Sons of Anarchy (2008–2014) User Reviews

New favorite show

[tatiancalvario · 10/10 · 24 November 2023]

We are in 2023 and I just saw the best show I ever seen until this date, took me a long time to finally see it and I don't know why this wait but for I'm happy now.

The story, the music, the drama and Charlie aka Jax (he was perfect and born to be Jax, impossible to imagine another actor to give life of a biker like he did) all these ingredients and you get THE perfect show. And to finish 7 seasons is in 2 weeks 1/2 that means it's just impossible to stop to watch!!

The end, killed me. I don't remember to cried so much for a ficcional character/ show (last time was for the ending of Friends... diferent mood)

Just to keep short, I don't know what to do with my life after this masterpiece.

Absolutely Love This Show

[Supermanfan-13 · 10/10 · 20 April 2024]

Sons of Anarchy is absolutely, without a doubt one of my favorite shows of all-time. It's one of the few shows that I love so much that I've watched it all the way through several times and probably will again in the near future. The cast is absolutely incredible, led by the underrated Charlie Hunnam as Jax Teller. It also has so many other career performances by actors like Ron Perlman, Katy Segal, Tommy Flanagan, Ryan Hurst, Kim Coates and many more. If you haven't seen this yet I'm warning you now to give yourself enough time because you're going to want to binge it as fast as you can. Love, love, love this show!

Revving Up the Drama: A Review of Sons of Anarchy MC Series

[terriloveorhatebrooks · 10/10 · 1 April 2024]

Buckle up for a wild ride through the gritty and gripping world of Sons of Anarchy MC. From the first episode to the last, this series had me hooked like a fish on a line. I found myself glued to the screen, binge-watching every moment I could steal away.

The plot is a rollercoaster of twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat, constantly craving more. Just when you think you've seen it all, the story takes another unexpected detour, leaving you hungry for the next episode.

The cast is nothing short of phenomenal. Even the actors whose characters I didn't particularly care for brought an intensity to the screen that fueled the show's dramatic fire. It's their performances that truly ignite the tension and emotion, making every scene feel electric.

However, fair warning to those with a weak stomach: Sons of Anarchy MC doesn't shy away from the raw and brutal realities of its world. Some scenes are downright vulgar, but they serve to underscore the gritty authenticity of the series.

One standout aspect is the incredible work of the makeup artists. The wounds and injuries inflicted upon the characters look so realistic, it's almost unsettling. Their attention to detail adds an extra layer of immersion to an already immersive experience.

In conclusion, Sons of Anarchy MC is a must-watch for fans of intense drama and gripping storytelling. Just be prepared to buckle in tight and hold on for dear life.

If only on HBO...

[lavaside-60237 · 9/10 · 11 February 2024]

Probably the only show to really compete with Sopranos for best of the genre.

Some things it did better.

Some things it did worse.

The things it did better:

• Kept the story focused around the 'gangsterness' that people tuned in for; even when incorporating family drama. Sopranos not only had more family drama, but 90% of the family drama didn't have anything to do with the mafia premise; downright boring at times.

• In shows such as these, you have to have your per episode arcs, as well as your season long arcs. SOA had better in depth and entertaining arcs; both episode and season wise.

• Better final episode.

The things it did worse:

• While an achievement to be as entertaining as it was, when it was a 'PG-13 biker show' - one still has to wonder how awesome and more authentic it would have been, with cursing and nudity (being it's about bikers). All of the other qualities, plus an R rating - would have put this show over the top of the Sopranos. We never have to wonder about that with Sopranos, because it was on HBO.

• While Sopranos had some annoying characters, it didn't have any glowingly bad miscasting. SOA had a horrible miscast in one of its main roles - Maggie Siff as Tara Knowles. Seriously, it's like watching wood.

• Sopranos didn't have corny antagonists. SOA had some so corny you'd think they had a time machine to the 80s; most notably 'The League'.

• No one on the Sopranos was married to the creator, with their horrible music being played constantly from season 2 on.

Seasons ranked:

1. Season 1

2. Season 4

3. Season 3

4. Season 2.

5. Season 5

6. Season 7 -

-

-

10. Season 6. (The 2nd to last season flounders, much like the Sopranos. School shootings. Trannies. Like they were drawing subjects out of a hat. The last few episodes are decent, but can't redeem the season.)

One of the best, one of the saddest ever

[partanen-21276 · 8/10 · 11 February 2024]

An infinitely inventive and good series.

But every single episode is just lies, hate, killing, dying, giving up.

The series is very addictive but at the same time makes you feel bad because of all the bad things in it.

Mixed thoughts when it's all over. While watching, you start to hate many characters and in the end you don't know who is good, bad or ugly.

Of the series, Yellowstone comes to mind the most, but the vests separate them from each other.

I can't really say who to recommend the series to and who not. I would think that the age limit for the series is different in different countries, but it is definitely intended for adults only. Not for teenagers.

It's hard to choose a favorite character, because everyone does the things mentioned above. All in all, a masterpiece that is sure to divide opinion on its content.

The actors, the direction, the script, the voices, everything is top notch.

Shocked at how much I enjoyed this show

[DGMcCready · 9/10 · 8 March 2024]

For years, whenever I thought of this show, I just felt I wouldn't Iike it. Not a biker guy and a little turned off by Katy Segal and Ron Perlman. I finally gave in and boy was I shocked. I instantly cared so much about the people in it and watched the whole series in a couple weeks. 3 people made this show for me damn near perfect...Tara, Unser and Nero. I hated the way Tara was killed but I understood. Unser's death was interesting--he was terminal and the two women he ever loved (one as a daughter type that he vowed to protect and the other a woman he could never have) both did him in. Once he confirmed with Gemma she killed Tara he didn't want to live anymore anyways.

Jimmy Smits was awesome in this show as Nero. I just loved his character and the added touch of having a handicapped son added a layer to him that most in this show didn't have. Glad he was allowed to live.

Jax of course is the center point of the show and he holds his own. His love for Tara was real and I think he would have been fine just running away with her and the kids but that dang club kept pulling him back.

I think 7 season was perfect. Any more and it wouldn't be that believable that half these people are not dead yet.

I also loved the many actors that are in so many other shows I enjoy. Of course, The Shield but also Justified and Deadwood.

in memoriam of George Matneshliev and his loving wife E.L.E..!?

[lachezarmatneshliev · 9/10 · 12 February 2024]

I'm totally agree, creator Kurt Sutter is a craftmaster of comedy and suspense! Sexual education are no bad, scatolomania with great vision, drugs,weapons, murderer people, the highest horror, violence above people! An outlaw motorcycle club, SAMCRO they have everything, despite my ignorance of terror, I'm convinced that SOA could be most entertaining serial I may ever watched! It's funny heroic, maybe political and, most of all, energetic plot! Inside in gang you have juctice, last looks of main machine in the name of father -- all band is terrific mans power great actors, str8 performances! Claim leading by Charlie Hunnam who's destroyed competition, claim to be above the law of everything, chaos storytel , quantum of solace, friendship, brotherhood, family drama protecting value to be a superfluous in this world or to stay and live..!? Further proving his mastery of creating tension and thrills, Kurt Sutter has effectively created a satisfying blood story! Just as all drama series focuses on survival instincts, it seems that Kurt Sutter has found a way to resurrecting the same old scares..!? Really, this is Slavi's Show screenplay set up, fans of Harley Davidson, exotic booze, pistols and almost eleven years after the disastrous expedition to the distant moon called Hotel Julia and the hidden comunism against westworld freedom -- xaxa..!? Take it easy and have a nice road..!?

Absolutely awesome

[angiemads · 10/10 · 21 April 2024]

I love Sons of Anarchy I have watched it so many times and it never gets boring. Probably helps that Jax Teller is very easy on the eye too. From the very first episode I was hooked as so much happened and it just got so much better with each season: there are some really hard things to watch at times with some of the sad deaths but they make the show what it is. I just wish that they hadn't ended it at season 7 as could have made so many more seasons including with the children of the show too but then I'm guessing that the last season would have played out so much different compared to what did happen. Must admit this is my least favourite season I'm guessing cos it's the last one of the show. I really hope that Kurt Surrey writes some more Sons shows as they are awesome. I have watched the spin off Mayans and that is nothing like Sons at all.

Excels in depicting the raw and unfiltered portrayal of violence, brotherhood, and the challenges of maintaining a criminal empire.

[larry-larose · 9/10 · 9 August 2023]

I absolutely adored "Sons of Anarchy," a riveting and emotionally charged series that delves deep into the gritty world of an outlaw motorcycle club. Set in the fictional town of Charming, California, the show follows the lives and struggles of the members of the Sons of Anarchy Motorcycle Club Redwood Original (SAMCRO).

At the heart of the series is Jackson "Jax" Teller, portrayed by Charlie Hunnam, who grapples with his loyalty to the club and his desire for a better life for his family. The complexity of Jax's character mirrors the moral gray areas that the club often finds itself in. As SAMCRO navigates the dangerous underworld of organized crime, the series masterfully explores themes of loyalty, power, family, and the blurred lines between right and wrong.

The intricate web of characters, each with their own motivations and demons, adds depth and authenticity to the narrative. The relationships between the members of SAMCRO are at the core of the show, as they face internal conflicts, betrayals, and alliances that test their bonds.

The show also excels in depicting the raw and unfiltered portrayal of violence, brotherhood, and the challenges of maintaining a criminal empire. The balance between action-packed sequences and character-driven moments creates a captivating dynamic that keeps viewers invested from start to finish.

What sets "Sons of Anarchy" apart is its ability to elicit a wide range of emotions. From heart-wrenching tragedies to heartwarming moments of camaraderie, the series captures the complexity of human emotions and relationships. As the characters grapple with the consequences of their choices, the audience is taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotions that resonates long after the show ends.

In conclusion, "Sons of Anarchy" is a tour de force in storytelling, characterized by its compelling characters, intricate plotlines, and exploration of morally gray areas. It's a series that skillfully balances intense action, drama, and emotional depth, leaving a lasting impact on those who journey through the highs and lows of the SAMCRO world.

Great Television

[daycu- · 25 August 2023]

Sons of Anarchy is great television but flawed to a fault. The flaws of SoA are very minor and the greatness of this series overshadows it by a long shot. The only problems the series has in my eyes is uncalled for humor, small little plot holes in the story, and noticeable cgi in very few parts. The show excels with a stacked cast of stars, twisted dark storytelling which make for tragic elements, and tons of blood. The show doesn't hold back on violence which make it one of the goriest crime drama series to date. Jax and Gemma's characters in the show are so complex and have a very bold storyline throughout the show. Lots of good side characters lots of shocking deaths. And an overall good finale for the show that felt like it stayed true to itself by the end.

Entertaining but ridiculous.

[rhino-94279 · 7/10 · 25 March 2020]

This show is easy watching when you want to unwind after a long day. It's entertaining with plenty of action and intertwining story lines but it has some major issues...

Awful acting, over the top stereotypes and ridiculous storylines. The gang somehow manage to get mixed up with every possible bad guy in the whole USA and Ireland along with several different divisions of police force and yet they always come out unscathed. There must be a hundred shootouts / explosions throughout the entire series yet our hero jax never gets more than a scratch on his pretty face.

You'll probably enjoy the show if you don't take it very seriously. Just accept the ridiculousness of it all and cheer on the bad guys with hearts of gold.

Too unrealistic to take seriously

[Moviexreds · 6/10 · 12 December 2018]

Very entertaining series.

But unfortunately is just too stupid to be able to take seriously.

A dozen of drunken white bikers basically outsmart and outmuscle every single gang, judge, auhority, mafia, international terrorist, local cop, and federal agent that comes in their way.

These are the chozen dozen. The king of kings. It actually should be named the Fantastic Dozen.

The amount of daylight homicides that go unsolved by police must be a record on any given series. Actually, there is no more incompetent police force than the Charming PD and every other agency that sets foot in the city of the Dozen bikers.

It really shows the state of TV and Cinema when this series has a rating of 8.6

With that said, it sure is very entertaining. And every episode will keep you in the edge of your seat.

Overrated soap opera

[rick-morgan9063 · 2/10 · 24 April 2017]

I feel compelled to write these comments as the stratospheric high reviews are misleading. The format and premise are promising- a modern day biker gang struggle with relationships, illegal gunrunning, competing gangs and how to walk around in a leather jacket without looking like a total idiot most of the time. Sadly, this is just a poorly written soap opera - the acting is variable and occasionally comical, the main characters are wholly unconvincing as tough MC club members (I have some knowledge of such things) and the male relationships are as homoerotic as those in Top Gun - which, lets be honest, set the benchmark in such matters. The worst aspects of this overblown nonsense is the predictability of the plots, and the by-numbers skirmishes where the whole MC crew appear to be bullet- proof and legendary combat specialists, rather than overweight drunken louts with mummy issues. Look, it has a degree of watch-ability and may pass some time on a Sunday afternoon if there's nothing else on, but the ridiculous scores of 8 plus puts this drivel in Breaking Bad territory, and I'm not having that.

One of the best shows ever

[Rob1331 · 10/10 · 13 December 2023]

Sons of Anarchy is easily one of my two or three favorite shows I've ever seen. I really can't say enough about this amazing show that hasn't already been said, all you have to do is read through the reviews to see how loved this show really is. I know that people say this all the time about a ton of different shows but Sons of Anarchy is absolutely one of the best shows ever created! Every season is just as amazing as the others, which everyone knows is really rare for a tv show but which Sons of Anarchy definitely pulls off. Do yourself a favor and just go watch it. I promise it will not only meet your expectations but it'll pass them.

"Sons of Anarchy" - A Masterful Interpretation of Shakespeare's Hamlet

[VeqazZ · 10/10 · 16 May 2023]

"Sons of Anarchy" is a television series that brilliantly reimagines Shakespeare's iconic tragedy, Hamlet, in a modern setting. With a rating of 10/10, it is a remarkable and powerful interpretation of the timeless tale.

The series follows the story of Jax Teller, who is essentially the Hamlet character in this contemporary retelling. Like Hamlet, Jax is torn between loyalty to his family and the desire for justice. He is haunted by his father's ghost and must navigate a treacherous world of power struggles, betrayal, and vengeance.

The parallels between "Sons of Anarchy" and Hamlet are skillfully woven into the narrative. The intricate family dynamics, the moral dilemmas, and the exploration of corruption and honor reflect the themes that Shakespeare explored in his play. The series beautifully captures the essence of Hamlet's internal conflict and the tragic consequences of his actions.

One of the standout aspects of "Sons of Anarchy" is its exceptional cast. Each actor brings depth and nuance to their characters, effectively embodying the complexity of their Shakespearean counterparts. Charlie Hunnam delivers a mesmerizing performance as Jax Teller, capturing the turmoil and intensity of the character with remarkable skill.

The writing of the series is superb, capturing the spirit and essence of Shakespeare while infusing it with the gritty realism of a biker gang. The dialogue is sharp, intelligent, and often poetic, mirroring the poetic language of Shakespeare's original work.

Furthermore, the production values of "Sons of Anarchy" are top-notch. The attention to detail in recreating the biker culture, the authentic set designs, and the visceral action sequences contribute to the overall immersive experience of the series.

In conclusion, "Sons of Anarchy" is a masterpiece of television that successfully reimagines Shakespeare's Hamlet in a contemporary and gritty setting. With its exceptional performances, brilliant writing, and masterful interpretation of the timeless themes of the original play, it earns a well-deserved rating of 10/10. Whether you are a fan of Shakespeare or simply appreciate compelling storytelling, "Sons of Anarchy" is a must-watch series that will leave a lasting impact.

Beyond Expectations

[navdeepbeniwal-14921 · 10/10 · 18 July 2023]

That is a master piece. After seeing the breaking bad thought that nothing can beat it but this one did it beated breaking bad, story is awesome, build up is also incredible and cast, from where hollywood brings these types of legends in every web series and movies and it is also very emotional i thought nothing couldn't make me cry but the death of jackson teller made me cry. The storyline can not be guessed like tig and chiks i thought they would die first but they survived and rest of member dead, this is for legends. This give us a very smooth message that this happens when a man love two different things and they try to push away the man from each other like Tara pushed jax from club and club push jax from Tara. All in one you should have watch this before die because very few humans watch these types of series in this era. You have worth to watch it.

One of the best shows ever created

[Rob1331 · 10/10 · 25 June 2023]

Sons of Anarchy is easily one of my two or three favorite shows I've ever seen. I really can't say enough about this amazing show that hasn't already been said, all you have to do is read through the reviews to see how loved this show really is. I know that people say this all the time about a ton of different shows but Sons of Anarchy is absolutely one of the best shows ever created! Every season is just as amazing as the others, which everyone knows is really rare for a tv show but which Sons of Anarchy definitely pulls off. Do yourself a favor and just go watch it. I promise it will not only meet your expectations but it'll pass them!

A Shakespearean Masterpiece on a Harley

[buckwinthrop-16041 · 10/10 · 1 September 2023]

I'm quite late to the Sons of Anarchy hoopla. Better late than never. Quite frankly, Sons of Anarchy is one of the best shows I have ever seen. Charlie Gunman soars as Jax and leads a cast of extraordinary actors including Katie Sagal, Maggie Siff, Theo Rossi and Ron Pearlman. One of the shows most exciting fact is the creator, Kurt Sutter ---who is an absolute genius--was also Executive Producer, writer, director AND cast member p!aying Otto to which he deserved the Emmy. To my knowledge I dont know a show where kne individual wore so many hats. The show delivers all the action one would expect but at its core its a show about family, loyalty, belonging and ultimately betrayal. I watched the entire seven seasons in two weeks and during that time I was obsessed right up until the harrowing finale. The show stayed with me, and will continue to occupy a space in my head for a long time. Its my hope Mr Sutter resolves his issues with the studios involved in production to bring us he prequels and sequels a show this outstanding show warants.

I like this show, but probably not for the right reasons.

[Impugn_Original · 7/10 · 31 January 2012]

I have to disconnect a bit to truly enjoy this show because, if I don't, the unintentional comedy keeps getting in the way.

My beefs:

1) "Red, no blue...arrrgggghhh!"

Any geek who has ever played an adventure game (from Zork to Grand Theft Auto) knows the routine. The plot is moved by a chain of quests and little else. I need to exit the dungeon, but I need a key. The wizard has the key, but to get it, I need the unicorn. To get the unicorn, I need to get the princess. To get the princess, I need to get the rose. To get the rose, I need to get the painting. ...and so on, ad nauseam...

Once you pick up on that dynamic within this show, it becomes sort of laughable. Every time they encounter and interact with any external person or entity, they are left with a quest. Seriously. They could approach the local grocer to pick up a gallon of milk and, somehow, leave with no milk until a task to set up the grocer's son with a prom date is completed.

This method is not unique to this show, so it is not a deal-breaker.

2) "If it wasn't for bad luck..."

Jack Bauer is the only dude I know that has more problems in a given day than Jax Teller and his pals. I understand why Bauer's day is so unfairly loaded with horrible circumstances - that's the premise of the show 24. With SoA, however, the sheer number of horrible events in a short period of time is, frankly, exhausting. It feels unnecessarily compressed. They finish up their Irish adventure, return home, immediately deal with the Kim Bauer, er (sorry!), Tara kidnapping situation and, whew, relax for 10 minutes. Enjoy it, cuz, tomorrow, you're all going to jail! Real humans saddled with such an utter concentration of tragedy would have an uncommon tendency to find out what the business end of a pistol tastes like. Just sayin'.

I think the show's creators recognize this which is why they, very occasionally, show moments of levity or even (*gasp*) normality.

3) "Imperial Stormtroopers meets the A-Team"

This SAMCRO gang can do *nothing* right. Nothing. Even routine criminal activities reliably end in failure. They are the Gang That Can't Shoot Straight, yet almost always emerge unscathed. Handing off some scripts/drugs to a black market doctor? By all means, do it outside, in full view of the neo-Nazi guy! All the "bad guys" going to a rally? Simultaneously have your club show up with automatic weapons *AND* arrange for the cops to be at the scene! It is confounding. There is very little reason for me to believe this numbskull SAMCRO outfit would remain in business for more than a few weeks. I don't know who would pay them for "protection" or risk getting pinched buying guns or drugs from them.

4) "Beefcake! BEEFCAAAAAAAAAAAKE!"

I get it. Jax is "hot". My wife tells me so. Given we're watching the DVD release and there are no commercials, I actually appreciate the occasional Jax-shirtless-Diet-Pepsi-commercial thing - my cue to hit the kitchen. (Jax's accent - especially when he has to act alongside dudes with any accent native to the U.K. - drifts in and out, which is a riot.)

We dudes are hosed, though. To paraphrase Cleavon Little's character from Blazing Saddles, "Where all the women at?" We got a fairly worn out Peg Bundy, a tramp-stamped doctor with more baggage than sense, prostitutes and porn stars, and psychotic lesbian federal agents. How about throwing us a hot chick with a head on her shoulders and, just for good measure, make her immune (if not hostile) to Jax's, um, "charms".

I'll keep watching in spite of my sneaking suspicion that I have been Jerry MacGuire'd (tricked into watching a chick flick). The writing is pretty nimble - they haven't painted themselves into a corner quite yet. They have a sense of humor about themselves - I particularly enjoyed Jax telling the Porn Lady that he wasn't there to "Adriana her" (a reference to Jax's ex-wife's character on The Sopranos) and Gemma saying she'd rather go bald than red-head (Al Bundy is predictably indifferent on the subject). There are some fine moments with nice payoffs - even if you see them coming in advance to some degree.

So, it's a video game in TV-show form and it will make your wife hot for scumbags. It is simply *loaded* with supporting characters from all over the entertainment spectrum (You will spend a fair amount of time wondering exactly from where you know Characters X and Y...and who knew there was a *low rent* version of Eric Roberts out there?). You know, you just haven't lived until you've seen Gerry Bertier empty a MAC-10 into the back of a chick's head. Strong side, left side, indeed.

By all means, enjoy this show. I know I am. Just, please, please, spare Billy the posthumous gymnastics and refrain from the Shakespeare comparisons. It ain't that, at all. Also, spare us the indignation of decrying the "glorification" of the lifestyles portrayed. Those clownshoes at SAMCRO aren't an advertisement for much beyond making birth control very available and supporting your local law enforcement.

NUTSHELL: A very good watch, but be sure to laugh *quietly* at any nimrods (guys or gals) you see sporting SoA merchandise (cuts, shirts, hats, etc...)...for they know not what they reveal about themselves.

Once you watch it, you won't be able to stop recommending it

[arabnikita · 10/10 · 27 October 2021]

Sons of Anarchy (2008-2014)

It took me 4 months to watch the first 4 episodes of this show. Everytime I tried, I just couldn't get into it until something clicked and all of a sudden, I found myself experiencing an absolutely marvelous TV Series. Every subsequent season impressed me more and more with it's detailed level of storytelling and complex characters that go through monumental growth over the course of the journey. The show that often came to my mind was Breaking Bad so hopefully you understand the quality that I am talking about.

Sons of Anarchy is about a biker club in a small town called Charming. The bikers spend their time going about their regular lives which happen to be intertwined with all sorts of criminal activities and more often than not, these activities lead to brutal circumstances, which warrants a warning for the faint hearted. At first, they deal with small problems such as rival gangs but everytime they seem to resolve one conflict, 3 more emerge in it's place and the cycle continues in each season.

When I looked at the poster, I wondered why are members of the same club fighting? Soon enough, I realized that while external threats bring their share of troubles, the amount of internal intrigues create far more tension. The level of scheming along with the amount of shocking moments provides plenty of thrilling content that never fails to surprise. Every character brings something unique to the table and as soon as you begin to connect with them, you will come to deeply love some and hate the others.

At first glance, a biker show might seem like it is centred around men but the women play a huge part in the story as they weave their own webs much like Cersei in Game of Thrones. What makes this series effective and keeps the ride interesting is the great writing, the realistic dialogue and the raw emotions. I thought that a biker show would never interest me but I ended up experiencing an unforgettable journey full of passion, intrigue and heartbreak that has earned a place among my favorite TV shows.

P. S. A separate mention must go out to the exceptional music that not only fit the atmosphere but found a way into my heart.

Really good

[audiguy-48561 · 7/10 · 6 March 2023]

Really enjoyed the show but like most reviews I thought the final season went overboard. The action is great and I know it's fiction but to me Jax is kinda of a coward. Ninety percent of his fights is when he sucker punches someone. He must have said "sorry" over 100 times. Always apologizing even though it's all about himself. Club comes in second. He should have gotten his ass kicked at least once in the movie, which would have made it more bearable. Also his son, Abel reminds me of Damien from the omen. He's a scary little boy. Not a good role for him. Overall I did enjoy it and I know it was nitpicking but everyone has their on opinion. But definitely recommend the show.

Totally Undeserving of its Praise

[srthomas2006 · 3/10 · 16 December 2012]

If I had to consolidate into one word all of the unpleasant emotions I've undergone in my painfully slow journey through five seasons of this cartoonish series, the term "frustration" would fit the bill perfectly. If you plan on diving into this show expecting the universe in which this story takes place to even remotely resemble our own, you too will feel this frustration. I am actually thoroughly appalled to see such high praise for this show, and it troubles me to think that this might somehow be The Best Thing On Television Right Now.

The show centers on the follies of a gun running motorcycle gang in a fictional California town, ostensibly ran by a young blonde man named Jax who appears as though he was ripped, pixel for pixel, right out of an Abercrombie and Finch magazine ad. His mother, stepfather, and girlfriend get much focus as well, and a handful of other gang members get minor attention in an attempt to give the ensemble a little substance. However, each and every one of these characters are completely unlikable. They're nasty, manipulative, murderous, sexist criminals. This group of alcoholic racists (the non-allowance of blacks in the group actually becomes a plot-line) runs guns (and later, drugs) and seems to pull in huge profits in the process, and yet still live relatively meager lives in modest homes. There is never an explanation as to where these funds go, and there is only a half-attempt to explain why the gang even carries out this type of shady business in the first place.

Now, stories centering on anti-heroes CAN be enjoyable. Nabokov's Lolita, American Psycho, Dexter come to mind. However, this show feels as though it actually endorses the actions of our biker friends, and I felt as though I, as the viewer, was expected to give myself a high-five every time the Sons of Anarchy (the name of the gang) killed an innocent bystander or screwed someone over. The main pull for this show is simply watching to see if these thugs ever actually get what's coming to them. (Spoiler Alert: they don't. Not in the first five seasons, anyway). This brings me to my main peeve: the characters outside the inner circle.

Rest assured, any character in this show that is not a member or affiliate of the Sons of Anarchy is going to be a cartoonish, one- dimensional, unintelligent tool that always seems to be just one step behind our lovely Sons. Authority figure, public official, rival gang member, it doesn't matter. For example (spoiler here), one character sets a scenario in motion in which Jax's best friend is beaten to death right in front of him. Then, this same character instructs Jax to turn over ANOTHER member of his gang to be murdered, and then leaves himself completely open for a strike from Jax as he carries out the task of killing the second member. This character is supposed to be a super- intelligent, insanely powerful person in the story, and watching him and other characters do insanely stupid things that allow Jax and crew to constantly get the scoop on them is absolutely cringe-worthy. Furthermore, none of the gang members, save for one named Opie, ever have to experience the consequences of their lifestyle.

As I mentioned before, I don't mind rooting for the bad guys from time to time, but this show makes it impossible. The characters are invincible, and therefore completely unrelatable. The story lines are easily predictable (hint: Sons always win. Always). The acting is pretty good, particularly from Katey Sagal, but it's hard to revive the believability of such poorly written characters. Watch Mad Men or Breaking Bad if you actually want a story in which the characters are human beings. Watch this if you like motorcycles and brawls and gunfights, because that's about as deep as this show is willing to go.

A good show to be remembered for years.

[ansharora-12638 · 10/10 · 8 May 2020]

Only a few shows get stuck in your mind for quite some time after you finish watching them. Only few shows. For me Sons of Anarchy is one of them. This is not just another show about a ruthless lawless biker gang, but it is a show about ruthless moral filled biker gangs who are well aware of the rights and wrongs of society and human nature. Never disrespected women and always took care of their own. Kurt Sutter is a specialist in that kind of genre, ever since from The Shield. By the way, another brilliant show co-written by SOA's creator.

The music is beautiful and some of the songs are just great, along with the casting, every piece fits. Yaa we know that at the end everything always favored our title gang but that's why the series finale was written like that. No spoilers. Give this show a chance and try to stick with it till the end before giving a rating. Don't know why people judge a show by giving rating after seeing only few episodes or seasons.

Action+music+brotherhood+entertainment+drama. A good package.

A Gripping Saga of Brotherhood and Chaos: Sons of Anarchy Sets a New Standard

[bsrsfjbw · 10/10 · 6 May 2023]

As a seasoned critic with an eye for exceptional storytelling, I am thrilled to share my thoughts on the groundbreaking television series, Sons of Anarchy. In a landscape saturated with predictable narratives, this compelling saga stands out as a masterclass in character development, gripping plotlines, and raw emotion.

From the very first episode, Sons of Anarchy captivates viewers with its unflinching portrayal of a motorcycle club and the intricate web of loyalty, brotherhood, and power struggles that define their world. Each episode is meticulously crafted, building upon the tension and intrigue established in the preceding chapters, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats and hungry for more.

One of the show's greatest strengths lies in its ability to create fully realized and complex characters. The ensemble cast delivers exceptional performances, immersing us in the lives of the SAMCRO (Sons of Anarchy Motorcycle Club Redwood Original) members. Charlie Hunnam's portrayal of Jax Teller is a revelation, capturing the internal turmoil and moral dilemmas faced by the club's charismatic leader. The supporting cast, including Ron Perlman, Katey Sagal, and Mark Boone Junior, bring depth and authenticity to their respective roles, breathing life into the multifaceted characters that populate this gritty world.

Beyond the exceptional performances, Sons of Anarchy excels in its storytelling. Each episode is meticulously crafted, weaving together intricate plotlines and exploring profound themes of loyalty, family, and the consequences of one's choices. The narrative arcs are expertly paced, with each twist and turn leaving a lasting impact. The writing is sharp, poignant, and unafraid to delve into the darkest corners of human nature, resulting in a deeply immersive experience that lingers in the minds of viewers long after the credits roll.

Furthermore, Sons of Anarchy boasts remarkable production values that heighten the show's authenticity. From the roaring motorcycles and the visceral action sequences to the evocative cinematography and the meticulously designed sets, every element contributes to the immersive atmosphere of the series. The attention to detail is impeccable, creating a rich and textured world that feels lived-in and believable.

Moreover, Sons of Anarchy stands as a testament to the power of music in storytelling. The show's carefully curated soundtrack, featuring an eclectic mix of genres and artists, enhances the emotional impact of each scene, underscoring the dramatic tension and providing a haunting backdrop to the characters' triumphs and tragedies.

In conclusion, Sons of Anarchy is a triumph of television storytelling. Its riveting plotlines, exceptional performances, and thought-provoking exploration of complex themes elevate it to the pinnacle of modern television. As a top critic, I can confidently say that this series sets a new standard for excellence in the medium, solidifying its place as an unforgettable masterpiece that will be celebrated for years to come.

Hard to watch - traumatic content but phenomenal

[babyyygorilla · 8/10 · 28 September 2023]

It's a crazy series - I feel like it's divided into two things. The first part of the series is a bit cringe for me - And it lasted until season 4 almost. The behavior of the characters along with the script was a bit amusing but not for the right reasons.

In the second part of the series - which took a very dark and difficult turn - and is very difficult to watch.

The contents become very traumatic and difficult to digest.

Even the character I really liked watching so far (Jax) becomes a villain.

And I understand that it is because of the things that happened to him, however I did not manage to finish the series because of how difficult it was for me to watch the content.

I think this is not a series for sensitive or empathetic people.

I still gave the series a high rating because I think the series is a work of art.

It managed to touch me and not many series manage to do that.