Sanctuary: Season 1
  • Network: Syfy
  • Series Premiere Date: May 14, 2007
  • Season #: 1 , 2 , 3 , 4
Metascore
56 out of 100

Mixed or average reviews - based on 7 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1 out of 7
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 7
  3. Negative: 0 out of 7
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  1. New York Post
    Reviewed by: Linda Stasi
    63
    Given that, let me also say that virtual sets don't make up for virtual plots. Not that Sanctuary doesn't have its moments, and those moments might prove to be fast and furious after tonight's two-hour premiere when the show goes to a more manageable one-hour format.
  2. Chicago Tribune
    Reviewed by: Maureen Ryan
    60
    Sanctuary’s pace is a little on the stately side, and the show is competent if not particularly innovative sci-fi.
  3. Los Angeles Times
    Reviewed by: Mary McNamara
    60
    Much of it feels dreadfully slow, not so much moody as stretched for time....Things do pick up significantly with the arrival of Christopher Heyerdahl as John Druitt.
  4. Variety
    Reviewed by: Brian Lowry
    60
    The competent but uninspiring two-hour pilot doesn't deliver the kind of thrills destined to rock anyone else's world.
  5. The Hollywood Reporter
    Reviewed by: Ray Richmond
    60
    It takes on an early thrilling ride, only to inexplicably start coasting when we need it to shift to the next gear.
  6. The New York Times
    Reviewed by: Mike Hale
    50
    It’s not an embarrassment for the channel, but it doesn’t raise the stakes either.
  7. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
    Reviewed by: Rob Owen
    40
    The show isn't helped by a two-hour premiere that states and re-states its premise too many times.

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
6.4 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 45 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 20
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 20
  3. Negative: 8 out of 20
  1. ThommyH
    10
    Sanctuary is an incredible series. Thrilling, well-crafted and carried out by talented actors, I greatly enjoy the Sanctuary series. Amanda Tapping plays a convincing Helen Magnus, and manages break out of her Sam Carter SG-1 role successfully. Sanctuary is less geared towards heavy gunfights and explosions that drew in characters for Stargate, I personally think thats why it has less appeal for those hoping for another SG military-based story. While the writing could use some expansion and the storyline could do with a bit of work, Sanctuary is an addictive series if you can get into it. It does seem to be a case of, 'you'll either love it or hate it.' Frankly, I find Sanctuary to be highly enjoyable and the acting is grossly undervalued. To those who accuse Amanda Tappings accent of being poor or inaccurate, I'd like to point out that there is no universal British accent. There is a miasma of different dialects across the UK, and, having lived in Central London all my life, I can say with full confidence that Amanda Tappings' accent wouldn't be even slightly out of place here. However, to address those who believe otherwise, it makes sense that Helen Magnus' accent would be slightly off, the character having been based in America. Regardless, I still maintain that her accent is perfectly fine. To me, Sanctuary is one of the most underrated shows on television. Its innovative special effects and the amazing cast makes up for the lacklustre story which I admit could use some work. However, I'd even go so far as to say that the inspiring components surrounding the storyline makes its rather glaring pitfalls less noticable. I strongly recommend Sanctuary to anyone, very impressed by Ryan Robbins, Amanda Tapping and Agam Darshi especially.… Full Review »
  2. jocmckin
    9
    So I admit that this show may not be Golden Globe worthy, there are flaws in design, direction, and acting. But as for entertainment value, what I base my opinion on, it is one of my favorite shows. It's funny and crazy, and full of fun historical fiction. Plus, I like that I can watch it with my mom and not be embarrassed about Syfy.… Full Review »
  3. DerekD
    0
    Special effects, Im sorry effects because my son could do better on the PC or Mac. Come on, I just watched avatar and thats special. I know they dont have a fraction of that budget but how old is Jurassic Park surely tv must be up to that level or close by know. Another thing whats with the over use of cute characters even the monsters are trying to be cute, look at sci fi succsess stories they are dark with truely evil characters. This show is supposed to be about non humans with destructive and amazing abilities and the best they can come up with is men with cartoon wings and lizard men!!! I can buy better costumes at the local shop. Overall Cr*p… Full Review »
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