Carnival Row (2019–2023) User Reviews

Probably the most immersive steampunk fantasy on the screen.

[lazerlash · 8/10 · 30 August 2019]

I don't know what the professional critics had against this series. The production values are fabulous, the world building is impressive, the acting is decent, the story is interesting.

Like Game Of Thrones, it's a fantasy series, grounded in reality. Although the scenario is more Steampunk. With violence, nudity, intrigue, blasphemies, etc.

At the heart of the series are serious topics such as refugees\migration. Perhaps critics didn't like the way this topic was handled. But as far as I'm concerned, I'm enjoying it. I give 8 stars out of 10.

Pretty Entertaining!

[Supermanfan-13 · 8/10 · 4 October 2021]

I didn't really know what to expect from Carnival Row but I gotta say that I was pleasantly surprised by how good it was. You can tell they spent a lot of money on this as the world they put together is really impressive! For any fans of fantasy this is a must watch and even if you're not into fantasy that much it's still a good watch!

Entertaining!

[Rob1331 · 8/10 · 10 March 2023]

Carnival Row was definitely a lot better than I was expecting. It takes place in a world where different mythological creatures all exist and live together though most don't get along. They also coexist to live with humans after humans invaded their homelands to take over. It follows a human detective named Rycraft "Philo" Philostrate (Orlando Bloom) and a refuge faerie named Vignette Stonemoss (Cara Delevingne) as they rekindle a dangerous affair among a society that doesn't not tolerate humans and creatures getting together. Philo investigates a series of dangerous murders while Vignette has a secret that endangers then both. I'm looking forward to the second and final season coming out in February.

A fully-realized world, and hopefully the beginning of many seasons

[scot-crisp · 9/10 · 31 August 2019]

If you are a fan of fantasy-drama, then stop reading this, and start watching this series. Need some reasons--where to begin? It has an important overall theme: race. The visuals and sounds are impeccable (e.g. sets, costumes, make-up, and filming locations like Prague). The performances are spot-on. Orlando Bloom gives his most mature, nuanced performance yet, and Cara Delevingne's exceptional portrayal of a fae (fairy) is alone reason to watch the series. Jared Harris raises every scene he is in, as always, and David Gyasi's is outstanding in perhaps the show's most complex role. The emotional writing creates a fully realized world. It is kind of like Pratchett's Discworld (without, unfortunately, the humor). Can't wait for Season 2.

Watch it. Ignore comments about politics...

[dpoland-76589 · 10/10 · 31 August 2019]

I hope they make a season 2. Thoroughly enjoyable fantasy with good amount of realism. Anyone trying to pin this as overtly political ignores that the themes in the show are common in history, not surprising to find in entertainment in general and not "propaganda." Great acting and great visuals! Enjoy and leave politics at the door, just for a minute...

Not everything works in the show. But when it does, it takes flight.

[robfollower · 8/10 · 30 August 2019]

The Amazon series is easier to follow even as it introduces initially-unconnected characters in multiple social classes. This gives "Carnival Row" plenty of areas to explore. It seems the time is right for audiences to become invested in this magical world, even if it's a far darker and nastier place than they might have otherwise imagined.

A show that should've had 4 seasons that was cut to 2

[gjbardsley · 9/10 · 4 March 2023]

Whilst there are many television series that are deserving of a second, third or fourth season. Carnival Row is one that has been cleared cut down in its prime. The 1st season set up this Magical Victorian style world. With allegories to imperialism, christianity, antisemitism, and so much more. Amazon Prime has seen fit to label season 2 as "The Final Season". As a way of saying they will not renew the program under any circumstances. Suffice to say, fans of the show have waited 3 years for a second series. And as one of them I think that it is a shame seeing how such care is taken in to the production quality of this program. Second only to Game of Thrones in world building/production design. It's painful to watch the second series as each episode is released. Because even though the creators know the show is not going to be renewed they still have put in massive effort to keep adding to this world.

Watching until the end is key

[laurenhuchingson · 7/10 · 31 August 2019]

I've been looking forward to this series for so long and have been reading all of the recent negative critic feedback. I decided to watch the first few episodes to see for myself and I hate to say it but there were large parts that are cringey, contrived, or just boring to watch. In my opinion, Jared Harris is miscast as Absalom - it didn't work for me at all. The specific comments about the lack of chemistry between Bloom and Delevigne are not over exaggerated initially. HOWEVER...you start to see the chemistry growing eventually, especially in the later episodes. I was really feeling it between them by the end. You start to realize that Philo is a "broken thing" and he's shutdown to a lot of the world which explains Blooms approach. Unfortunately things get started clunky and slow and many critics only watch the first few episodes. Outside of the two mains, there are other relationships that have easily guessed but fun storylines to watch, especially Imogen and Agreus. By episode 6 (which is definitely very late in the season) it felt like a lot of things were starting to click. GIVE THE SHOW A TRY! It's not the "new GOT" but it's a fun watch for what it is.

Cara Delevingne's character is so very annoying.

[BeeBopBooBodooBop · 8/10 · 18 March 2023]

So, i liked the first season and was quite looking forward to the second.

Sadly it has not lived up to the first season, and there is quite a convoluted mess going on. I feel that they have tried to cram two seasons into one or something. However, this is not to say that i found it unwatchable or a chore to get through. It's just that there are many moving parts in this tale, and if i let my mind wander for a few minutes then i was scratching my head as to what exactly was going on.

My biggest gripe by far with the second series is how absolutely annoying i found Cara D's character, Vignette. All she has done throughout the whole season is wander from person to person or group of persons, declaring undying loyalty to them, to their cause, to their undying love ( which she inevitably kicks to the curb sooner rather than later ). So we see Vignette flitting about, figuratively and literally over and over. At some point her characters self centred antics just bored me, and ruined the show for me. Maybe this is what the shows creators were trying to portray and if so then i guess they succeeded.

I gave a review of 8 for season one really, because i feel a quite believable and original world and story that left me wanting more.

If i could score season 2 also i would give it a 6. It wasn't so bad, if a little muddling and regardless of the writing and acting i really rate the production quality. Yes, this is worth a look.

Captivating Fantasy with Impressive World-Building and Standout Performances by Bloom and Delevingne, Though Some Slow Scenes with Supporting Roles.

[Hellooo1234321 · 1 April 2023]

Carnival Row is a captivating fantasy series that tells the story of a Victorian-inspired world where mythical creatures and humans coexist. The show's first season features strong performances by Orlando Bloom and Cara Delevingne, who bring depth and nuance to their characters. The world-building is impressive, creating an enchanting atmosphere that draws viewers in. The second season maintains the captivating world-building and performances, but some slow scenes involving supporting roles can hinder the overall pace of the show, leading to a rating of 7.5/10. Overall, "Carnival Row" is a worthwhile watch for fans of fantasy, mystery, and romance, with the first season receiving a solid 8/10 and the second season receiving a rating of 7.5/10.

From very good to NOT very good

[goyast · 6/10 · 23 March 2023]

Season one was quite good but the writing of the second season was just bad. So many nonsensical scenes made it seem like they switched writers on the fly. Manage to get your hands on a weapon to kill the big scary monster, no sense in using it, just scream at him. Tourmaline calls out Vini for always finding something new to be her focus just to leave Tourmaline in the lurch and Vini proves her right over and over. No problem, let's get married. Bad magic used over and over and in the end, let's just forget about it. No harm done. Just poor writing. Season 1 was a good 8 stars. Season 2 is about 4 stars and 3 of those are for scenery.

If the 'fantasy' genre is your thing...

[The_Un-Woke · 9/10 · 30 August 2019]

... then look no further than Carnival Row. With stunning sets and highly detailed makeup/prosthetics, this latest offering from Amazon Prime is the type of high quality show that will generate new subscribers and steer them towards the streaming service. This eight part feast for the eyes kept me interested throughout, and while it occasionally slowed down in the middle episodes it never felt padded out. Each episode felt like a cinematic experience thanks to the visuals and wide screen ratio.

One item that may be of concern to some, is the obvious political parallel to immigration that's being made in an effort to be "woke. " But rest assured that whatever side of the Isle you're on this is a minor issue that needn't ruin this entertaining experience for you.

A must for binge viewing!

Lost the plot in season 2!

[manas-bharadwaj · 6/10 · 3 April 2023]

Excellent first season followed by a horrible second season. What a shame! I wish that they would have quit after season 1 - we could have at least thought of this show a little fondly, with some regret & sadness at it not reaching its conclusion or realizing it's potential.

Dominant themes of second season were 1) how useless and morose/dejected can we make Orlando Bloom's character look, and 2) how blatantly stupid/'seconds away from her next stupidity' can Cara Delevingne's character be.

Disjointed script. Underutilized actors. Inconsistent character portrayals.

First season was a 9, the second was a 3 - averaged out to give a 6.

Absolute rubbish is season 2

[ggkykpbp · 1/10 · 17 March 2023]

Let me first say season 1 was really good and setup very high expectations for season 2. Unfortunately the writing was complete rubbish and the story made absolutely no sense.

Seems to be a story to do nothing more than blow smoke up Orlando Blooms arse and try and set him up for the center piece of another major movie.

The story is so convoluted you have no idea who the antagonists are. It swings back and forth from episode to episode and the one entity that was on the oppressed Fae side is killed by the Fae themselves. Makes absolutely no sense.

Watch season 2 only if you enjoy nonsense and a story that is convoluted.

A fantasy grounded in reality

[Tweekums · 9/10 · 1 September 2019]

This series is set in another world; as well as humans there are Faeries (faes), Fauns (pucks) and other fantasy creatures. The action is mostly set in a country known as The Burgue; it has a Dickensian look but there is also an element of steampunk.

As the story starts we learn that there was a war recently and many refugees are heading to The Burgue; where they are distinctly second class citizens. One such refugee is a fae named Vignette Stonemoss; after the ship she travelled on is wrecked she is forced to work for its owners, the Spurnroses... somewhere she doesn't stay long. Our other protagonist is Inspector Rycroft 'Philo' Philostrate, a policeman; at first he is investigating a series of murders where all the victims were fae. This may be solved early but he is soon investigating a more disturbing case. We also learn that he and Vignette had been involved during the war. The series shows us much of the society with a look at how the Spurnroses react to their new neighbour; a wealthy puck and political machinations between those who support refugee rights and others who would rather they were expelled.

Strangely I decided to watch this after hearing a fairly negative review on BBC Radio Five; the description made me feel that this could be a series that one is likely to really enjoy or really dislike... and the premise intrigued me. I'm glad I did choose to watch as the first episode quickly got be hooked. It does a great job of world building; the effects, both CGI and physical are top notch making it easy to suspend ones disbelief and accept this world with faeries and fauns. I liked how the fantasy elements were intertwined in a world of Dickensian squalor and upper middle class concerns that could have come out of Jane Austen. The story is told in an interesting way; there is a fine central mystery as well as the drama of the characters' lives. As the first series draws to a close key questions are answered only to have more surprises exposed as things are set up for the next season. The cast is impressive; Cara Delevingne is a delight as Vignette, a character as tough as she is beautiful; and Orlando Bloom is on fine form as Philo. Other notable performances come from David Gyasi, as Agreus Astrayon a wealthy puck; Tamzin Merchant, as Imogen Spurnrose the neighbour who is at first disapproving of him; Jared Harris as the Chancellor of The Burgue; and Indira Varda, as his wife; to mention just a few. The rest of the cast is good too. The politics may be a little too lacking in subtlety for some and others might be offended by the swearing, sex and nudity but if you aren't bothered by this and like the idea of a fantasy series for adult viewers then I'd certainly recommend trying this. Overall I really enjoyed this and look forward to the promised second season.

Very Well Done

[ghanima_atrieadies · 8/10 · 1 September 2019]

Ignore the political nitwits in an uproar. They did a great job with this show. Very in depth, great backstory, lore, acting, script. Orlando Bloom was amazing and Jared Harris is always great.

No spoilers here but don't let the politics stop you from watching this.

Romantic-Horror-Murder-Mystery-Fantasy-Steampunk Extravaganza!

[piersonac · 9/10 · 2 September 2019]

This is one of those shows that hooks you from the start and you just can't let go until you reach the end, craving more. Cara Delevine holds her own and is the blatant hammer to Orlando Bloom's quietly simmering tortured soul. Their chemistry is electric which makes their connection believable and rich in layers of regret, pining, and deep love. A lot of the twists were obvious, but I didn't care because the journey to the answers was just so damn cool. There is some heavy language, nudity, and violence, but it is not gratuitous and just adds the fudge topping to this unique take on a "what if" dimension. The make up work and CGI are almost flawless. The horns on the pucks looked so real and great care was taken to avoid the prosthetic "wobbling" that sometimes happens with such large head attachments, which a sci-fi nerd like me really appreciated. Give this one a go if you are into fantasy and murder mystery. It is a delicious marriage of the two.

Splendid

[northernpaladin · 8/10 · 5 August 2021]

This was absolutely splendid. I had no expectations when I started watching it and knew nothing about it, thinking it would be Ripper Street with a touch of fantasy. First couple of episodes I was still thinking that but soon after I was utterly hooked by the believable world building and strong acting from the leads especially Orlando Bloom who shakes free of the last remaining vestiges of Legolas and gives a commanding tragic performance. The Victorian steam punk vibe is excellently bought to life and the underlying story of a displaced people struggling against prejudice and violence in a dark and hostile capital is superbly done. Clearly there are metaphors in this depiction for our own times but they are not so heavy handed as to distract from the main murder investigation that has reflections of the Ripper hunt. The answer to the murder mystery is apparent to the audience some way before the actual denouement and if there is a criticism it would be the stretch on credulity that gets us to the end in a rather hurried and over played final episode. A minor criticism though in gem of a show and I hope we will see more.

Nostalgic nonsense

[tiborhanappi · 14 March 2023]

Let me start by admitting that I actually liked season one. It had an actual story that was centered around a detective, some murders and a love story.

Season two is quite different. There is no real story to speak of. Events follow linearly on each other without much of an overarching sense of narrative - it's really boring.

On top of the lack of narrative the political setup is really simplistic. There are some fascists with german-like outfits, communists speaking with a slavic accent and then there is a fairytale version of the british empire including some racism, a parliament and a replica of victorian-era London. Needless to say, the latter are the good guys - by virtue of comparison.

Just Okay

[arpal19 · 7/10 · 17 October 2019]

I was looking forward to this series. Carnival Row is just once watchable. Not a breathtaking, engaging storyline. The production values, visuals and world building are good. Acting is decent. I watched whole series thinking that at some point it will become engaging. One can really watch but nothing great to expect.

Leave politics at the door

[ChangoMutney · 9/10 · 31 August 2019]

Too many reviewers are unable to let go of the real world and enjoy a fantasy steampunk series.

Personally, thoroughly enjoying it so far, a much needed slice of steampunk, well executed. If they only could make Perdido Street Station, I'd die happy!

If it wasn't for the first two episodes, this series would've got a 9/10 from me

[orgrinrt · 7/10 · 2 October 2020]

I barely made it through the first two episodes. The setting and characters were just interesting enough to keep going but boy does it pick up when the 3rd episode hits the screen.

I'm not sure why the beginning of this season was planned to look and feel like this. There's a noticeable change in both pace and visuals from 3rd episode onwards. I guess it may be just the combination of all the things that feel better, but the acting and believability feel like they too are in a completely new level.

The plot was interesting from the beginning, but it too really builds up as the show goes on. All the minor resolutions as well as the major one feel satisfying enough. The big plot "twist" was probably hinted at a bit too much, I'm usually the one who doesn't get the mysteries in movies and shows until they make it clear, but here it was built up to be fairly obvious from the get-go. It didn't feel flat though, it felt satisfying even if it wasn't a big surprise in the end. That's no small feat in my books.

It's an enjoyable experience and the last moments of season one really make you hungry for season two.

Must Watch For Any Fan Of Fantasy

[kevinsullivan-79773 · 8/10 · 31 August 2019]

I am having so much fun with this series, It's Harry Potter for adults an absolute must watch. The performances are fantastic, The plot is solid. I have no clue why more people aren't talking about or watching this show.

Season 2 is a massive let down

[duncan_scott-18510 · 6/10 · 2 May 2023]

Season 1 was fantastic and I had great expectations for season 2. Season 2 starts with the same kind of mysteries as the first but then turns into a really convoluted political plot. The characters motivations go all over the place, the plot swings backwards and forwards and the end is unsatisfying. The acting is still good but the whole thing just feels like a mixed bag that doesn't really come together as a whole. Many parts feel like the script writers just needed X to happen so made the characters do Y and it all just feels a bit unnatural rather than organic.

Then you have just plain dumb things like a terrorist disguised as a sick person with a mask to cover her face, who continually keeps taking it off in public. Plus a cop that suddenly decides the Fae are ok with barely a character arc.

Taking both together the series comes off as average because the final season is such a let down. If you're tempted, just watch season 1 and ignore season 2, you're not missing much.

Ending ruined a good series

[jbcook-55310 · 2/10 · 13 June 2023]

What a waste. Basically watched 18 episodes to see Philo, who risked everything for everyone else end up with a bullet and walking a line on the row. What a crappy ending. Season 2 was just disconnected short lines bouncing around to end with "happy endings" for everyone except the guy who made it all happen. Acting was good, story was compelling but they should have added a few episodes to clean up the ending instead of cramming it into a 55min crammed ending. Basically if you enjoy a show where the l "hero" is rewarded for his efforts, this ain't it. Alone, scarred, and basically back where you started...