We all met him as Michael from Burn Notice. It's great to see him as a more emotional character. The range of topics from supernatural, sopranos, leverage make for very interesting plot twists. The sky's the limit for this one!
48 Reviews
What the Hell Kind of Ending was That?!?
royalallenactor16 February 2021
The first season of Shut Eye was absolutely fantastic, and culminated with an ending that would rival the best of the best con movies. All throughout that first season, the cast was impeccable, the writing was intriguing, and it really felt like these characters had fully developed arcs you can be invested in.
And, although the second season was pretty rocky, with a lot of lackluster performances and sometimes laughable overacting, I was still sticking with it because I wanted to see how they would bring everything together at the end of the second season.
And then...THAT!? Seriously though, I want one of their writers to explain to me why they thought that would be a proper ending to serve these characters well with. But no, we get a flaming ball of feces of a final episode that ends like a Prius hitting a brick wall. That was GARBAGE.
Such an utter disappointment and complete waste of time. I should have just been done after the first season...y'all didn't even really try.
And, although the second season was pretty rocky, with a lot of lackluster performances and sometimes laughable overacting, I was still sticking with it because I wanted to see how they would bring everything together at the end of the second season.
And then...THAT!? Seriously though, I want one of their writers to explain to me why they thought that would be a proper ending to serve these characters well with. But no, we get a flaming ball of feces of a final episode that ends like a Prius hitting a brick wall. That was GARBAGE.
Such an utter disappointment and complete waste of time. I should have just been done after the first season...y'all didn't even really try.
A Series with No Finish
jcoffee0222 May 2023
Warning: Spoilers
This show had everything going for it: a fantastic cast, interesting characters and unique settings ranging from L. A. strip malls to palatial gangster domiciles. The Roma criminal culture had the potential to be a fertile hotbed of ideas second only to the Italian families depicted in The Godfather.
Notice that I said 'almost everything.' The writing was the fatal flaw in this production. Oh, the writers could spin dialogue effortlessly detailing the ins and outs of con games and self-help philosophies, and they were adept at setting up new plot threads, forcing characters to self-destruct and resurrect every other episode.
Where they failed was in resolving those threads, and that includes both season endings, the latter of which leads me to suspect they anticipated a 3rd season, but it was not to be. So after investing almost 20 hours in this series, you're left with all these unresolved situations they'd created. The cast is literally sitting in an emergency room staring blankly at each other as if they'd just realized their efforts were for naught. They, too, had been let down by the writers.
Special mention of Isabella Rosselini. She brings to the screen a completely fleshed out comedic character with a dash of menace and a splash of theatricality. Totally charming and definitely the highlight of the series, though Jeffrey Donovan proved his endurance by making his dialogue-heavy character convincing and likeable, and KaDee Strickland made you simultaneously love and hate her character in a performance that isn't to be found in the pages of the script. Like some sort of gollum, she willed Linda to take on a life of her own.
Notice that I said 'almost everything.' The writing was the fatal flaw in this production. Oh, the writers could spin dialogue effortlessly detailing the ins and outs of con games and self-help philosophies, and they were adept at setting up new plot threads, forcing characters to self-destruct and resurrect every other episode.
Where they failed was in resolving those threads, and that includes both season endings, the latter of which leads me to suspect they anticipated a 3rd season, but it was not to be. So after investing almost 20 hours in this series, you're left with all these unresolved situations they'd created. The cast is literally sitting in an emergency room staring blankly at each other as if they'd just realized their efforts were for naught. They, too, had been let down by the writers.
Special mention of Isabella Rosselini. She brings to the screen a completely fleshed out comedic character with a dash of menace and a splash of theatricality. Totally charming and definitely the highlight of the series, though Jeffrey Donovan proved his endurance by making his dialogue-heavy character convincing and likeable, and KaDee Strickland made you simultaneously love and hate her character in a performance that isn't to be found in the pages of the script. Like some sort of gollum, she willed Linda to take on a life of her own.
An underrated sleeper series that apparently won't get attention until too late
katscauldron-802533 February 2018
I had this on my to watch list of series along with some friends and was persuaded to start it last week by another friend that is a die hard fan of it. I binge on most series and enjoy doing so the only ones I have to go episode by episode are Game of Thrones and Vikings because I can't let them pile up. First episode I was surprised as I thought there was some stereo typing going on there about the Roma but apparently according to others that was kind of dealt with with the community. But i liked it as far as a show goes and continued. Before I knew it I had polished off the first season and went on the the second in less than a weeks time. Half way through the second found out on twitter that Hulu had canceled the series like 2 days ago, which I feel was a bad choice on their parts in so many ways. This show had so much more to give and to enjoy as I have now finished the second season and am disgusted there will be no more. I am hoping they change their mind as this series is just starting to get the traffic it deserves. It is new and fresh and not based on any formula from any other series which cracks me up when people try to type cast something like that when clearly there's no line to do so. I am really amazed when series that I like get canceled that deserve more stories and the inane are allowed to continue. One teen series in particular have only lasted one season was touted as great when I found it mediocre but to each their own.
Hulu is a bunch of idiots
alyssadeseta17 April 2019
Very entertaining show!!
davetiller-7247513 December 2016
I have become a BIG fan of Shut Eye. This show is for adults only, folks! Thank goodness that it is written for adults because the average run of the mill network shows that hulu carries as content from ABC,NBC,CBS,FOX can just be so PC and "clean" that any real drama or interesting or challenging or funny story lines for watchers are rarely created. Shut Eye, however, scratches all of those itches that make for binge worthy shows. I have really enjoyed the episodes and immediately searched for any season 2 possibilities and came across this opportunity to write a review. I hope the money-folks behind this show realize just how good it is and start on Season 2 immediately!! These guys are recognizable from the Fargo season 2 episodes and deliver as some wonderful characters along with just enough psychic stuff to keep an audience on their toes. So, can you tell I like it yet? Good stuff...Season 2 now! Get to work.
Continuity Problem
hewhoisfuzzy5 April 2020
Better than it first appears
Kunovega7 December 2016
If you've seen the trailers you are probably wondering what the show is about. The trailers don't show you what is really going on and neither does the synopses for the show outlined on the IMDb page.
You do start by getting a healthy does of a very fictionalized version of gypsy culture in California but the main story line goes beyond that. I don't want to spoil it but there's a twist in the first episode that sets up the rest of the series.
The acting is good. Some of them may make you cringe, but that's the point. That reaction is exactly what they are going for.
This series is a black comedy, the drama and dark undertones will not be for everyone, but if you can appreciate twisted humor this will not disappoint.
I recommend giving it at least one full episode. The first episode starts out slow and you might not understand it until the end, but force yourself to get through it.
By the end of the first episode you will either understand and be ready to take this ride, or you'll be lost and know it's time to move on to something else.
I just binge watched all 10 episodes and it was seriously awesome. Highly recommended for anyone that likes dark comedies or is a fan of these actors.
You do start by getting a healthy does of a very fictionalized version of gypsy culture in California but the main story line goes beyond that. I don't want to spoil it but there's a twist in the first episode that sets up the rest of the series.
The acting is good. Some of them may make you cringe, but that's the point. That reaction is exactly what they are going for.
This series is a black comedy, the drama and dark undertones will not be for everyone, but if you can appreciate twisted humor this will not disappoint.
I recommend giving it at least one full episode. The first episode starts out slow and you might not understand it until the end, but force yourself to get through it.
By the end of the first episode you will either understand and be ready to take this ride, or you'll be lost and know it's time to move on to something else.
I just binge watched all 10 episodes and it was seriously awesome. Highly recommended for anyone that likes dark comedies or is a fan of these actors.
More flippin continuity problems
hewhoisfuzzy5 April 2020
Overnight the Haverfords' front door reversed which side the hinges were on. They magically sprouted an aboveground pool as well. I could continue, but suffice it to say they did a bad job on the set and prop continuity.
I see a bright future ahead for this series
randymcbeast11 December 2016
I'm no psychic but after power watching the first season of Shut Eye this past weekend I get a strong sense that Hulu will pick this one up for a second season. Fingers crossed.
I actually had no idea about this series and then saw the entire season one come available. I jumped in and first thing I see is Jeffrey Donovan as the lead. Score!
Donavan was brilliant in Fargo so it was an absolute joy seeing him playing a new character in a larger and more significant role, and he didn't disappoint.
Another pleasant surprise was seeing Angus Sampson playing Fonso. Sampson was also in Fargo and played alongside Donovan as his brother, Bear Gerhardt. The two of these guys together makes for pure TV bliss. Cheers guys!
The rest of the cast is loaded with talent as well with special nods to Isabella Rossellini, KaDee Strickland, Susan Misner, and Dexter's own David Zayas.
Overall, this is a stylish, action-packed thriller that incorporates just about everything needed for a series to be successful. In fact, that's one area where they may have tried a bit too hard. Much like a great dish with just a few too many elements on the plate. Some of the sex and drug scenes for instance seemed a bit forced in for perhaps the sake of increased ratings. Still, easy enough to live with given the quality of everything else.
Another questionable area to mention was the heavy stereotyping of Gypsies which doesn't seem to be sitting well with the Gypsy community, although they did try to balance this out in one of the episodes with a community gathering of sorts which addressed this very issue. Tough one to get right here.
In the end, Shut Eye was an extremely pleasant surprise. The episodes flew by and I sincerely hope Hulu has the brains to keep this one going.
I actually had no idea about this series and then saw the entire season one come available. I jumped in and first thing I see is Jeffrey Donovan as the lead. Score!
Donavan was brilliant in Fargo so it was an absolute joy seeing him playing a new character in a larger and more significant role, and he didn't disappoint.
Another pleasant surprise was seeing Angus Sampson playing Fonso. Sampson was also in Fargo and played alongside Donovan as his brother, Bear Gerhardt. The two of these guys together makes for pure TV bliss. Cheers guys!
The rest of the cast is loaded with talent as well with special nods to Isabella Rossellini, KaDee Strickland, Susan Misner, and Dexter's own David Zayas.
Overall, this is a stylish, action-packed thriller that incorporates just about everything needed for a series to be successful. In fact, that's one area where they may have tried a bit too hard. Much like a great dish with just a few too many elements on the plate. Some of the sex and drug scenes for instance seemed a bit forced in for perhaps the sake of increased ratings. Still, easy enough to live with given the quality of everything else.
Another questionable area to mention was the heavy stereotyping of Gypsies which doesn't seem to be sitting well with the Gypsy community, although they did try to balance this out in one of the episodes with a community gathering of sorts which addressed this very issue. Tough one to get right here.
In the end, Shut Eye was an extremely pleasant surprise. The episodes flew by and I sincerely hope Hulu has the brains to keep this one going.
And a half: Update after finishing
Headturner123 June 2021
I would have never found this but I was searching an actors list of films and this came up. I'm glad I did. It's got drama, suspense, humor and it's weirdish, quirky. Something about it reminds me of In the dark( which I've been anxiously awaiting season 3). The only character I don't really like is the wife. I had forgotten how funny Isabella Rosellni can be without even trying and I like the son( forgot his name atm). I thought they were Romanians? But kept thinking they looked more middle eastern. Serbians in the US having arranged marriages. Ok but any ways the show is not realistic any ways and I'm enjoying it. I'm on like the 3rd episode of season 2 I'll update if needed but liking thus far.
Update I just finished last night and am disappointed that this wasn't picked up for more seasons. It's just as good as series that ran for 5 seasons plus and there's so much more they could have done. I ended up loving Fonso and Rita. I would have liked to see more of" this good guy" thing and if it lasted and what happened with Charlie and Linda etc. I don't think it was an awful season end because you can think whatever scenario you want. Just a shame since there's not a lot of good shows like this that it ended abruptly when it could have easily had a few more good seasons in it. Could have done a lot with this kind of show.
Update I just finished last night and am disappointed that this wasn't picked up for more seasons. It's just as good as series that ran for 5 seasons plus and there's so much more they could have done. I ended up loving Fonso and Rita. I would have liked to see more of" this good guy" thing and if it lasted and what happened with Charlie and Linda etc. I don't think it was an awful season end because you can think whatever scenario you want. Just a shame since there's not a lot of good shows like this that it ended abruptly when it could have easily had a few more good seasons in it. Could have done a lot with this kind of show.
Silent Sleeper worth binging
ewright-9324723 August 2020
Quite good but sadly no ending :(
Nutreja13 February 2019
I really freaking loved the first season of this show. It was super intense and fun plus It touches on cool themes like the universe and the mysticism. Season 2 was weaker but definitely worth watching except for the fact that they canceled the show and it ends with a cliffhanger. If you don't mind that then you should definitly check it out.
Season 1 so so, barely. Season 2 worse.
whatithinkis11 December 2016
Season 1:
It's really hard for me to sort out what's good and what's not with this thing.
I WANT to like it because the premise is so fun. I think I always find Donovan better than his material and I don't know how that happens to an actor.
The problem with this is that it is continually so 'almost' as good as it could be.
There's a central tackiness that seems to get in the way of its greatness.
The therapist is flighty or helpful. Which is it.
The protagonist is a (transforming) visionary or a con artist. Feral or caring. Stunningly cunning or oblivious. The problem is that he's all of these in ten episodes. The story arcs are all over the place.
Ditto the wife's 'issues.'
I was overlooking all of these shortcomings and still rooting for the premise, but what really got to me was the immensely contrived and convoluted tenth episode filled with myriad plot sinkholes, wtfs and overlaid with a cheapness, a sleaziness that ultimately was simply depressing.
So I gave it a six. Too bad. It coulda been, shoulda been, woulda been . . .
Season 2:
Could not EVEN make it to the end of Episode 2. Slo w w w w . Bad writing. Gaping plot holes.
He actually turns Tarot cards over, two from side to side, then one Top To Bottom and calls the card reversed. WHAT!
NOT good. Too bad. I'm out. Rating down from 6 to 3.
It's really hard for me to sort out what's good and what's not with this thing.
I WANT to like it because the premise is so fun. I think I always find Donovan better than his material and I don't know how that happens to an actor.
The problem with this is that it is continually so 'almost' as good as it could be.
There's a central tackiness that seems to get in the way of its greatness.
The therapist is flighty or helpful. Which is it.
The protagonist is a (transforming) visionary or a con artist. Feral or caring. Stunningly cunning or oblivious. The problem is that he's all of these in ten episodes. The story arcs are all over the place.
Ditto the wife's 'issues.'
I was overlooking all of these shortcomings and still rooting for the premise, but what really got to me was the immensely contrived and convoluted tenth episode filled with myriad plot sinkholes, wtfs and overlaid with a cheapness, a sleaziness that ultimately was simply depressing.
So I gave it a six. Too bad. It coulda been, shoulda been, woulda been . . .
Season 2:
Could not EVEN make it to the end of Episode 2. Slo w w w w . Bad writing. Gaping plot holes.
He actually turns Tarot cards over, two from side to side, then one Top To Bottom and calls the card reversed. WHAT!
NOT good. Too bad. I'm out. Rating down from 6 to 3.
Little Gem
levoma4514 December 2016
I just love finding these little gems and binge watching.
Hope against hope for a second series.
Like previous poster I was not sure about it in that first episode but glad I give the second episode a go, that is when the magic began. The characters are fab, I fell in love with Charlie and now gonna look out for other programmes that have Mr Donovan in...he was just great in this. . It does have some dark humour which I loved.
I was not disappointed and am going to wait and hope for a second series
Fingers crossed
Hope against hope for a second series.
Like previous poster I was not sure about it in that first episode but glad I give the second episode a go, that is when the magic began. The characters are fab, I fell in love with Charlie and now gonna look out for other programmes that have Mr Donovan in...he was just great in this. . It does have some dark humour which I loved.
I was not disappointed and am going to wait and hope for a second series
Fingers crossed
More Please!!
jvandolsen12 January 2017
Just binged watched all 10 episodes in a weekend!! The screwy plot left me wanting more, episode after episode. Looking forward to many more binge watching weekends! Please film season two and three together!! It was refreshing to not wait week after week for the trickle down of episodes.Every time I thought that the story was going in a direction it would take a quick turn and always kept me guessing. I don't know much about psychics and it was interesting to begin with. We had previously seen the show and buzzed past it because we believed it was a reality show or something. (not really into that) but all in all, I looked forward to every episode and am upset that there aren't anymore to be watched!!
It's a dark comedy
theknownames9 March 2021
This explained a lot , before 'getting it ' I felt something was off; It's actually quite good but so far ( 1/2 way through season 1) there is little redemption for these characters. My bf couldn't take it anymore ( he felt it is bad for him to watch , which is interesting so I mention it here ) but I am forging ahead just want to see first season just in case it gets there
Season 1 was fun; Season 2 blew
staubachster3 January 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed season 1 and was happy to have found this little gem of a show hiding within Hulu. It follows the struggles of a "psychic" con man, Charles Haverford (played by Jeffrey Donovan), and his family, who are caught between and beholden to rival Roma mob families. Donovan does an excellent, believable job in the role of an eternally optimistic, slightly slick snake oil salesman who begins to believe in his own supernatural abilities after he suffers a blow to the head. Isabella Rosellini is a joy to behold in the role of the Marks crime family matriarch, Rita Marks. Angus Sampson is also good as Fonso Marks, her son and the titular head of the Marks family, but his character is a bit over-the-top at times in a way that strains credulity. Who knows if this is due to his (over)acting, or the uneven directing and uneven scriptwriting? Despite these minor flaws, season 1 is an interesting, fun, and entertaining watch. Sadly, the whole show loses its way and falls apart in Season 2. The plot begins to meander. The writing goes flat. Charlie's "psychic powers," which we were led to expect would culminate in some sort of revelation, or at least resolution, lead nowhere. I kept watching, hoping the show would regain its original snap and crackle, but it didn't.
We loved this.
aarielleaaers12 December 2016
Completely captivated as we were with Breaking Bad, Orange is the New Black and House of Cards plus a few other highly worthy binge-watches. Couldn't wait to finish the series, really looking forward to the next installment.
Jeffrey Donovan is completely convincing in his role and exudes his own unique sort of intense, oily, disarming charm. His wife is quite beautiful, constantly reminding me of a tough, angular Angelina Jolie.
All the actors were superlative, direction great, this is a total win as far as we are concerned. And how could someone go wrong with Donovan? He's just plain lovable as an actor. :) Note: It's rather a triumph for all the actors to carry the sometimes over-the-top plot so well, especially Donovan.
Jeffrey Donovan is completely convincing in his role and exudes his own unique sort of intense, oily, disarming charm. His wife is quite beautiful, constantly reminding me of a tough, angular Angelina Jolie.
All the actors were superlative, direction great, this is a total win as far as we are concerned. And how could someone go wrong with Donovan? He's just plain lovable as an actor. :) Note: It's rather a triumph for all the actors to carry the sometimes over-the-top plot so well, especially Donovan.
Wow. A truly unique show.
rruegger-941-59092514 March 2018
"Longmire" took us to crime in the Indian reservation, "Justified" introduced us to the Dixie Mafia, "Shut Eye" let's us dive deep into the mysterious world of the Gypsy Mafia - what feels a bit like a grown-up version of the Mentalist is probably one of the most unique and underrated shows right now and will hopefully get all the attention it deserves. The whole storyworld and its cast (and not just Donovan) is mesmerizing, and it's fascinating to see how they all manage to let you feel slightly disgusted and attracted at the same time. The art direction alone deserves an award. Captivating, original, beautyfully produced and a story that is as unpredictable as a palm reading session with an unsuspecting mark. Wow. I think I need a crystal ball until season three airs...
Burn Notice goes LBGT
baronvonsteve31 August 2019
Warning: Spoilers
I am a big fan of Burn Notice and have liked Jeffery Donovan since his appearance on The Pretender. In Shut Eye he is back and just as good as ever, reprising a role as a sympathetic bad guy with a good heart. The writting is good enough to draw you in and care about the characters early on: something some writers have trouble doing these days. The scheming wife is a perfect complement to his character. Does she have to be bi-sexual? OK, maybe that helps sell her character a bit but the lesbian nude love scenes are over the top and add nothing to the story. There is no need to shove the LBGT agenda into everything and then be gratuitous about it. This show could have earned a higher rating but the not so secret agenda is the writter/producers comes with a price.
Excellent - started slow and built up
tobykhanna26 January 2017
this was one of those i started very slowly,it plods along for the first few episodes, then omg it starts to bite,I love my TV, there are lots of new shows to watch and this is one that i loved.
I m not going into the plot or the characters but there is easily enough to get you hooked,please for the love of god make another series..I liked the angles, the story , it twists a little, keeps you dangling i ended up watching the last 5 all in a row.
I don't know what else to say apart from the fact that everyone in my circle of friends has now watched it,and are eagerly awaiting a new series,so come on guys lets have another one.. :)
I m not going into the plot or the characters but there is easily enough to get you hooked,please for the love of god make another series..I liked the angles, the story , it twists a little, keeps you dangling i ended up watching the last 5 all in a row.
I don't know what else to say apart from the fact that everyone in my circle of friends has now watched it,and are eagerly awaiting a new series,so come on guys lets have another one.. :)
Solid show that could have been great
mcgivneydl15 July 2018
The strength of the show is the main character, who carries things along in the face of setback after setback. The rest of the cast is good as well, but overall the reason this show didn't ever live up to expectations is directly due to the plot.
First off, Charlie's psychic ability is a sideshow. It's a tease, that hints at there being more but it never materializes. It is an under-utilized mechanic in a show that without it is nothing special. The basic gist is that he gets outmaneuvered by the gypsies and thugs, and manages to win just enough to survive. This is something that was an enormous oversight by the writing team, where he should have a true psychic ability that allows him to win out a bit more than he does in the face of his situation.
Even in his love life he's the victim. Never does he bring anything to the plot that overtakes that victimization. And so my second problem with the show is his wife, who he is devoted to, but the relationship just seems to leave things wanting. That could have been addressed by him moving on, but again this show seems to be more about keeping him in the box.
Lastly Isabella Rosselini is superb in this show. I think it would have been better to have her get some wins in terms of her scheming, vice her fat son who seems to somehow be able to outsmart everyone else.
Good actors throughout this show, and it demonstrates the importance of writing and plot. Due to those reasons this show is solid, but unspectacular. I can see why it was cancelled.
First off, Charlie's psychic ability is a sideshow. It's a tease, that hints at there being more but it never materializes. It is an under-utilized mechanic in a show that without it is nothing special. The basic gist is that he gets outmaneuvered by the gypsies and thugs, and manages to win just enough to survive. This is something that was an enormous oversight by the writing team, where he should have a true psychic ability that allows him to win out a bit more than he does in the face of his situation.
Even in his love life he's the victim. Never does he bring anything to the plot that overtakes that victimization. And so my second problem with the show is his wife, who he is devoted to, but the relationship just seems to leave things wanting. That could have been addressed by him moving on, but again this show seems to be more about keeping him in the box.
Lastly Isabella Rosselini is superb in this show. I think it would have been better to have her get some wins in terms of her scheming, vice her fat son who seems to somehow be able to outsmart everyone else.
Good actors throughout this show, and it demonstrates the importance of writing and plot. Due to those reasons this show is solid, but unspectacular. I can see why it was cancelled.
Great Show To Binge Watch
existenchillist14 December 2016
I wasn't sure what I'd think of this show and at first glance, and to be honest, I didn't even want to give it a shot. I was bored one night and gave up on Walking Dead, so I took a chance. Glad I did! After the first episode, I couldn't stop watching it and I ended up finishing the whole season in like 3 days or so. So many ups and downs! I was gritting my teeth the whole time I was watching it. I'm from LA and I really like TV shows that take place here for some reason. It's cool to see my own neighborhood on TV. I don't want to give anything away, but I really hope Hulu picks it up for a second season. The last scene of the final episode had me crapping my pants.
Captivating!!!
yalbadra12 February 2017
I just finished watching the last episode and had to create an IMDb account just to review this show. I'm appalled by the fact that it only got 7.5 rating on this site. It started off fun, but it was clear that it was headed in a more deeper direction. The acting is extremely well done, specially by Fanzo played by Angus Sampson. My god, his fashion expressions are on a whole new level of quality. Even-though I loved him in Fargo, I feel that his acting was even better in Shut eye. He fit the role perfectly from the start. Also I found the build up to the last episode was truly worth waiting for. Such a lovely little mind bender, leaving you wanting a second season. If you're into shows that involve scheming, manipulation/mind games then you'll really dig this one. Overall the show deserves a much better rating and I highly recommend it.
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