I recently finished Burn Notice and I absolutely loved it. I watched it here and there when it was on but never really got into the story. I finally watched it and couldn't binge it fast enough. I'm actually mad at myself for waiting for so long to watch this. It's definitely far fetched and not believable but if you can just turn your brain off you'll have a great time watching this. The main cast of Jeffery Donovan, Gabrielle Awar and Bruce Campbell (and Coby Bell starting in season 4) all do an incredible job. If you're looking for a fun show to binge then give this a try...you won't be disappointed!
223 Reviews
It was such a fun show!
Rob133128 September 2022
Burn Notice was such a great and underrated show. Most shows get old or repetitive after it's been on a while but not this one, it's absolutely terrific right up until the last episode. It tells the story of burnt spy Michael Westen (Jeffrey Donovan) as he's stuck in his hometown of Miami after being framed. He will do anything to find out who did it. I'm the meantime he helps helpless people who really need his expertise to help them. He has the help of his ex/current girlfriend in ex IRA spy Fiona Glenanne (Gabrielle Awar), his best friend and former spy Sam Axe (Bruce Campbell) and new friend and ex spy he accidentally burnt himself Jesse Porter (Coby Bell). He also has to deal with overbearing mother and sometimes loser brother. Obviously some of it is ridiculous unbelievable but it's a thrilling show that has action, comedy, drama, etc., all in one series! I just started watching it for a 2nd time during this lockdown and forgot just how entertaining this show really was. I really do miss it!
This show rocks
allykat_d11 July 2007
By the end of the first show, the 1-1/2 hour premier, I was hooked. Donovan (remember him from The Pretender?) is charismatic and believable as the spy left out in the cold. I was pleasantly surprised to see Gabrielle Anwar. She starred in a friend's indie film and I wondered what happened to her. And Bruce Campbell.. well who doesn't like him? He adds good depth as Michael Western's grizzled friend. Great cast and sharp writing with Miami serving as a superb backdrop. This series has a load of potential so I'm hoping people will jump on board and start watching. I'm tempted to give it 10/10 as I didn't see anything that I didn't like. I'm looking forward to the new episode tomorrow (Thursday). This show is better than most movies coming out this summer. Great blend of action and humor.
Spectacular
Etrival6 July 2007
Last week Thursday was one of those days: The kind that gives you the choice of staring at the ceiling, or perusing your DVR in hopes of finding something worthwhile (but rarely finding anything).
After sifting through the various MythBusters episodes and my regularly recorded series', I came across something that had me utterly confused, "'Burn Notice'? The hell?" I hadn't heard anything about the show, so I thought, "Screw it, I'm bored, let's see if I can't squeeze some water from a stone." I can honestly say, I'm utterly impressed with the show. I was floored by the entire piece.
Jeffery Donovan leads a very talented cast as the 'burned' spy-turned-private-eye Michael Westen, a man just trying to figure out why someone would put a 'burn notice' out on him. (For those who haven't seen the show or the commercials a 'burn notice' is when a spy is cut off, no jobs, nothing.) Donovan's acerbic delivery and amusing narration pull the show together, and his on-screen chemistry with acting veteran Bruce Campbell really keep the laughs coming.
I'd highly recommend the show for those who like a mix of comedy and espionage.
After sifting through the various MythBusters episodes and my regularly recorded series', I came across something that had me utterly confused, "'Burn Notice'? The hell?" I hadn't heard anything about the show, so I thought, "Screw it, I'm bored, let's see if I can't squeeze some water from a stone." I can honestly say, I'm utterly impressed with the show. I was floored by the entire piece.
Jeffery Donovan leads a very talented cast as the 'burned' spy-turned-private-eye Michael Westen, a man just trying to figure out why someone would put a 'burn notice' out on him. (For those who haven't seen the show or the commercials a 'burn notice' is when a spy is cut off, no jobs, nothing.) Donovan's acerbic delivery and amusing narration pull the show together, and his on-screen chemistry with acting veteran Bruce Campbell really keep the laughs coming.
I'd highly recommend the show for those who like a mix of comedy and espionage.
Excellent offering
caa82128 June 2007
Jeffrey Donovan is an engaging lead in an interesting program - which combines an interesting dramatic story line with a good balance of lightness and humor -- much like the outstanding "Monk," also a USA Network production.
The premise has been well-publicized; he's a crack covert operator, who's now been ostracized by his agency, and is seeking to learn why, as well as exist amidst the barriers they've erected in terms of his credit and finances, availability of former colleagues, and while he is under surveillance from multiple agency operatives.
During the course of this program, he also assists a man whose former boss - a powerful citizen - has placed both his livelihood and son in jeopardy.
Again, done with both serious drama and whimsy, this is a show which is a breath of proverbial "fresh air," especially among the lame quiz programs and reality shows impossible to avoid today.
-------------------
I entered this comment a year ago, upon seeing initial episode of the series. In continuing to watch, I've found Jeffrey Donovan's performances and character to remain interesting and engaging, the remaining cast excellent, and the episodes, overall, also interesting and well-written. Along with "Monk" and the recently-added "In Plain Sight," the USA Network is producing, in my opinion, better fare than the four networks.
The premise has been well-publicized; he's a crack covert operator, who's now been ostracized by his agency, and is seeking to learn why, as well as exist amidst the barriers they've erected in terms of his credit and finances, availability of former colleagues, and while he is under surveillance from multiple agency operatives.
During the course of this program, he also assists a man whose former boss - a powerful citizen - has placed both his livelihood and son in jeopardy.
Again, done with both serious drama and whimsy, this is a show which is a breath of proverbial "fresh air," especially among the lame quiz programs and reality shows impossible to avoid today.
-------------------
I entered this comment a year ago, upon seeing initial episode of the series. In continuing to watch, I've found Jeffrey Donovan's performances and character to remain interesting and engaging, the remaining cast excellent, and the episodes, overall, also interesting and well-written. Along with "Monk" and the recently-added "In Plain Sight," the USA Network is producing, in my opinion, better fare than the four networks.
7 seasons in one week. Not even ashamed.
adampearson-0980711 May 2019
That's right. I was off ill this week and picked Burn notice up on Amazon prime. Not being able to do much else I watched every season and was not disappointed. The comedy, the action and all the actors working perfectly together. I would never have thought to put them together but it's brilliant. Watch out for Bruce Campbell as the star of the show.
You won't regret giving this a go.
Unique and one-of-a-kind
A_Different_Drummer24 April 2015
Which is a comment you will seldom find in my reviews.
First of all, the concept. The whole idea of a "burn notice" forcing a spy to take roots in a community is very clever. Really.
And the casting. I call this "Leprechaun Casting" because Donovan's career both before and even after the show was unspectacular. But in this part, in a successful series which ran for years, he was nothing less than brilliant. Almost as though elves pulled him out nowhere just for this role, and then disappeared into the forest with him after.
The setting is also clever, relying on an old Hollywood adage which says, to improve your odds, cast in a city that people wish they lived in. Check.
Even the voice-over works and works well. Voice-over seems like an easy thing to pull off, but in fact it isn't. Which is why it dropped out of favor in the 1940s and has been used very sparingly ever since.
Estrogen content? Check. Gabrielle Anwar, in a part which really is more a sidekick than a love interest, manages to "sashay" between scenes (yet another word I do not use often) and also manages to give the impression that she is on "slow simmer" even when all she is doing is mixing explosives or hot-wiring a car. (If you are a male reader, you will get that.)
Supporting cast? Bruce Campbell plays his role like he was already happily retired and the casting director begged him to come out of retirement just for this part, and then gave him permission to sit down and drink while delivering his lines. (Which may be the way it actually happened, I don't know).
I will confess it took about three episodes for me to get hooked. Like I said off the top, this is a one of a kind. But it is a fun ride.
First of all, the concept. The whole idea of a "burn notice" forcing a spy to take roots in a community is very clever. Really.
And the casting. I call this "Leprechaun Casting" because Donovan's career both before and even after the show was unspectacular. But in this part, in a successful series which ran for years, he was nothing less than brilliant. Almost as though elves pulled him out nowhere just for this role, and then disappeared into the forest with him after.
The setting is also clever, relying on an old Hollywood adage which says, to improve your odds, cast in a city that people wish they lived in. Check.
Even the voice-over works and works well. Voice-over seems like an easy thing to pull off, but in fact it isn't. Which is why it dropped out of favor in the 1940s and has been used very sparingly ever since.
Estrogen content? Check. Gabrielle Anwar, in a part which really is more a sidekick than a love interest, manages to "sashay" between scenes (yet another word I do not use often) and also manages to give the impression that she is on "slow simmer" even when all she is doing is mixing explosives or hot-wiring a car. (If you are a male reader, you will get that.)
Supporting cast? Bruce Campbell plays his role like he was already happily retired and the casting director begged him to come out of retirement just for this part, and then gave him permission to sit down and drink while delivering his lines. (Which may be the way it actually happened, I don't know).
I will confess it took about three episodes for me to get hooked. Like I said off the top, this is a one of a kind. But it is a fun ride.
The best show I've seen in years
rhendrickson9 July 2007
Without question, "Burn Notice" is the coolest show on TV since the first episodes of Alias. I was totally engaged the moment Michael got his burn notice when he called to make the wire transfer--seeing the wheels turn for that beat before smiling and turning to the Russian mobster was sublime. This show has edge and attitude to burn, no pun intended, and I hope it keeps it--the only thing that could dull it would be any hint of silliness (Bruce Campbell's character needs to demonstrate some ass-kicking spy mojo somewhere along the line). Matt Nix: You've done a fantastic job on the writing, great casting (Jeff Donovan is a "Where'd he come from?" find), locations, etc. Keep the edge. The first two shows were great, can't wait to see what's next.
Fantastic in Seasons 1 and 2. Alas..
eti5513 January 2013
Warning: Spoilers
When Burn Notice first started airing, it was a fresh, clever show with dynamic characters and an interesting concept (it was a sort of spy show in "tilt" mode). Early on, the writers and actors did a great job of balancing serious situations with a sense of humor (the only show that rivaled Burn Notice in that regard was NCIS).
Jeffrey Donovan was terrific as the burned spy Michael Westen (when a spy is fired, he's BURNED..his credit is cut off, bank accounts frozen, etc). Michael wants to clear his name and get his spy gig back. While trying to find out who was behind him getting burned, he supports himself by acting as a sort of "problem solver for hire," using his spy skills to help various people in distress. Helping him out are his borderline psycho ex girlfriend(and former IRA member) Fiona (Gabrielle Anwar), whose idea of problem solving usually involves guns or explosives. Also Bruce Campbell was hilarious as Michael's buddy, a drunken washout ex-Navy Seal named Sam Axe, who sponges off of rich divorcees and other various "cougar" types when not helping Michael with his jobs. And early, Sam is informing on Michael to the FBI (without giving them anything they can really use). Occasionally helping, but mostly getting in the way is Michael's attention-starved hypochondriac mother Madeline (Sharon Gless). There were also some great recurring characters, including Barry (the money launderer), Seymour (the arms dealer with serious ADD issues), Sugar (the drug dealer), and Dead Larry (played by Tim Matheson), former-operative-turned-hired-hit man who faked his own death, and now keeps trying to get Michael sucked into his murder-for-hire schemes.
If Burn Notice was still as good as it was in the first two seasons, it would get a 10 out of 10 from me. Unfortunately, the show has since degenerated into taking itself waaay too seriously while at the same time becoming a parody of itself, with the writers recycling plot lines, only trying to make them darker and in the process sucking the life out of the show's characters, particularly Sam Axe. He morphed from being the funniest part of the show to being a brooding whiner. The slow descent started in Season 3, but really hit bottom with the end of season 6 (as of this writing). It's gotten to the point where the main characters aren't even particularly likable anymore. It pains me to say it, but the Burn Notice writers have run out of compelling ideas. They're hanging it up after this season, and based on what they've done with the show recently, it's long overdue.
Jeffrey Donovan was terrific as the burned spy Michael Westen (when a spy is fired, he's BURNED..his credit is cut off, bank accounts frozen, etc). Michael wants to clear his name and get his spy gig back. While trying to find out who was behind him getting burned, he supports himself by acting as a sort of "problem solver for hire," using his spy skills to help various people in distress. Helping him out are his borderline psycho ex girlfriend(and former IRA member) Fiona (Gabrielle Anwar), whose idea of problem solving usually involves guns or explosives. Also Bruce Campbell was hilarious as Michael's buddy, a drunken washout ex-Navy Seal named Sam Axe, who sponges off of rich divorcees and other various "cougar" types when not helping Michael with his jobs. And early, Sam is informing on Michael to the FBI (without giving them anything they can really use). Occasionally helping, but mostly getting in the way is Michael's attention-starved hypochondriac mother Madeline (Sharon Gless). There were also some great recurring characters, including Barry (the money launderer), Seymour (the arms dealer with serious ADD issues), Sugar (the drug dealer), and Dead Larry (played by Tim Matheson), former-operative-turned-hired-hit man who faked his own death, and now keeps trying to get Michael sucked into his murder-for-hire schemes.
If Burn Notice was still as good as it was in the first two seasons, it would get a 10 out of 10 from me. Unfortunately, the show has since degenerated into taking itself waaay too seriously while at the same time becoming a parody of itself, with the writers recycling plot lines, only trying to make them darker and in the process sucking the life out of the show's characters, particularly Sam Axe. He morphed from being the funniest part of the show to being a brooding whiner. The slow descent started in Season 3, but really hit bottom with the end of season 6 (as of this writing). It's gotten to the point where the main characters aren't even particularly likable anymore. It pains me to say it, but the Burn Notice writers have run out of compelling ideas. They're hanging it up after this season, and based on what they've done with the show recently, it's long overdue.
One of the best
godzillandg18 July 2007
When I first heard of the show I didn't know what to think. But then I heard that Bruce was apart of the show so I decided that the whole family should watch. And so we did. And now I crave to know what is going to happen next. The main plot of the show is intriguing but individual stories are just as good. There isn't a flaw in this show. And so far all the episodes are very re-watchable. Which is probably the best part of the show. This show can be enjoyed by most but children under ten won't get the humor and the content is just a little over their head. So if you have children note that they might enjoy the action parts they will get board with the rest of it. All I got to say is watch it and fall in love.
Better Than I Expected
georgigems30 June 2007
Warning: Spoilers
Michael Westen just got burned! That's spy lingo for fired, except no body told him he was fired or that his credit rating was trashed or that all his savings were frozen with a government code attached to them or that he was deposited someplace he does not want to be (Miami). When I first saw the previews of this show I though this must be a junk like so much else that comes on TV these days. Looked like an interesting premise so I watched the pilot. Maybe not worth all the hype but the show does have several redeeming qualities. Number one is the actor who plays Westen. Mr. Donovan is a likable rogue and during the course of the hour he does grow on you. The script has a mix of tongue in cheek dialog with a bit of Mac Guyver thrown in. After being fired from the agency Michael tried to find out why and in the process takes on a job of a private investigator for some living expenses. In the course of his investigation, he is helped by his former girlfriend , Fiona, who is ex- IRA and who is played with great ease by Gabrielle Anwar. The scene where she puts away the local drug dealer's muscle is priceless. She's very well cast. Michael's nemesis is not the CIA agents who are constantly watching him but his hypochondriac mother who has the disease of the week syndrome played by Sharon Gless.
The rest of the supporting cast is adequate and the finale was a little implausible as Michael blackmails the mogul whose robbery of $10 million in art he was hired to investigate.
Overall it was new, a pleasant way to pass an hour and with all the summer reruns so pervasive on TV now, I will probably watch it next week.
The rest of the supporting cast is adequate and the finale was a little implausible as Michael blackmails the mogul whose robbery of $10 million in art he was hired to investigate.
Overall it was new, a pleasant way to pass an hour and with all the summer reruns so pervasive on TV now, I will probably watch it next week.
Thrill Ride with a Twist
jreinhardt-126 July 2007
This series is one of the best of the year. Michael Donovan is perfect as the Sparta## Ex-Spy turned good guy. I love watching him try to struggle through the emotions of his clients. His relationship with his mother is very strained however you can still see him struggle to not care about his family. Sharon Gless is fun to watch as his chain smoking meddling mother. She's hilarious. Bruce Campbell is a favorite of mine & fits in well with Anwar & Donovan. I'd like to see more from Anwar - I like the changes in accents & would like to see her do more. So far this show has been nothing but entertaining. Donovan can really keep your attention on his stories. I'm looking forward to seeing more.
Good show
Blumanowar29 June 2022
First season is Entertaining, nice mix of action and buddy series but way to much Cagney/mommy scenes. She grates my nerves. But still worth a watch.. maybe not 7 seasons of it though. It would have to get really deep and intense to watch 111 shows. A bit overrated at 8.. I save 8 ratings for movies and shows that are cutting edge. This is just a funny version of Miami vice and it wasn't an 8 either.
bored notice
obediahsilt24 May 2011
Most over-rated show on television.
Jeffrey Donovan sleepwalks through his role as a former spy who is ridiculously smug and always wins. He gives a monotone voice-over describing how clever he is. We are supposed to believe Donovan ( I've already forgotten the character name) is a moral name but he works with an IRA terrorist!
The female lead is supposed to be sexy but she's painfully emaciated and has a trout pout. She is also a terrible actress. She begins with a hilariously over the top oirish accent but then when even the producers of this nonsense realised her performance was laughable she " decided to be American" and has spoken with a US accent ever since. Perhaps this is an example of the brilliant writing? Bitterly let down by this. The first few minutes in Nigeria seemed OK but the format got real old, real quick- much like its leading lady.
Jeffrey Donovan sleepwalks through his role as a former spy who is ridiculously smug and always wins. He gives a monotone voice-over describing how clever he is. We are supposed to believe Donovan ( I've already forgotten the character name) is a moral name but he works with an IRA terrorist!
The female lead is supposed to be sexy but she's painfully emaciated and has a trout pout. She is also a terrible actress. She begins with a hilariously over the top oirish accent but then when even the producers of this nonsense realised her performance was laughable she " decided to be American" and has spoken with a US accent ever since. Perhaps this is an example of the brilliant writing? Bitterly let down by this. The first few minutes in Nigeria seemed OK but the format got real old, real quick- much like its leading lady.
A cool show with lots of potential
sixtwentysix8 July 2007
This show has stylish, cheaply made and lots of fun. Donovan has a lot of charisma but Bruce Campbell and the other supporting cast really make this show pop. Miami is great location for this show. In the future it would be cool to see it move around season to season. The show is smartly written and avoids most of the spy standards. It would be nice if they reduced the amount of voice over. It tends to distract from the suspense, but it's not driving me nuts or anything.
I'll keep watching to see where this show goes, I think it has a lot of potential and is a great, light, fun summer watch.
USA appears to have a winner on its hands with this new summer show!
I'll keep watching to see where this show goes, I think it has a lot of potential and is a great, light, fun summer watch.
USA appears to have a winner on its hands with this new summer show!
Great Show!
aguynameddrew29 October 2021
I watched this show when it first came out and now i'm doing a full on binge-watch 14 years later.
If you like clever, well written, and spy stuff, you're probably gonna like this show a lot.
The narration style really gives Burn Notice that extra edge. So good.
If you like clever, well written, and spy stuff, you're probably gonna like this show a lot.
The narration style really gives Burn Notice that extra edge. So good.
On fire, worth your attention
TBJCSKCNRRQTreviews27 November 2016
The name is Michael Westen(Donovan, using intensity, charm and even vulnerability, and of course his actual martial arts chops, to give us a compelling protagonist. He's made relatable through, among other things, his family, his sympathy for those in a bad spot). He used to be a spy. Until a burn notice was put out, claiming he was an unreliable asset. Every last of his accounts are frozen, his colleagues forced to reject him, and he's put on watchlists that will prevent him from leaving his home city of Miami. The only way he can get his life back is for him to figure out the who, why and, well, what, exactly, of this, well, what we civilians would call getting laid off. And along the way, he will help countless of regular people with problems that his skillset, and not the police or the like, enable him to solve.
He can't do it alone, so he has to take what help he can get. Fortunately, that does mean he has a highly competent and loyal, if small, team. Fiona(Anwar, a chipper smile and a love of explosives. She hates injustice, particularly against women and children. Manages to maintain her femininity, seen in her love of shoes, dresses, and, of course, the color pink, which adorns a gas mask of hers), his former IRA, now bounty hunter, ex-girlfriend was still his emergency contact, and needed to leave New York anyway. Sam(Campbell, giving a solid performance, also deep in his hamminess, not to mention his bad-assery. Perpetually drinking. Romances rich women, clearly respecting them. A great friend to him. In spite of initial hostility, he works well with the feisty Irish woman, they pick up on the others intention and the play they're making in mere moments), who was a Navy SEAL, and is now gathering buddies, all with resources that can be called upon, like there's no tomorrow. And Madeline(Gless, chainsmoking retiree. A real mama bear. She may have felt she didn't do enough when her sons were kids. Now, she's doing what she can to make up for it), his mother, who he hadn't seen in years, due to their strained relationship. It, she, and he, will grow over time. While his childhood was a troubled one, it has helped shape him into who he is. It has left a darkness inside of him, that he and they will have to work to keep at bay.
This review is co-written by my ex-fiancée. He narrates what he does, using his extensive knowledge: Backstory, exposition, adding detail, reflecting on certain things, explaining what is going on. Sometimes he makes comparisons to stuff we do know and that is far away from his life: "anyone who's passed notes in class knows how dangerous it is to communicate in front of your enemy", etc. It's also one of the places where you really see the dry sense of humor that permeates this. He snarks in most situations, in addition to taking them seriously. And where some fiction stops there, letting our lead get all the quips, here, it extends to most in the cast. There are ones who don't, especially in situations where they are too, say, scared to. Characters are all human beings – some are just, let's go with "not nice". The steady stream of new ones stays fresh, and the tremendous guests, stars and otherwise, all deliver. I couldn't tell you how many play against type, or how well it turns out.
The considerable training of him and his closest allies, matched by a number of the villains, is in high demand. They fight for "the little guy", with a lot of different methods they've mastered. Making weapons out of household objects, psychologically handling people doing very bad things, guerrilla warfare, tricking the enemy into thinking their numbers, equipment and abilities are a lot better or worse than it actually is and thus winning without any unneeded damage, etc.
Where else to start but a plan? If they know enough about what's going on, they form one, and it is of course better the greater their knowledge and timeframe. Sometimes, they won't be able to form one, at all. What invariably happens, is the unexpected. One way or another, they will have to improvise, maybe even play it entirely by ear. And going in, you never know when, what it'll look like or lead to, and so forth. This takes you by surprise countless times. The setups, the twists and turns, the solutions and more.
There is no filler in this. At no point did the studio interfere in a manner that breaks away whole parts. Matt Nix who created it stayed with it, and guided it, throughout. He directed several episodes, as did Jeffrey himself, Renny Harlin and Jonathan Frakes. The plot unfolds over the 7 years, in different chapters that all pose new setups that will test everyone involved. The scripts and production are consistently solid. Every single season opener and finale, all 14, are varied, memorable and incredibly well-done. This knows when to keep it small and personal, and when to raise the stakes. Making small means look impressive is the bread and butter of the crew behind the camera, not only the presented one. There is an immense amount, and diversity, of guns in this. The action is amazing. Up close, realistic and unflinching yet never gratuitous(outside of the many John Woo slow-mo nods... which are very welcome). It never takes over, and they mix the different kinds well. The driving portions alone are reason enough to watch this through. Fast, sleek small cars that beat traffic so often, it becomes a running gag.
There is a lot of bloody, fairly graphic violence and a moderate amount of sexuality and strong language in this. If this were a movie, it'd be rated R, though there is no nudity. I recommend it to any fan of this brand of storytelling. 8/10
He can't do it alone, so he has to take what help he can get. Fortunately, that does mean he has a highly competent and loyal, if small, team. Fiona(Anwar, a chipper smile and a love of explosives. She hates injustice, particularly against women and children. Manages to maintain her femininity, seen in her love of shoes, dresses, and, of course, the color pink, which adorns a gas mask of hers), his former IRA, now bounty hunter, ex-girlfriend was still his emergency contact, and needed to leave New York anyway. Sam(Campbell, giving a solid performance, also deep in his hamminess, not to mention his bad-assery. Perpetually drinking. Romances rich women, clearly respecting them. A great friend to him. In spite of initial hostility, he works well with the feisty Irish woman, they pick up on the others intention and the play they're making in mere moments), who was a Navy SEAL, and is now gathering buddies, all with resources that can be called upon, like there's no tomorrow. And Madeline(Gless, chainsmoking retiree. A real mama bear. She may have felt she didn't do enough when her sons were kids. Now, she's doing what she can to make up for it), his mother, who he hadn't seen in years, due to their strained relationship. It, she, and he, will grow over time. While his childhood was a troubled one, it has helped shape him into who he is. It has left a darkness inside of him, that he and they will have to work to keep at bay.
This review is co-written by my ex-fiancée. He narrates what he does, using his extensive knowledge: Backstory, exposition, adding detail, reflecting on certain things, explaining what is going on. Sometimes he makes comparisons to stuff we do know and that is far away from his life: "anyone who's passed notes in class knows how dangerous it is to communicate in front of your enemy", etc. It's also one of the places where you really see the dry sense of humor that permeates this. He snarks in most situations, in addition to taking them seriously. And where some fiction stops there, letting our lead get all the quips, here, it extends to most in the cast. There are ones who don't, especially in situations where they are too, say, scared to. Characters are all human beings – some are just, let's go with "not nice". The steady stream of new ones stays fresh, and the tremendous guests, stars and otherwise, all deliver. I couldn't tell you how many play against type, or how well it turns out.
The considerable training of him and his closest allies, matched by a number of the villains, is in high demand. They fight for "the little guy", with a lot of different methods they've mastered. Making weapons out of household objects, psychologically handling people doing very bad things, guerrilla warfare, tricking the enemy into thinking their numbers, equipment and abilities are a lot better or worse than it actually is and thus winning without any unneeded damage, etc.
Where else to start but a plan? If they know enough about what's going on, they form one, and it is of course better the greater their knowledge and timeframe. Sometimes, they won't be able to form one, at all. What invariably happens, is the unexpected. One way or another, they will have to improvise, maybe even play it entirely by ear. And going in, you never know when, what it'll look like or lead to, and so forth. This takes you by surprise countless times. The setups, the twists and turns, the solutions and more.
There is no filler in this. At no point did the studio interfere in a manner that breaks away whole parts. Matt Nix who created it stayed with it, and guided it, throughout. He directed several episodes, as did Jeffrey himself, Renny Harlin and Jonathan Frakes. The plot unfolds over the 7 years, in different chapters that all pose new setups that will test everyone involved. The scripts and production are consistently solid. Every single season opener and finale, all 14, are varied, memorable and incredibly well-done. This knows when to keep it small and personal, and when to raise the stakes. Making small means look impressive is the bread and butter of the crew behind the camera, not only the presented one. There is an immense amount, and diversity, of guns in this. The action is amazing. Up close, realistic and unflinching yet never gratuitous(outside of the many John Woo slow-mo nods... which are very welcome). It never takes over, and they mix the different kinds well. The driving portions alone are reason enough to watch this through. Fast, sleek small cars that beat traffic so often, it becomes a running gag.
There is a lot of bloody, fairly graphic violence and a moderate amount of sexuality and strong language in this. If this were a movie, it'd be rated R, though there is no nudity. I recommend it to any fan of this brand of storytelling. 8/10
Dig it
susan-68323 July 2007
Very fun, tho' the voice-overs are a bit much at times... and the music/slow-mo/stop-mo action stuff is a bit kitsch (probably the look they were going for).
Def. think Donovan's personality comes through in his performance -- seems like he is having TONS O' FUN with the part... (who wouldn't? It's a dream role)... but he DOES come across as a bit stiff at times... can't tell if that's the writing or his take on the character. Funny... you can hear his Boston accent come thru a lot... but it adds some charm (assuming you like Boston accents!!) Bruce Campbell is perfectly cast... will be fun to see their partnership evolve over the episodes... Not sure about Anwar as Fiona... can't decide if it's the role (and how desperate she seems to be to get back with Michael) or the actress in the role...
I do enjoy the dialog (VERY funny at times - ex: the backseat of the Mercedes)... and the speed of delivery... makes it fun to watch and the time fly... so KUDOS to the writers...
Will say this... I'm probably not in the demographic for their audience (am over 40) but can appreciate that the leads are all older... would NEVER believe that Donovan is 39. No way. He is Miami Spicy.
Def. think Donovan's personality comes through in his performance -- seems like he is having TONS O' FUN with the part... (who wouldn't? It's a dream role)... but he DOES come across as a bit stiff at times... can't tell if that's the writing or his take on the character. Funny... you can hear his Boston accent come thru a lot... but it adds some charm (assuming you like Boston accents!!) Bruce Campbell is perfectly cast... will be fun to see their partnership evolve over the episodes... Not sure about Anwar as Fiona... can't decide if it's the role (and how desperate she seems to be to get back with Michael) or the actress in the role...
I do enjoy the dialog (VERY funny at times - ex: the backseat of the Mercedes)... and the speed of delivery... makes it fun to watch and the time fly... so KUDOS to the writers...
Will say this... I'm probably not in the demographic for their audience (am over 40) but can appreciate that the leads are all older... would NEVER believe that Donovan is 39. No way. He is Miami Spicy.
Too soon to feel the "Burn"?
KUAlum2620 October 2008
I've seen exactly three episodes of this series,but so far I've quite impressed. I feel like I'll probably have to do some DVD renting of back episodes to "get my fill" on this,since USA Network seems to like to scramble practically all of their shows on their sched,save for "Law and Order:SVU",which they run on what seems like an endless loop.
There's a sort of "maltese Falcon"/Dashiell Hammet sort of narrative,probably the main attraction of this show to me.And that is what frames the story of a "Burned" CIA spook(Jeffrey Donovan,cool and excellent!)who is stuck in Miami,trying to put together the pieces of why he was burned(spy talk for being summarily and hastily given the boot by the agency)and who did him in. While he waits and searches,he ends up being a freelance operative who helps out various causes,often with the help of a mercurial but sharp ex-girlfriend(Gabrielle Anwar,a lovely lass I've greatly missed)and a former colleague(Bruce Campbell,still "the Man") who may or may not be in the same boat as him.
Add in the fact that Michael(our spy in question),is now in constant(and sometimes unwanted)contact with his mother(Sharon Gless,back on series TV for the first time in ages!),and you have a well-rounded,quirky,smart and intriguing series that feels both familiar AND unique. Maybe I haven't seen enough of this to have a truly well-rounded appreciation of it,but I like what I've seen and want to see more,much more.
There's a sort of "maltese Falcon"/Dashiell Hammet sort of narrative,probably the main attraction of this show to me.And that is what frames the story of a "Burned" CIA spook(Jeffrey Donovan,cool and excellent!)who is stuck in Miami,trying to put together the pieces of why he was burned(spy talk for being summarily and hastily given the boot by the agency)and who did him in. While he waits and searches,he ends up being a freelance operative who helps out various causes,often with the help of a mercurial but sharp ex-girlfriend(Gabrielle Anwar,a lovely lass I've greatly missed)and a former colleague(Bruce Campbell,still "the Man") who may or may not be in the same boat as him.
Add in the fact that Michael(our spy in question),is now in constant(and sometimes unwanted)contact with his mother(Sharon Gless,back on series TV for the first time in ages!),and you have a well-rounded,quirky,smart and intriguing series that feels both familiar AND unique. Maybe I haven't seen enough of this to have a truly well-rounded appreciation of it,but I like what I've seen and want to see more,much more.
Burn lost the Fire
briankremen19 June 2009
Warning: Spoilers
The first 2 seasons of Burn Notice were very enjoyable. A spy show that followed a fool proof formula, where they help a client each episode, while Michael tries to find out why he's been "Burned," or blacklisted by the CIA.
In season two, we begin to see Michael making progress towards discovering who burned him, and in tracking down the people who've been using his position to leverage spy work out of him against his will, but it has always followed the formula.
Season 3 is like watching a whole different show. The writing has gotten painfully generic, and even reliable characters like Barry, the self interested hacker and money launderer, have become generic stereotypes of their former selves. Previously, Barry had made very short appearances, doing most of his work alone, watching his own back, and demanding compensation for his services. He was part of Michael's team only peripherally.
In the latest episode Barry is portrayed as a prissy, ambiguously gay man who gets roped into helping all the way through the episode, from housework to intercepting phone calls, and at the end Michael's mother says that he is coming over for a hair gel party.
This is a complete disconnect with the characterization that had previously been done on the show: characterization that worked. The new Barry isn't nearly as interesting as the old Barry, and the same can be said of almost all of the other characters, and the plot and dialogue itself.
In another example, the motivation of the attractive female cop tailing Michael this season is completely absent. Compare this to Carla, the female spy who used him in season two, whose motivation of leveraging spy work from Michael was clear from the beginning.
Much good can be said about the first two seasons. It has been a very enjoyable show to watch. However, this season it feels like the whole show has unraveled without any warning. The same thing happened with Boston Legal in the final season. I felt, suddenly, like I was watching a different show, where all the intelligence in the writing and consistency in characterization and plot are thrown out the window.
In season two, we begin to see Michael making progress towards discovering who burned him, and in tracking down the people who've been using his position to leverage spy work out of him against his will, but it has always followed the formula.
Season 3 is like watching a whole different show. The writing has gotten painfully generic, and even reliable characters like Barry, the self interested hacker and money launderer, have become generic stereotypes of their former selves. Previously, Barry had made very short appearances, doing most of his work alone, watching his own back, and demanding compensation for his services. He was part of Michael's team only peripherally.
In the latest episode Barry is portrayed as a prissy, ambiguously gay man who gets roped into helping all the way through the episode, from housework to intercepting phone calls, and at the end Michael's mother says that he is coming over for a hair gel party.
This is a complete disconnect with the characterization that had previously been done on the show: characterization that worked. The new Barry isn't nearly as interesting as the old Barry, and the same can be said of almost all of the other characters, and the plot and dialogue itself.
In another example, the motivation of the attractive female cop tailing Michael this season is completely absent. Compare this to Carla, the female spy who used him in season two, whose motivation of leveraging spy work from Michael was clear from the beginning.
Much good can be said about the first two seasons. It has been a very enjoyable show to watch. However, this season it feels like the whole show has unraveled without any warning. The same thing happened with Boston Legal in the final season. I felt, suddenly, like I was watching a different show, where all the intelligence in the writing and consistency in characterization and plot are thrown out the window.
A Good Binge Watch
thescottbruneau3 September 2017
I caught this on Netflix. All 7 seasons. Good acting all around. Good writing and directing. Explosions and action. Yeah it's fantasy stuff not real life. Thankfully. Largely likable characters with (to me) the exception of the chain smoking mother. Even then, she could bring tears to my eyes. The "yogurt" thing was weird and funny. Every episode it seems the characters eating ... YOGURT. Surprised it lasted 7 seasons. A testament to the creativity of the team that kept it going. The helping people theme a good sell to keep the viewer watching.
Entertaining - but wears thin quickly
Amadio21 May 2009
Michael Westen was a spy until he became the subject of a "burn notice." The show is about him trying to find who was responsible, and his weekly acts of do-gooding. It's a good way to make you keep coming back; weekly satisfaction and yet you need to see how he will resolve the big picture of who burned him. Set in Miami, it is a light-hearted spook show that can't quite seem to make up its mind whether it is hard (like 24), varied (like Alias), camp (like the A-team) or, as I see it, a new kind of Seinfeld. Donovan's voice often sounds like Seinfeld and many of the lines are Seinfeld-es que. Campbell (very good) as the faithful side-kick cum occasional source of trouble is a George at times and at others a Cramer. Anwar is the on-again/off-again love interest, just like Elaine. I was hooked on the first series, and the ending had me looking for more. Unfortunately, series 2 is more of the same and the tension and threats in the saga to find who burned him are at odds with the humour and con games in the weekly trials. Westen takes on jobs that seem to pay nothing for no other reason than he is asked. Very much against his avowed spy creed of not caring for people. There is, of course (American TV just HAS to slather on the emotions) a running subplot with Westen and his mother and brother. However, since these people are not particularly nice, and I find the mother very one-dimensional, it is hard to care about them. If the show were clearer about the direction it wanted to take instead of trying to be all things to all people, it would be more interesting. Instead, I find myself slipping away wishing it all could have been better.
Surprisingly good
jpooch0012 July 2007
Before bothering to watch this program, see the update at the bottom of this comment!
When I found out that Bruce Campbell was only in a supporting role I thought this was going to be just another USA ripoff. I was wrong.
In this incredibly overworked genre Burn Notice is something refreshingly new. The Mom and her meddling is an inventive twist that adds interest to the stories and the addition of all the beach bunnies running around in the backgrounds of many of the shots is shamelessly flagrant sexism at its finest. The story lines are interesting and the plot twists are acceptably resourceful.
In my opinion, Mr. Campbell should be the lead character but, hey, what do I know? Anyway, I intend to watch every episode. Got a season Pass on the Tivo.
Check it out, I think you'll like it.
Update: July 27, '13. So what's up with that idiotic narration of the scenes? Do they think their viewers are too stupid to interpret what they're seeing? USA has WAY too much coke going up the noses of it's producers or something! Most obnoxious idea they've ever had.
Biggest load of crap ever! I deleted the current episode about ten minutes in and removed Burn Notice from my season pass list. Great show turned to junk by idiots!
Second edit:
The hacks that thought scene narration was a good idea were either fired or locked up (apparently). Anyway, the final episodes (sans the narration), and the especially the final episode, kicked ass bigtime.
Very well done after all!
John
When I found out that Bruce Campbell was only in a supporting role I thought this was going to be just another USA ripoff. I was wrong.
In this incredibly overworked genre Burn Notice is something refreshingly new. The Mom and her meddling is an inventive twist that adds interest to the stories and the addition of all the beach bunnies running around in the backgrounds of many of the shots is shamelessly flagrant sexism at its finest. The story lines are interesting and the plot twists are acceptably resourceful.
In my opinion, Mr. Campbell should be the lead character but, hey, what do I know? Anyway, I intend to watch every episode. Got a season Pass on the Tivo.
Check it out, I think you'll like it.
Update: July 27, '13. So what's up with that idiotic narration of the scenes? Do they think their viewers are too stupid to interpret what they're seeing? USA has WAY too much coke going up the noses of it's producers or something! Most obnoxious idea they've ever had.
Biggest load of crap ever! I deleted the current episode about ten minutes in and removed Burn Notice from my season pass list. Great show turned to junk by idiots!
Second edit:
The hacks that thought scene narration was a good idea were either fired or locked up (apparently). Anyway, the final episodes (sans the narration), and the especially the final episode, kicked ass bigtime.
Very well done after all!
John
Good Show, Went Downhill in Later Seasons
ben-798-60475820 November 2013
Burn notice should get an award for most realistic spy series. The CIA doesn't operate (officially) on American soil which is something many spy shows screw up, there's actually real workable science much of which you can buy at your local hardware store and there's no crawling through air vents because thats just plain stupid. Michael Westen often explains the logic behind his methods and tactics, making it as informative as it is entertaining, and their methods usually include homemade pipe bombs, breaking into secure buildings, misinformation and guerrilla warfare. It doesn't count on the fact that the "most secure building in the world" somehow installed air vents that lead inside a secure vault a grown man could easily fit through, or multi million dollar tech that doesn't actually exist in real life, and i love it for that. However in later seasons this show lost its fun flair and took on a darker tone, putting more on the line for the characters which actually made it less entertaining to me. Part of the fun was watching Michael take control, snapping his fingers to set off a car bomb and convince a bunch of gangbangers he has magical powers, or intentionally getting caught and interrogating his interrogator by turning his men against him. It had the fun of a heist show with the action of a spy show, and now its just lost its fun. However, it had a good run and i did enjoy it while it lasted.
Pretty terrible show, actually.
the-marshall4 August 2009
People were telling me how great this show is, and thought I would check it out. I got through the entire first season hoping at some point it would get better, but it never did. I watched the first episode and a half of season two and just couldn't take it any more.
The acting is a lot like the 1970's Gone in 60 Seconds. The "tips" for being a spy are absolutely ridiculous and the technology-coolness is so unbearably stupid. The "jokes" are pretty terrible and repeat themselves every episode.
About the technology, very mild spoiler ahead (not really a spoiler but I guess someone could call it one): To find out where a warehouse is, he decides to crack a cell phone open and removes the "GPS chip" and inserts it into a shoe. His partner then goes on line and watches where he is taken by the bad guys. It makes absolutely no sense. How can a GPS chip function without any kind of battery, and then how can it transmit wirelessly without the rest of the cell phone? I can suspend disbelief for things like this (as in Firewall, which also was stupid this way), but when half the show is this guy giving out these tips as if it's educational.... it crosses the line.
Some of the events that occur are fairly interesting, and there are some decent scenes but it really, absolutely is not worth the time sitting through the awful acting, flat, obvious characters, and sheer ridiculousness to see.
The acting is a lot like the 1970's Gone in 60 Seconds. The "tips" for being a spy are absolutely ridiculous and the technology-coolness is so unbearably stupid. The "jokes" are pretty terrible and repeat themselves every episode.
About the technology, very mild spoiler ahead (not really a spoiler but I guess someone could call it one): To find out where a warehouse is, he decides to crack a cell phone open and removes the "GPS chip" and inserts it into a shoe. His partner then goes on line and watches where he is taken by the bad guys. It makes absolutely no sense. How can a GPS chip function without any kind of battery, and then how can it transmit wirelessly without the rest of the cell phone? I can suspend disbelief for things like this (as in Firewall, which also was stupid this way), but when half the show is this guy giving out these tips as if it's educational.... it crosses the line.
Some of the events that occur are fairly interesting, and there are some decent scenes but it really, absolutely is not worth the time sitting through the awful acting, flat, obvious characters, and sheer ridiculousness to see.
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