Critics are sorting the good from the bad of the new fall TV season. Here’s a ranking, using scores (based on a 100-point scale) from the aggregation site Metacritic.
“Luke Cage” (Netflix) -81
Yes, another superhero franchise. But critics are crazy about this comic caper. “A breakthrough for Marvel,” wrote one.
“This Is Us” (NBC) – 76
NBC’s contemporary drama already has big fans among critics. “These characters feel real,” one reviewer wrote.
“Speechless” (ABC) – 75 (tie)
Reviewers are pretty high on this family sitcom. “‘Speechless’ is a wry, nimble comedy,” according to one.
“The Good Place” (NBC) – 75 (tie)
Celestial reviews for this comedy about Kristin Bell finding herself in heaven. “A gem of subversive mockery,” a critic wrote.
“Designated Survivor”/ABC – 74
“The pilot is tremendous,” one reviewer raved of this political drama about Kiefer Sutherland suddenly elevated to the presidency after a terror attack.
“Pitch”/Fox – 61
Lots of praise for star Kylie Bunbury, but some criticism of the scripting in this baseball drama. “The writers telegraph every single point,” one reviewer complained.
“The Exorcist” (Fox) – 58
Mixed views on this remake of the horror classic, with one critic dubbing it “predictable” but still “a solid piece of entertainment.”
“Son of Zorn” (Fox) – 56
“Most of the jokes are amusing but only a couple got big laughs,” one reviewer wrote of this animated/live action hybrid.
“Bull” (CBS) – 47
Praise for former “NCIS” star Michael Weatherly in this legal procedural, but less warmth for the show itself. “Totally ridiculous, in concept and execution,” one reviewer wrote.
“Lethal Weapon” (Fox) – 45
“This is a slick, watered-down” version of the movie franchise, one critic summed up, in a common sentiment.
“MacGyver” (CBS) – 44
Divided opinion on this update of the 1980s action classic. One critic dubbed it “energetic” and “easy-going,” another felt it was “painfully cheesy.”
“Kevin Can Wait” (CBS) – 40
Kevin will have to wait for love for this traditional family sitcom. “Terrible and unimaginative,” blasted one critic, echoing the prevailing view.
“Notorious” (ABC) – 21
Oof. “A nearly wall-to-wall mess,” is how one reviewer summed up this legal drama.
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