The English (2022)

Clark calls the series magnificent, gripping entertainment, with only minor plot and dialogue quibbles. He especially praises Chaske Spencer’s riveting lead performance and the show’s striking cinematography.

The critic calls the series a thrillingly fresh, ambitious Western and praises Emily Blunt’s performance. They also single out Hugo Blick’s operatic action sequences and vivid supporting characters.

The critic calls the series a gorgeous, glorious new take on the Old West. They praise its sweeping, revelatory vision of a lawless land.

Travers finds the series sharply written and largely entertaining, though its plot can become overcomplicated. He praises the performances and the striking mix of graceful visuals, romance, and violence.

Fienberg finds the series ambitious and worthwhile despite a convoluted, sloppy middle that keeps it from becoming truly special. He praises the striking cinematography and the performances and chemistry of Emily Blunt and Chaske Spencer.

The review finds the series visually gorgeous but let down by convoluted plotting and slow pacing. It praises Emily Blunt’s immersive performance, while also highlighting Chaske Spencer’s quietly moving work.

Framke finds the series frustrating, with its many plotlines obscuring a compelling central story. She praises Blunt and Spencer’s chemistry and performances, but faults the sprawling supporting plots for disrupting the show’s rhythm.

Lovitt finds the series compelling and moving, praising its humanity amid the brutality of the frontier. She singles out Federico Jusid’s sublime score, especially its use of Mazzy Star’s “Fade Into You.”

Ryan finds the series compelling and powerful despite occasional confusion from its complex narrative. She praises the performances, especially Emily Blunt and Chaske Spencer, along with the dialogue and gorgeous cinematography.

Worthington finds the miniseries flawed but bold, thrilling, and ultimately hard to look away from. He especially praises Chaske Spencer’s performance, alongside the show’s score and striking visual style.

Ryan finds the series intriguing but ultimately disappointing, with its writing and story unable to deliver on its promise. He praises the striking western vistas and Toby Jones’s standout performance, while criticizing the characters’ lack of depth.