• Network: Netflix
  • Series Premiere Date: Feb 6, 2012
  • Season #: 1
Lilyhammer Image
Metascore

Generally favorable reviews - based on 5 Critics What's this?

User Score

Generally favorable reviews- based on 25 Ratings

  • Summary: Streamed exclusively on Netflix, the Norwegian black comedy series is about a New York mobster (Steven Van Zandt) who moves to Lillehammer, Norway, under the witness protection program.
  • Genre(s): Drama
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 5
  2. Negative: 0 out of 5
  1. Reviewed by: Ellen Gray
    Feb 8, 2012
    70
    I wouldn't say Lilyhammer is worth signing up for Netflix to see, but if you're already paying for it and you like Van Zandt--and Norwegian knits--it's certainly worth a look.
  2. Reviewed by: Robert Lloyd
    Feb 8, 2012
    70
    The Norwegians are the foreigners here, and Norway the foreign land. But that remoteness is part of the show's appeal.
  3. Reviewed by: Ken Tucker
    Feb 13, 2012
    67
    Lilyhammer splits the difference between lightness and the dark. [17 Feb 2012, p.63]
  4. Reviewed by: Tim Goodman
    Feb 8, 2012
    60
    Lilyhammer is an odd little series with potential.

See all 5 Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 10 out of 12
  2. Negative: 1 out of 12
  1. For the most watched show on TV in Norwegian history, Lilyhammer has terrific writing and a gorgeous cast which is pleasantly Juxtaposed by Van Zandts mafioso character. I really enjoyed the fresh idea and hope to see more great original entertainment from netflix in the future. Expand
  2. Without repeating what others may have already stated - This is a refreshingly new series that dares to take a step beyond the predictably ordinary. And it is set in a completely different location than what is typically ordinary. Character development is excellent with new and interesting faces. Netflix deserves recognition for giving something new a try. Its working!! I can't wait for season 2. Expand
  3. This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I love all the quirky Norwegian characters. They seem passive and laid back on the surface, but there is lots of hostility and aggression underneath. And such slavish devotion to custom and conformity. An unusual culture there. I never watched the Sopranos, but Van Zandt seems convincing enough as a mafia stereotype, although his range is somewhat limited. I was disappointed to see a favorite character meet an early demise, and the season conclusion was quite a bit too pat for my liking, but I look forward to the second season. Expand
  4. OK, first the "pro's": Love the premise and the setting. Still like Steve Van Zandt. Love the quirky writing and a chance to get to know Norwegian culture a little (I know--like watching the Sopranos helps me get to know American culture!). Cons: So far--and I went to the trouble to watch the first six episodes--the message of the series is--1)Think only of yourself and what you want.. 2)Use violence and treachery to get it. 3) Everyone else is an idiot. 4)Teach your employees, business partners, and your girlfriend's naive son to believe and act on #1-3. I won't be watching the next season and if you haven't started watching, there are better ways to use your time. Not recommended. Expand

See all 12 User Reviews