Rectify

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Season 1
Season #: 1, 2, 3, 4
User Score
8.9

Universal acclaim- based on 408 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 373 out of 408
  2. Mixed: 21 out of 408
  3. Negative: 14 out of 408

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User Reviews

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  1. jeremyp
    Jul 14, 2013
    10
    The first 4 episodes had me mesmerized. It's deep, thought provoking, intelligent and brilliant. It deliberately goes away from where most other American series would go. So far it's not about "who did it?" but "what prison can do to you if you're already different." It reminds me of "Rip Van Winkle" and "The Idiot" and "Temple Grandin" all wrapped together in a cornucopia of taut littleThe first 4 episodes had me mesmerized. It's deep, thought provoking, intelligent and brilliant. It deliberately goes away from where most other American series would go. So far it's not about "who did it?" but "what prison can do to you if you're already different." It reminds me of "Rip Van Winkle" and "The Idiot" and "Temple Grandin" all wrapped together in a cornucopia of taut little scenes that all give up profound perceptions. Yet it manages to keep it's feet on the ground by having none of the characters one dimensional (except so far the Senator) and it keeps many of them uneasy to read, so that curiosity builds to see which way things will play out. And it's American!!… Expand
  2. pfcWintergreen
    May 3, 2013
    10
    Rectify is like one of those wonderful pieces of art that is arresting with its beauty, but filled with enough heart and depth that you'll find yourself staring inward as well.
  3. 9emeDane
    Apr 26, 2013
    10
    Just finished all 6 episodes from iTunes. Mind blowing. You can hardly summarize a main plot yet this show goes rather deep in humanity, self-awareness and religion. Especially in episode 5, one might find it mystifying but the emotional expression was so strong that my heart beat as if I was Holden. Everything is dealt carefully in sync with Holden's cognition. Great writing, greatJust finished all 6 episodes from iTunes. Mind blowing. You can hardly summarize a main plot yet this show goes rather deep in humanity, self-awareness and religion. Especially in episode 5, one might find it mystifying but the emotional expression was so strong that my heart beat as if I was Holden. Everything is dealt carefully in sync with Holden's cognition. Great writing, great shooting and excellent acting. I believe they slow down the pace on purpose.… Expand
  4. shellview
    Apr 28, 2013
    10
    "Rectify" is as close to perfection as a TV program can be. Writing, directing, acting and even soundtrack are exceptional. A story of a man, brilliantly played by Aden Young, who is reborn into world he no longer knows and a family who no longer knows him. As I watched the dynamics of the relationships develop I felt the dread of what was seething from without. Too bad Directv doesn't"Rectify" is as close to perfection as a TV program can be. Writing, directing, acting and even soundtrack are exceptional. A story of a man, brilliantly played by Aden Young, who is reborn into world he no longer knows and a family who no longer knows him. As I watched the dynamics of the relationships develop I felt the dread of what was seething from without. Too bad Directv doesn't show Sundance in HD or I would have given "Rectify" an eleven.… Expand
  5. TheVegan
    May 4, 2013
    10
    I have watched only one episode and I am already hooked. This is exactly the type of show I love. One that has a very compelling story with deep history of the characters that will be revealed as time passes. I was engrossed and moved. What more can anyone ask for........
  6. Jollybuzz
    Aug 30, 2014
    10
    Sundance TV brings us another amazing show in Rectify, currently airing its second season. The show was created by Ray McKinnon (Sons of Anarchy) and stars Aden Young (Daniel), Abigail Spencer (Amantha), J. Smith Cameron (Janet), Clayne Crawford (Teddy), Adelaide Clemens (Tawney), J.D. Evermore (Sheriff Carl Daggett), and Luke Kirby (Jon).
    The drama takes place in the fictional small    Sundance TV brings us another amazing show in Rectify, currently airing its second season. The show was created by Ray McKinnon (Sons of Anarchy) and stars Aden Young (Daniel), Abigail Spencer (Amantha), J. Smith Cameron (Janet), Clayne Crawford (Teddy), Adelaide Clemens (Tawney), J.D. Evermore (Sheriff Carl Daggett), and Luke Kirby (Jon).
    The drama takes place in the fictional small town of Paulie, Georgia (filmed in Griffin, Georgia just south of Atlanta). When the series begins, we see Daniel as he is released from death row. In one of the first scenes, he can see a new inmate having to endure a strip search not unlike the many he has likely endured during the last 19 years. When one of the guards approaches him and asks if he'd like something to drink, he seems stunned and confused at the sudden respect he is shown now that he is no longer an inmate. This is the first of many strange experiences that lay in store for Daniel as he ventures back out into a world that no longer resembles the one he had known when he was locked up as a teenager.
    Daniel is a complex character, played to perfection by Aden Young, an Australian actor by way of Canada. Daniel is quiet and moves very slowly and deliberately. He has not known time in the traditional sense that the rest of us know it. He has not been able to experience the passing of a day by looking the the sunrise or sunset. He does not know the seasons of the year, having been locked in a windowless cell for 19 years. He has only had his books and his neighbor, Kerwin, for company. He is able to talk with Kerwin through the air conditioning grate in the wall and occasionally see him as he is taken out of his cell. At first, it is unclear whether Daniel is a little slow, possibly mentally challenged in some way. But soon enough, we realize that he is a man of tremendous intellect and inner strength. In fact, we see him handle most situations with a deliberate, studied approach. Even his manner of speaking suggests that he is quietly considering each decision the day brings in that he doesn't use contractions but speaks each word fully and with purpose. There are times when you think you know him. His face stirs such emotion in the viewer that you want to take care of him, much like the members of his family and those few friends who still remember him from before his incarceration. But around every corner, we meet a different side to Daniel and find that he is a man not easily figured out.
    The other players in this drama are experiencing their own private drama. His sister, Amantha, has stood by her brother over the past 19 years, working tirelessly to clear his name and have him released from prison. In the process, she has put her own life on hold. Although she lives in Atlanta at the beginning of the series, she soon moves back to Paulie to be near her beloved Daniel. Amantha is not a delicate southern flower. She is tough and hardened. The only times we see her soften are when she is with her brother or the young handsome lawyer from Atlanta that is responsible for Daniel's release from Death Row. Abigail Spencer is mesmerizing as Amantha.
    The young lawyer, Jon, is played by Luke Kirby (Take This Waltz). In some ways, he's supposed to be the typical big-city, Jewish lawyer. But Kirby is understated in his portrayal. We soon realize that this case has become personal for him. He is struggling with the truth of the case. What was Daniel's role in the death of Hanna? And he is struggling with his palpable attraction to Amantha. Both of them realize the inappropriate nature of the relationship, but neither can stay away from the other. The chemistry between Luke Kirby and Abigail Spencer is electric on the screen.
    Daniel's mother, Janet, is another interesting character. While she is a southern woman who is quite soft and refined, she is also quite strong and assertive when it is called upon. She is quite educated and shares Daniel's love of good literature. It is quite clear that the two have a special relationship. They understand one another. They "get" one another in a way that Mothers and Sons don't often experience. I love their scenes together.
    My favorite couple, and the one that perplexes me the most, would be Tawney and Teddy. Tawney is played quite believably by the Australian actress Adelaide Clemens. Believe me, as a Southern girl myself, I have a high standard for nonSoutherners playing us, and she nails it. She is sweet, demure, and a devoted Christian in the truest sense of the world. There is a goodness in Tawney that I would hate to see shattered by the ugliness and evil in this world. But I fear that her faith in the goodness of others might be in jeopardy.
    Her husband, Teddy, on the other hand, has a more jaded, cynical view of the world. His father is married to Daniel's mother making Daniel his stepbrother. He is not so quick to welcome Daniel back into the fold. (see the rest of my review at www.jollybuzz.org).    … Expand
  7. TheZeroPercent
    Apr 5, 2017
    10
    I tried this one out on Netflix not long ago(April 2017), I couldn't stop watching, total binge fest. I give this show a 9 or 10/10 simply because of how I can't stop watching.
    Also, this one was ended well. So you can watch then whole series in 4 seasons, and it is all onNetflix.
  8. LawlietJayson
    May 8, 2013
    10
    A stunning achievement in just about every imaginable way, Rectify truly takes television beyond what it was meant for. It's deliberately slow paced and I mean this in such a good way. As a personal preference, I don't like slow paced tv shows unless the dialogue is interesting enough to grab me(ex. Deadwood, Justified). Interestingly enough, Rectify chooses its moments very carefully. InA stunning achievement in just about every imaginable way, Rectify truly takes television beyond what it was meant for. It's deliberately slow paced and I mean this in such a good way. As a personal preference, I don't like slow paced tv shows unless the dialogue is interesting enough to grab me(ex. Deadwood, Justified). Interestingly enough, Rectify chooses its moments very carefully. In episode 2 for example, there's two scenes where the main character, Daniel, describes two very different experiences in wildly different ways. What makes these moments hit even harder is that Daniel rarely talks compared to the rest of the characters. So when he does talk, you listen. And you listen carefully. What hides behind this man's mask is a deep, thoughtful, and wise mind. But also a broken and hurt one as well. I've never heard of Aden Young before this show, but his performance might well be the best I've ever seen on television.

    A lot of people won't like this show and only really for one reason. It's slow. Really slow. But this show isn't afraid of doing it this way. Because Daniel is seeing the world slowly. He's taking in everything at a methodical pace. This sets the pace for the show and allows the audience to travel with him. It lets us sit back and experience these things for the first time as well. The beautiful sunsets, the sunny days where you just want to sit on the grass and feel the wind on your face, and other simple things that seem normal to us every day. The directing and cinematography help all of this along. Everything that we as people would normally not even glance at seem more beautiful in retrospect.

    The acting is top notch. No character is out of place or without purpose. Abigail Spencer and Adelaide Clemens especially give terrific performances. The former plays Daniel's sister who fought for his innocence all her life and now that she succeeded, doesn't quite know how to fill the void of fighting for Daniel with Daniel himself. She doesn't understand him, as most of the characters here don't. She doesn't even know how to try to understand him. Spencer is very convincing as this kind of character. Clemens thrives off her scenes with Young. Playing his sister in law and a well meaning religious woman, her scenes with Young hold some of the more interesting and thoughtful conversations in the entire show. Desperate to understand him and to connect, despite her husband's objections, she finds Daniel a testament to her beliefs as his deep mind convinces her so.

    The show doesn't quite delve into the rape and murder of Daniel's high school sweetheart, deciding to focus more on Daniel's attempt at integrating back into normal life after missing almost 20 years of social progress. This makes Daniel's innocence questionable in a lot of ways as the show doesn't spell it out. He could in fact be guilty. Which would make the sympathy you feel for him all that more remarkable.

    Rectify is a haunting, beautiful, serene, and heartbreaking show. While it certainly does feel complete in these six episodes, even with the disturbing open ending, it has recently been renewed for a second season, a further reason to watch this show as you can look forward to it delving deeper into Daniel's psyche and possibly the crimes he supposedly committed. Watch it. It's a must see.    … Expand
  9. jimmyj
    Apr 27, 2013
    10
    Somehow I've found myself six episodes in and this sucker is really heating up. From premise to development, this show is captivating and intelligent. Not just a study of small town revenge and hate but a much more broad peek into what we all fear most; ourselves when confronted by something new and uncertain. This show is going to be great.
  10. 37oth
    Apr 26, 2013
    10
    This show is really good. The acting is great and the plot is a little slow but incredibly well-written.
    This is one of the best shows this year and I would highly recommend it to everyone.
    It's everything I have expected from such an amazing writers and producers.
  11. SamB
    Apr 30, 2013
    10
    Simply wonderful. Brilliantly crafted characters with realistic flaws, beautifully shot and masterfully acted. Rectifty might be the best new show this year.
  12. winniecm
    Apr 30, 2013
    10
    This is a mesmerizing and engrossing story that captured me right from the first episode. It raises all kinds of questions and thoughts about someone missing 20 years on the outside. Very thought provoking; we need more of this kind of programming. Have seen 3 can't wait for the next 3. Bravo to the writers, producers, directors and fine cast.
  13. Venusian
    May 5, 2013
    10
    Brilliant in the acting, writing and directing. This show is meant to be savored and pondered and experienced in a way that teaches us the nature of being vulnerable, fragile and broken by an experience, The main character does this in such a touching and moving way that you are left wanting to be witness to his changes, thoughts, movements etc. His humanity his pain is so right palpableBrilliant in the acting, writing and directing. This show is meant to be savored and pondered and experienced in a way that teaches us the nature of being vulnerable, fragile and broken by an experience, The main character does this in such a touching and moving way that you are left wanting to be witness to his changes, thoughts, movements etc. His humanity his pain is so right palpable that you want to actually witness his journey his evolution his liberation despite the obvious feelings of being alone, angry and deeply wounded by his time in jail. Just a beautifully executed show.… Expand
  14. PinBB
    May 11, 2013
    10
    While Sundance Festival may discover fragile intelligent independent movies, it also sometimes expose badly filmed,casted and written cheap ones. So I was curious to see what Mr Redford channel would offer for its first series. The first scene gave me an early hint,it is magnificent, this man in the check out room, in between the world he knows, obscure and the frightening sunny worldWhile Sundance Festival may discover fragile intelligent independent movies, it also sometimes expose badly filmed,casted and written cheap ones. So I was curious to see what Mr Redford channel would offer for its first series. The first scene gave me an early hint,it is magnificent, this man in the check out room, in between the world he knows, obscure and the frightening sunny world outside, limited dialog. This series will be cinematic, base on directing more than scenario a good one though). This is not a judiciary story but the story of a man, mysterious, profoundly changed by its jailed time, who was still teenage when the movie of its life took a brutal stop. It add to the subtlety to ignore whether he did it or not and his silence about it. The dysfunctional recomposed family is source of lot of deep moment. Few examples When Ted junior asks his wife to get naked, the humiliation he impose her, like an object. Then, when he is about to leave for a seminar, she turn on the hairdryer and next image, we see what we guess, her hair are already dry,she just doesn't want to listen to him. Ted, the villain so far, manipulative with his stepmother but way too idiot to manipulate Daniel (golf scene). I stop here,so many great moments in this show. The atmosphere,idiosyncratic a bit remind me of the cult Twin Peaks, the country people, closed community who buries their secrets. The quality of the dialog remind me of Six feet under. This is really the type of series I love and so far, along with House of cards, my favorite this season… Expand
  15. ben198
    May 11, 2013
    10
    This series has the quality and intensely personal nature as "The Killing" and "Breaking Bad", but so far, without the violence.

    It's incredibly well acted and gives us some time to know the characters, which is something I truly appreciate. It might not be action-packed enough for some viewers, but if you enjoy observing what each character is experiencing and reading between the lines    This series has the quality and intensely personal nature as "The Killing" and "Breaking Bad", but so far, without the violence.

    It's incredibly well acted and gives us some time to know the characters, which is something I truly appreciate. It might not be action-packed enough for some viewers, but if you enjoy observing what each character is experiencing and reading between the lines a little, you'll quickly warm up to the unique premise of this series.

    Personally, I already feel very attached to the lead character and am feeling tremendous empathy for him. In my view, without emotional attachment to the characters, there is no show!

    I am greatly looking forward to this mystery unraveling and I find myself wondering, exactly how will JUSTICE be rectified...

    ....and who will rectify it???    … Expand
  16. delorisholcomb
    May 20, 2013
    10
    Best new show that I have seen in a long time. Shows that mistakes were made 20 years ago and that the town still believes that Daniel is guilty if only in their own mind. Same as the West Memphis 3.They were all wronged.
  17. mellissax
    May 21, 2013
    10
    Thought provokingly well written, the show grabs your attention from the very beginning and doesn't let go. The direction is extremely well done, providing a variety of visually stunning and emotionally shattering scenes. The characters are believable and it's incredibly well acted. It is the type of show that spends time flushing out each of its characters, something I truly appreciateThought provokingly well written, the show grabs your attention from the very beginning and doesn't let go. The direction is extremely well done, providing a variety of visually stunning and emotionally shattering scenes. The characters are believable and it's incredibly well acted. It is the type of show that spends time flushing out each of its characters, something I truly appreciate and find missing in television vs movies. I especially love Daniel(Aden Young) and Amantha(Abigail Spencer), as well as Mom/Janet(Jean Smith-Cameron) who provides the perfect matriarch in subtler tones holding up the family.

    Rectify is the number one Best new television show.    … Expand
  18. jemgurney
    Jun 20, 2013
    10
    Can't praise it enough. Exquisitely shot. Exceptionally written and Aden Young is just extraordinary. Best series I have seen. Hands down. Rectify for the WIN!
  19. a-L-e88
    Jun 30, 2013
    10
    A beatiful picture of a man who doens't belong anymore to this world. Photography as its finest, fine cast, plot well written and a (kinda) slow pace that just fit perfectly for this show. Can't wait for season two
  20. kylietucker
    Jul 2, 2013
    10
    The casting choice and the acting being drawn from all of the actors in this show has been nothing but wondrous. Rarely have I ever been drawn, with such rapture, to the edge of my seat with the energy and slow building intensity of each and every episode.
    To the two tracks which the story is following that stand out for me is the deep insight into Daniel's life on death row, which has    The casting choice and the acting being drawn from all of the actors in this show has been nothing but wondrous. Rarely have I ever been drawn, with such rapture, to the edge of my seat with the energy and slow building intensity of each and every episode.
    To the two tracks which the story is following that stand out for me is the deep insight into Daniel's life on death row, which has been both harrowing, and curious to watch unfold, and then that of his half brother, who is now, the age Daniel was when he was convicted and sent to prison. It brings the reality of just how young he was when he and his family's life changed so dramatically, and then how that would shape the mind of a young 18 year old over the next 20 years. Throw in the possibility of his innocence, and the rift within family and township as to his guilt, creates a well directed, produced and skilled performance by all involved in this shows making. Definitely a show of which the next season shall be eagerly awaited.    … Expand
  21. minu0377
    Feb 16, 2014
    10
    This is one of the best shows of 2013. Great acting and the story is just perfect. This is just a gem and can stand out for great acting, great directing and a great script. It is quite interesting to see the inability to communicate of all the characters and at the same time the difficulty to realise what the actual problem is. In many ways, this show can be considered original and provoking.
  22. 1stTimeCriticUk
    Feb 17, 2014
    10
    Just as Daniel Holden declares one of his experiences during the series, Rectify is simply ''fantastical''. The plot movement is slow and it's scenes perhaps even monotone at times especially in Aden Young's depiction of Daniel, whilst these would typically be negative elements in a series instead they are complements, such is the brilliance of it's storytelling and in depth look into theJust as Daniel Holden declares one of his experiences during the series, Rectify is simply ''fantastical''. The plot movement is slow and it's scenes perhaps even monotone at times especially in Aden Young's depiction of Daniel, whilst these would typically be negative elements in a series instead they are complements, such is the brilliance of it's storytelling and in depth look into the characters personalities. You find yourself with plenty of food for thought throughout and more questions than answers, but that again is one of the beauties of it. The acting is solid from all the cast and Aden Young should be recognised for his gentle yet disturbing portrayal of Daniel Holden, an Emmy would not be undeserved. Fascinating story, superbly scripted with emotional outcomes. This is something different, somewhat meditative and most definitely fantastical.… Expand
  23. mestrecrazy
    Apr 20, 2014
    10
    Show that simple. It's powerful! A unique and different drama that does not show as Daniel seeking justice, and yes, wanting to readapt "spiritually" or "socially", and rightfully so the series is unique. She does not try to "preach" some kind of "message" to be condemned to death and etc. ...
  24. zouz123
    Oct 27, 2014
    10
    When i saw the first episode, i thought this would be a boring and cliche show. However, i was unexpectedly hooked, i'm in love with the characters, the plot and everything else. I found myself angry, annoyed, laughing, and on the verge of tears while watching each episode. What a show!!
  25. PoeticDumpling
    Jul 21, 2014
    10
    Masterpiece. That is all you need to know. If you loved Six Feet Under there is gold for you here yet by no means in a copycat fashion. Best show on TV in the best of the best ranks with True Detective.
  26. yoli28
    Jun 28, 2014
    10
    Aden Young along with the entire cast invite you in to the all too real world of our prejudices and shortcomings. Death, juxtaposed with life; hope battling with hope; fear duking it out with fearlessness; humanity wins here with all human flaws exposed. Do not overlook this show. If I had to describe the show in one word, the word is brilliant!!!! I would give this show a 10+ if itAden Young along with the entire cast invite you in to the all too real world of our prejudices and shortcomings. Death, juxtaposed with life; hope battling with hope; fear duking it out with fearlessness; humanity wins here with all human flaws exposed. Do not overlook this show. If I had to describe the show in one word, the word is brilliant!!!! I would give this show a 10+ if it were an option!… Expand
  27. FFT2014
    Aug 29, 2014
    10
    You may like or dislike this kind of drama, but it's very high level stuff. The plot advances in a way that is so consistently bound to the vulnerability of the lead character that it takes "caring about what happens" to the protagonist to a new level: It actually requires a kind of courage from the viewer to watch each following episode.
  28. lilshilo
    Aug 29, 2014
    10
    This show is an undiscovered gem of a show where the brilliant ensemble cast and the fantastic writing has kept me riveted and under it spell. the performances are strong and real and haunting. You will grow to care about these people and their town. The story weaves slowly, but do not let that turn you off as it is immensely satisfying.
  29. Lexi-ATL
    Sep 3, 2014
    10
    This show is astonishing, beautifully acted and directed. The lead has incredible talent, the viewer is torn between wanting to cry for him or wanting to shake him into animation, anger, something! The supporting cast is superb. If you are looking for an adrenaline pumped action show, this is not your show. If you are looking for depth, wonderful scenery, strange dreamlike scenes, thisThis show is astonishing, beautifully acted and directed. The lead has incredible talent, the viewer is torn between wanting to cry for him or wanting to shake him into animation, anger, something! The supporting cast is superb. If you are looking for an adrenaline pumped action show, this is not your show. If you are looking for depth, wonderful scenery, strange dreamlike scenes, this show is for you. Be patient, it takes about 10 minutes to pull you in and then you are hooked. Just watch the character, Daniel, watch his eyes convey pain, sadness, confusion, love, apprehension, all without saying a word. Terrific show.… Expand
  30. bgalbertazzi
    Dec 4, 2014
    10
    To those that say the show moves too slowly;
    don't compare this series to a one hour drama on TV.

    Rectify is for watchers that like complicated characters and intricate plots.
    Nothing that can be solved it an hour's program.
    This show received no promotion, I didn't know it existed until I saw it on the Netflix menu.
    I'm anxious to see the following season.

    .
  31. silverado
    Dec 22, 2014
    10
    Rectify is as glorious as was Breaking Bad. After watching 2 seasons words can not describe how great this show is. Im so pleased television nowadays still delivers, among mostly trash, a true piece of art. Rectify has a gripping family story about (un) justice in the US, that can happen to the average American citizen, in an average little town. Dark forces that ruin lives forever. TheRectify is as glorious as was Breaking Bad. After watching 2 seasons words can not describe how great this show is. Im so pleased television nowadays still delivers, among mostly trash, a true piece of art. Rectify has a gripping family story about (un) justice in the US, that can happen to the average American citizen, in an average little town. Dark forces that ruin lives forever. The cinematography is gorgeous, and the music, mostly alternative country, is absolutely lovely. The acting and directing is heartfelt. No overacting, but topnotch on spot acting. All of them nail in in every scene. I love the slow pace, the long and intense sensitive scenes.… Expand
  32. usry723
    Dec 16, 2014
    10
    Storytelling at its finest. Rectify plays like a great book more than a modern TV show. It will leave you wanting more after each episode. With no true villain or hero, this show is one big moral dilemma and a search for truth.
  33. wolfbride89
    May 11, 2015
    10
    This production has the tempo of a steadily building drumbeat - measured, mesmerizing, consuming. A multi-layered portrait of youth and youthful love (in all its wild, frightening, uncontrollable glory), of life on death row (and the psyche that's left alone with itself), and of a life scooped back up from where it stopped off, 20 years prior. At the center of it all is a man who bothThis production has the tempo of a steadily building drumbeat - measured, mesmerizing, consuming. A multi-layered portrait of youth and youthful love (in all its wild, frightening, uncontrollable glory), of life on death row (and the psyche that's left alone with itself), and of a life scooped back up from where it stopped off, 20 years prior. At the center of it all is a man who both feels everything and feels nothing; a man who is innately aware of the dichotomy between perception and reality. Set against the backdrop of a small town, and the production amounts to nothing less than an existential tour de force; a ripping away of the veil; an emergence from Plato's Cave.… Expand
  34. fartbreath2010
    Aug 15, 2015
    10
    Imaginative, great acting, addictive - all the things that network tv and the movie theatres cannot provide. We are in the golden age of TV, and this show is yet another example
  35. valeriepeltier
    Dec 19, 2016
    10
    The best so moving so deep and Daniel whispers --unforgettable--- the mama Teddy all the actors are fantastics.. Thank you so much to the writer the producer the whole team... that breath u take watching Rectify
  36. jas_d1
    Apr 27, 2013
    9
    Captivating, Suspenseful, Brilliantly Crafted and Wonderfully Acted. Very rare to come across such a quality show that moves at a nice pace and always keeps you interested. The mystery and the journey of the lead character is what is really engrossing.
  37. rickyjames
    May 13, 2013
    9
    After three episodes, I'm hooked and will be watching the series.

    So far it's not without its flaws. The ages of the various actors all seem a little young in comparison with the established timeline. The whole father-son dynamic that would otherwise be key in a story like this is ducked via a pre-story heart attack and a decent stepfather that is strictly a background prop. Most of    After three episodes, I'm hooked and will be watching the series.

    So far it's not without its flaws. The ages of the various actors all seem a little young in comparison with the established timeline. The whole father-son dynamic that would otherwise be key in a story like this is ducked via a pre-story heart attack and a decent stepfather that is strictly a background prop. Most of the male plot line directions and characters seem pat, stereotypical and expected, like the wicked stepbrother, the Jewish lawyer fish out of water, the bullying small-town sheriff or the sleazy Southern pol. The women in contrast all are a bit odd, with the vapid mother, driven non-conformist sister, repressed sister-in-law, the cheerful waitress who is in fact the dessert on her own menu.

    However, there is also a feeling of depth here that shows a great deal of thought and nuance on both the part of the writers and actors. This is a classic Southern Gothic story that revels in sunlight instead of shadows. The pacing is so languid that the show is a character study rather than a procedural. People are introduced almost as asides that will obviously come to be key players in unexpected and unanticipated ways as time goes on. As the end of the pilot shows, not all is as it seems and surprising, sudden pops can be expected.

    Most of all, the antihero lead is immediately sympathetic, interesting, and even mesmerizing. It is like watching a butterfly break free of its chrysalis. Seeing the overlooked mystery of our present through his eyes is worth admission alone. Following the unresolved mystery of his past with our eyes is worth staying for.    … Expand
  38. HiZenBrg
    Oct 9, 2013
    9
    With breaking bad and dexter over not to many shows to be excited about.. Rectify is on top of my list. Vary good vary beautiful show. It's slow moving but vary compelling Sucked me in Goat man episode hooked me to fanatic status I got high hopes for season 2. Don't know how long they can stretch premise but I will be glued to tv and find out. You will cry at least once watching thisWith breaking bad and dexter over not to many shows to be excited about.. Rectify is on top of my list. Vary good vary beautiful show. It's slow moving but vary compelling Sucked me in Goat man episode hooked me to fanatic status I got high hopes for season 2. Don't know how long they can stretch premise but I will be glued to tv and find out. You will cry at least once watching this show. Closest thing to compare it to drama and emotion wise is Six Feet Under … Collapse
  39. Pookster
    Jun 19, 2014
    9
    I'm late getting around to rating this, but was thinking about it because I'm eagerly anticipating the season 2 premiere on Monday. This was great TV, very unusual lately, a show truly driven by old-fashioned plot, characters, and emotional nuance, rather that monsters, spies, supercomputers, and CGI stunts.
  40. Geniasis
    Jan 12, 2018
    8
    It can be a little slow, but your patience will be rewarded by a deep story with complex and engaging characters.
  41. Waiurirpaul
    Feb 17, 2014
    8
    Amazing series, Aden young portrays Daniel exceptionally he opens the factor of human emotions, a real eye opener for a series. Sundance TV amazing job
  42. IanBald
    Apr 25, 2017
    8
    I've only seen the first season but I like the gloomy atmosphere. The story is told very slowly and calmly. On the other hand there are a number of very interesting loose ends, so you definitely wanna know how it will go on. Aden Young does a great job - his embodiment of a person between regained freedom and mental torment. I'll definitely stay tuned!
  43. Jhwarfield
    Sep 6, 2013
    7
    Rectify touches a nerve, as if an homage to Kafka. How does a man return to life away from prison after being released from death row? How does he move forward in a community that has labeled him guilty.
  44. SergioBv
    Dec 5, 2013
    7
    Cómo la web me pide un mínimo de 150 caracteres, y necesito hacer el review para poder tenerla archivada en mi perfil, pues suelto este rollo o o o y mi votación es de 7. Un saludo.
  45. DallasTVfeind
    May 1, 2013
    6
    While I am intrigued by the idea of this, and the social implications of wrongful imprisonment, I side somewhat with "Context" on the idea that this man, who was 18 when he entered prison, (I am 37, so I was right about where Daniel Holden was at 18) is so awestruck by the world surrounding him--like he is on another planet. However, I cut some slack because the first few days of freedomWhile I am intrigued by the idea of this, and the social implications of wrongful imprisonment, I side somewhat with "Context" on the idea that this man, who was 18 when he entered prison, (I am 37, so I was right about where Daniel Holden was at 18) is so awestruck by the world surrounding him--like he is on another planet. However, I cut some slack because the first few days of freedom from an isolated maximum-security prison would be a shock I can't relate to, and it does seem like the first few episodes have progressed only a matter of days, maybe 1 week at most. I have to hope that he will be a little less John Coffey-Green Mile "special" and a little more real. He's weird. At least people on the show have acknowledged that...maybe we will see more "weird" from his youth in subsequent flash-backs that will help us relate to the strange man we see today. I hope so, I am still drawn to it and want to see more episodes. I want this show and Sundance's first crack at original programming to succeed!… Expand
  46. EPMD
    Jun 25, 2016
    6
    It has good parts. The premise is interesting, and the characters are given time to display a reasonable mix of attributes and behaviour. One of the main issues for me is that the characters aren't particularly enjoyable. The lead character, in particular, can be rather infuriating. It's worth watching, I suppose, but I would never go out of my way to recommend this to anyone.
  47. tassojunior
    Apr 29, 2013
    5
    Incredibly good in parts, incredibly bad in others.

    Daniels intellectual speeches are tremendous. His stocism is even bearable. The shock of coming out of 19 years in solitary is done well However, the prison walls are spotless as are the linens and jumpsuits. The tired cliche of prison rape is used when ex-prisoners know that boredom, basically being locked in a bathroom for 19    Incredibly good in parts, incredibly bad in others.

    Daniels intellectual speeches are tremendous. His stocism is even bearable. The shock of coming out of 19 years in solitary is done well

    However, the prison walls are spotless as are the linens and jumpsuits. The tired cliche of prison rape is used when ex-prisoners know that boredom, basically being locked in a bathroom for 19 years, is the problem. Daniel jumps to re-embrace old cassette tapes and clothes when a real prisoner struggles to catch up with new things asap.    … Expand
  48. Raskolnikov1974
    Jan 13, 2018
    5
    I'm halfway through the second season, and I have to ask: How much more moping am I expected to endure? There's definitely good stuff here, especially in the lead actor's performance, but the relentless onslaught of scene after scene of awkward, uncomfortable dialogue between sulky people with pained expressions on their faces really takes a toll, especially when you're questioning whetherI'm halfway through the second season, and I have to ask: How much more moping am I expected to endure? There's definitely good stuff here, especially in the lead actor's performance, but the relentless onslaught of scene after scene of awkward, uncomfortable dialogue between sulky people with pained expressions on their faces really takes a toll, especially when you're questioning whether there's any point - or plot - to this show at all. It doesn't help much that there are so many annoying and unlikable supporting characters. I guess I'll finish out Season 2 and decide if all this punishment is still worth it.… Expand
  49. sprinkill
    Nov 12, 2017
    4
    This is a story that should've been told in a single season, but instead, they spread it across a whopping FOUR SEASONS. I watched all four seasons. I perused some of the other reviews, and it appears that most of the other reviewers jumped the gun and reviewed this POS after the first episode. Well, I was fortunate enough to watch the entire series, so you're in luck - I'm about to saveThis is a story that should've been told in a single season, but instead, they spread it across a whopping FOUR SEASONS. I watched all four seasons. I perused some of the other reviews, and it appears that most of the other reviewers jumped the gun and reviewed this POS after the first episode. Well, I was fortunate enough to watch the entire series, so you're in luck - I'm about to save you a lot of time.

    It's clear that the writers did not intend this show to last four seasons. I'm completely confident that the writers wrote, at most, three hours worth of material. At some point on the business end, however, someone or some entity instructed them to turn this into a four season saga. The writers had a very hard time with this...the foregoing statement is perhaps the biggest understatement of all time. The fourth season was the worst. I turned it into a video game of sorts. Specifically, I endeavored to edit the show myself. I'd already endured three seasons of meandering and irrelevant exposition. I'd Googled the show prior to viewing, and the intel produced thereto stated that the show was filmed from 2013 to 2016. I concluded that the show was only three seasons long. After season one, this was a MASSIVE relief. My heart sunk when season three ended and I saw that I had to suffer through another season of what was, candidly, the most incompetent film direction that I'd ever seen in my entire life.

    But I digress...during the fourth season, I fast forwarded through scenes that I deemed irrelevant to the main plot. The main plot being, of course, the murder of Hannah Dean. I likened it to a video game. I'd observe the characters and settings on the screen, and deduce that the scene was wholly irrelevant from the aforementioned main plot. Occassionally, I'd halt the fast-forwarding and randomly listen to some dialog. This proved to be extremely frustrating. To my astonishment, I'd almost always find that no one was talking. "WTF do you mean?," you're probably asking. I'm saying that these scenes contained either little or no dialogue. There'd literally be a five to ten minute scene where Daniel, or his sister, or his mother, would be meandering about a gazebo - or something - looking at a blue bird, or a cloud, or who the f*** cares?!

    You must be wondering why I watched (kinda) the entire series. I watched the series because I found the main plot captivating. I'm a lawyer in Georgia that works exclusively on murder cases, and I've handled many a case that was loosely akin to the one depicted on the show. I found the Law&Order/Investigation aspect of the show to be very interesting, which was why I labored to its conclusion. But I was disgusted that the writers/director thought it appropriate to waste my time with dozens of hours of irrelevant sub plots. If you watch this show - which I DON'T recommend - brace yourself for [30% protagonist and his buddies/friends experiencing the complications/social stigma of being connected to a man who more likely than not committed a murder] + [60% completely irrelevant development of uninteresting characters you care nothing about with boring lives] + [10% murder of Hannah Dean - the main plot of the show].
    .

    I have never in my life seen a piece of film directed with such outrageous incompetence. Save yourself some time and watch the first episode and then the last episode of the series - you'll bel able to deduce what happened in between.    … Expand
  50. Sisyphus
    May 22, 2013
    4
    You know that scene in ‘Shawshank Redemption’ when Andy Dufresne finally escapes from prison, he rips his shirt open and feels the rain on his face, Frank Darabont managed to convey in those 30 seconds what this show does in 6 episodes, and that was 19 years ago (the film i.e).
    Rectify is about a man rejoning society after 19 years of incarceration, he went to prison probably around the    You know that scene in ‘Shawshank Redemption’ when Andy Dufresne finally escapes from prison, he rips his shirt open and feels the rain on his face, Frank Darabont managed to convey in those 30 seconds what this show does in 6 episodes, and that was 19 years ago (the film i.e).
    Rectify is about a man rejoning society after 19 years of incarceration, he went to prison probably around the time Shawshank Redemption was released. I do believe our Hero saw this film because he obviously knows how to look like a man wrongfully incarcerated. Here’s what happens during the course of the first season. The male lead walks on grass, then walks bare foot on a patch of grass, views a Sunset and a Sunrise and has about 700 shots of sunlight falling on his face. Yes Mr.Director, point taken, Freedom is a beautiful thing. That’s it, it has got nothing else to say that hasn’t been said before and by more creative people.
    I believe there’s going be a Season 2. I’m expecting to see the wind blowing through the hair of our Hero and will be mighty disappointed if it’s not there. I’m kidding, no way I’m sitting through 5 more minutes of this.
    The acting is good, the writing is fine too, but here’s the thing, if the only emotion a show can manage to elicit from me is either boredom or indifference, it’s bad in my book.    … Expand
  51. CharlieBrown8
    May 11, 2013
    2
    Why do independent filmmakers always thinks the audience is super interested in watching the main characters for minutes in closeup, staring into the distance, doing nothing, and then have the audacity to pretend that this is telling us anything about the complex emotional state of the character?? The premise was enticing and had great promise, I was bored to death by this ordeal of aWhy do independent filmmakers always thinks the audience is super interested in watching the main characters for minutes in closeup, staring into the distance, doing nothing, and then have the audacity to pretend that this is telling us anything about the complex emotional state of the character?? The premise was enticing and had great promise, I was bored to death by this ordeal of a pilot with stereotypical figures and a director who replaces dialogue with music and expression with meaningless closeup glances.… Expand
  52. Mike_M
    Jun 29, 2013
    1
    I found the writing in this show to be so astonishingly bad that no amount of acting, camera, design or editing can save it. The conversations are just consistently entirely implausible, and not because this is weird and surreal. It just stinks.
  53. bcuk
    May 23, 2013
    1
    I am with Context and Charlie Brown. A tiresome look at one man's face. I watched the pilot and then skipped to the finale and didn't miss a thing. No season 2 would be fine with me. Also, people on this site give out 10's too easily.
  54. Context
    Apr 29, 2013
    0
    Guess I must be missing something based on the 9s and 10s showing up here. Me? I guess I was a little worn down by "Forrest Gump Leaves Prison." It's not that I'm unsympathetic to a man returning to society after two decades of what we are told is quite likely wrongful incarceration, but it was 20 years, not 200. Aden Young isn't "dazed and confused" as much as "dumb and dumber." MyGuess I must be missing something based on the 9s and 10s showing up here. Me? I guess I was a little worn down by "Forrest Gump Leaves Prison." It's not that I'm unsympathetic to a man returning to society after two decades of what we are told is quite likely wrongful incarceration, but it was 20 years, not 200. Aden Young isn't "dazed and confused" as much as "dumb and dumber." My goodness, he was imprisoned in the 1990s, not the 1890s. Things haven't changed that much. Heck, there were even large volume soft drinks back then, but the idea of a 32 oz. cup seems to have confounded him at one point.

    But let's get to the characters. Can we get more cliched? I don't think so. The vengeful D.A. cum "Foghorn Leghorn"-type state senator. The equally vengeful and "what's-he-hiding?" current sheriff. The Henry Fonda-esque former sheriff (I think) who is morally conflicted by the fact that science (DNA) says not guilty while most town leaders see the release as BS. Oh, then there's the randy waitress trysting with the state senator, the jealous step-brother, the sympathetic wife of the jealous step-brother (she, of course, is conflicted and finds the newly released "innocent" almost irresistibly sympathetic), the noble sister, the cold mother and, last but certainly not least, the yin/yang inmates conveniently available for contrasting flashbacks. One is a redneck who torments the lead character while the other is open to the idea of reading W. Sumerset Maugham's "Of Human Bondage." Puh-leeze. What a collection of cliches!!

    I'm waiting for the scene when the newly freed character stops to take in the true meaning of a summer's shower and spots a small bird ruffling its feathers in the rain. Ah, freedom!

    Ah, wake me when it's over.    … Expand

Awards & Rankings

15
#15 Best TV Season of 2013
23
#23 Most Discussed TV Season of 2013
18
#18 Most Shared TV Season of 2013

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
82

Universal acclaim - based on 28 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 25 out of 28
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 28
  3. Negative: 0 out of 28
  1. The Daily Beast
    Reviewed by: Jace Lacob
    May 30, 2013
    100
    It’s a breathtaking work of immense beauty and a thought-provoking meditation on the nature of crime and punishment, of identity and solitude, of guilt and absolution. It is, quite simply, the best new show of 2013.
    Read full review
  2. People Weekly
    Reviewed by: Tom Gliatto
    May 3, 2013
    75
    [Rectify] feels damply airless--the tension might be ripped open at any moment by a thunderclap of revelation.... It's a disturbing, impressive performance [from Aden Young as Daniel]. [13 May 2013, p.49]
  3. Zap2it (Inside the Box)
    Reviewed by: Geoff Berkshire
    Apr 25, 2013
    90
    The good news is that this contemplative, utterly engrossing and frequently gorgeous character study achieves and then surpasses both of those goals [justify the network's foray into the field while living up to the Sundance brand] over the course of its initial six episode season.
    Read full review
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