Salem (2014–2017) User Reviews

Definitely not the fairy type of magic

[AfricanBro · 7/10 · 29 October 2021]

I watched this a while ago and unlike most tv shows that revolve around or involve witches, this one isn't afraid of getting dark which is why I love it so much. No cute spells or prismatic visuals, everything about the show is medieval and eery, animal sacrifices and casting diseases to entire villages and towns, all that. It's not trying to show you witches can be human too, instead it's reminding you of why you tell children witch stories to scare them. Reminds you why witch trials were such a big thing and society thought hanging women and girls was justifiable back in the 1600's.

Yet despite all that, its not really a horror in the sense of something that's trying to scare and make you jump off the couch. It gets a little political, gets a little romantic, there's family feuds, church hysteria...it actually has a story behind all the gloomy stuff so you're not just watching nugatory witch trials. And the fact that Salem witch trials actually used to happen and the place is famed for it, makes it more exciting. Though it's not historically accurate, it's fictional; if you mind mind go watch the history channel or something.

I don't think it's a 10/10 like other reviews say, the acting sometimes questionable and you can tell it didn't have a huge production budget hence the special effects; but it's definitely worth a watch if you're a fan of the genre. And if you already enjoyed this, I think you should watch the original "Penny Dreadful", that's a gem, not the City Of Angels spineoff though.

Great

[epichiphop · 8/10 · 4 March 2019]

This show didn't get nearly enough publicity. I find it really eerie. The lead does a great job. Worth a binge watch

Worth the watch

[jonny462 · 7/10 · 6 June 2014]

I was on the fence about starting this show, until I came here and read the ridiculous 1 star reviews that actually made me give it a go. I just finished episode 1 and thought I would leave my opinion because a lot of people seem to be confused between this show and actually historical events.

For anyone who wants a 100% accurate retelling of real events from that period. This show is not for you. It doesn't claim to be accurate and doesn't try to be. Try the history channel for nice documentary.

Although a dark time in US history. There were no real witches. If this show was accurate it would be a simple small town that randomly kills innocent people for religious reasons. Perhaps that is what some of you expected from this show, but I would find that boring and repetitive. I'm happy the writers included witches and obscured some facts to make it entertaining.

This show is an entertaining twist on a dark time in US history. I don't think that means its insulting or aimed towards idiots (as some have said). I believe its what it is: a supernatural show loosely based on historical events.

Now for the show itself. The plot so far has been fast paced with some slightly strange aspects (no spoilers). The acting is so-so and the sfx were a lot better than I expected.

The only bad thing I can say is.. The brothel doesn't make sense. I'm not talking about historical accuracy. The writers have clearly setup a town ruled by religion. It seems anyone who disagrees with the religious order ends up beaten or killed. Yet they allow a brothel. I believe in this aspect the writers have tried to use sex scenes to keep people entertained and I don't think it is needed as I found it entertaining enough without those scenes.

Overall a good show and I will keep watching.

Great (dark) pop entertainment

[Farganger · 10/10 · 29 October 2018]

This is quite a ride. Bingeable on Netflix, whereas the original run was less available, and not well advertised, on WGN. Strong characters, acting and writing, and a consistent, dark look. I think it just gets better as it goes along. Too bad we didn't get a fourth season, but WGN stopped all original programming...

good

[rosenkranz_4 · 7/10 · 23 April 2014]

Not sure why some are bringing up history to judge this TV series. It's on WGN not the History channel. We saw the previews for Salem & it turned out to be exactly what the previews made it out to be. It's not going to be sweet & silly, we've had those. It's not going to be campy, had those. Not really for the young teens, we still have those. If you're absolutely against this series, OK don't watch it anymore. If you are giving up on it after 1 episode because it was too slow, maybe give it a few more episodes(if you have the time). You don't want them to give too much away, in the first episode. Sometimes people give up on a show too early, when the best is yet to come(I know with some shows that never happens). I'll be tuning in. It's different than the other "witch" series.

Exactly what Tourists WISH happened in 1692 !!

[thesalemcat · 10/10 · 4 February 2015]

I've lived in Salem for decades, and to their credit most local Tourist Attractions stick strictly to History.

The Honest History is amazing, with critical lessons we should all learn. Lessons concerning Greed, False Witness, Power, Government OverReach, and Religious Hysteria.

But to be honest, many, if not most, Tourists seem to leave disappointed. They're looking for EVIL WITCHES and MAGIC.

Thankfully, this series delivers a bounty of both !

It's very entertaining, with excellent character development to flesh out the blood, gore, and nudity (all of which are tastefully presented).

Each Episode exceeds the previous.

We're only up to Episode 7, and have formed very strong feelings on many of the characters, including Mary Sibley, who commits detestable deeds - but we love her anyhow !

Well worth the time spent watching !!

seductive and disgusting, and i can't wait to see more.

[tomhg38 · 7/10 · 23 April 2014]

When you get any show with supernatural overtones you generally get a bunch of girly romance twilight / vampire diaries-esque bullshit, a rather heavy tax you have to pay in order to get to the actual story.

This starts out fairly slow, and very cliché. Perfectly normal people being oppressed by the zealously religious authority, needlessly tortured for silly ideals. Then we skip forward 7 years and the story develops a new angle.

I didn't have to sit through any overtly poor acting, the storyline is very dark and adult which is an extremely refreshing change from the usual CW light and fluffy nonsense, and the effects in the woods were pretty believable.

There's a love story, an unrequited love story in fact but its interesting, even IF the leads get together romantically which you have to assume is somewhat inevitable, there's also the feeling that the 2 lovebirds will each captain, or champion if you will, the respective sides of good / evil. I even thought that had some room for exploration, the main witch isn't outright "evil" in a black and white sense, but at the same time she's torturing and corrupting people, literally devouring souls.

The only negative thing i could say that i picked up on, was that one of the effects at least of the devils / witches / occult was quite disappointing. Its brief, but the reflection when the beautiful and enjoyably naked primary witch blows out her candle after succouring her familiar on her thigh teat. It was almost identical to pretty standard effects that have been used in B grade horror films for years, Roald Dahl's "the witches" comes to mind, but its probably been used almost identically in a hundred films.

All in all really promising, strong pilot. The production values, costumes and effects were all good and the story had a refreshing take on what is often an unoriginal genre. This is only the first episode but i'm actually quite excited for a slightly more adult, supernatural tale with more robust, complex subject matter. There were no huge errors that took me out of the story which led to it looking and feeling authentic. The witches themselves were both seductive and disgusting, and i can't wait to see more.

Amazing show

[silency-164-352799 · 9/10 · 26 May 2014]

One of the best TV series of horror genre I have ever seen. I watched all series there is and can't wait for more. The atmosphere is great, show it self is intense, not slow paced and I find it very realistic (I don't talk about historical accuracy - I don't care much about that.) Effects are really good - production quality is very high. I don't have anything bad to say about the cast and the acting. Of course, Salem is not for the younger or sensitive audience, but it is a must-see for those, who like a good horror/mystery show, not some candy-boy vampire teen love story. P.S. So far I find it way better than American Horror Story (Although I liked it too).

Entertained me

[lancer165 · 7/10 · 21 February 2017]

Have now finished this series. An interesting twist was thrown into the mix. I know the tale and have read much theorising about the incident. America was settled by many who had left the British Isles and of course elsewhere from mainly Protestant lands. The heaven and hell and Satan with his demons figured greatly in the preaching and as a warning about transgressions. While some good ideas are out there about how this became an epidemic it may never be fully known.

Some nations did persecute mainly women. The herbalists of then were seen as maybe witches and many superstitious stories told did not help. Women were the main target for some reason. James 1 had a fear of witchcraft. I have no idea how many were MURDERED and this is what the twist in the story is about.

This story tells us that witches do indeed exist and that if we think about the actual real world the Puritan may indeed have unwittingly been the agent of evil. Many so called faithful parents were cruel to children in the name of their God and his laws. The inquisition was forged from interpretations of the Bible by Jesuits.

Within the tale here is a long drawn out love story and in this a pregnant deserted? Mary succumbed to solve a problem. It did indeed solve more than one until her real love thought dead returned.

The outcome overall was satisfying to the audience that took the tale at face value. The pedant of course will not be.

There are a few supernatural series out there with other superstitious night creatures as even the heroes. I can enjoy the twists that are thrown in but they are usually follow on from Movie plots. Underworld a fair example. They are mostly for a much younger audience. A few things of course in this did not gel but all in all the story was well told and quite acceptable.

Glad it had an ending that was not too rushed.

A dim-witted series aimed at idiots

[alikhat · 1/10 · 21 April 2014]

The Salem witch trials were an infamous chapter in American history in which innocent people were targeted as witches by their malicious neighbors. Greed (for the land they owned) was the reason behind the accusations, but religious hysteria was the weapon. A series exploring the actual events and the psychology of the people involved, their personal motivations and culture, might have been fascinating. Instead, we get cheap supernatural pap geared toward the lowest common denominator that insults the memory of those who died.

From a ridiculously macho, tough-talking hero to catty, sexpot witches to hilarious woodland orgies to a Mustang Ranch-like brothel smack in the middle of ol' Salem towne, the show is riddled with anachronisms and absurdities. Top it off with daytime soap acting, laughable dialog and low-rent SFX, and you've got a festival of dreadful that could only be enjoyed with a group of witty friends and a lot of alcohol. And I don't think that much alcohol would be advisable for anyone. Miss it if you can.

Salem is awesome!!!

[micwalker-70653 · 9/10 · 20 April 2015]

This is a great show! A great twist to one of the most tragic events in American history. We get to see some wonderful actors of past and present. I love the music open by Marylin Manson. They could not have picked a better musician. The character Mary Sibley is truly a scary one as is Mercy. I cannot wait to see what Lucy Lawless character will be bringing us all. We love Cotton, whom in real life was a very smart man. I am glad they are showing a different side of him in this show. This show is not slow and has been very fast-paced since it started. We hope they keep this on long enough for a great ending and thank you for airing an exciting super-natural show.

Good, and yet it seems some sleepy hollow fan boys don't like it

[moby1974 · 7/10 · 22 April 2014]

OK giving it a 7/10, very early days yet but seems good, yes there is better out there, but there is also far worse stuff.

Looking at the scores it seems a good number gave it 1/10, thats not possible for a show that is a bit different and has what looks like a good production budget.

It is all by the numbers so far, but its worth following, it also has the chance (if done right) of becoming bigger and better than say....sleepy hollow

The 1/10 normally falls to those who want just anything to flop or because they are fans of another show that touches upon that sort of thing, sleepy hollow springs to mind.

Some just hate anything they see as a thunder stealer or competition.

Goes downhill really quickly

[seanfduncan · 3/10 · 20 October 2017]

The first episode was intriguing, shocking and disturbing- it led to a good first season, all in all. Afterwards, the plot started to get pretty absurd and by the end (season 3) it was just awful. There are some truly talented actors and actresses in this- REALLY amazing performances but shocking as it may come, it is the plot and script-writing that let the whole thing (and these actors) down. I wouldn't waste time on this- if they come out with more series, I will watch something else, not this.

Electrifying !!! 10 stars

[palmusfamily-90893 · 10/10 · 3 July 2017]

To say this show is amazing is just not enough. The time and care that went into the preparation for the production of this show is clear and apparent. The acting is electrifying. The wardrobe featured should be up for awards. But best of all.... The writing.... Unlike anything else out there!!!! Found this jewel on NetFlix. I could NOT stop watching the episodes.... And then to find out it had been cancelled. What was WGN thinking? Truly amazing work here and not enough advertising. Why would you put so much work into such an amazing project to let it die? Some one at the top of WGN clearly dropped the ball and lost out! Very poor decision making. Huge Mistake!!!If anyone out there with half a business sense would jump at the opportunity of continuing this amazing saga there are many that would gladly ride the emotionally charged train of "Salem" once more!!! Tri-Cities, WA.

Oh Heck -- let's just call this a win for Janet Montgomery fans...

[A_Different_Drummer · 7/10 · 6 July 2014]

It seethes with passion, it writhes with unfulfilled longing ... no, I am not necessarily talking about Salem (but I could be), rather I am talking about every bodice-ripping costume drama ever put before a camera since the early days of film. SALEM merely continues that ignoble tradition and, overall, does not a bad job of it. But for this review I believe I will take the IMDBs Reviewers Handbook (speaking metaphorically here) and toss it out the (equally metaphorical) window. Because aside from the solid acting and writing and production values, this series ultimately rests on it being a treat for fans of Janet Montgomery.

I have elsewhere within the bowels of the IMDb reviewed HUMAN TARGET, and quite favourably at that. But what I failed to mention in that review was that, to try to salvage ratings in the second (and last) season, they took an already cool show, perhaps somewhat overflowing with testosterone, and tried to "juice" it with some last-minute feminine energy. Which led to the quirky character known as AMES (played of course by JM) who successfully stole scene after scene after scene from the first-billed stars, and did it in the most wonderfully nonchalant and quirky manner. (There is even a rather ignominious Youtube video, clearly from a JM fan, commemorating one of her scenes.)

Interestingly, in that series, JM, though British born, affected a perfect Yank accent and an equally perfect Valley Girl vibe. Barely four years later, she is now leading a solid cast in SALEM with a character as different from Ames as the night is from the day, yet she remains a scene-stealer all the same.

Intriguing and sinister series that is quite entertaining...

[paul_haakonsen · 8/10 · 23 June 2014]

"Salem" had a lot of expectations to live up from on my account, and I must admit now that I have watched 10 episodes of season 1 that the show more than does deliver.

What makes this TV series work is the intriguing storyline and how nicely it is executed and brought to life on the screen. Given the fact that I have very little knowledge of the actual events of the witch trials that took place in Salem, I can say that there is at least a very nice sense of authenticity to the show and a good feeling of realism as well - well, as real as things get when you mix witchcraft and the Devil into the picture.

The characters in the show are very, very important for the show to keep its appeal and keep it fresh and interesting. And I must admit that the various roles and characters is interesting. The townsfolk are not just fillers in the crowd, and there are lots of layers to those whose stories are shown in the show. And much of this is also of course credited to the talents portraying these characters.

Without a good cast, "Salem" wouldn't stand out as strongly as it does. They have managed to put together a great ensemble of actors and actresses to fill out the various roles and characters. Stephen Lang, once he gets into the show, really carries his role so well and he is so well cast for that particular role. Despite only having a supporting role as Tituba, then Ashley Madekwe really shines on the screen as well, and she needs to be brought more on the center stage, so to speak.

The dialogue in the movie is good, as it is not diluted with cussing and lots of inappropriate bad languages, that would most certainly not be time accurate, such as seen in other TV shows that were supposed to take place in the past.

A key essential to the show is the set and the props. And wow, they really put effort into this. It is really like being back in time, as if walking around that darkened town in those troubled times. Lots of great details in the sets, buildings, costumes and environment.

One thing that didn't really go well with me was the choice for intro music. As much as I used to enjoy Marilyn Mansons music, then his song is a poor choice for the intro. While the song, in itself is good enough, it is just misplaced for this show. And it would have worked better with a more ambient and atmospheric theme that would be more time appropriate to the period of time the TV series is set to take place in.

"Salem" is a good show that is fueled by a well written storyline and well detailed characters, and it is definitely a show that I will continue to watch. While it is no "The Walking Dead", it sure does deliver good entertainment.

murky and bloody

[SnoopyStyle · 6/10 · 26 January 2017]

It's the town of Salem in colonial Massachusetts. Puritan rule is in fear of the dark witchcraft. John Alden (Shane West) returns from war to find his love Mary Sibley (Janet Montgomery) married to a town leader. Few know that witches exist and Mary is one gathering dark powers with minion Tituba. Religious Cotton Mather (Seth Gabel) is battling the witches while living in the shadows of his formidable father Increase Mather. Anne Hale (Tamzin Merchant) is an innocent who discovers her dark origins.

The show starts out well. It's murky and dark. It gets overly convoluted as the seasons go on. It becomes somewhat a muddle. The show only lasted 36 episodes and that's probably a little too long. The show's high point has to be Stephen Lang as Increase Mather. He is great and the character is such a powerful presence. This show has some bloody fun as second tier TV.

Creative Twist on the Salem Witch Trials - GREAT SHOW

[saveusrecycle · 10/10 · 24 June 2014]

This show is excellent. I have absolutely no complaints except that I wish I could see it more than just once per week! Waiting until Sunday evening is torture! The way they've spun the story of the Salem witch trials is quite intriguing. Imagine if it really were the witches running things? Ha! Great depiction of the Puritans and their harsh ways. The torture they inflicted on their victims. The cast of characters are great too. Mary Sibley being portrayed by Janet Montgomery was just perfect! She did an amazing job. Looking at Shane West play Captain John Alden is not a bad thing either. I hope they renew this show for a second season. Mixing fact and fiction make it so much more exciting! Enjoy the show!

Very disappointing

[doinitamiriam · 20 February 2017]

I really don't get the high-rating of this show. Someone here even dared to say that it shows exactly what happened. What...? Let me summarize the show: all witches are bad, they wish to kill everybody and take the town for themselves and for that, they sold their soul to Satan and gained superpowers. Oh, and there is a brothel. In a puritan town. In the 17th century. Now, I didn't live in the 17th century in Salem, but I'm pretty sure that's not what happened. I am sick of every movie, book and TV show that depicts witches as nymphomaniacs worshiping the devil and having dark, supernatural powers. But that is just my case. The acting, the CGI and the rest is not that bad. If you are looking for pure entertainment and can get past all the ridiculous scenes, you might actually enjoy it.

Good TV series so far

[m_ballard_01 · 7/10 · 27 April 2014]

I enjoy the fact that this series is similar to the actual history of Salem witch trials, but goes out on a limb in order to keep the attention of the audience. I laugh because there are people saying this was "boring" and "distasteful" yet they admit they watched the entire episode/episodes. Yes, there is sex, nudity, violence, magic, betrayal and revenge. I can understand why not everyone would be accepting. This is definitely a series for adults and those who want to see a dark, fantasy type show. If you want to see reality then watch the news...if you are tired of seeing and hearing about the "real" brutality of the world then watch "Salem"...it is a lot better than the "REALITY" shows that are out there. Watch it as it is meant to be seen...no one is claiming these are "true events". Looking forward to remainder of the season...

Boring and bad atmosphere throughout the series...

[Alan_H4 · 5/10 · 23 April 2014]

To be honest when i saw the trailer and poster for this series (and the plot) i thought it was going to be epic and maybe a new favorite series. It actually destroyed, crushed and smashed my expectations and threw it into the sewer. It reminds me of the series 'terra nova' it looked promising and eventually it bored the hell out of me. When we talk about a series which has to show historical facts and stories told through many years about those times, i Really don't care whether it's accurate or not, as long as it is epic and enjoyable to watch. This show is the apposite of everything i just told (inacurate also..).

The actors are a 5/10 because there are much worse out there and they didn't really give me that caring feeling about their 'characters'. The cinematography of 'Salem' is pretty okay, considering the fact that there are other shows out there with a lesser budget doing better. I mean the "trailer" or teaser looked really promising and all of a sudden you realize it's piece of trash show.

To be honest i'm not really looking forward to the next episode, duo the fact that i can only imagine that it's going to be as bad and dull as the first episode (i doubt that their going to prove me wrong).

I gave the show a 5/10 for the so called "effort" they put in. Other than that and only by seeing the first episode i can't really recommend this series to anyone out their who value their time, but that's only my opinion and you can go and check it out for yourself.

best show on TV

[carolannrotolo · 10/10 · 17 December 2014]

i love the entire story. Some truth to it,mixed with a love story. I been waiting for a second season. Hope it is coming back!!!! Who doesn't love a little history combined with a great story line? Every actor in this is perfect for there parts. I love Mary and John and the entire story surrounding them. Love the way they told her entire story, but only showed bits and pieces of it. It is clear what happened to her and she did what she had to in order to keep her child safe.When it came time that was the only reason she went through with it. and i am hoping they bring Issac back, they said only ones to survive was witches are those touch by witches ,cause i really like his character on this show.well i hope it comes back !!!

season 1 and 2 interesting, 3 very tedious.

[surfisfun · 6/10 · 6 March 2018]

Some interesting witch and sorcerer story elements. season 1 and 2 much better. maybe better character actors and intensity. also,in season 3 , the "action" parts not as interesting ,. still, unique in its genre.

DISS-A-POINTED Spoiled By Terrible Acting

[weefunker · 1/10 · 21 July 2014]

I haven't seen a male lead with acting this bad since Hercules: The Legendary Journeys. So much so that I had to look twice to make sure Shane West wasn't Kevin Sorbo himself.

He was so flat and monotonic that every time he appeared on camera I felt my toes curl.

I know this show didn't exactly have a blank cheque budget but I'm sure they could have went to any homeless shelter, picked the first neck beard that looked half sober and he would have done a better job.

Pity, because the show would have just been barely watchable if not for the embarrassing antics of this clown.

Perfect binge for Halloween

[KingAagaard · 8/10 · 30 September 2023]

From the very first episode this series sucked us in and it only gets better from there! Definitely not for children as there are very graphic intense scenes along with jumpscares and adult situations. But if you enjoy the first seasons of AHS then you will feel right at home watching this! Some shows try and go over the top with the horror and the gore and forget about a quality storyline but this show hits a homerun with acting, story, mystery, and continuing to keep the viewer interested. IF you are looking for a show to binge around the spooky season of the year then I would highly recommend this!