Despite the greatest efforts of writers, producers and actors, not every highly-acclaimed television show will please every single viewer who tunes in. Yes, that also includes Game of Thrones.
Not every series may be everyone’s cup of tea no matter how much we’d like to argue about it over the dinner table. That is why whether we personally loved them or not, these scathing reviews and ratings prove that even the most popular of TV programmes feel the prick of a critic’s pen.
In Bristol, we are also proud home to many well-known classics that were either based or filmed in the city - and over the years of being aired, re-run and streamed online or on catch-up services, some strong opinions have been shared. We’ve compiled a list of some of the most scathing (sometimes hilariously so) takes on these Bristol shows, and if your favourite happens to be on here, we apologise in advance.
READ MORE: 'Best moment ever' as hungover presenter spills coffee over desk
1. Skins
This 2000s teen drama series paved the way for cutting-edge TV programmes to follow about the trials and tribulations of teenage life. The Bristol-based show has had its fair share of fans over the years, but its controversial storylines have also shaken the heads of others that needed to pause for thought.
One viewer, possibly a concerned parent on Google, threatened to take it up a notch by reporting Skins for its graphic depictions of sex and drugs, writing: “SKINS CANCELED [sic]! THIS IS THE MOST DANGEROUS TV SHOWS!
"I have never seen this show not before in my life. This show is disturbing and disgusting. People were disturbed by the series, starred by teens at the young age of 15 through 18 and it may violate federal pornography laws.
"The Parents Television Council has been censured the series for its parental mockery, sexual objectification, and overall harmful, irresponsible, illegal, and adult-themed behavior."
2. Poldark
Despite being synonymous with Cornwall (and Aidan Turner’s steamy topless moments), many scenes from the show were shot in Bristol. While the period drama was praised for its acting, costume design and gorgeous scenery, there were some that had complaints.
One viewer left a one star review online, writing: “Beyond cheesy. Only made it through the first 21 minutes then gave up. The long stares off camera, editing, wooden acting, musical score. I'm a big fan of period drama but this just didn't hit the mark."
3. Broadchurch
This ITV crime drama starring David Tennant and Olivia Colman about the killing of a young boy in a small Dorset community shook audiences to its core with its twists, turns and thriller themes. The show, which was filmed on the North Somerset coast near Bristol, also had its naysayers that didn’t agree with the hype.
One user on Google Reviews hilariously poked fun at the show, writing: "Absolute rubbish! Watched the first two episodes but skipped the rest and went right to final episode eight.
"Could have done this in four episodes. It was supposed to be this idyllic town but it was wasted on a few house interiors, a church nobody wanted to visit, the local police station and the beach that was covered with police tents. Nothing idyllic about it.
"It just dragged on for far too long and even the actors looked as bored as I was watching this drivel. None of the characters made me want to watch any more seasons so I’m not going to waste any more time on this rubbish.”
4. Sherlock
Even these two mystery solving super-sleuths, Sherlock Holmes and John Watson, had a bite of Bristol - they stirred a buzz when the BBC show filmed in the city’s landmark locations from Arnos Vale Cemetery to King Street.
However, not everyone had the chills for Benedict Cumberbatch’s star-making performance as the show’s leading character, much to the dismay of the Sherlock fandom.
One user on Google Reviews did not take a liking to the apparent reference to high-functioning autism, writing: “Sherlock Holmes: 'I'm not a psychopath, I'm a high-functioning sociopath. Do your research.'
"Me: *rolls eyes in annoyance. Yeah, it's not cool to be a sociopath. It really isn't. I think being a sociopath or a psychopath means you could kick a dog for four hours, and you wouldn't feel sorry for it whatsoever.
"I'd rather be an Aspie honestly. At least we're honest and try to do what's right, unlike a frickin' sociopath.”
5. Only Fools and Horses
Everyone surely now knows that Bristol was used as the show’s stand-in for Peckham, and there is even a walking tour celebrating the filming locations. However, Only Fools and Horses was no exception to the negativity, receiving its own wave of backlash by dissenters.
A user reviewed the show and criticised the sitcom classic for a lack of diversity, writing: “Too many repetitive and unfunny jokes ruin this sitcom. People watched it because there were only a few channels then.
"The series is supposed to be set in Peckham in the 1980s yet virtually all the characters are white. Whole episodes and jokes are literally copied from 'Steptoe & Son'."
6. His Dark Materials
Despite this Philip Pullman adaptation being a recently released series, His Dark Materials is already on its path to being a classic. While it serves to be a treat for locals who will recognise key locations such as the famous chase scene through Trenchard Street, His Dark Materials has also had a 'thumbs down' from others.
“This is being compared to Game of Thrones? I imagine that if you enjoyed Polar Express you might enjoy this movie. I wasn't able to last through very much of either of those things. Is 'things' or 'predictable, mind-numbingly boring, and poorly portrayed pieces of utter garbage,' the better descriptor for both?"
Hey, The Polar Express wasn't that bad.
7. Bridgerton
Here is another book to TV adaptation that became a certified lockdown classic, as Bridgerton won hearts with its sultry and romantic themes - one scene with a spoon had viewers shaking in their seats.
While the show was famously shot in Bath, it used Leigh Court for its stunning ballroom scenes. But despite the beautiful backdrop, there were some critics who didn’t vibe with the show at all.
One user on Google Reviews criticised Bridgerton for more reasons than one, writing: “Raps of Billie Eilish and Ariana Grande are featured as violin contemporary music for dancing during the Balls. It is obvious this series is looking for that 13-21 age group.
"And though some events seem real, like young ladies not knowing what sex is like when you marry, it was a bit too chewing gum for me. Predictable.
"If the young girls didn’t know what sex was like in the 1800’s, the little girls of 2021 will be fully informed since sex, nudity (as advised) is waaaaaaaaay too detailed. Almost eye rolling."
8. Crazyhead
Supernatural fans have raved over this Bristolian cult classic that has been compared to the likes of Misfits and Buffy and the Vampire Slayer, that famously blended both horror and comedy.
However not everyone fully enjoyed the quirks of the show, which was cancelled after six episodes. One critic hit back at the show, writing: "So here we have a ditzy blond, a Xander-like wisecracker with hots for her, a demon with a soul, a Bronze-type club slash feeding ground, a Mayor-like baddie who dresses like Giles..... and that's just the first episode.
"We also have a downright embarrassing attempt at quick-witted banter and Frankenstein script that beggars belief and inevitably poses a question about what kind of person would be willing to finance bringing it into life, such as it is. A lottery winner with too many helicopters, would be my guess."
9. Chloe
This Bristol-based programme on BBC may have been only released this year, but the thriller series has gained traction both online and off by viewers, who joined in for the ride throughout a season full of shocking twists and turns at every corner.
There were some reviewers, on the other hand, who had reached their breaking point and shared their sentiments on Chloe that weren't nice. Funny, but not nice.
One user explained their disappointment by writing: "Worst BBC drama I have ever seen and I am 58 years old. Could not believe the ending. A waste of time watching this rubbish."
Sign up for our weekly What's On in Bristol newsletter packed with essential stories to help you make the most of living in the city
