Queer as Folk (2000–2005) User Reviews

one of the most important gay show

[shalsea · 8/10 · 17 December 2016]

Even if i would have loved the show being a excellent LGBT portrait, let's admit first that it's only a gay show.

From this point, it is not lying to say that Queer as Folk US gives us an entry to the single life of gay people, shallow and superficial. At first, this was not convincing to me but after a few episodes, i got attached to characters.

Then it became clear that all behaviors get some kind of explanations at some point, letting us the choice to believe the characters' intentions and allowing us to relate in a better way to them.

The last two seasons go deeper by showing more "serious" issues gay encounter in their life. And i have to admit that this change was for the better.

Watching this show now and in a week, knowing all the changes (apps for example) in the gay life, the problems and joys you find in it, you may experience for real. This is why i love this show : because it's accurate at many points.

Gets better with time

[ComedyFan2010 · 8/10 · 27 May 2012]

I didn't watch the UK version, but I have a feeling that I wouldn't love it as much because the first season which was directly based on the UK version is also the one I liked the least. In the beginning I disliked Brian. He didn't seem to have many positive characteristics and was just selfish and arrogant. Justin also annoyed me, which was mainly because of Randy Harrison's performance, he was pretty bad at first.

And then it all became better. Brian became more and more human, Randy Harrison rose to the level of the rest of the amazing cast and I loved the show more and more with each episode.

I really liked the characters. Emmett was my favorite, he always had such a big heart. And while he was the most flamboyant one and had a few comedic stories, he wasn't just the joke of the show, he had many touching, serious and emotional moments as well.

Ted was a great character as well. Scott Lowell is also an amazing actor so he actually made us believe that Ted is not a good looking guy with insecurities. And he had some great relationships throughout the show. Him and Emmett were great together and it was great to seem them keeping their friendship at the end which in my opinion was even better than the relationship. And my favorite was when he was with Blake. He was an incredibly deep character. And Dean Armstrong did an unbelievable job. I wonder if he got any awards for it, I think he would deserve it.

I never understood the audiences dislike for Michael. He was a great character. A nice guy who loved his friends and yet had flaws Just like any other person. I was amazed to find out that Hal Sparks isn't really gay, he still had a great chemistry in all his love/sex scenes. While I really liked to see the story about him and Dave, I do think that Ben was absolutely perfect for him and he was also an interesting character. I liked to see him dealing with HIV, tying to be a good person even when he was angry, there was so much about him that makes me want to see more about this character even now that the show is over.

Mel and Lindsay were representing a long term relationship and all problems and joys that come with it. And they were an important part of the show.

Besides the extra characters that I already mentioned they had a few others that were an irreplaceable part of the show. One would be Debbie, it took me much longer to start liking her than others, she was extremely annoying. I don't know if I just got used to her or they finally toned her down but I didn't dislike her towards the end. Her brother Vic didn't have many stories, but the ones he had were great and performed amazingly by Jack Wetherall.

Besides an amazing cast they also had great writers who made pretty much every episode extremely interesting and deep. Some of them seemed to be recycled, there were a lot of dealing with parents episodes, but they always added something new to it. The show went through a huge variety of topics that everyone could relate to and also the ones that were specifically about problems that one goes through as a homosexual. All the characters had complex and interesting relationships with each other I think the show was very similar to Sex and the City. It is about friends who go through life together and also have sexual lives. And both shows are also hated by the prudes who believe that it is unrealistic and just about stereotypes just because their own life is different. I didn't think they were all that stereotypical, besides the fact that they all had lots of sex they were all pretty diverse. Also in my opinion putting so much sex into it was a good idea. It was pretty new for the time the show first aired and besides giving gay people some hot scenes, seeing gay sex so often made it more "normal" for the straight viewers that were getting more and more used to it which was good for the gay movement.

I was upset when the show was over, there was so much more I would like to see about the characters, but I loved how it ended. There was a very traumatic event at the end that kept things on fast pace, I was happy to see Ted ending up with Blake who was always my favorite secondary character on the show and I liked how they ended it with Brian. I was afraid they make him a family man, but he stayed who he is and didn't become boring. I loved to see him and Michael dancing in Babylon, two best friends who were always there for each other, accept each others differences and will always be together. Now it is to late to say that I hope there will be a movie, but I really wish they made one.

'We Will Survive!' - To Queer as Folk, and a better world.

[vivianzhu · 9/10 · 8 October 2016]

Love's not Time's fool, though rosy lips and cheeks Within his bending sickle's compass come; Love alters not with his brief hours and weeks, But bears it out even to the edge of doom.

"If love is true it will stand against all tests of time and adversity, no manner of insignificant details such as the person's beauty fading could alter or dissolve 'the marriage of two minds'"

The creators of the then groundbreaking (in my opinion still groundbreaking) TV show Queer as Folk, Daniel Lipman and Ron Cowan referenced Shakespeare's Sonnet 116 when talking about their show in 2010, five years after the final episode aired. They said that the purpose of their show was to show the world that love transcended many things, even time. To tell the world that love would go on despite the characters, the creators and the audience all changing and growing up. I can't confirm that all love will be timeless, but I can definitely say that the show's appeal hasn't faded in 16 years.

When it comes to movies and TV shows I'm always the one to be intensely critical, even judgemental, and I never expected I would fall so deeply in love with a show to binge 83 of those 50 minute episodes in a little more than a week. I never expected the tears, the laughter and the excitement a show about the LGBT* community in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania set around the time I was born would bring me. I also never expected how much something that some people would (incorrectly! in my opinion) describe as 'gay soap opera' would teach me.

As a cisgender and heterosexual person I would never understand the struggles and pain experienced by the characters in TV shows such as QAF, nor the sometimes much greater struggles and pain experienced by those in the LBGT* community around me. However, this show not only taught me a lot about the issues relevant to the community then and now, it also taught me a great deal about love and how it is the universal language between people no matter who they are. QAF is about the growth and evolution of both the individual and society, about boys becoming men, girls becoming women, people becoming mature and the society becoming better. I can see that our society in certain ways is already better than that society from 16 years ago, and in many ways it shocked me to see that our society hasn't changed a bit since 2000.

Not only did the show give me one of my best any-kind-of-fiction binging experiences (I legitimately laughed my head off and cried bucket loads about three times in the same day), it also reaffirmed my stance as a person who wants to hear about many more, real stories from LGBT* people and not be any of the two kinds of 'straight' people Brian hates.

I don't want to hate anybody in their faces or behind their backs.

To me QAF was not only a worthwhile way to spend my time instead of studying or doing some other productive thing, it was a f*cking brilliant show that I am sure I will revisit sometime soon.

Meanwhile, I'm sure Melanie, Lindsay, Gus and JR are safe and happy in Toronto, Michael, Ben and HNB are still listening to Debbie's rants, Ted and Blake are finally making the most of the right time, and Emmett is still holding out for his true love. As for Brian and Justin? Whether they see each other next week, next month, never again, it doesn't matter. It's only time. And I'm sure one day they would find their happiness, and their love, no excuses, no apologies, no regrets.

Always A Surprise

[gregorybnyc · 9 May 2005]

As an older man (55), I'm amazed at the level of graphic nudity, the frankness of the sexual couplings whether gay or lesbian sex is involved, and it struck me as astonishing that the reason I would sometimes be uncomfortable viewing these scenes, is that there are virtually no images for gay people on TV that are comparable to those in QAF. I'm no prude, and thank goodness I've stopped squirming. My normal reaction is that if a series is good in its original British guise, the Americanization will be awful. Not so here. QAF started for me as a superficial soap about gay life. But once the first season was half over, I was hooked. I found I cared deeply about these characters. Their insular gay world in Pittsburgh was refreshing. The relationships work beautifully and you see a fairly representative slice of gay life on this series. Sure everyone always seems to be showing up at the big gay club with its go-go dancers and steamy back room. But how wonderful to have a show all about gay people where nobody gets killed for being gay, or commits suicide or is in some sort of depression or any other negative situations that have been such a feature of films showing gay characters as life's losers.

Gale Harold's Brian took me totally by surprise. His no gamesmanship attitude towards sex and relationships makes total sense. What I responded to is his character's absolute refusal to be liked, unlike the very likable Michael (Hal Sparks) whose insecurity demands that he be liked. Brian's a stunning bad boy, confident of his looks, his talent, his ability to spot bullshit a mile away. He wants to be appreciated for his worth. Nothing wrong with that. He's unapologetic about his sexuality and is not obsessed with settling down into domestic bliss the way Michael is. Michael is a child, but a sweet one with his love of comic books, and his unresolved longing for Brian. His character's worry about everything has finally become endearing. Peter Paige's Emmett is adorable and heartbreaking. I love that he's always picking himself up after every romantic disaster, dusting himself off and heading towards the next with high hopes. Scott Lowell has a natural affinity for Ted Schmidt's insecure and manipulative accountant. I'd like him to settle down for awhile. I sometimes weary of his travails.

At first I thought Randy Harrison's sweetly beautiful Justin was going to be a fluffy love toy for Brian, but Justin's own problems have shown Brian's caring side, and you get to see that Justin is no dummy. He goes after what he wants. Nothing wrong with that. Sharon Gless's working Mom waitress can be abrasively grating at times, but she presents a loving mother to a gay son, and that's a good thing. Michelle Clunie as Melanie and Thea Gill as Lindsay strike me as an appealing, smart, and caring lesbian couple Their stability as a couple shows what is possible without proselytizing.

Now in its fifth season, I've come to appreciate the show in big gulps since I rent each season from Netflix. It's a real wallow, and I'm always sorry that it's over. Right now I'm deep into season four and I can't wait to find out what happens next. QAF is excellent series TV, vastly entertaining. Best of all it won't make you feel dumb.

Best of Show(time)

[Rogue-32 · 10/10 · 10 June 2002]

QAF is, in my opinion, the best cable TV series of all time (since Rude Awakening is off the air). Kudos to Showtime for having the courage to put it on. The most important reason this show works is because of THE ACTORS, who are all superb, creating 3-dimensional characters that you care about, deeply, week after week. It's impossible to imagine any different actors in the main roles, in fact - the true sign of brilliant casting. This is the only show on television, cable or network, that I watch religiously and I couldn't be any more thrilled that it's been renewed for another 2 seasons.

Added on August 8th (a day after the series finale aired) - Just wanted to say that this show has changed television forever, not just because it pushed the envelope - actually, it EXPLODED the envelope - but also because of all the lives it touched, informed and/or changed. This show crossed all barriers, appealing to every kind of viewer, thanks to the beautifully written characters, magnificently realized by the superb cast, and I for one am sad to see it end, this once-in-a-lifetime bold and redemptive journey.

BEST SHOW ON TV!

[salmineo · 10/10 · 23 November 2002]

Before I begin, I am a 35 year old guy who tried to supress my homosexual feelings until May of this year. Now I have slowly been coming out and experiancing my true self,and "Queer as Folk" really is inspirational in hitting so many issues in the Gay society. As sexually active as some of the main characters are they always use a condom and make a point of saying so. The show came around at a great time for me, as I am still new to gay culture and want to become part of the culture, and this series,QAF really gave me glimpses of it, and I am ready to start exploring the many gay bars down in Santa Monica Blvd and perhaps meet some cool friends, or something more? Anyhow, this show is the smartest soap opera type show, gay or not, because it makes you think about things! It makes issues of very relevant topics. ANd the actors are amazing. Especially Gale Harold, as the sexy, manipulative, self serving Brian Kinny, who's portrayal is so ruthless and emotionless at times, the actor manages to sometimes show a very human, soft loving side that Brian trys to keep hidden. Hall Sparks also is another big reason to watch. He gives his character of Micheal such warmth and compassion and sincerity. Any gay guy would love to have a best friend like Micheal. And the chemistry between Brian and Micheal is undeniable. This is the best series on TV! And thanks QAF for giving me a much needed spark of interest to actively pursue the gay culture and be true to myself....

Best 6 days of my life...one of the best things thats happened in my life <3

[hopelesstwylyter1 · 10/10 · 19 August 2012]

Wow, where do i start...i first discovered QAF a year ago, not knowing anything about it. I kept coming across gifs on tumblr of the characters Brian and Justin. It looked interesting, but i ignored it for a long time because it wasn't tagged, so i didn't know the name of the show or what any of the characters names were. But then at the beginning of this year i kept seeing gifs and photosets about it on various blogs, so i gave in and just googled 'gay-themed' series and unsurprisingly it was rated as no.1 on AfterElton.com. So...i watched it, and the rest is history. I only watched it about 2 months ago. I watched all 5 seasons and 82 episodes in 6days. It was by far the best 6days of my life, even though i got no sleep and hardly ate...but it was so worth it!

Anyways, its changed me and influenced my thoughts and opinions profoundly, in the sense that, its made me more understanding and accepting and just in general made me want to be a better person and strive to better myself, to be grateful for my loving and supportive friends and family and most importantly, to be myself and stand up for myself-to be an active member of society.

As Peter Paige said, (actor who plays Emmett), "they came for the queer, but stayed for the folk". The love story of Brian and Justin was what initially compelled me to watch the show, but i stayed for the beautifully written script, characters and story lines. Each and every character has so much personality and depth that you forget you're watching a TV show.

Its moved me in ways that no movie or book or real life event has ever moved me, and made me feel like i've never felt before. After watching the show i cried for hours afterward and was in a state of mild depression for days afterward, i'd never watched anything so true to life before, even though i am fully aware that the show is y no means an accurate representation of gays, it is about the lives of a 'group' of gay friends. I really don't know how to put my feelings into words, but basically after only a few episodes i'd became to emotionally and intimately involved and invested in the show and it characters, they became my friends and family, and after i finished watching it, i felt as if i'd lost my best friends and family. Even though i'm a straight 19 yr old girl, i felt i belonged with these group of people and could relate to them. I lived vicariously through each and every one of them and learnt so much about life in the process.

One of the many reasons i believe it impacted me so intensely was definitely the gay political and health issues it unapologetically explored in such a realistic and moving manner. It tackled issues i've never seen any other show handle before, especially in the 2000's gay rights had only just started being handled in the media and in politics, so i think it was extremely brave of the writers to portray these issues. It tackled issues from marriage equality, gay bashings, discrimination, politics, religion and sexuality, to, cancer, pornography, drug addiction, HIV/Aids, prostitution and adoption.

Overall, skipping all talk about the brilliant acting from all the cast and the AMAZING soundtrack (every song was part of a carefully selected playlist that matched in lyrics and rhythm and melody to its respective scene)...it was probably one of the best things thats happened in my life...and that is no exaggeration. I have watched it 5 times so far, and i love that every time i re-watch it, i discover something new about a character, or something new about their character development.

It is a truly masterful show, so complex in its relationships and beautifully put together. I have no criticisms, except that i wish more people would watch it, since its kinda difficult to recommend it to others as some people may find the sex scenes 'gross' or 'disgusting'...i think people are just to contrived in what they allow themselves to watch, and are afraid of something they don't understand or have been taught is wrong.

Also, a finishing note, it is also super funny :D

the world's BEST show!

[katdawg620 · 10/10 · 25 November 2006]

this show is AMAZING!! i love the characters and the actors who portray them! my favorites are justin (randy harrison) and brian (gale harold) because they make the best couple on the planet! they should get married in real life! that would make me happy! anyway, i never get bored with any of the episodes, and it's funny yet serious at the same time. that's why this show is so amazing, it's the humor and the story. just basically everything about this show is pure AMAZINGNESS! i have to thank my best friend for showing it to me. it has brought nothing but joy into my life. seriously, queer as folk has to be the #1 show in the world and to the cast and crew...I WORSHIP YOU!!!! ;-)

IT IS THE BESTTTTTTTTTT

[overlordship_ · 10/10 · 18 March 2020]

I cant even describe it it has everything a perfect TV show need to and people who hasnt watched it yet youve lost almost half of your life go download it RIGHT NOW

Season 1: First impressions die easily...

[PeachHamBeach · 10/10 · 19 October 2010]

I am a dummy. I first heard about this show when it first came to life almost a decade ago...unfashionably late again!!! I ignored this show because 1.) I was into HBO's SIX FEET UNDER, to which this show has been strangely compared and 2.) I was prejudiced...I enjoy gay-themed material and always have, but I honestly dismissed this, without watching a single frame of it, as a shallow pond full of muscular pretty boys club-hopping, having orgies and probably sitting around talking about fashion, bitching about each other, etc. In other words, I thought it was going to be sooooo stereotyped about gay life.

Such a dummy...I have fallen madly in love with this show and everything about it, especially the principal characters and their stories. This show, centered on five gay men in Pittsburg, PA and their friends and families, is fiercely frank about sexuality, not just homosexuality, but it is also so profoundly involving, so rich and complex. You may see any or all of the characters as "stereotypes" at first, but you get to know them, and before you know it, you're investing your hopes into them.

The narrator appears to be Michael Novatny (played with humour and heart by Hal Sparks), a gay man who is not that porn-star muscle-bound stereotype but rather an cute little brunette. While he'll probably never win any contests at Babylon, Pittsburg's hottest gay club, he certainly has his share of admirers. He is employed as a manager for a department store, and blessed with a wonderful mother Debbie (LOVE Sharon Gless!!!) who not only supports his life (not just his life STYLE) but is as protective over his friends (as well as her brother Vic, who is HIV positive) as a mother lioness. Her hope is that Mike will meet a wonderful man and have a fulfilling life, and she is very aware of a certain obstacle in that road.

There is also Ted Schmidt (Scott Lowell) an accountant who digs dirty porn sites as well as opera and is probably the most giving and kind of the main five men. Like Mike, Ted won't ever become a Chippendale's dancer, but his personality makes him absolutely gorgeous. During S1, Ted will go through a lot of challenges, including a near-death experience and experimentation with S&M, and the relationship he has with a young man named Blake will be a guided tour through Ted's soul.

Emmett Honeycutt (Peter Paige) is one character who may have you judging, before you know him, to be one of those "stereotypes", the overtly "gay" man, the kind that dresses in screaming colors, has a certain way of speaking, moving, etc. Not to mention he works as a window-dresser at a little boutique. Again, as you get to know Emmett, you will make wonderful discoveries as he makes an interesting journey of his own. He is deep and human...I adore him!

And then there are Justin and Brian...holy moley...

I can describe them as individuals: Justin Taylor (Randy Harrison) is a senior at a prestigious private high school. Seventeen and luscious to behold, Justin is a genius artistically as well as academically. His sexuality is not ripening, it's exploding. He's not coming out, he's just plain out. The first time he decides to explore Liberty Avenue's club scene, he meets Brian Kinney (Gale Harold), a twenty-nine year old advertising executive. Seductive, sexual and smart as a whip, Brian is another character who will give you a first impression which will change dramatically, and that impression is that he is a self-centered, greedy slut who can't get enough. Without a doubt, Justin and Brian are my favorite couple (and whether Brian knows it, wants it, or admits it or not, they ARE a couple), and in my opinion, the most complex characters on the show. From the first time they meet, there is a chemistry there that is devastating. The sex scenes between these two are the very definition of the word "delight"...I have never seen a more erotic couple (gay or hetero) in my life. Like the other characters, these two have their share of problems. Brian is Justin's first lover, and Justin unabashedly professes his love over and over, only to be dismissed and broken-hearted time and again. Brian wants to be an enigma, but actions speak louder than words. He may talk like Justin was just another in his long list of casual conquests...the words may be cold and cynical, "I don't believe in love, I believe in ____ing..." but if you watch Brian's eyes, the nonverbal communication, you're going to get another message, loud and clear, even if it takes all season, as Justin proves himself brave and brazen and full of surprises.

Then there's the love that exists between Michael and Brian, best friends since age 14. Their bond is at once touching and potentially destructive as Michael begins a relationship with a handsome chiropractor. And Brian's relationship with his estranged parents...so much material for mining.

SIX FEET UNDER was a show that had a couple of gay characters, but it really wasn't a show about being gay. It was more about a family navigating through life, learning, loving, etc. QUEER AS FOLK is also a show about human beings dealing with problems, relationships, searching for love, which of course is so much more difficult than searching for casual fun sex. I don't believe it's a show about "being gay" either, but rather a show about gay people. I love its refusal to censor or tone anything down. I love the characters. I love the brave actors who put everything on the line to make things raw and real.

This show is not for anyone who is in the least closed. If you're not wide open, just stay away from it. You have to be open, accepting and loving and if you are, you'll love this experience.

Watch the original UK version first!

[sarahpenbridge · 7/10 · 15 November 2019]

It's always a delight to find a show about the LGBTQ community. But trust me, watch the original UK Queer as Folk first. Aidan Gillen (Game of Thrones 'Little Finger') is the main character aka 'Brian' in the US version. Gillen of course brings world class acting, cheekiness & is incredibly sexy back in 1998. The cast just comes across as so much more believable and just a joy to watch the relationships and struggles with one another.

This show is giving me life

[brianjiang-32265 · 10/10 · 30 August 2019]

I always love the early 00s shows. As a queer guy who's been figuring things out, I think this show helps me grow as a person. School bullying, discrimination, desire for hot men and pride...I just relate to these things and I've been through some same experiences. This show is so real and beautiful.

Mixed Feelings

[paulsp2 · 6/10 · 28 July 2013]

I agree with the guy who wrote - "Good production values, wrong message" I enjoy watching the series because if I'm honest with myself I like looking at the handsome guys but of course this is typically unrealistic Hollywood-type film making where most guys look like male models. The sex scenes were pretty daring for t.v. at the time but after a while you get totally used to them and in this case they are integral to the storyline. I haven't seen the part about French bashing but sounds like a bit of hypocrisy to me and certainly sends out the wrong message. This is undoubtedly entertaining t.v. but should not be taken too seriously as real life, however much some people might wish it was.

A show that outstayed its welcome

[haz22 · 2/10 · 19 April 2006]

It is quite apparent now how much of the early success of this series was due to copying of the storyline of the original British series. Once it had to bring in entirely its own stories so that it can extend this series into 5 seasons, the poverty of ideas and trashiness of the story lines just made it unbearable to watch. It was good to watch it for the first series, but the second series was barely OK, the third absolutely dire and the rest never got better.

It morphed into a show that is empty of any real emotion, truthful observation of human reality or indeed any of the sexual insight that the original British series had, and turned into a vehicle for tiresome political activism, spiced with an endless parade of narcissistic gays who really all should go kill themselves off when aged 30 like Brian tried to do in the first season.

It is pointless to list the awfulness of the later series, the unrealistic story lines, absurd characterisations, poor scripts and dialogue, plastic emotion and farcical political agitprop. It became just a show for those who don't have too much inside their heads yet who like to think that they are watching a show about "real issues", but one that also allow them to goggle at male flesh at the same time. It is a show for the dim, the soulless and the sex-obsessed urban gays.

Thank god it is finally gone.

I am a retired grandmother who loves this show

[vze4zq45 · 13 August 2004]

My family was taken more than somewhat aback to find out that this mainstream retired accountant highly touts Queer as Folk and watches it not just once a week, but also the repeats. I tell them that after awhile you forget that these are gay people - yes, a few of the more scorched sex scenes are very explicit and take some getting used to. What wins one over is the superb writing and story lines (especially the first year). The characters are well fleshed-out and you can't wait from week to week to see what happens to them - in point, you have really learned to care for these people and understand their joys and agonies and day to day tribulations. The acting is first rate and you sometimes forget that these are people just emoting and not playing out their own lives. I love to see the contrasting facets to Brian: sometimes ruthless and cunning, but perfectly balanced with great acts of compassion and kindness - and he juggles these traits perfectly.

I subscribe to Showtime Cable Channel just to see this show.

Worth a Watch

[elizabeth-ann-odonnell · 10/10 · 21 May 2014]

I give Queer as Folk a 10 out of 10 rating because it remains my favorite show of all time to watch. I began watching the show in high school - following the series one mailed-in Netflix DVD at a time. Now, nearly 10 year later I continue to watch the show almost every night - only now it's via my instant stream.

For me, the love story between Brian and Justin is one that I have found both captivating and enduringly sexy. Be warned though: it's not a relationship I've found people are quick to get on board with. It's one that is unapologetic in it's sexuality and controversial by it's very nature - deliberately flirting with and calling into question the boundaries of legality and consent throughout.

That being said, I think the strength of Queer as Folk comes not from it's stories or it's written dialogue, but rather from the dynamic and layered performances from actors who give life to (what I believe was) some oftentimes hackneyed and one-dimensional writing. It's not that the writing in Queer as Folk was consistently bad - but it wasn't consistently good either. It was one of those shows that had moment and scenes that made you want to rewind and rewatch over and over again, followed by scenes that bombed so hard they left you cringing and puzzled. But for what Queer as Folk lacked in continuity and smart dialogue, it more than made up for in the extremely skilled acting and chemistry of it's lead characters.

In particular, Gale Harold's ability to convey so much meaning and raw emotion through his non-verbal performances was something to be admired. SO MUCH of the communication of the show's main character, Brian, is done without him saying a word, and Gale Harold really made the most of the material he was given and made every moment on screen count.

The true genius of Queer as Folk comes from the unbelievable chemistry and convincing emotional exchanges between Harold and Randy Harrison, who played his young twink lover Justin throughout the series. Even those who are not fans of their character's May/December romance (or even fans of the show for that matter) cannot deny that the spark between Harold and Harrison on screen was both rousing and real. Sex scenes ranged from tender to manipulative to downright HOT, and these two actors are a dream to watch no matter what kind of sex the scenes call for.

Luckily, Queer as Folk was smart enough to realize that their formula for ratings success came from the controversial-but-undeniably-sexy romance between Brian and Justin. So for me, the show was a home run. My advice: if you're expecting a home-run of Showtime cinematic excellence and a realistic look into the struggles of gay life in America, you might be disappointed. The story-lines range from dramatic to campy to downright absurd, and the show doesn't always have the writing to back up it's more ridiculous plots. It is, however, ridiculously entertaining, ridiculously addictive, and ridiculously romantic (ant that's a good thing). As long as you keep expectations for realism low and allow yourself to enjoy the ride, it's bound to be delight even the most cynical of viewers.

I love Queer as Folk

[gailknickerbocker · 10/10 · 29 August 2015]

I have watched all 83 episodes more than once. The lines in this are worth hearing. The Stories are deeply touching. The personalities of the characters is true to my life each in their own way. I wish this show was still being produced. Hoping for a Season 6 or a reunion movie someday. I was so moved by this show that I found a way to meet several of the actors in it and tell them that I appreciate their willingness to make this a reality and to use their acting ability to produce the feel that it is actually happening in the moment.

This show addresses issues that the gay community dealt with in the early 2000s. So much has changed since then for the good but gay people are still beat up, drugged out, rejected by parents and schools,and rejected by society and religion. Brother and sister relationships and Parent child relationships were dealt with. Teachers and students, students and students were all related in this show. Enduring friendships were the deepest issue addressed. How they did friendships; what they were willing to do for one another, how much they loved and cared for and stood by their friends was the most meaningful part for everyone.

Good stuff

[mattgray-43022 · 10/10 · 17 June 2022]

Straight man, just watching season 1 now and loving it

The obvious sad reviews from incels and other loser men pretending to be gay in order to bash the show is ridiculous. You can't fool anyone lol.

perfect... i was amazed...

[ewreewre · 10/10 · 1 May 2022]

It was the best in terms of subject and acting among the series I have watched so far.

If there were more seasons, I would watch it without getting tired of it. I wish there were sequel seasons with the same players, that would be great. There was going to be a comeback for 2022, but probably not with the same actors and not a sequel. :(((

A Series That Will Never Be Forgotten... EVER.

[charcoalactivity · 10/10 · 12 May 2006]

Queer As Folk has everything. It has the most amazing songs. The most likable and hateable characters. The most awesome plot line. And the wittiest script ever written.

You have to have an open mind to watch this series because of the sexual context. But I doubt it will bother you anyway, because no one can resist the absolutely hunky protagonist Brian and his 'partner in crime,' adorable-bubble-butt Justin.

This series will make you weep, cry in frustration and joy, scream, giggle, will even make you horny and lucky, and will definitely make you laugh your arse out loud that you won't be able to pee for a day. Queer As Folk is so addicting that you won't be able to leave your seat once it's on the TV screen.

**SPOILERS**

Even though it only has five seasons and a quite disappointing series finale (Justin and Brian go their separate ways), it's very worth it to watch over and over again.

I recommend seasons 1 and 2 (and a little bit of 3) more than the rest of the seasons.

By the way, I saw this when I was 13. And it isn't as "pornographic" as some critics might say.

One of the Best Shows Ever!

[PoisonKeyblade · 10/10 · 26 December 2007]

Queer as Folk is one of the best and most amazing TV series ever created. Although I never bothered to watch the British series, I'm sure it was nowhere near the brilliance of the American version, thanks in large part to the amazing writing and absolutely breathtaking acting.

Gale Harold and Randy Harrison are my absolute favorites. The two of them play Brian and Justin, respectively, which such compassion that it's hard to imagine either one of them in any other roles. Gale is a master at playing the extremely complex character of the somewhat cynical Brian, and he is drop dead gorgeous. Without a tolerable person playing Brian, I'm sure that the show would fall through almost immediately, but thanks to Gale, the show is made nearly flawless. Randy gives a very real and touching performance as Justin and he's given many various tough performances to convey throughout the series. Hal Sparks was probably the perfect choice for Michael; a character that probably came off as incredibly whiny and somewhat annoying on paper translates to a much more interesting and flawed character thanks to Hal's acting chops. Peter Paige sometimes comes off as annoying with the character of Emmett, but most of the time, he portrays Emmett very well. Scott Lowell couldn't have been a more perfect casting choice, and the same goes for both Sharon Gless and Michelle Clunie. Even the weakest member of the cast, Thea Gill, really isn't all that bad and often gives great performances. Scott Lowell wasn't my favorite at first, but his character, Ted, really grew on me and now I'm absolutely bonkers about him. His performances throughout the show are absolutely amazing. Robert Gant is absolutely spectacular as Ben! I can't imagine a better-looking or better-suited actor for the job!

Season 1: Season one couldn't have been a better start for the characters. Almost immediately, we are thrown into a majority of problems and relationships, and introduced to the very important character of Justin. The pilot is flawless, but the best episode of Season 1 is the finale. It was shocking, it was touching, and it made me cry me eyes out. Season one was just amazing and there's no way that it possibly could have been better. It was perfectly balanced and perfectly paced, and had just the right mix of dark humor, well-crafted sex scenes, incredible acting, and witty and intelligent writing.

Season 2: I liked Season two just as much as I liked season one, which is to say a whole hell of a lot. I maybe even liked it more than season one. There were some more characters, amazing plot lines (like the introduction of Ben, Emmett's stint as Fetch Dickson, the loving character of George, the biker Leda and the role she plays in Melanie and Lindsay's lives), and of course a season finale that was absolutely to die for! I loved all of the developments between Justin and Brian, and the introduction of Ethsn was interesting enough. Not enough Daphne in this season, but so long as we have all of that interesting Brian/Justin drama, I'll be good. The episodes were seriously engaging, and I came to appreciate each of the characters more and in new and different lights. Overall a flawless season, possibly better than the first.

Season 3: Why do people dislike the later seasons so much? Apart from being (sadly) shorter than the first two seasons, season three was surprisingly solid in this viewer's eyes. Hunter was extremely annoying at first, but he quickly grew on me. The Ben/Michael relationship is just as enthralling as ever. Ted/Emmett are amazing together, but the last few episodes spell almost certain doom. I loved how much Brian really came into his own this season and really started to be caring. He tried to follow suit just like Justin told him and stand up for what he believes to be right. The season finale was utter perfection and I couldn't have imagined it any better myself. Everything about the finale just seemed so explosive and yet fitting. Brian/Justin are still by far the best couple on the show, and it was great to see them come back together. I LOVED THIS SEASON! My favorite thing about it though: the best hairstyles to date! Seriously, it seems as if everyone's hairstyle was improved in one way or another.

Season 4: Season four was spectacular in many more ways than one. In the words of the cast themselves, the show has really come into its own many interesting story lines and lots and lots of drama. A death, two proposals, an affair, a wedding, and lots of confrontations of past mistakes are all waiting in Season Four. Emmett's relationship with Boyd the football star is just bizarre. I'm not sure that it's half as good of a story arc as it was in season three, but it still at least makes sense. It's very easy to see Emmett falling for Boyd, so it makes the relationship somewhat believable. The beginning of the season (and the middle) is where it is strongest, and it loses just a bit of steam toward the latter part. Still, season four might just be the best one yet, although it's very difficult to choose. I loved everything about it, and the finale, while not perfect, was really something.

Season 5: The show might not have ended exactly the way I wanted it to (one more episode at the very least could have fixed that), but up until the very end it was simply spectacular. Season five was no exception at all, as it was filled to the brim with arguments, interesting relationships (OMG I LOVE TROY!), amazing scenes, and one final scene that everyone will remember forever. The relationships blossom beautifully and the final few episodes are mind-blowing. I love this show, and even season five was amazing. Don't miss it for your life!

Better Now

[Linda1973 · 7/10 · 23 October 2023]

Watched when it was originally on and liked it, but didn't love it. Even though I was the age of the characters, I didn't feel that it represented the community that I knew and the sex was too graphic. Watching now, I appreciate it more for the stories and that's what I'm mostly focused on. I definitely feel that Melanie is the most honest and stable character, and stays true throughout the series with her personality and beliefs. Everyone else is kind of swinging back and forth and some storylines get dropped altogether (Ted's secret obsession with Michael in season one, for example). And now with fresh eyes...I cannot stand Michael. He's so moony over Brian that I don't see how ANYONE could stay with him...he's like an obsessive stalker and is so pathetic...whiny, selfish, needy, nosy, and all around nauseating. Melanie and Emmett are the best written characters by far.

Not a show, a lifestyle

[joao-s-bernardo · 10/10 · 13 July 2008]

Not about the queer, not about the folk, not about he drama. At first, I was a little reluctant watching the show. I thought 'Just sex', which, was fine. I had just came out of the closet, to myself, and I was exploring about the real gay world. But then, I had my eyes open wide, looking at the screen, thinking that i didn't want to be part of the gay community. Going out at night, I discovered that the world had changed a little bit for me, I saw things I didn't before. And there it was, the world Queer as Folk showed me, right there, under my nose. My boyfriend said to me that Queer as Folk was all about the sex, drugs, promiscuity. Reaching the finale of season one, I realized the show did not entice the use of drugs, nor the excessive sex, but the other way around. If you read between the lines of the show, you can see that it is all about warnings. As matter of fact, the characters develop and the environment itself develops, so if you only saw the first season, you can't draw conclusions. Yes, in this show we can find sex and drugs, but we can also find love, family, political issues, health-related issues, and so on. It is not just a show. It teaches the people about that dark and cruel world that is the homosexual community, and when you look closer, it's not that dark and gloomy, but rather colorful and happy, even with all the enemies it has.

Thank you, Queer as Folk, for teaching me how to be a better gay man.

Which universe does this show take place in?

[zooeyhall · 1/10 · 22 June 2013]

So---gay guys have lots of torrid sex with other hot-looking gay guys. And when they aren't engaged in that, they're out clubbing! As a gay man myself, can someone tell me what universe this show takes place in? But I suppose if you put lots of implied sex and near-nudity in a TV show, it is SURE to boost the ratings!

Apparently the gay world consists of narcissistic nitwits who are all beautiful and spout dumb dialogue.

This empty-headed series is just chock-full of the worst gay stereotypes. But then again, as I mention above, dopey dialogue and the occasional sweaty heaving (but implied) sex brings in the idiot viewers.

A piece of my life

[cute_fun_04 · 16 August 2005]

This show, has brought the best five years to my life. I started watching the show when I was 13, and was the backbone for my coming out. Without this show, I don't think I would have had the courage to come out when I did. It was like home to me when things got rough. Now 17, I have developed a connection with the characters based on the lifestyle they led and the one I lead. Through the whole last episode, I cried, it was like a part of me had died, remembering that it was the biggest reason why I came out. I already miss the show, and I am anticipating buying the rest of the box sets I'm missing, the two Cd's I'm missing, and the book, to keep in my collection of the greatest t.v show to be aired and the greatest backbone support to gay people around the world. That's all folks!