Criminal Minds: Season 1
  • Network: CBS
  • Series Premiere Date: Sep 22, 2005
  • Season #: 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 35
User Score
8.2 out of 10

Universal acclaim- based on 166 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 140 out of 166
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 166
  3. Negative: 24 out of 166

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  1. MsMia
    Nov 20, 2011
    10
    A crime show with an outstanding cast, well written plot and amazing facts displayed in every episode. Some may be a bit visual, but you love seeing your favorite FBI agents profile those jerks to a tee. They all have such amazing chemistry with each other. Paget Brewster is amazing, with A.J. Cook's likability and with Kristen Vangsness,you just want to take her home!
  2. MovieMadness
    Nov 20, 2011
    10
    This show is one of the best that has ever graced the screen. The acting is simply amazing, and the story line outshines the strange CSI, dull NCIS and the ever so draining Law and Order. The writing is amazing with such lovable actors that you will loose your mind with Criminal Minds!
  3. J_B
    Nov 5, 2011
    10
    My favourite show! It's so interesting! It focuses in on the cases, not the characters, and each show is unique and different. The acting's good as well, especially Matthew Gray Gubler.
  4. LauraL
    Oct 20, 2005
    9
    Intellegently written with a team of characters who all brings something different and valuable to the table. I went in skeptical because of the reviews that preceded the show, but my household hopes it makes it!
  5. CaroleM
    May 9, 2006
    10
    Better actors, better story lines, Way smarter than the other shows. No problem Criminal minds will be a big Hit .
  6. RPierce
    Jan 10, 2007
    10
    One of my favorites! Critics are tough on it, but I do enjoy it regardless. It has matured and I believe the cast compliments each other very well. Critics are just people who overthink and have generally useless opinions, so I recommend ignoring them and checking this show out. User comments across the web, including IMBD and here, have been extremely favorable, so I am curious what the critics here are smoking. Just arrogant I guess. Enjoy the show, it is worth it.… Expand
  7. BTucker
    May 20, 2007
    9
    CBS Seems to be the best at providing stimulating TV.
  8. CaryH
    Dec 30, 2005
    9
    Are the critics awake, this one finally made me sit up and watch a crime show. Numbers would be a close second.
  9. AC
    Feb 2, 2006
    10
    i love this show. its one of those shows where you don't have to watch the episode before to get whats goin on and i love it for that, plus that's plots are great and i love ALL the actors from Mandy to AJ!
  10. AR
    Feb 7, 2006
    10
    One of the best shows on TV...Love the interaction between the characters. My favorite character is Spencer Reid...
  11. LiamH
    Mar 23, 2006
    10
    We love it. me and my family love to watch it. We like the cool way that pictures become crime scenes. It ismore interesting than CSI to us because it focuses on the psychology of the killer, not the forensics of the dead body. Who knows, a killer could lurk among us...
  12. LSable
    Mar 6, 2006
    10
    Patinkin is brilliant in this series. Watching his face is a study in how the mind works. An intricate and poetic series.
  13. HopeB
    Jun 30, 2006
    10
    I love this show. Especially the finale. They make you feel like you are a part of it and give you the chance to solve it if you try.
  14. Kyle
    Feb 5, 2007
    9
    Love this show! Very good!
  15. KatieW.
    Jul 5, 2007
    9
    Nobody is perfect and this show doesn't hide from that fact. I look forward to each and every episode. Brilliant acting, writing and photography!
  16. Jessica
    Aug 16, 2007
    10
    This is a GREAT show. We finally get to see the inner workings of the human mind. It's not like any of the other shows where all the do is work on the evidence to find the killer, these guys actually have to figure them out.
  17. mbo
    Jan 10, 2006
    10
    Fabulous show, entertains and holds your attention for the duration.
  18. LindzP
    Feb 8, 2006
    10
    Really great. I look forward to watching it every time it comes on. I love the actors and characters, especially Agent Hotchner and Dr. Spencer Reid (he's a very interesting personality). My friends like it too.
  19. JohnW
    Aug 18, 2006
    10
    Great show. Mandy shines. Awesome music score every week. I won't miss an episode of this show. Definitely, the best show on primetime. I hope this show comes out on DVD for season 1. Can't wait for the new season!!!
  20. LaurieF.
    Oct 10, 2007
    9
    I miss Gideon. But, I'll still watch hoping he'll be back somehow.
  21. BartJ.
    May 22, 2007
    9
    Excellent series drawing from a talented cast solving compelling crimes profiling skills unlike any previous crime drama.
  22. Scott
    Jan 11, 2010
    10
    By far the best crime show on TV. All the permanent characters are likable in spite of their flaws. The writing is concise, fresh, and frequently funny. Dr. Reid and Garcia are consistently the highlights of the episodes.
  23. AmandaK
    Jan 8, 2010
    10
    To a less than casual watcher, Criminal Minds may be mistaken for a makeshift amalgamation of recent hit crime shows, but this is not the case at all. Instead of using just forensic evidence they look into the mind of the criminal, delving deep into the twisted internal psyche. All the actors are dynamic and entertaining. A smart crime drama for the smart audience.
  24. [Anonymous]
    Nov 10, 2005
    10
    This show keeps me watching! It's very intense and the acting is great! Best show on TV!!!
  25. ScottM
    Nov 2, 2005
    10
    All you need to show is that I go out of my way to be home 9pm on Wednesdays to catch this in HD. I can't record HD programs (only SD) and this NEEDS to be seen in hi-def. After the unbelievably great 11/2 show, this is officially my favorite show on TV.
  26. KelliS
    Nov 4, 2005
    10
    Before this show came on, CSI was my major 'must watch' show. Criminal Minds quickly shoved CSI out of the way and took first place in my mind. Maybe it's my love for Mandy Patinkin making me a little biased... but I actually find the stories more insteresting too.
  27. KP
    Oct 18, 2005
    9
    Criminal Minds is thought provoking and well-written. With stories that intrigue and twists that surprise, I make a point of watching this one. Of course, I record Lost to make sure I don't miss it (why do they always put the good shows up against each other, then leave huge chunks of time with nothing but bad shows to choose from?). If you enjoy shows that allow you to think, give this one a try.… Expand
  28. RobertC
    Oct 19, 2005
    9
    I like the how they reverse engineer the crime scene without evidence but psychology. I also love the quotes pertaining to the cases.
  29. ArleenK
    Oct 24, 2005
    10
    Criminal Minds is the top show of the year, undoubtedly. The rapport of the cast together with the magnetism of Mandy Patinkin make this show a winner. Each actor contributes their own individual characteristics, but I especially like the young genius doctor's input every week. Keep up the great work!
  30. AlanL
    Oct 24, 2005
    9
    The first in all the cop/crime shows that actually has me wanting to watch the next episode.
  31. Chris
    Dec 28, 2006
    10
    Love it!
  32. LisaB
    Mar 26, 2006
    10
    This is the most Creative show in decades! By far the most entertaining! Really Great!!!
  33. TeddyB
    Apr 13, 2006
    10
    Mandy Patinkin is outstanding in his role. All the cast members blend together very well. The story lines are completely intriguing.
  34. CadiE.
    Apr 22, 2006
    10
    by the the best of all crime shows I've ever seen (csi, without a trace, close to home, etc).
  35. TamaraA
    Apr 5, 2006
    10
    This is a must-watch in our home. If we aren't home, we get it on DVR. It is intelligent, and the character development is getting better than it was in the first few episodes.
  36. JesseJ
    May 31, 2006
    10
    This show is THE best show when it comes to criminal minds and profiling!!!!!! Its a mixture of reality, action, intelligence, and relationships! definitely a 10!
  37. MatthewM
    Aug 17, 2006
    10
    Good show, is very interesting.
  38. SarahB.
    Mar 1, 2007
    10
    This is the gutsiest show I've ever seen on tv. Perhaps the only show not afraid to show us the inner workings of our own minds. Clever as well as intelligent, thoughtful as well as thought-provoking, visceral on a level that cannot be ignored, and genuinely moving (as in, emotionally resonant) rather than simply able to push buttons. The best show currently on TV, hands down, no questions asked.… Expand
  39. Bfirst
    Dec 17, 2008
    10
    Great show with excellent writing and acting. Never miss an episode!
  40. TomR
    Apr 10, 2008
    10
    My favorite show on television. The great acting, well-written script, and over-all suspense keep me wanting more.
  41. JenniJ.
    Apr 30, 2008
    10
    I love this show! it's set to record on my DVR every Wednesday!
  42. Dreamer
    Nov 17, 2005
    9
    I love this show! Don't know why the critics didn't rate this one higher. With all the crap on tv, this one is a definite should watch!
  43. H.M.
    Oct 12, 2005
    10
    This is the only show in 5 years that I've caught myself running home to watch! People who give this show a bad rating aren't smart enough to enjoy it. No sex, No gore, No BS, No ignorant character drama ... just great to watch! LOVE IT!!!
  44. Sarah
    Oct 12, 2005
    10
    Great show.Acting is great. Looooove Thomas Gibson in anything
  45. DebbyM.
    Nov 28, 2005
    10
    this show is quickly becoming my favorite...i love all of the characters and the stories are way exciting! don't know how anyone can down this show...it's fantastic.
  46. SondraK.
    Nov 30, 2005
    10
    I read some of the critics' reviews and have to wonder why they're not unanimous in loving this program! It is well-cast, well-written and interesting. I am extremely thankful it's not another boring reality tv show. Maybe that's what the critics want....either that or more skin and fashion trendsetting???
  47. AlexandraB
    Oct 17, 2005
    10
    Best new show of the season and so much better than "Lost," which shares it's time slot. Most of those critics missed the mark. It's a well made show with good acting, particularly by Mandy Patinkin.
  48. DianaL
    Nov 8, 2005
    10
    excellent show makes you think and also entertaining hopefully the paid critics will wise up
  49. MarleenC
    Oct 19, 2005
    10
    I enjoy this show because unlike CSI it helps you understand the actual criminal as oppose to just finding them. They teach you how a criminal mind works and in a sense you learn how to prevent things from happening to yourself.
  50. SusanM
    Oct 19, 2005
    9
    I really enjoy this show. The stories are fairly well crafted, the show well acted, and although the plots are a bit of a stretch, who cares? Its TV for goodness sakes! The use of psychological profiling to find the criminal is a vey interesting slant. It is a pleasure to see Mandy Patinkin back on the small screen. Finally, Shamar Moore is sooooo fine! Eye candy AND good story lines = must see TV! ;)… Expand
  51. SteffanF
    Dec 1, 2005
    10
    Awesome show, great stories, good writing and fantasic music score every week.
  52. JPatel
    Dec 29, 2005
    9
    Unique episodes. Like the show.
  53. DanF
    Dec 7, 2005
    10
    This is my favorite show on television. I read a lot of books on profiling and they describe things just like other profilers. I look forward to every week for this show. I hope this one does not go away.
  54. SandyK
    Oct 27, 2005
    10
    This show had me hooked from the very first episode. Mandy Pantinkin really makes the show.
  55. MichaelJ
    Dec 8, 2005
    10
    Best new show in a long time. To the negative reviewers out there--get over it! Sometimes it is enough to be just entertaining.
  56. janej
    Oct 28, 2005
    10
    This is the best show of the week for me! Being at the ripe old age of eighty four, I have seen many of this type show come and go. THIS ONE WILL SURELY BE PICKED UP FOR ANOTHER YEAR!
  57. ColinC
    Nov 25, 2006
    9
    Interesting plots, suspenseful program. Sometimes predictable but you can't have everything.
  58. MegG
    May 11, 2006
    10
    As a thriller/adrenaline junkie who is slightly ADD when it comes to sticking with television shows, the fact that I am officially addicted to this show really says something. This show is awesome! I love the story lines, but I am especially drawn to the way the characters interact with each other. My favorite characters are Gideon and Dr. Spencer Reid, but Reid is by far my absolute favorite (and not just because the actor is hot!) Reid is the most intriguing character, not only for his amazing genius, but for the depth of emotion the actor manages to display. Sometimes you want to give Reid a hug, sometimes he has you laughing, and other times you are cheering for him.… Expand
  59. ElizabethS.
    Feb 14, 2007
    10
    excellent show. touches on issues and the roles are played so well that you actually experience the show as if you're there. great job you guys
  60. SUICIDE
    Feb 28, 2008
    9
    A Good Mix Of Cerebral And Action & Absolutely It a Brilliant Show
  61. AshwalS.
    Jul 13, 2008
    9
    Excellent insight into serial killers...its a tad bit unrealistic but who wants to see realism on TV...I can watch the news for realism.
  62. HarveyB
    Oct 27, 2009
    9
    a great crime drama with believable characters and criminals. the episodes so far are very interesting and entertaining. i just wish they would have more "shock value", but this isn't meant to be that. its a smart, well written show where you know the criminals first but then try to understand their actions.
  63. P.V.
    Nov 13, 2005
    10
    Best new show, hands down! Love the styling and look. Loving the cast goes without saying; it's hard to pick any one favorite!
  64. riimax1995
    Aug 13, 2010
    10
    This show is the best all these people give it bad reviews on the characters for being wooden or overall bad and i dont know what theyre talking about the characters are perfecly created for a show like this and the cases keep anyone entertained from beginning to end GO CRIMINAL MINDS!!!
  65. jerry1957
    Jan 3, 2011
    10
    Not since Law and Order has a show been this intelligent and well presented. The actors are absolutely awesome, The stories are captivating and the characters excellently written. This show has renewed my faith on television. CONGRATULATIONS
  66. WeKnowFilms
    Dec 3, 2011
    10
    This show really does deserve the amazing viewing figures (Over 20million in USA alone, over 33million Worldwide) and the amazing reviews "Best Show Around" and "The best crime show in years...no decades" This is one of the best shows ever, CSI and NCIS look pathetic in comparison. The cast have such amazing chemistry and the cases are so fantastic and they make complete sense, and unlike CSI, everyone can understand them! Everyone loves this show, it is now a Criminal Minds mania!… Expand
  67. AmazingWatch
    Dec 4, 2011
    10
    This show is one of the best things that has ever been graced upon our screens, the story lines are amazing and the acting is one of the best I have ever seen. CSI, NCIS and Bones are just sloppy and boring compared to the amazing writing and fantastic acting that if shown in Criminal Minds. All the story lines will have you on the edge of your seat and you and your family will become addicted extremely to this amazing show. You also learn bucket loads from this show, from behavior to science and then just general facts. This is also amazing for teaching your children to be safe, in the local park to online. However, some episodes may be a little bit gruesome, but that is highly rare.

    If you do not watch this, please tune in and you will realize what the hype is about, with 33,000,000 average viewers, Criminal Minds is a huge hit, and deserving.    … Expand
  68. missy_thorn
    Aug 17, 2012
    10
    I'm obsessed with this show lately. I love Dr. Spencer Reid and the entire plot is fascinating. I like how it focuses on the cases but still manages to keep developing the characters. The entire show is fascinating!
  69. Garcias2
    Sep 8, 2012
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I LOVE this show! I cannot wait for season 8 (although I'll miss Prentiss SO much). I feel as if a majority of problems with the team's personal lives have been resolved, so I am very excited to see what new issues develop. I would recommend this show to anyone and everyone, as it's my favorite show on television.… Expand
  70. sournote103
    Sep 19, 2012
    10
    Honestly the second-best show I have ever seen (just behind Doctor Who). I think the episodes are written fantastically well and the analysis of the behavior of the criminals is one of the most interesting things I have ever seen.
    It may not necessarily have the best acting ever, and, to be fair, occasionally features gratuitous gore (though honestly features it entirely less than it coul    d, keeping it to less than one in ten episodes being gory), but has far more merit than negative traits.… Expand

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
42 out of 100

Mixed or average reviews - based on 21 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 21
  2. Mixed: 10 out of 21
  3. Negative: 8 out of 21
  1. Baltimore Sun
    Reviewed by: David Zurawik
    20
    Big talent meets weak script and every TV crime cliche known to prime time.
    Read full review
  2. Boston Globe
    Reviewed by: Matthew Gilbert
    40
    It's not a cool-science show, but its crimes blur together with what we already see on the ''CSI" series, and its supporting cast is indistinct.
    Read full review
  3. Chicago Sun-Times
    Reviewed by: Doug Elfman
    63
    It's kind of good.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »