Leverage is just a flat out fun show. Is is realistic? Of course not. But it's an entertaining show where every episode is smartly written and acted with lots of twists and surprises. Each episode is about this group of former criminals who come up with a con to steal from the rich and help out the needy. It has a very Oceans Eleven feel to it. As you can see by reading through the reviews it's show where most people who saw it had fun watching it. Obviously people liked it because they brought it back for a reboot with the original cast almost a decade after it went off the air (except Noah Wyle replaces Timothy Hutton bc of Huttons legal problems)!
154 Reviews
You'll have a good time watching it!
DiCaprioFan129 September 2022
Leverage is just a flat out fun show. Is is realistic? Of course not. But it's an entertaining show where every episode is smartly written and acted with lots of twists and surprises. Each episode is about this group of former criminals who come up with a con to steal from the rich and help out the needy. It has a very Oceans Eleven feel to it. As you can see by reading through the reviews it's a show where most people who saw it had fun watching it. Obviously people liked it because they brought it back for a reboot with the original cast almost a decade after it went off the air (except Noah Wyle replaces Timothy Hutton bc of Huttons legal problems)!
Excellent new TV series! Well worth watching!
Mike_Wiggins12 December 2008
It usually takes me about three episodes of a new series to decide if it's worth continuing to watch. With "Leverage" I was hooked after the first 15 minutes. I think it's because it seemed to be an amalgam of some of my favorite TV shows of the past. This includes "The Equalizer" (righting wrongs using unconventional methods), "Mission Impossible" (the TV series)(putting a great team together to work towards a common goal), and "Banicek" (solving seemingly perfect crimes).
What I really like about it is the team. It is made up of very independent individuals who are master criminals. The key is how they have been enticed to work for Nathan Ford (Timothy Hutton's character). They all contribute to the cause and, because of it, find they are a very powerful force that can get them more of what they are looking for. There is also a camaraderie that I haven't seen in a long, long time.
What I also like about this show is that it is not dark and seedy. While there is violence, it is not gratuitous. And, so far, there have been no plot lines that involve stalkers or other misogynistic individuals. One can only hope it continues that way.
While there are great special effects, great sets, great actors and great acting, etc., I find that it is the writers who deserve the lions share of praise for concocting such an enjoyable storyline.
I am REALLY looking forward to more "Leverage" episodes! 10 out of 10
What I really like about it is the team. It is made up of very independent individuals who are master criminals. The key is how they have been enticed to work for Nathan Ford (Timothy Hutton's character). They all contribute to the cause and, because of it, find they are a very powerful force that can get them more of what they are looking for. There is also a camaraderie that I haven't seen in a long, long time.
What I also like about this show is that it is not dark and seedy. While there is violence, it is not gratuitous. And, so far, there have been no plot lines that involve stalkers or other misogynistic individuals. One can only hope it continues that way.
While there are great special effects, great sets, great actors and great acting, etc., I find that it is the writers who deserve the lions share of praise for concocting such an enjoyable storyline.
I am REALLY looking forward to more "Leverage" episodes! 10 out of 10
Fun
FreakierThanThou2 February 2009
"Leverage" is an entertaining, fun show. The cast is stellar, the writing snappy, and the characters are likable. It's nice to see a show that doesn't focus too heavily on the "dark side" of everything and can exist without a message.
That's not to say that there aren't poignant moments. (Nate in "The Snow Job" and Parker in "The Stork Job" are particularly memorable.) But they aren't in the majority. Although not every episode is brilliant, none have failed yet to make me laugh at least once.
The show follows a group of thieves who take on corporate villains who have too much power for their victims to defend themselves under normal means. Timely? Oh, yeah.
Timothy Hutton is the much-advertised Oscar-winning face of the team's leader, ex-insurance investigator Nathan Ford. At first, I was incredibly underwhelmed by Hutton's performance. After a few episodes, however, I started to think that maybe he was deliberately underacting (while the others are overacting) to contrast Nate's "honest man" to the thieves who make up the rest of the cast.
Gina Bellman plays a sympathetic Sophie Deveraux. Sophie is the team's "grifter" who moonlights as an actress. How well does that go? As Nate puts it, "she can act... when it's an act." Although she's hilarious, Bellman isn't the funniest of the cast by any means. Christian Kane, the badass Texan you might remember from "Angel," is even tougher, funnier, and angrier as the team's strangely likable fighter Eliot Spencer. Beth Riesgraf contrasts his deadpan humor perfectly as Parker, the crazy but lovable money-obsessed thief. And Aldis Hodge is hilarious, playing the cool geek of their techie, Alec Hardison.
The group has their conflicts, and in the first season, it looks like their biggest problem might be staying together. But the quirkiness and bickering creates a team of misfits that will have you rooting for them from the beginning.
"Leverage" is a good, escapist show where everything is sexy and exciting and the good guys always win. I can see this show becoming a cult hit, or I can see it failing after only a few seasons. Either way, if nothing else, it's fun!
That's not to say that there aren't poignant moments. (Nate in "The Snow Job" and Parker in "The Stork Job" are particularly memorable.) But they aren't in the majority. Although not every episode is brilliant, none have failed yet to make me laugh at least once.
The show follows a group of thieves who take on corporate villains who have too much power for their victims to defend themselves under normal means. Timely? Oh, yeah.
Timothy Hutton is the much-advertised Oscar-winning face of the team's leader, ex-insurance investigator Nathan Ford. At first, I was incredibly underwhelmed by Hutton's performance. After a few episodes, however, I started to think that maybe he was deliberately underacting (while the others are overacting) to contrast Nate's "honest man" to the thieves who make up the rest of the cast.
Gina Bellman plays a sympathetic Sophie Deveraux. Sophie is the team's "grifter" who moonlights as an actress. How well does that go? As Nate puts it, "she can act... when it's an act." Although she's hilarious, Bellman isn't the funniest of the cast by any means. Christian Kane, the badass Texan you might remember from "Angel," is even tougher, funnier, and angrier as the team's strangely likable fighter Eliot Spencer. Beth Riesgraf contrasts his deadpan humor perfectly as Parker, the crazy but lovable money-obsessed thief. And Aldis Hodge is hilarious, playing the cool geek of their techie, Alec Hardison.
The group has their conflicts, and in the first season, it looks like their biggest problem might be staying together. But the quirkiness and bickering creates a team of misfits that will have you rooting for them from the beginning.
"Leverage" is a good, escapist show where everything is sexy and exciting and the good guys always win. I can see this show becoming a cult hit, or I can see it failing after only a few seasons. Either way, if nothing else, it's fun!
A Very Engaging Set of Capers
Etrival9 January 2009
After catching the first few episodes of TNT's new series "Leverage" I can honestly say that I'm hooked on the adventures of Nathan Ford (Timothy Hutton) and company.
The series involves Mr. Ford, formerly an insurance investigator, and his crew of felonious recruits: Alec Hardison (Aldis Hodge), a very technologically savvy cyber-criminal. Eliot Spencer (Christian Kane), the muscle man with sincere martial arts training and speed that would make Jet Li envious. Parker (Beth Riesgraf), an expert cat burglar and thief. And Sophie Devereaux (Gina Bellman), a charismatic con-artist with aspirations to the acting world.
I believe Nathan Ford says it best, "I am an honest man leading a team of criminals." And I find that premise to be truly entertaining with Timothy Hutton at the helm.
Each episode Nathan Ford and his team are hired by individuals looking for their own brand of justice. Ford and company provide the means to an end, focusing on gathering a form of leverage to force the villains to pay their due.
All in all, it's a series I would recommend for those who like a bit of comedy with their justice. Or at least comedy with their criminal activity.
The series involves Mr. Ford, formerly an insurance investigator, and his crew of felonious recruits: Alec Hardison (Aldis Hodge), a very technologically savvy cyber-criminal. Eliot Spencer (Christian Kane), the muscle man with sincere martial arts training and speed that would make Jet Li envious. Parker (Beth Riesgraf), an expert cat burglar and thief. And Sophie Devereaux (Gina Bellman), a charismatic con-artist with aspirations to the acting world.
I believe Nathan Ford says it best, "I am an honest man leading a team of criminals." And I find that premise to be truly entertaining with Timothy Hutton at the helm.
Each episode Nathan Ford and his team are hired by individuals looking for their own brand of justice. Ford and company provide the means to an end, focusing on gathering a form of leverage to force the villains to pay their due.
All in all, it's a series I would recommend for those who like a bit of comedy with their justice. Or at least comedy with their criminal activity.
"LEVERAGE" -- A Force of 5 Doing-Gooders against the Badders =
jimchudnow-12 December 2008
At an advance preview in Chicago (where much of the "Nigerian" pilot was shot), stars TIMOTHY HUTTON (as Nathan) and GINA BELLMAN (Sophie) agreed the first entry in their TNT series is somewhat like an updated "The 'A' Team" meets "Mission Impossible". Along with Christian KANE (as Eliot), BETH RIESGRAF (Parker), and ALDIS HODGE (Alec), they use high-tech methods to get back at a white-collar CROOK (& the series is scheduled to continue the "Robin Hood-ish" adventures against criminals and corporate scammers in subsequent episodes). The main characters start out as distrusting of each other, but eventually use their various individual expertises to create a cheeky, fast-moving and enjoyably clever series of retributions against the liars and other baddies in their world. An agreeable and promisingly well-acted start (well shot on HD cameras that allow fast work with much available-light conditions).
Totally Awesome!!!!!
jonann27 December 2008
When I was a kid, one of my favorite shows was the A-Team. I loved the show because the heroes were themselves criminals who operated outside of the law to help people. Leverage is like a modern A-Team for adults. The actors are also well cast in their roles. Each one of them brings something interesting to the show. I think what I love the most about this show is that it is FUN!! I don't mean fun as in stupid, brainless reality show fun. It's a fun show to watch and you won't loose any brain cells doing it. I sometimes feel like TV nowadays is so ultra serious. There's no fun in TV drama anymore. I feel like adventure caper TV is back, but in a slick, smart format.
Oh, and strictly from a guys perspective-Beth Riesgraf is totally hot! She reminds me of Katee Sackhoff!
Oh, and strictly from a guys perspective-Beth Riesgraf is totally hot! She reminds me of Katee Sackhoff!
Entertaining depiction of pluses and minuses of team work
BeneCumb9 December 2019
/refers to all Seasons in a sequence/
Although I have my hesitations regarding how realistic those events and characters are (well, organising such scams and cons in a country of multiple and high-level security organisations), the idea behind is good and the process well explained - whether during a con or later, using flashbacks. When at first, Timothy Hutton seemed to excel his counterparts, then as the episodes progressed, one could see more virtues in others as they appeared more often on screen than Hutton. True, there were moments when some recurring or supporting cast provided stronger and/or funnier elements (e.g. Skerritt, Stormare), but holistically, it made the Series more interesting and intense.
I can´t say that the seasons became weaker or so, but as modern technology enables to watch as much episodes as and when you wish, you seem to "become exhausted" as the main characters become part of your family and daily routines. Luckily, the creators knew when and how to stop - and the very final episode is interesting and resourceful.
Although I have my hesitations regarding how realistic those events and characters are (well, organising such scams and cons in a country of multiple and high-level security organisations), the idea behind is good and the process well explained - whether during a con or later, using flashbacks. When at first, Timothy Hutton seemed to excel his counterparts, then as the episodes progressed, one could see more virtues in others as they appeared more often on screen than Hutton. True, there were moments when some recurring or supporting cast provided stronger and/or funnier elements (e.g. Skerritt, Stormare), but holistically, it made the Series more interesting and intense.
I can´t say that the seasons became weaker or so, but as modern technology enables to watch as much episodes as and when you wish, you seem to "become exhausted" as the main characters become part of your family and daily routines. Luckily, the creators knew when and how to stop - and the very final episode is interesting and resourceful.
Ocean's 11 meets the A-Team
sithlord07200010 December 2008
Finally there is a show that combines all the charm and intelligence of the Ocean's 11 franchise with the uniquely memorable personalities of the A-Team. Watching the pilot episode of Leverage was really a treat. It's been a long time since I've seen a show at the end of which I found myself truly satisfied.
There is a depth to Nathan Ford's plans that constantly leaves you guessing what will come next which makes every episode so much more than just the two-dimensional plot-lines that we have come to expect with even the "deepest" of today's shows. And the individual members of his team are every bit as interesting. The combination of an arrogant, sociopath of a combat expert, a psychopathic thief, a brilliant improv actress and a savvy tech genius come together to give us a TV family that we can actually get behind.
The concept of a Robin Hood-esquire plot-line seems almost to be grossly overdone in today's culture, but by accomplishing it through the use of some truly colorful anti-heroes, who truly are in it just for the money, we end up with some great House-Like characters. It's never the client who is truly important, they're just the justification.
In short, Leverage is a truly refreshing experience that should attract fans of a number of different prior franchises. The acting is superb, as is the writing. All these factors combine to make a show that is truly original and a joy to watch.
There is a depth to Nathan Ford's plans that constantly leaves you guessing what will come next which makes every episode so much more than just the two-dimensional plot-lines that we have come to expect with even the "deepest" of today's shows. And the individual members of his team are every bit as interesting. The combination of an arrogant, sociopath of a combat expert, a psychopathic thief, a brilliant improv actress and a savvy tech genius come together to give us a TV family that we can actually get behind.
The concept of a Robin Hood-esquire plot-line seems almost to be grossly overdone in today's culture, but by accomplishing it through the use of some truly colorful anti-heroes, who truly are in it just for the money, we end up with some great House-Like characters. It's never the client who is truly important, they're just the justification.
In short, Leverage is a truly refreshing experience that should attract fans of a number of different prior franchises. The acting is superb, as is the writing. All these factors combine to make a show that is truly original and a joy to watch.
Good fun!
bwdude14 December 2009
I stumbled across this series by accident. It's got Gina Bellman in it, who starred in one of my all-time favorite shows: Coupling So I gave it a try and watched the pilot. Six episodes later, I am sort of hooked.
Sure, it's corny sometimes. Sure, all of the "good guys" have sheer unlimited knowledge of practically everything, including languages from Chinese to Serbian.
Sure, they have one of those "magic" computers that can tap into everything into fractions of a second.
Sure it's absolute BS if you think about it.
And sure, the plot usually has holes to make any swiss cheese proud.
But first I am a sucker for this kind of show and secondly it's just fun to watch anyway. It probably will never get a Globe, but I can't wait to see the next episode nonetheless.
Sure, it's corny sometimes. Sure, all of the "good guys" have sheer unlimited knowledge of practically everything, including languages from Chinese to Serbian.
Sure, they have one of those "magic" computers that can tap into everything into fractions of a second.
Sure it's absolute BS if you think about it.
And sure, the plot usually has holes to make any swiss cheese proud.
But first I am a sucker for this kind of show and secondly it's just fun to watch anyway. It probably will never get a Globe, but I can't wait to see the next episode nonetheless.
One of the best feel-good television series
tabuno9 April 2021
Timothy Hutton headlines this superlative action series involving a team of specialists headed by Hutton who seek to help those people hurt by greedy corporations and grifters. With deft use of comedic relief, excellent pacing, and intriguing set-ups every stand-alone episode provides captivating entertainment for the little guy. Never seems to get old, age, and offers up little tidbits each time a scene is revisited. One of the best feel-good series on television (in reruns).
I Want More.
cookiemadeit10 December 2008
I love all the characters, edgy, sporty, funny, brilliantly written, entertainingly presented and just plain "COOL". I hope this one stays on TV as long as some of my other favorites. (Law & Order, NCIS, CSI and Criminal Minds). I like TV that entertains with a story, twists, turns, doesn't insult my intelligence and keeps me guessing until the very end. Happy Endings are definitely an incentive to keep watching. I can see character development possibilities galore with each team member and I want more back story on each one already. The nostalgic references to old TV Shows is brilliant, this could be the new A-Team, MacGiver, Mission Impossible and does anybody remember the "campy" Charlies Angels? Yes, I will admit to watching all of the above.
Generally positive, but the jury's still out
rbsjrx8 December 2008
I could tell from the trailers that Leverage would be the kind of show I'd enjoy - good guys vs. bad guys without the ambiguity of the legal system to get in the way. It did indeed deliver on that promise. It was cleverly paced and scripted and populated with interesting, likable characters.
So why is the jury still out? The short answer is that I DVR'ed it and watched it more than once.
Although it's slick, the script had holes it just hoped you wouldn't notice. When compared to a show with really clever scripts (e.g. Burn Notice), I found too many "wait a minute" moments - places where your successful suspension of disbelief depends on the viewer's short attention span or lack of reasoning ability. I won't drop spoilers to name some of the more obvious ones - if anyone doesn't notice them, who am I to point them out?
There's a lot of talent in this series. I only hope that in the future they allow the scriptwriters a little more time to work out the kinks before shooting.
So why is the jury still out? The short answer is that I DVR'ed it and watched it more than once.
Although it's slick, the script had holes it just hoped you wouldn't notice. When compared to a show with really clever scripts (e.g. Burn Notice), I found too many "wait a minute" moments - places where your successful suspension of disbelief depends on the viewer's short attention span or lack of reasoning ability. I won't drop spoilers to name some of the more obvious ones - if anyone doesn't notice them, who am I to point them out?
There's a lot of talent in this series. I only hope that in the future they allow the scriptwriters a little more time to work out the kinks before shooting.
I love and miss leverage
linzimarieross11 May 2015
I don't remember watching all the TV program of Leverage, but what i did manage to watch i loved.
I since collected all the series on DVD and i can still watch them over and over again, which to me is very rare and a joy and is never boring.
I loved the characters, their interactions and their development and i think the show could have lasted much longer.
I was a bit disappointed that there would be no more leverage, i think that in some ways it may have went under the radar for a lot of people, i know for a fact that some times i missed it on TV and not because i wasn't interested, but sometimes i did not realise it was back on etc.
I hope that leverage could return, whether with TV series or movie idea and i hope that the team will come together again. But in the mean time i will continue to watch the series over and over and i just found out about leverage books today.
I wish all the actors and crew of Leverage well and thank you its been a joy to watch.
I since collected all the series on DVD and i can still watch them over and over again, which to me is very rare and a joy and is never boring.
I loved the characters, their interactions and their development and i think the show could have lasted much longer.
I was a bit disappointed that there would be no more leverage, i think that in some ways it may have went under the radar for a lot of people, i know for a fact that some times i missed it on TV and not because i wasn't interested, but sometimes i did not realise it was back on etc.
I hope that leverage could return, whether with TV series or movie idea and i hope that the team will come together again. But in the mean time i will continue to watch the series over and over and i just found out about leverage books today.
I wish all the actors and crew of Leverage well and thank you its been a joy to watch.
Give Me More Leverage
Mouth_in_Foot22 March 2015
Warning: Spoilers
A Foot in Mouth: Brutally Honest Review.
***Contains Spoilers*** Leverage in my mind is an example of how to make an extremely entertaining, engaging and very fun TV shows with some outstanding casting, very well written characters and some of the quirkiest story lines is a beautifully executed ice cream cone of perfection. Yummy! I was really upset when they cancelled this show after season 5, but I really think they should bring it back! The premise of the show is essentially a group of the 4 best highly skilled criminal operatives in the world ranging from a hacker, grafter, cat burglar and a hitter are brought together under the supervision of an ex-insurance investigator to pull a heist that goes slightly wrong, so then they start to help average everyday people get leverage over large corporations, millionaires, the authorities and pretty much anyone who tries to screw over us honest hardworking everyday people.
One of the most important things for me is not only the portrayal of the characters on screen but the chemistry of the characters, if I am invested in the characters and their mates I don't care what the story is I will watch it, examples: Castle, NCIS, NCIS: LA, NCIS: New Orleans, Person of Interest, CSI, Elementary, Death in Paradise The thing that shines throughout these TV shows is not only a phenomenal cast and the writing, but the relationships between the characters.
Leverage has an amazing cast who play some very lovable characters with their physical, emotional and verbal banter with the backing of their dramatic, flawed and charismatic performances, with a teaspoon of deliciously funny and a dollop of whipped quirkiness and not forgetting a chocolate flake this show has everything you want. Except the flake that's mine!
***Contains Spoilers*** Leverage in my mind is an example of how to make an extremely entertaining, engaging and very fun TV shows with some outstanding casting, very well written characters and some of the quirkiest story lines is a beautifully executed ice cream cone of perfection. Yummy! I was really upset when they cancelled this show after season 5, but I really think they should bring it back! The premise of the show is essentially a group of the 4 best highly skilled criminal operatives in the world ranging from a hacker, grafter, cat burglar and a hitter are brought together under the supervision of an ex-insurance investigator to pull a heist that goes slightly wrong, so then they start to help average everyday people get leverage over large corporations, millionaires, the authorities and pretty much anyone who tries to screw over us honest hardworking everyday people.
One of the most important things for me is not only the portrayal of the characters on screen but the chemistry of the characters, if I am invested in the characters and their mates I don't care what the story is I will watch it, examples: Castle, NCIS, NCIS: LA, NCIS: New Orleans, Person of Interest, CSI, Elementary, Death in Paradise The thing that shines throughout these TV shows is not only a phenomenal cast and the writing, but the relationships between the characters.
Leverage has an amazing cast who play some very lovable characters with their physical, emotional and verbal banter with the backing of their dramatic, flawed and charismatic performances, with a teaspoon of deliciously funny and a dollop of whipped quirkiness and not forgetting a chocolate flake this show has everything you want. Except the flake that's mine!
Very Entertaining
tect-0356424 August 2019
Not too many shows keep on excelling till the very end. This one did. Not all episodes were top notch, but they were certainly entertaining - witty remarks, charming moments... I really enjoyed this one. They kept it clean and family friendly which is something we don't see too often from.
Wow!
dukemunsill9424 July 2009
"Leverage?!!!" People said when they first saw the name of the television series when it came out in 2008. I asked myself the same question when I saw the preview for it on TNT, but when I saw that Timothy Hutton was in it I wanted to see it no matter what the name might be. We all know the Timothy Hutton from the Nero Wolfe T.V. show, on which he played Archie Goodwin, who was a smart, wisecracking, and handsome assistant to the detective of the same name. How could Timothy Hutton be in a movie that is about bad guys? I asked myself after looking up to him most of my life. "Sometimes bad guys make the best good guys" which is the motto of the television show. Even though I had my suspicions about it being another profane T.V. show it turned out to be a great show that had great messages in all of its episodes. My brother turned to me one day and said to me about Leverage that "all of the episodes would make great movies!" And now after watching all of the first season and part of the second I am convinced of this statement. Is there bad stuff in this show? You are asking yourself at this point and with good cause, but the answer is: no. There are some innuendos in it, but they are very minor. It is basically what you might call a Robin Hood tale of today. The show is worth the watch and should be enjoyed by everyone from 12 and up. Enjoy! -Duke
A Fun Series, Grows on You - May Contain Spoilers
MurphAndTheMagicTones19 February 2009
Warning: Spoilers
Although this certainly won't win any awards and will always draw comparisons to the BBC's "Hu$tle" and the "Ocean" movies, it makes for a fun hour of TV watching, carving out a nice niche in American TV.
Timothy Hutton provides an effective counter to the sometimes "devil may care" attitude of his team members as Nathan Ford, a divorced alcoholic who has had difficulty getting over the death of his son, and rightfully blames his old company for not providing the health care he needed to survive. When a desperate executive hires him to recover some stolen airline plans, he takes the job of leading a group of con artists and thieves to retrieve them. However, when the job becomes more than it appears, it's up to Nate to keep the team together and turn the tables. Even though everybody in the group became financially set for life after the first episode, the lure of helping out others keeps them coming back for more.
Although we've seen shows like this before ("The A-Team" is the closest comparison), there's something lighter and more fun about this hi-tech redux of a group of cons helping out those who have no one to turn to. The characters grow on you as the show progresses, most notably high-tech uber-geek Alec Hardison (Aldis Hodge) and the goofy, lithe, acrobatic Parker (Beth Riesgraf). Nate's on again-off again repartee with Sophie Devereaux (Coupling's Gina Bellman) has hit both highs and lows in the show. Some consider Eliot Spencer (Christian Kane), as the team's "muscle," to be a weak point in the show. However, there is a good rapport between Eliot and Hardison, similar to Jack Cates and Reggie Hammond from the "48 Hrs." movies.
Overall, it's a good addition to the TNT library of shows. Not it's best show, but it's certainly worthy of another season.
Timothy Hutton provides an effective counter to the sometimes "devil may care" attitude of his team members as Nathan Ford, a divorced alcoholic who has had difficulty getting over the death of his son, and rightfully blames his old company for not providing the health care he needed to survive. When a desperate executive hires him to recover some stolen airline plans, he takes the job of leading a group of con artists and thieves to retrieve them. However, when the job becomes more than it appears, it's up to Nate to keep the team together and turn the tables. Even though everybody in the group became financially set for life after the first episode, the lure of helping out others keeps them coming back for more.
Although we've seen shows like this before ("The A-Team" is the closest comparison), there's something lighter and more fun about this hi-tech redux of a group of cons helping out those who have no one to turn to. The characters grow on you as the show progresses, most notably high-tech uber-geek Alec Hardison (Aldis Hodge) and the goofy, lithe, acrobatic Parker (Beth Riesgraf). Nate's on again-off again repartee with Sophie Devereaux (Coupling's Gina Bellman) has hit both highs and lows in the show. Some consider Eliot Spencer (Christian Kane), as the team's "muscle," to be a weak point in the show. However, there is a good rapport between Eliot and Hardison, similar to Jack Cates and Reggie Hammond from the "48 Hrs." movies.
Overall, it's a good addition to the TNT library of shows. Not it's best show, but it's certainly worthy of another season.
Agreeable and fun series about a group of high-tech swindlers robbing to rich crooks and nasty businessmen.
ma-cortes2 August 2019
Thrilling and amusing series about the cases carried out by a crew of high-tech crooks headed by Nathan Ford who try to rob from wealthy criminals and corrupt businessmen , but their professional as well as personal past repeatedly seems to catch up. The ¨Leverage¨ team are civilian specialists for missions requiring their individual skills and often encounter a specific safe, the Glenn-Reider where they join forces and get together , while planning a new masquerade .This is a sympathetic group of former top-criminals led by Nathan Ford/Timothy Hutton as leader of the expert team handling 'unorthodox' cases , they are the following ones : Gina Bellman/Sophie , Christian Kane /Eliot Spencer, Beth Riesgraf/Parker , Aldis Hodge/ Alec Hardison . They carry out their missions that often involve stinging or otherwise scamming criminals , they always get the job well done, sometimes traveling the United States o all around the world to do it . Get ready to get even. The art of the con . Sometimes Bad Guys Make the Best Good Guys
This fantastic team though is altered at times, usually execute faithfully their twisted assignments . Each week there would be a new top-secret mission to pull off , it is a successful TV series about a master team to get their dues through regular channels and legal or illegal procedures . It was well produced , including huge doses of humor , action , technological developing , thrills, twists and turns . This daredevil organization formed by qualified operatives to accomplish specific tasks during the mission-of-the-week . Instead of highly-trained agents, they are expert in a field , such as : one gregarious mastermind who can move , control and tranfer any system with a digital pulse , one peaceful but lethal ex-military retrieval specialist and an envelope-pushing brave gymnast robber . Being starred by a motley , dynamic , complex , and sympathetic bunch of prepared as well as genius expertises . As they trick their marks into handing over whatever they're after willingly. Even actual swindlers , cheaters , tricksters and con people were consultants on some episode to give more and more realism to the series . Furthermore , many of the shady business practices are based on real life events and other actual occurrences . Though some seasons were set in Boston, filming was actually done in Portland, Oregon .
Timothy Hutton as a former insurance claims investigator gives a nice acting as the main and highly skilled member who relies on his gut instinct as much as evidence . He is well accompanied by the always likeable : Gina Bellman , Christian Kane , Beth Riesgraf , Aldis Hodge . And some of them did all of his own stunts . Along with a long plethora of guest stars , such as : Mark Sheppard , Jeri Ryan , Elisabetta Canalis , Leon Rippy , Kari Matchett , Wil Wheaton ,Rick Overton ,Drew Powell , Saul Rubinek , Tony Bill, Goran Visnjic , Richard Kind , the veteran , Richard Chamberlain ,Tom Skerritt , Paul Blackthorne , Alex Carter and many others . Being competently produced by Dean Devlin and compellingly directed by known filmmakers as Marc Roskin , Jonathan Frakes , John Rogers , Jeremiah S. Chechik, Tony Bill , PJ Pesce , Rob Minkoff ,Craig R. Baxley , Rod Hardy and Dean Devlin himself . Rating : 6/10 , acceptabel , passable and decente TV series .
This fantastic team though is altered at times, usually execute faithfully their twisted assignments . Each week there would be a new top-secret mission to pull off , it is a successful TV series about a master team to get their dues through regular channels and legal or illegal procedures . It was well produced , including huge doses of humor , action , technological developing , thrills, twists and turns . This daredevil organization formed by qualified operatives to accomplish specific tasks during the mission-of-the-week . Instead of highly-trained agents, they are expert in a field , such as : one gregarious mastermind who can move , control and tranfer any system with a digital pulse , one peaceful but lethal ex-military retrieval specialist and an envelope-pushing brave gymnast robber . Being starred by a motley , dynamic , complex , and sympathetic bunch of prepared as well as genius expertises . As they trick their marks into handing over whatever they're after willingly. Even actual swindlers , cheaters , tricksters and con people were consultants on some episode to give more and more realism to the series . Furthermore , many of the shady business practices are based on real life events and other actual occurrences . Though some seasons were set in Boston, filming was actually done in Portland, Oregon .
Timothy Hutton as a former insurance claims investigator gives a nice acting as the main and highly skilled member who relies on his gut instinct as much as evidence . He is well accompanied by the always likeable : Gina Bellman , Christian Kane , Beth Riesgraf , Aldis Hodge . And some of them did all of his own stunts . Along with a long plethora of guest stars , such as : Mark Sheppard , Jeri Ryan , Elisabetta Canalis , Leon Rippy , Kari Matchett , Wil Wheaton ,Rick Overton ,Drew Powell , Saul Rubinek , Tony Bill, Goran Visnjic , Richard Kind , the veteran , Richard Chamberlain ,Tom Skerritt , Paul Blackthorne , Alex Carter and many others . Being competently produced by Dean Devlin and compellingly directed by known filmmakers as Marc Roskin , Jonathan Frakes , John Rogers , Jeremiah S. Chechik, Tony Bill , PJ Pesce , Rob Minkoff ,Craig R. Baxley , Rod Hardy and Dean Devlin himself . Rating : 6/10 , acceptabel , passable and decente TV series .
Leverage gets your dose of white hat-black hat conman every week
Piedreau23 June 2008
Leverage might after a first show look like a series replica of Oceans Eleven with even the same generic music attached to some scenes, it fares deeper into a storyline you might expect being left on the cutting room floor of that same movie. Revenge being a large element of the series and changing plots, schemes and situations putting a viewer on the wrong foot this show delivers what all the polish and high-speed actors in forenamed picture couldn't actually deliver: credibility!
Many TV fans were loving a show like Thief (2006) but for the big audience that's called TV this is too grimy and realistic. Don't expect somebody to get actually hurt in "Leverage". The grimy and therefor risky aspect of the show has been rooted out carefully and in comes a storyline that could have been a "A-team" episode. Maybe halfway the season Colonel Decker will start chasing the headliners of this show but until then it's a risk-free show that won't be canceled.
Agreed, whoever thought of this format was far from a genius (the genius invented "Thief 2006") but he'll have a job for that much longer mixing Oceans Eleven, Thief and the A-team together in a show that doesn't offend, hurt, kill or mame people and yet stays funny and interesting to watch.
Leverage is a good TV-show among other good TV-shows but will eventually wind up in decay like other good TV-shows will. In one more season it will be more boring to watch then the new episode of Prison Break. Maybe it will generate the same cult status and devotion with viewers they will keep watching and it survives 2 seasons more. I hope so since this quiche of TV-shows is the most entertaining and relaxing show i've seen this year...
9/10 (won't last 2 seasons)
P.S A delight to see Gina Bellman again after a brilliant role in Coupling. She's a under-appreciated actress if u ask me.
Many TV fans were loving a show like Thief (2006) but for the big audience that's called TV this is too grimy and realistic. Don't expect somebody to get actually hurt in "Leverage". The grimy and therefor risky aspect of the show has been rooted out carefully and in comes a storyline that could have been a "A-team" episode. Maybe halfway the season Colonel Decker will start chasing the headliners of this show but until then it's a risk-free show that won't be canceled.
Agreed, whoever thought of this format was far from a genius (the genius invented "Thief 2006") but he'll have a job for that much longer mixing Oceans Eleven, Thief and the A-team together in a show that doesn't offend, hurt, kill or mame people and yet stays funny and interesting to watch.
Leverage is a good TV-show among other good TV-shows but will eventually wind up in decay like other good TV-shows will. In one more season it will be more boring to watch then the new episode of Prison Break. Maybe it will generate the same cult status and devotion with viewers they will keep watching and it survives 2 seasons more. I hope so since this quiche of TV-shows is the most entertaining and relaxing show i've seen this year...
9/10 (won't last 2 seasons)
P.S A delight to see Gina Bellman again after a brilliant role in Coupling. She's a under-appreciated actress if u ask me.
I'm not bothered by its similarity to other shows
blanche-29 October 2015
I discovered Leverage late and am now watching it on Netflix and loving every minute of it.
As others have mentioned, it is reminiscent of other shows, but that's true of a lot of series and films. This one reminds me of "Mission: Impossible" a little. I actually did not watch Burn Notice, The Equalizer, or A-Team. Someone else mentioned Banacek, but I thought the crimes and solutions on Banacek were much more elaborate.
Timothy Hutton plays the leader of the team, Nate. Anyone who saw "Ordinary People" remembers his searing performance as a troubled youth. Here he plays, basically, the sane one, driven by a need for revenge against monolithic companies.
Nate is driven by revenge, but the rest of the team is made up of quirky characters who are thieves. Most notable is Gina Bellman as an atrocious actress, Sophie, who, when it comes to doing a con, could win an Oscar. Joining her is Christian Kane as the rough, tough, and funny Elliot, Beth Riesgraf is Parker, driven by money, and Aldis Hodge is Alec the techno-Geek.
They all come together for one job, but their work together becomes ongoing. All of their acting is terrific, and each character is unique.
The show is well-produced, with plenty of humor, special effects, and not a lot of violence. It's very enjoyable. I just wish it were still producing new episodes.
As others have mentioned, it is reminiscent of other shows, but that's true of a lot of series and films. This one reminds me of "Mission: Impossible" a little. I actually did not watch Burn Notice, The Equalizer, or A-Team. Someone else mentioned Banacek, but I thought the crimes and solutions on Banacek were much more elaborate.
Timothy Hutton plays the leader of the team, Nate. Anyone who saw "Ordinary People" remembers his searing performance as a troubled youth. Here he plays, basically, the sane one, driven by a need for revenge against monolithic companies.
Nate is driven by revenge, but the rest of the team is made up of quirky characters who are thieves. Most notable is Gina Bellman as an atrocious actress, Sophie, who, when it comes to doing a con, could win an Oscar. Joining her is Christian Kane as the rough, tough, and funny Elliot, Beth Riesgraf is Parker, driven by money, and Aldis Hodge is Alec the techno-Geek.
They all come together for one job, but their work together becomes ongoing. All of their acting is terrific, and each character is unique.
The show is well-produced, with plenty of humor, special effects, and not a lot of violence. It's very enjoyable. I just wish it were still producing new episodes.
Pilot episode was super corny, glad I continued
thesuthernman18 January 2024
I'm only in the middle of the second season. The series as a whole started off slow, especially the very first episode. I think the actors are finding their groove and it shows. The writers are also finding what works well with the ensemble. It's a fine line traversing this kind of action/comedy show. The first episode came off way too corny. We know it's TV and all ridiculous, but if it's done well, playing within their own rules, an audience will play along.
Not sure what the next few seasons will bring. Many shows have a great 2nd and third and sometimes goes down hill. We shall see. My favorite episode so far was S2 E5.
Not sure what the next few seasons will bring. Many shows have a great 2nd and third and sometimes goes down hill. We shall see. My favorite episode so far was S2 E5.
A Good Summer View
PartialMovieViewer16 August 2011
This is one of those shows that happen to be a good filler. It is not a show I go out of my way to watch. If there is nothing else to watch, I will sit and take in the action. It seems to be a spin-off of, 'Mission Impossible.' It comes complete with a team of very talented people - all possessing specialized skills. I haven't seen any of them fly or stop trains, so their talents are believable. I have not seen too many of episodes, but what I have seen, I have enjoyed. I am not saying that I do back-flips out of my recliner every time I turn a show on, but I sit and watch it from beginning to end. It is not a show that is talked about at work. No staying power like 'NCIS' or staying-too long power like 'Bones'. This gang of buddies are supposed to be a team but miss that excellent team click found in "The Mentalist". It definitely is not bad and doesn't deserve the knee jerk axe like "King and Maxwell", which was recognized as an excellent show. If "Leverage" came out in the 80s, it may have lasted a month or two, with no chance of a reboot. I mean, compared to what people put with in the name of entertainment, this is not a bad gig. Is this worth retreading? Well, it's like this. Every program, movie or even game show is a retread - so this is not my first or second choice (hint: "The Mentalist or "King and Maxwell") but I could deal with another year.
Slick, Witty, Entertaining
Rapsicle20 June 2009
Warning: Spoilers
The show features a team of crooks trying to seek revenge on big companies/people who have done wrong to many people and are seen as bad people. The show in itself is very good, the script is well written, it is slick, witty and entertaining.
The only negative I can find in 'Leverage' is that it is predominantly the same as the BBC's (British Brodcasting Centre) Hustle, which involves a team of intellectual crooks taking money from and destroying reputations and careers of the 'bad' people previously mentioned. (sound familiar??) However, I do see this as a positive as Leverage has more than lived up to the brilliance of Hustle, one of my favourite shows, and I intend to continue to watch both for as long as they continue.
The main positives of Leverage is how unpredictable it is, with twists at every corner, and another is the intelligence. This show is similar to the 'oceans eleven' series of films, and if you liked them, I can assure you that you will like this as well!
Give this one a try, I think you will like it!
The only negative I can find in 'Leverage' is that it is predominantly the same as the BBC's (British Brodcasting Centre) Hustle, which involves a team of intellectual crooks taking money from and destroying reputations and careers of the 'bad' people previously mentioned. (sound familiar??) However, I do see this as a positive as Leverage has more than lived up to the brilliance of Hustle, one of my favourite shows, and I intend to continue to watch both for as long as they continue.
The main positives of Leverage is how unpredictable it is, with twists at every corner, and another is the intelligence. This show is similar to the 'oceans eleven' series of films, and if you liked them, I can assure you that you will like this as well!
Give this one a try, I think you will like it!
Great show, but Hustle was better.
viceinvirtue2 June 2010
After watching two seasons of Leverage, it seems appropriate to review it. I enjoyed every moment of watching it and it's not a bad show at all. Some cons were easy to guess, others were not. Interesting characters, but I haven't learnt much about most of them so far. There was some back story to Nathan Ford's character and to Parker too, but very little on the rest. This makes it difficult to relate to them and the impact of the cons less effective on me as a viewer.
I have to admit, I watched the British show Hustle first, and I must agree with another reviewer and say that Hustle is better. So if you like and enjoy Leverage, watching Hustle is a must! In my opinion, the cons in Hustle are much more elaborate/intricate and the narrative is played out really well. I'm sure other reviewers have mentioned how the pauses in Hustle are entertaining and when a character breaks the fourth wall, it's amusing, intriguing and it's like you're being taught how to be a grifter - which is simply fantastic! This also brings out the personalities for each of the characters. I have to say the characters in Hustle are more unique than those in Leverage - especially when it comes to the team leaders. I prefer the cocky Mickey Stone (from Hustle) with a bad past and something to hide than the tragic hero that Nate Ford is. NOT saying that I don't like Nate, but with him already beating the insurance company that hurt his son, it doesn't seem like there could be more development in that area.
Nevertheless, Leverage is a good show and I only hope to find out more about Parker and Eliot in particular. If you enjoy watching the real bad guys go down, and seeing justice served (especially the rich and corrupt), this is definitely something that will brighten up your night.
I have to admit, I watched the British show Hustle first, and I must agree with another reviewer and say that Hustle is better. So if you like and enjoy Leverage, watching Hustle is a must! In my opinion, the cons in Hustle are much more elaborate/intricate and the narrative is played out really well. I'm sure other reviewers have mentioned how the pauses in Hustle are entertaining and when a character breaks the fourth wall, it's amusing, intriguing and it's like you're being taught how to be a grifter - which is simply fantastic! This also brings out the personalities for each of the characters. I have to say the characters in Hustle are more unique than those in Leverage - especially when it comes to the team leaders. I prefer the cocky Mickey Stone (from Hustle) with a bad past and something to hide than the tragic hero that Nate Ford is. NOT saying that I don't like Nate, but with him already beating the insurance company that hurt his son, it doesn't seem like there could be more development in that area.
Nevertheless, Leverage is a good show and I only hope to find out more about Parker and Eliot in particular. If you enjoy watching the real bad guys go down, and seeing justice served (especially the rich and corrupt), this is definitely something that will brighten up your night.
See also
Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews