Life (2009): Season 1
  • Network: NBC
  • Series Premiere Date: Sep 26, 2007
  • Season #: 1 , 2
User Score
9.2 out of 10

Universal acclaim- based on 210 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 201 out of 210
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 210
  3. Negative: 6 out of 210

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  1. sjeppell
    Mar 13, 2013
    10
    The writing is great, the pacing is great, the character development is fantastic, the camera work is engaging. This is a thoroughly entertaining show. As I came upon the last episode, I worried that it would end in medias res. But in fact, they wrap the whole thing up beautifully and you are left with a satisfied sense of having read through a long and wonderful novel.
  2. blendurr95
    Jan 2, 2012
    10
    Fantastic show! Contains just the right amount of drama, hilarity, and everything in between. The characters are pretty much all fantastic as well. I'd highly recommend it.
  3. RichardD.
    Apr 10, 2009
    10
    well written. very good character profiles, good acting and entertaining story lines, realistics gray line between police and criminal characters.
  4. MarkL
    Mar 31, 2009
    10
    Life is an absolutely brilliant series. It
  5. NaomiH
    Mar 11, 2009
    10
    Witty, intelligent - able to hold interest without insulting simple sexuality stuff: i.e - without relying on what seems like the cheap degrading allusions to sex that so many shows seem to need to include just to get ratings.
  6. JeffS.
    Feb 13, 2009
    10
    Best new show on TV. Good writing & cast. The new boss in season two is much better than the first season.
  7. JackC
    Feb 9, 2009
    10
    I really like this show. I don't want to see another CSI type show anyway. Isn't this venue all played out? Crews and Reese play well off each other and make for a fun watch. I'd like to see more of Reese's dark side though.
  8. eedeeddedd
    Nov 23, 2008
    10
    By choice, I don't have access to TV in my home. This is because 99% of television is crap. This show is different though. I found it online and I think it's great.
  9. DulcieM.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    My husband and I LOVE this show!! What a nice change of pace from all the other cop shows. This is the ONLY show I put my life on hold for!!
  10. Chris
    Jul 31, 2008
    10
    Great show! Give it time and it will be a hit.
  11. ChristinaS.
    Jul 28, 2008
    10
    This show is AWESOME! I love it and I hope CBS does not pull the usual lame excuse for getting rid of it for no good reason. It is witty, sarcastic, and just plain fun to watch. Not mention that Mr. Lewis has this underlying sex appeal that makes it all the more fun to watch!
  12. KyalB
    Jul 9, 2008
    10
    Joins The Wire and The Shield as one of the best cop dramas on television.
  13. JayawiP.
    Jun 21, 2008
    10
    I have seen all LIFE episodes and am looking forward to see more!! ! On the other hand I find CSI MIAMI and predominantly Horatio unbelievably phony and irritating to watch. People DO NOT act like that, he is just too unruffled, pathetically so with his sunglasses and attitude. I have never bothered with Law and Order, as it also seems like more American rubbish - bad acting, bad dialogue and bad story line. LIFE may not be realistic but at least the acting is good and the story line different and enjoyable - and by many more than just me!… Expand
  14. MarhadiashaK.
    Jun 10, 2008
    10
    I love both of the characters (Crews and Reese). I love Crews' philosophies, "robotic" movements, oh this is my favorite show.
  15. SarahJ.
    May 27, 2008
    10
    Love this underrated show. it was a pleasant coincidence when i caught it while flipping channels. people need to see this - better then most of the new shows.
  16. JackS.
    May 15, 2008
    10
    Great show. I will watch all new episodes for many seasons!
  17. AltonS.
    Apr 17, 2008
    10
    I usually don't vote ten and was going too vote nine. I couldn't find any faults too justify anything but 10. Good characters, interesting stories, quirky approaches with a great kind of comedy. Then throw in the darker elements of the show and.... you get life. Much better then most shows out there.
  18. GeoffreyM.
    Mar 28, 2008
    10
    Refreshing. Revives my faith in network shows. Need more like this. Lewis is brilliant.
  19. ElaineD.
    Mar 25, 2008
    10
    loved the plot and the complexity of the character. also deep in philosophy unlike the other "sex" hungry and teenage pregnancy shows on TV right now.
  20. MO
    Mar 1, 2008
    10
    This was the best show going prior to the writers strike. I'm glad to hear it will return in the fall.
  21. KurtisT
    Feb 22, 2008
    10
    Best show in years, I look forward to thursday nights. I canty wait for next season!
  22. StevenT.
    Feb 19, 2008
    10
    Awesome show. Love the storylines and Charlie's character. Please bring it back!!!
  23. JennetP.
    Feb 15, 2008
    9
    Interestingly, the critics who like the show are from the newspapers that intellectuals and artists read, whereas the negative reviews are all in provincial rags. In addition to the virtues already well-attested, LIFE is rich in philosophical complexity, asking questions about the nature of humanity, experience, time, etc, rather than either ignoring them or passively accepting the Judeo-Christian-humanist consensus. All this and a killer soundtrack, too! Goes to show that, just because you have a big ol' brain, don't mean you can't dance!… Expand
  24. TH
    Feb 9, 2008
    10
    The quirky nature of the lead is so well played, and surrounding actors play off the lead perfectly. This show needs to continue. The scene cuts are very well done as well, it keeps you guessing and wanting more. Fortunately there are normal people in this world that aren't paid to be 'Critics', because the 'Critics' obviously don't have a clue with just a 64avg rating, shameful. I picked up this show on the 4th or 5th episode and was hooked. Fortunately for the technology/internet, I was able to view the previously episodes and catch up. Now if the 'writers' come back, maybe we'll see how this season ends.… Expand
  25. vladm.
    Feb 4, 2008
    10
    One of the best shows I've ever seen. being different from the others this movie stands out and totally sucks you in.
  26. RobS.
    Feb 4, 2008
    10
    Never seen a TV Series like this before. It's so refreshing, be it the funny dialogues or charlies strange but still wonderful perspectives he has on everything. And the last episodes proofed that it has the potential to build up high tension. I find some of the bad critics way out of touch. Can't wait to see more.
  27. HeatherS.
    Feb 4, 2008
    10
    Damian Lewis is gorgeous. His facial expressions and dialect are spot-on for the character he plays- Charlie Crews... he is a profoundly talented actor that deserves an Emmy for his performance. I laugh myself to tears he is so funny. Can't wait for new episodes to come!
  28. MarciaR.
    Feb 2, 2008
    10
    I like the acting, the clever dialogue, and the plot. I sure hope it comes back.
  29. NealJ.
    Jan 21, 2008
    10
    What a great show, well written, well acted great soundtrack. Just goes to show how out of touch some critics are. It's a winner.
  30. BettyJ.
    Jan 19, 2008
    10
    Finally a tv drama that entertaining and I am really into the story. Will it return to NBC. I hope so. Its the best thing on NBC.
  31. SantosA.
    Jan 8, 2008
    10
    one of the best tv dramas out there now. I especially like the comedy kick to it.
  32. JimI
    Jan 2, 2008
    10
    One of the two best shows on TV (Journey Man). The lead actor continues his outstanding work as he did in Band of Brothers.
  33. RobQ.
    Dec 28, 2007
    10
    I love it. My new favorite show. I've liked Seinfeld, The Office, and now this.
  34. AnnaN.
    Dec 22, 2007
    9
    Intriguing series -- a detective show within a detective show with a new perspective. I love the character development and the interaction between individuals with past scars coming together in unusual ways.
  35. JeanD.
    Dec 21, 2007
    10
    Except for "Boston Legal" it's the only intellegent show on TV. The cast especially the male and female leads are great.
  36. AndrésI.
    Dec 20, 2007
    10
    This show rocks!! Well written, great acting, interesting character, original story line, terrific soundtrack, funny but not silly. 100% good entertainment.
  37. SteveE
    Dec 19, 2007
    10
    The best thing on TV for many years - hooked from the start, great plot, great characters. The Zen stuff fits in well. Some of the critics are way off base on this one........PERFECT
  38. loh.
    Dec 14, 2007
    10
    This show is different as far as cop shows go, and the pairing of Damian and Sarah is perfect. Plus Damian is still awesome post Band of Brothers
  39. LisaJ.
    Dec 14, 2007
    10
    Great acting by Damian Lewis -- the show just keeps getting better and better. I hope they don't cancel the series!
  40. RafaelM.
    Dec 12, 2007
    10
    I must say one thing before I share my comments: "I don't watch TV" I have not found a single sign of intelligence in TV for as far back as can remember. But the show "LIFE" changed all that. It must be one of the BEST (if not The Best) shows in TV. Interesting, catchy, engaging. Unlike many of today's 'police' shows, which are so predictable, "Life" and its main characters bind our attention to the soft-flowing drama of the show yet it keeps its viewers alerts, not knowing what will happen next. Crews embodies his role wholy; He is an amazing actor. He almost lead me to assume that his character and the actor are one and the same in real "Life" His sidekick/partner Sarah Shahi, who plays Detective Reese is one hell of "hot babe" I first experience her acting in the show "L-Word" and preceived her to be an incredibly 'passionate' woman. Seeing her in her new role in "Life" took me a few episode to get use to it, but she definetely has my vote as a versatile actress. Great job NBC! Keep up the good work. have a hard time discerning whether… Expand
  41. Elana
    Dec 11, 2007
    10
    The plot and characters really grew on me. Life has a terrific soundtrack too. Great plot twists every week!
  42. PeterC.
    Dec 7, 2007
    10
    Excellent - great acting - very good characters - more than just another "cop" show - will develop and get stronger as the 'sub-story' is filled out, more and more, each week. Keep it, NBC!
  43. HawthorneA.
    Dec 6, 2007
    9
    Original story line, great characters, just right pacing. What's not to like?
  44. JeffM.
    Dec 6, 2007
    10
    This show is one of a kind, and I think it is fantastic!!!
  45. JoeL.
    Dec 6, 2007
    10
    OK, so nothing's perfect; but this is as close as it comes for me on TV. Odd that I'm getting attached to the lead character and supporting case so quickly. Strong story lines from where I sit. This is one of the two shows I will not miss. (The Closer is the other) I thought I would give up on TV, when Easy Streets went the way of the ghost. Let me put it this way. I may foresake the tube, if I lose "Life". On the other hand, it may force me invest in a TIVO.… Expand
  46. AdamG.
    Dec 5, 2007
    10
    This show is well written with great acting. Finally an interesting character!
  47. VincentN.
    Dec 5, 2007
    10
    i love this show this is the only show i watch beside Hero
  48. KevinN.
    Dec 5, 2007
    10
    wow this show is amazing. Damian Lewis is an amazing acotr and is perfect for the role of Charlie Crews.... I'm definitely buying all the seasons when they come out on DVD so i can see it all over again
  49. MarkR
    Dec 5, 2007
    10
    I hope the network doesn't listen to bonehead critics about this show. The viewers like it and that is all that matters.
  50. JonV.
    Dec 4, 2007
    10
    I look forward to Life every week. I want to add my vote in hopes that NBC will keep it on the air. Life has it all.
  51. RussellS.
    Dec 3, 2007
    10
    Best new show on television!!!
  52. JenelS.
    Dec 3, 2007
    10
    "Life" may be another "detective" show, but hardly. It's characters are new and inventive, and there is a ticking underlying plot that allows more to meet the eye than just solving cases.
  53. CharlieP.
    Dec 3, 2007
    10
    Absolutely outstanding show, one that many people overlook. Damian Lewis is the lead character and plays an interesting and funny character, leading the show along with a great supporting cast and top-notch writing.
  54. TerryB.
    Dec 3, 2007
    9
    Avery good show with great work by Damian Lewis- a very good character.The overall mystery is well laid out and the weekly plots are different and interesting. The humour is well placed and the weird zen material works. My favourite show this fall. Keep it on,
  55. BrandonM.
    Dec 1, 2007
    10
    my wife and i both love this show, it has intriguing characters and a different way of thinking which is original and its sad that the professional reviewers can not see this and there too narrow minded to keep giving reviews.
  56. KenF.
    Nov 29, 2007
    10
    This is one of the best Police shows in recent times. Fresh, that is to say not a cookie cutter mold of CSI, Law & Order. I do hope they can keep it going.
  57. MarkM.
    Nov 28, 2007
    10
    "Life" is an ingenious show that has an Emmy and Golden Glober worthy performance from star Damian Lewis. What sets this show apart from all of the run-of-the-mill police procedurals, detective shows, or Law and Order is that "Life" has a bigger story arch to tell with Detective Charlie Crews trying to solve his wrongful imprisonment. It also doesn't hurt that Crews is a interestingly bizarre character as he has become one with the world through Zen.… Expand
  58. PaulaG.
    Nov 28, 2007
    10
    The only tv series this season that i look forward to each week. smart, offbeat and 2 plots at the same time that keep you thinking throughout the show. would like to see "easeley" back in cameo role. even my 13 year old is hooked.
  59. MartinS.
    Nov 28, 2007
    7
    I was predisposed to hate this show. Franklly I couldn't see Damian Lewis as an ex-con or an ex-cop but it seems to work.
  60. DDub
    Nov 22, 2007
    10
    Interesting premise well executed. Crews' zen bits, and slowly revealed histories of the main characters is compelling. Also, stealing anyone they can get from the Deadwood cast can't be a bad play. It is so good that I fear for its survival.
  61. kittyw
    Nov 18, 2007
    10
    Best new show on tv since House. Lewis is impeccable and his supporting cast is likable as well, particularly Ted Early and the LT.
  62. A.Jordan
    Nov 15, 2007
    10
    Terrific new show! Crews is reminiscent of Lord Peter Wimsey, another apparently lighthearted detective with a galloping case of post traumatic stress disorder and an iron will toward revenge. The Buddhist motes scattered through the show make it that much more intriguing. Catch it quick before the writers' strike kills it!
  63. JosephG.
    Nov 15, 2007
    7
    It's.... good. Not as good as many think but good! I love the writing for the main character, but I despised the writing for the the rest of the characters as their reactions did not seem appropriate. the main character just felt out of place like he was placed in as an after thought.
  64. SteveA.
    Nov 15, 2007
    10
    This is one of the most intriguing and enjoyable shows I have seen in a long time. I love the plot, the characters and especially Damian Lewis. Since I saw him in "Band of Brothers" I have been waiting to see him in another movie or on TV. He doesn't disappoint. Terrific show!
  65. LindaH.
    Nov 14, 2007
    10
    This is a great show, lots of character development and depth to the characters. The lead actor, Damian Lewis, has fleshed out his character superbly--the character is sensitive to the weaknesses of others and gentle to those who need help, but ruthless to the criminals. We sense under his calm quirkyness, a depth of anger barely kept in check.
  66. monimoni
    Nov 13, 2007
    10
    this is my favorite tv show also pushing daisey.Some other show I just watch because their better than others but Life pushing daisey and ugly betty. Please keep life coming.
  67. WilliamT.
    Nov 12, 2007
    9
    I am surprised how many expert reviews jumped from 60 - 37. I wonder if they have followed the show since the pilot. No doubt, the pundants will have it canceled during the writer strike. I hope it stays for a while. I'd like to see how his story pans out.
  68. MelodyL.
    Nov 10, 2007
    10
    I love this show. It is my favorite new show for the season. Lewis and Shahi are incredible together and they both shine individually too. Adam Arkin is a great addition to any show. I just hope that NBC doesn't ax this before it gets off the ground.
  69. PatrickS
    Nov 9, 2007
    8
    Great show. One of the few new fall shows worth watching
  70. RogerW.
    Nov 8, 2007
    10
    Great show, as good as The Closer.
  71. HD.
    Nov 8, 2007
    10
    I love this show... it is nice to watch a cop show that is interesting without being a "CSI formula"
  72. Chrisd.
    Nov 3, 2007
    10
    One of the few shows I worried about watching. I have read bad reviews by the oh so important critics but I have never heard a real person say anything worse than its pretty good.
  73. TinaJ.
    Nov 2, 2007
    10
    This is one of the best shows on television in a long time. Damien Lewis and Sara Shahi are incredible.
  74. JenniferS.
    Nov 2, 2007
    10
    Love this show! It's smart and interesting!
  75. JayneK.
    Nov 2, 2007
    9
    Thoughtful, engaging show that asks a little from it's audience but pays back big. Quick becoming a slow-motion "Deadwood" reunion, even as it comes more and more into it's own. Leads are great, and supporting players are a colorful, diverse group. This show is a real gem and shouldn't be missed. Plus, it's helping me eat in a more healthy manner--whenever I eat fruit I think of the lead character!… Expand
  76. ClaudiaT.
    Nov 1, 2007
    10
    Love this show and wish NBC gave it more/better promotion. Lewis and Shahi are wonderful.
  77. AimeeM.
    Nov 1, 2007
    10
    Damian Lewis and Sarah Shahi are superb in this new drama on NBC. I highly recommend it!
  78. KristenH.
    Nov 1, 2007
    10
    EW called Life 'intelligent fun' and that nails it. For smart people with a sense of humor.
  79. DavidK.
    Nov 1, 2007
    10
    This is by far the best new show of the season. It has great humor, great characterizations, and the back story is an excellent added mystery. The two leads are both superb actors. Lewis constantly amazes. And the rest of the cast really bring added value to the show, Adma Arkin in particular. If you haven't seen it, you must check it out. It gets better and better.
  80. laurac.
    Nov 1, 2007
    10
    Life is a show about a cop but it is not a cop show. It's a story about a man who was wrongly convicted of a heinous crime, who is exonerated of the charges, and how he learns to live free again. There are fast cars, beautiful people, violence, and seductive music overlaying a core tension of deeply humane, mysterious, and funny characters solving crimes and seeking justice. This 60 minute drama starring Damian Lewis, Sarah Shahi, Robin Weigert, and of course the city of Los Angeles, is many things, but it is not a formulaic procedural cop show. Like House MD, given its strong writing, creative directing, and inspired acting, Life could turn a genre upside down,… Expand
  81. BigRichf.
    Nov 1, 2007
    10
    simply awesome
  82. Matt
    Nov 1, 2007
    9
    Best new show!
  83. CharlieG
    Nov 1, 2007
    10
    This is a great show because you think all the way through it. If you watch tv half asleep and expect it to satisfy you, look elsewhere.
  84. MaryA.
    Oct 30, 2007
    10
    I really love this show. Although there is a long running story line it also satisfies my 'give me a crime a solve it' attention span. I don't feel like I'm in a hurry for him to solve his own personal mystery of who framed him so no anxiety from having to wait for the next episode. The actor is so charming and attractive for a guy who is not really very good looking. It's just weird. I can't wait to see the next quirky thing that comes out of his mouth. I really like the dynamic with the partner who has her own demons. This is by far my favorite new show of the year that I will continue to watch.… Expand
  85. GeorgiaD.
    Oct 28, 2007
    10
    Please, keep this show going. It is the only program that I make time for. It is thougtful, funny, and of course, there IS Damien Lewis as the central figure.
  86. HobbesShadow
    Oct 28, 2007
    10
    Great show, and really love the acting and dialog. Quirky and fun.
  87. MaryR
    Oct 28, 2007
    10
    I absolutely love this show. Damian Lewis is fantastic. I like the whole premise and the players.
  88. JennieB
    Oct 27, 2007
    10
    I love this show! Please allow it the time it needs to capture loyal viewers. So many shows are yanked off the air too soon.
  89. PhilS.
    Oct 26, 2007
    9
    Interesting, quirky show. Good characters. GREAT music.
  90. JanetP.
    Oct 25, 2007
    10
    Life is a 10 out of 10. Damian Lewis is the best. The storyline intrigues. Even though there's a dark side to the series, there are plenty of light moments. Those of us who have watched each episode can only hope NBC will keep this show, advertise it more and maybe put it on the schedule at an earlier time (EST). Let's hope that the writers don't camp things up too much. Don't go Monk-weird on us. Crews is more complicated and more interesting than most quirky t.v. characters.… Expand
  91. GraemeS.
    Oct 25, 2007
    9
    First viewing last night. I'm certainly going to watch next week.
  92. NadiaK.
    Oct 24, 2007
    10
    I love this show, it's based on the 'power of now' perhaps a book or concept the protagonist has explored while he was in jail. The lead actor has depth without preachiness or vengefulness for his past predicament. Probably will have a slow growth of an audience but if people see it they will be hooked.
  93. MarisaV.
    Oct 20, 2007
    9
    Cute, funny I like it.
  94. RobertG.
    Oct 19, 2007
    9
    GREAT new show. The lead actor is excellent as a cop who's been changed by being locked up in jail for years and then freed and awarded millions of dollars in compensation once he's proven innocent. Both he and the actress who plays his partner have charisma to spare and the balance of humor and drama really works. Each show has gotten better as the viewer learns more about the injustice done to this cop and his mission to find out who really killed his partner.… Expand
  95. toml.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    not a fan of 'cop' shows but thought i'd give it a try because of lewis. this is not a cop show. like the cast. the dialog is very good, have to pay attention. i like paying attention. it's nice to have a thoughtful show to watch.
  96. GayleS.
    Oct 15, 2007
    10
    Charlie Crews stays with me each week. There are all kinds of levels they can explore. I love this show.
  97. JohnB.
    Oct 15, 2007
    9
    Great show! Definitely different approach to the cop show/police procedural.
  98. Ashp
    Oct 13, 2007
    9
    One of the best new shows of the season--both smart and fun! Damian Lewis is sensational in the lead role and I'm already caught up in the mystery of who framed his character.
  99. HollyS.
    Oct 13, 2007
    9
    Don't just make the easy comparison most of the critics seem to be making of Damian Lewis to Hugh Laurie - "Uh, he's British and uses a pretty meticulous American accent, and he's kinda out there... Hugh Laurie knock-off!" This series gives those who are inclined to think for themselves a fair amount to cogitate over. This is Prison Break if Prison Break weren't completely wrapped up in, well, breaking into and out of prison. Charlie Crews is not just pointlessly weird - he's a man broken physically and mentally in prison who put himself back together as best he could with a self-help book -- well, a philosophy book about Zen to be precise. Having used the great American justice system to put him back on his feet financially, and back on the force, he's still a long way from being, well, all back together. If this were a show about a cop who was, say, a war vet recovering from severe PTSD, I'm not sure "quirky" is the word people would reach for. The writing is admittedly slightly scattered. The first two episodes were straight procedurals with relatively little black humor, almost all of it focused on Charlie. The third episode kind of digressed plotwise and mood-wise, using supporting characters for somewhat inappropriate comic relief. Hopefully the writing team will refocus. Lewis' performances are truly outstanding, and enough really can't be said that if we have the chance to keep him on prime time American TV, we should try to. Sarah Shahi is doing the best possible with her character, although it is not as strong as Crews. The remaining supporting cast standouts are Arkin and Sexton who are both good at their role and their roles are good.… Expand
  100. anonymous,too
    Oct 12, 2007
    9
    Only new show this season that I watch. The nay-sayers are way off base. They can have the cloying whimsy of "Pushing Daisies" and be gone!
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Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
64 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 21 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 13 out of 21
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 21
  3. Negative: 4 out of 21
  1. Variety
    Reviewed by: Laura Fries
    80
    Crews quirky mannerisms don't overwhelm the plot, and the show does strikes a nice balance between whimsy and its much darker backstory.
    Read full review
  2. The Hollywood Reporter
    Reviewed by: Barry Garron
    80
    It's an entirely different vibe, further enhanced by a charismatic and quirky central character who is both unpredictable and impossible to pigeonhole. Given a chance to develop, Detective Charlie Crews could someday take a place with the likes of Kojak, Columbo and Monk.
    Read full review
  3. Chicago Tribune
    Reviewed by: Maureen Ryan
    60
    Mildly satisfying, but pretty formulaic.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »