J. Byrne is able to find work is something that has me stumped. His personality in this role is one of a 14 year old boy stuck in a mans body, with his silly jokes that seem to fall flat, and idiotic attempt at intelligent speak whilst jumping and groping the other cast in excitement. Please...
If a second season had come out, I would have invested the time to watch it, though.
Great show and lot of potential
vivianafloca25 February 2014
I don't know why people complain about this show. It is an amazing show with lot of potential and great acting. It started out a little slow with the subject of Gabriel and his wife but the episodes are better and better each week, the sparks are coming out. Unfortunately, people now days enjoy only shallow TV shows with romance and no substance. The characters are really interesting and their interaction is becoming more appealing every week, so is the plot and the way that writers put it up together. I also enjoy Riley's character since I honestly miss some strong woman character in the most of the shows and she is more alluring every week. I still have confidence that intelligent people will see how great this show is.
There's Much Worse
Dragonborn6414 November 2019
I downloaded the season because it was cheap and ending up liking the show quite a lot. The main draw is likeable Josh Holloway. Not the greatest actor but he has the quality needed to carry a show. He looks good too.
LOVE IT! I am always looking forward to the next episode!
aj_bama13 March 2014
I seriously enjoy this show. I love how lovable Gabriel is. I love the chemistry between he and Riley. And I think MH proves she's still one tough lady.
The premise is a stretch - kind of. BUT this is also what makes it so interesting. It *could* happen, and we don't know how far off that reality truly is. However, this shows keeps the humanity and humor that makes it all worthwhile.
The story lines might be a bit predictable, but it is fun to watch and I'm always waiting for the relationship to blossom between hero and heroine. (I love a good strong female lead.) It is a great show that I will really miss if they cancel/don't renew. I always looked forward to it every week.
The premise is a stretch - kind of. BUT this is also what makes it so interesting. It *could* happen, and we don't know how far off that reality truly is. However, this shows keeps the humanity and humor that makes it all worthwhile.
The story lines might be a bit predictable, but it is fun to watch and I'm always waiting for the relationship to blossom between hero and heroine. (I love a good strong female lead.) It is a great show that I will really miss if they cancel/don't renew. I always looked forward to it every week.
intelligence is not smart
agreeneyedcowboy27 January 2014
Warning: Spoilers
Despite what others have praised about this show, it simply isn't there. Watch it and decide for yourself. I love Sci-fi and unique shows but this simply does not have it. The handsome man and beautiful woman can't even cover up the ridiculous story line.
The acting is simply horrible, snap zoom is way to much and the cheesy lines are nothing but dead weights dragging this show into deeper water. Cop shows are cop shows with their own twist of action and technology. Pick and choose which one you prefer, but how this show made it to such a prime spot is beyond me.
Look, save the batteries in you remote and just stay away from this show.
The acting is simply horrible, snap zoom is way to much and the cheesy lines are nothing but dead weights dragging this show into deeper water. Cop shows are cop shows with their own twist of action and technology. Pick and choose which one you prefer, but how this show made it to such a prime spot is beyond me.
Look, save the batteries in you remote and just stay away from this show.
Needs a 2nd series AT LEAST!
sharon-pritchard8128 June 2014
Series 1 has just finished over here in the UK and all i can say is WHY is their only 1 series!!! Can't believe CBS has canceled, with such an awesome concept of what current life and technology could achieve. Is this a bad habit of canceling gripping story lines and rather than pouring more into improving what they see the problems being (in my opinion their is none!) and stop showing more TV chat shows and re runs that have been on numerous times and surely not getting any views? Revolution being another example of pure class TV being axed after 3 series and leaving followers completely lost with questions. Personally I'm no longer going to attempt to watch any CBS series anymore after this last disgrace of poor judgment of what should and should not be continued. In short CBS need to rethink a lot of their series decisions and put more into new shows rather than just re-runs.
skip that propaganda piece
sin4211 January 2014
in the shadow of NSA scandals and the fear of the absolute transparent citizen, this series tries to numb your concerns by showing you how well meant and helpful the absolute access to every information in the world, to one guy can be even, in the hands of an unpredictable, mischievous sawyer guy, as long as he is American. skillfully dodging the questions like: "If he can read data, can he also write or change data, for example on your public record?" nah, not this guy, you can read it in his files. and "if he is a human computer, that can access remotely to every system he wants, why does he still have to do fieldwork? to get a look into your bathroom he only needs to think about it. who would know? nobody is monitoring what he is doing with his head." but nah, not that guy, look into his files. (files do not include facebook profiles btw.)
my next question however is: "when will they find the unusually large mass in his brain next to that constantly radiating chip?"
i liked sawyer in lost, because he fitted into that environment and his constant deceptions brought dynamic into the series. but these characteristics contradict the logic based, inhuman personality, that should be expected from someone who is basically a supercomputer. that is just bad writhing right there. you can't even route for the guy, because everything he knows, comes from a chip in his head and he is so full of him self at times, that you just want to pull out a powerful electromagnet and wipe it all.
do not waste your time is, what I want to say.
my next question however is: "when will they find the unusually large mass in his brain next to that constantly radiating chip?"
i liked sawyer in lost, because he fitted into that environment and his constant deceptions brought dynamic into the series. but these characteristics contradict the logic based, inhuman personality, that should be expected from someone who is basically a supercomputer. that is just bad writhing right there. you can't even route for the guy, because everything he knows, comes from a chip in his head and he is so full of him self at times, that you just want to pull out a powerful electromagnet and wipe it all.
do not waste your time is, what I want to say.
Amazing!!! Chuck meets James Bond
geosave19 January 2014
When I first read the reviews here I really thought this was going to be a waste of my time to watch this series, but after two episodes I am really hooked up! The action scenes are impressive and the stories are really believable, not like some other sci-fi series that just don't feel right. The actors are also really good and the plot gets even better in the second episode. I'm really looking forward for the next episodes! I am glad that I ignored the bad reviews and watched it anyways. I know there are several other "real spy series" out there, but this spy is like how Chuck would be in real life. I highly recommend this series for any spy and sci-fi affictionates like myself!
Intelligence is Intelligently done
castro-mzizi22 January 2014
Wow!!!! Its been a while since I've seen something so coolly done. Its a wonderful storyline... Hope it won't be taken off air...It looks like an interesting plot, The theme is straight to the point. The action is realistic, the graphics are compact and well engineered. The cast is full of energy and vibrancy. I wish production of other episodes can move at a faster rate so that we watch the great act of science. The good about the plot is that it is straight to the point. Not too many curves and subplots. Reminds me of the Series 24 (Jack Bauer) but this one adds a little more in-tel to the terrorists. The characters are realist and they fit the scenario so naturally!! keep up the good work production team.
So disappointing...
greatescapes4 February 2014
I enjoyed the premise and I've given it 5 episodes to improve...but from the start, this show had severely poor writing issues. First episode, we are introduced to someone who is supposedly ex-Delta Force. Yet, knowing someone was implanted with a chip like his, he leaves her to "walk away." The other person is supposedly secret service. Constantly they do inanely stupid things and I just watched as this supposed super soldier couldn't take a shot with a sniper rifle (what
never heard of a disconnect shot?) Also, what is with this trend for supposed federal agents just putting their firearms down and allowing themselves to become hostages? What is with this trend on actors not speaking clearly
it is like they all have a lisp or a speech impediment. There are so many things wrong with this show, you would think that the producers would thank God they got even a chance to air mid-season
and blow it with just really crappy story lines. The writers for this show should be replaced immediately, but I think it is probably too late to save the show from cancellation.
I was hoping to enjoy this show, but now, I'll not watch it any longer.
I was hoping to enjoy this show, but now, I'll not watch it any longer.
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