Critics’ reviews

Abbott Elementary (2021)

9 reviews from 9 publications. Critics’ score 85: 9 positive, 0 mixed, 0 negative.

Back to our review of Abbott Elementary

85
Positive
9
Mixed
0
Negative
0
IndieWire
4 January 2022 · Kristen Lopez
90*

The critic calls the series a new comedic obsession with a sharp, funny cast that has already developed strong chemistry. It highlights the mockumentary style and Quinta Brunson's writing as standout elements for a network sitcom.

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The Guardian
1 June 2022
90*

The critic praises the rapid-fire gags, immaculate timing, and note-perfect acting in this mockumentary sitcom about an underfunded Philadelphia school. It highlights the show's charm, community feel, and truthful take on teachers' challenges without being smug.

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The i Paper
1 March 2023 · Emily Baker
90*

The critic finds the mockumentary sitcom joyful, heartwarming and compassionate, praising its light touch on political themes like racial inequality and the American school system while highlighting its substance and appeal as 'nicecore' entertainment.

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The Telegraph
1 March 2023
90*

The review calls the series a gift and gem of family viewing that retains an edge, praising its warm-hearted critique of the US public school system and the cast of teachers trying their best.

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Vulture
19 January 2022 · TV and film writer (likely Kathryn VanArendonk)
85*

The critic highlights how the series authentically portrays the frustrations and dedication of teachers in an underfunded Philadelphia public school, using mockumentary style and sharp workplace comedy. It singles out the timely focus on teachers being seen and appreciated amid real-world stresses.

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The Hollywood Reporter
7 December 2021 · Angie Han
80*

The critic sees strong potential for it to become the next great network sitcom, praising its laugh-out-loud moments, winning cast, and balance of optimism with realism about systemic underfunding. It delivers a consistent good time while addressing class issues head-on.

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Variety
7 December 2021 · Caroline Framke
70*

The critic finds the series a strong and promising start that feels fully formed from the outset, with sharply drawn characters and an effective workplace comedy approach. It succeeds in mining light comedy from the sobering realities of underfunded public schools and dedicated teachers.

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Collider
20 September 2022 · A- · Chase Hutchinson
90

The review finds the Emmy-winning series funnier than ever in season 2, commending its balance of sincere optimism with biting humor about the education system.

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/Film
1 February 2022 · BJ Colangelo
85*

The piece praises the series as hilarious and addictive from its early episodes, highlighting its sharp take on underfunded schools and relatable characters in a mockumentary style.

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Ordered by the weight we give each publication, then by score. Scores are normalised to 100; * means inferred from an unrated review. Summaries are ours, not quotations; follow the links for the reviews themselves. How we rate