Da Vinci's Demons (2013–2015) User Reviews

A truly entertaining series, don't take it too seriously

[Sleepin_Dragon · 8/10 · 15 September 2015]

It's a little bit like Doctor Who meets the Borgias, they've picked Da Vinci out of history and given him a fantasy series. It is fun, it's exciting, I get that it is truly inaccurate, but in it's own way it's really good fun to watch. Series 1 is well worth a look, and the quality continues into the second.

It is a visual treat, it is stunningly filmed and directed, it's a visual treat, the effects are fabulous too.

Tom Riley is really good as DaVinci, he's great fun, exuberant and bursting with energy. Elliot Cowan is fabulous as Lorenzo, he is an actor of intense charisma, when he is on screen you watch.

There are some truly beautiful actors and actresses in this, Laura Haddock, Greg Chillin, and of course Elliot Cowan. The women all put in a lofty way, and the guys all have their shirts pulled so their chests are out, it's really comical. They all have beautiful teeth, fabulous skin and glorious hair, get past that and you'll learn to really enjoy this swashbuckling romp. It's big fun. 8/10

Very far from reality but compelling

[chiaragiacobelli · 8/10 · 26 November 2019]

If you are looking for a real historical fiction about Leonardo da Vinci this is not the right series to watch. Fantasy and dark worlds, contaminations from Dracula and the contemporary era make this fiction strange and unlikely, but to be faithful to reality is not the main goal of the director. So, if you take the series as it is, with a Leonardo that is a genius but also a sort of rockstar, then you can appreciate it and have fun following his adventures. I liked him and I liked the count Riario and Zo. The rythm is good, in each episode many things happen and you really want to discover what will happen at the end. Three seasons are long, but if you are not in a hurry it is a good way to spend some hours.

Give it a try

[m_artist · 8/10 · 27 April 2013]

To be honest, I think this show is fascinating. There are bunch of beautiful graphics, action sequences, adventures, thriller etc.. which blow your mind.

This is truly an amazing show and gives the audience the entertainment factor that they deserve not the historic side of Leonardo Da Vinci.

the only problem in my opinion is the pronouncement of the names. it is more of an English accent than an Italian which doesn't justify the beauty of the name. this the only annoying thing in the series so far, however we can use to it as the show goes on.

my true advice, give it a try. you will not regret it. you want an entertainment you got it.

Excellent Show for strictly entertainment

[joeadems2 · 10/10 · 27 April 2013]

I think this show was done very well, and I normally don't leave reviews on shows. BUT seeing how many negative comments it got kinda annoyed me. Reason being is this show is not a discovery channel special on De Vinci's life. It's clearly a fantasized presentation of his life. I think it's unfair to the writers, producers, actors and everyone else who partook in creating this show to be brought down like this because it wasn't historically accurate. It never claimed to be, and if that's what people think they're getting when starting this series, they should think again and maybe picking up a book instead. For all those who are looking for an interesting, and fresh show to get into I'd definitely recommend it. Though if you're gonna get into this show with a mindset of being a hardcore critique then you should just move on to something else.

Do not listen to the negative banter

[VesicaP · 10/10 · 19 April 2013]

You will hear all sorts of things: historically inaccurate, amateurish acting, disgraceful to da Vinci, bitch-and-moan etc.

Do not listen to these people. This new series has many things working for it. Yes, the haircuts are always perfect, and their teeth are nice and white...if you can get over this common theatricality then you are in for an exciting new show. It is well written with promises of refreshing adventure to come.

IMDb has become a battleground for swaying mass opinion away from controversial truths. Do not let the negative reviews sway you from what will be a fun, intelligent series.

After watching the second episode, I am VERY excited for the next episode. This is the best Adventure series on TV.

Great start to a series

[fbi_max · 10/10 · 20 April 2013]

I thought the show was great and fun to watch. Those people that try to compare this to actual factual events in Da Vinci's life should maybe stop for a moment and realise this is not a DOCUMENTARY and does not pretend to be either, therefore it is not required to follow his every day life chores of the man. I mean how BORING would the series be then, hence why documentaries are produced. Don't like it? go read a book, personally I look forward to. I wouldn't say it is a 10, but i'm going to give it a 10 because of the pathetic scores some unimaginative people have scored it, as it does not deserve such arrogant scores of 1 or 2.

Enjoyable pilot of a very promising and fun show.

[shashankgarg245 · 9/10 · 17 April 2013]

I read some of the reviews of this show on IMDb and i have to say i wasn't pleased. I don't get why people didn't like the pilot episode. I mean shows like arrow and spartacus have a rating of 8.7 whereas this show only got a mere 8. To me the pilot seemed pretty good. The lead character had enough depth in him to make him likable. His mysterious past, quick witty answers and knack for getting into troubles will make the show even more enjoyable as it progresses. What I loved about the show was the background music which is one of the best I've heard on TV. I also liked how they created florence considering its budget it seemed a decent job. For those who are complaining about historical inaccuracies then let me tell you most of the shows on TV are historically inaccurate eg. spartacus. If you want historical accuracy you can turn to documentaries, there are dozen available on da vinci.and for those of you who can't see him in a sword fight why can't a genius, who can work with both of his hands can't be a swordsman. i mean if sherlock can beat the hell out of everyone in a fist fight(in the movie) why can't da vinci fight. In short it seems like a promising show with secret socities, conspiracies and many twists to come and i'm looking forward to the next episode

Fantastic

[pinpo12 · 12 April 2013]

I must say I have been looking forward to this show since I first laid eyes on the trailer. The acting is superb, the dialog is very well written, the setting is both beautiful yet can seem to have a darkness about it. I enjoyed every minute of it with Da Vinci's quick wit to the manipulation between characters. Though some parts did seem to move quite fast giving the thought "Where the hell did that come from and why so soon?" The only thing I can say could be better is the graphics, I know it's a television show and recreating an entire historic city would prove costly however a bit of love put into it could have make it seem less...cartoon perhaps. None the less it is a small detail in the grand scheme of things. I highly recommend watching this show there will be more greatness to come I am sure.

Set your brains to zero

[ripe_51 · 7/10 · 29 April 2013]

Da Vinci's demons isn't too bad, as long as you're willing to accept that it's in the fantasy genre.

The series is about a historical figure made by people who never opened a history book, if you can deal with that then you probably will enjoy it to an extent. When I say to an extent, I mean it's not a brilliant show (the acting, the plot.. and what especially disturbs me is the supernatural aspect of it which is just not suitable for a series like this), it tries to convince you that it is intelligent but in fact is far from it.

But as I said before, as long as you're willing to ignore any links to reality and history, it is watchable.

Highly Entertaining Show!

[RoswellAlien · 10/10 · 4 February 2014]

This show defiantly brings something new to the plate. With a highly entertaining story that leaves you wanting more by the end of the episode. The dialogue was written really well. The actors do a stupendous job every episode bringing there characters to life. The cinematography is done extremely well with some extremely beautiful shots. The production value of course is high quality of course that's what you can expect from a premium channel. Locations were fantastic in the first season like it really stood out to me. Personally I highly recommend this show. The first season was brilliant besides some people saying that it is inaccurate. I personally don't know if it was going for being accurate but I enjoyed it in the end. I look forward to seeing the 2nd season! Brilliant! 10/10

A good idea

[The_deer_hunter_rdn · 6/10 · 15 April 2013]

But that's where it stops. I was looking forward to see this show, because I thought it would have been a good idea to instruct people of the life of a genius such as Leonardo DA Vinci, but I am quite disappointed.

Da Vinci's life is very interesting on its own and doesn't need to be "Modernized". The flying artificial bird is ridiculous and unnecessary and the portrait of Da Vinci as a Don Giovanni is awfully wrong considering that he had been accused of sodomy in real life.

Having said that the show remains quite entertaining(It looks as if you're watching the Sherlock Holmes films) thanks to the good acting skills and the special effects, but the use of Da Vinci's name is just an escamotage to make more audience.

Stunning fantasy based upon a brilliant man

[hansvanderzee · 8/10 · 14 April 2013]

First of all, I would like tot say that Starz did a magnificent job creating a fantasy series (which is essentially what it is. Nowhere is actually claimed that this is supposedly a historically accurate retelling of Da Vinci's life) based upon the life of one greatest men to live. Now, while it isn't even close to the actual historical Da Vinci, it doesn't mean that you should write off this series as drab. On the contrary, there is nothing wrong with basing yourself off history and build your own story around that. If you want historical accuracy, please go watch a bloody documentary. If you go into this series expecting a history lesson (and then complain about the fact that it isn't), you might as well walk around with a sign reading "I am an imbecile". It is classified and described under the genre "historical fantasy" for a reason. Further more The setting and the costume works is absolutely beautiful, showing Florence's extravagance in an exaggerated manner. The CGI, just like Starz' previous series, Spartacus, was in some places quite jarring to say the least. A good example of that would be the helicopter shot near the beginning where guards are marching across a courtyard. But that is negligible in my personal opinion. While I do like the more extravagant, arrogant Da Vinci, none the less I find his performance sub par in certain scenes. Especially those where he is acting out a scene of pain, or fear. It isn't convincing enough, it is once again far too exaggerated. But then again, that seems to be the entire theme of this series. The mythological elements worked into the series is interesting to me, it adds a magical aura to the storyline, to the point where it is the the stereotypical thing of "You are destined, fate has chosen you.", which doesn't make it bad, but it isn't original either. I'm looking forward to where this series is heading. It has some great potential. Although it is quite sad that people are clenching their behinds so hard because it isn't a documentary, considering the series is listed as a historical FANTASY. Learn to read, then think, then form your opinion, then share it.

Mysticism vs Science

[bobbyem-1 · 6/10 · 29 April 2013]

Although I applaud anything that celebrates science, and DD does this, although in a overly fantastic manner. But why do they find a need to mix in mysticism? The complete opposite of science. The show constantly implies a mystical connection between the great mind and a secret order of magicians. Why? Sure, mysticism was a big part of life at the time, but isn't the point of Leonardo's journey to strive against ignorance and "magic"? The show isn't bad, as long as it does not get "Lost", I will keep watching!

The actors do a good enough job of making things interesting but I keep waiting for the next invention and not the conflicts. I love the use of the pope as the villain!

Ps: The music is really good!

A show that will make you say "What the...?"

[jmdanley · 5/10 · 13 June 2016]

I am currently more than halfway through the second season and I am finding so many problems with the "fantasy" of the whole show. The second season is especially bad when it comes to the basics of reality, let alone Da Vinci's life.

One episode involves his invention of a submarine, built in what appears to be a day or so (hard to tell what the time lines are). The wooden sub has absolutely no leaks (because, you know, Da Vinci!)and seems to be able to hold hours worth of air for two grown men... and their torches (which must not consume air to burn because... Da Vinci!).

Or his supposedly year-long journey to South America (why not? He's Da Vinci!) on a ship loaded with slaves and, I assume, limited provisions which last forever (because... Da Vinci!). Or his discovery of the earth orbiting about the sun base on his observations of Venus and his prediction of it's appearance (which he gets wrong, but because he invented the telescope - De Vinci!) Or the fact that HE'S the only character on the long journey whose hair grew long (sexy Da Vinci!) or that he was able to translate the native language (Incan?) based on associating a few words with objects (Da Vinci!) or... Well, you get the point.

This is less a paean to the true genius of Leonardo Da Vinci than it is a tawdry fictionalization to make him some kind of genius superhero with type O negative blood (you'll figure out why).

I don't know about getting through the third season, but then again, this is like watching a train wreck. You can't take your eyes off it.

Another interesting TV series!

[adambbq · 8/10 · 20 April 2013]

When I watched the trailer of "Da Vinci's Demons" I knew that this title will provide us with a lot of entertainment and action, but only a few historical facts. After watching the first episodes I can confirm this opinion. People searching for the real historical events from the biography of Leonardo certainly will be disappointed. However, those who like me are looking for a breath of freshness and ingenuity consider this TV series to be very successful. First of all, we have the opportunity to see the extraordinary genius inventions come to life and I have to admit that they do so in spectacular way. The story has been enriched by the threads of intrigue and romance that give the history extra flavor. Those critical of this form I refer to historical films, but fans of entertainment at a good level, I encourage to familiarize yourself with this title. Acting is on a really decent level, sound and video as well. Therefore, if anyone is interested in alternative history of Leonardo da Vinci, which is very colorful and creative, or just looking for good entertainment will find this series to be extremely successful.

Very much satisfied!

[hetpatel-54478 · 10/10 · 14 May 2021]

I don't know where I found this show but after watching this show I feel like I have the thing with me that I want. Very excellent acting some real events and many more ! Do watch it.

Do writers really think we are this stupid?

[Isobelk · 13 April 2013]

This show is ridiculous. I just can't get beyond the anachronisms which start in the first scene when I'm supposed to think that da Vinci took drugs. And that they were mixed with tobacco which didn't event get to Europe until da Vinci well into the 1500s.

Has no one else in America ever learned anything about da Vinci besides me? This show leads me to believe that my fellow Americans must be philistines if they can find anything redeeming about this show. And all the crap about secret societies is just superfluous. The real story is much more interesting than this crap.

Furthermore, the drawings glimpsed are poor. Why not just use copies of da Vinci's drawings?

I was hoping for something more like the Borgias. This subject matter has potential. But using da Vinci's name for this series is misleading and disappointing.

The cartoons and illustrations are poor. The hairstyles are anachronistic. The clothes show lack of research. The soldiers' hats are more Napoleonic than renaissance. Da Vinci's show of his chest (and other cast members) is too unrealistic.

Entertaining !

[soumendrapanda · 9/10 · 26 October 2015]

Do not go by the negative comments of the politically correct people. For those worried about depiction of Islam for showing beheading of "infidels" by Turks, must dust the history books lying in their bookshelves and read about Ottoman invasion of Otranto.

This show is highly entertaining, with power packed performance by leads. Apart from few historical inaccuracies, which could have been easily avoided, the storyline is awesome and tries its best to do justice to a genius whose immortal works have inspired one and many. Development of few characters could have been done in a more better manner. But that would be just me being very picky. Overall it's a great show, just watch it for entertainment if not for history lessons. I am simply disappointed for this would be the last season to be aired.

Great storytelling and acting.

[bcnkor · 10/10 · 16 January 2022]

With a fictional story about Leonardo da Vinci, but very good, both narrated and performed by all the actors who have done a great job with the whole team. The director has managed to bring us a good story of that time very well adapted.

Get off of Pegasus!

[retiredme55 · 7/10 · 22 April 2013]

I Can't believe all the 1 and 2 star negative reviews based on the show's complete lack of historical accuracy. Really? IT'S A FANTASY - GET OVER IT! Would it somehow be more acceptable if it took place in an alternate universe? Or maybe the Producers should have sold it as a re-imagining of history like Inglorious Bastards? Let's face it people, anyone looking to acquire their history from a weekly fantasy T.V. series has already lost the battle. It's just a fun show. So if you have a problem with that I suggest you grab a beer and some popcorn and enjoy the show before the thin air up there on top of your high horse causes anymore brain damage!

Scintillating

[koatprdns · 10/10 · 8 July 2020]

Yes, it's fantasy, but why not? Why couldn't Leo have been all this and more, with a mind like his and a republic that embraces the people and knowledge? Delivered with such crazy passion I was riveted to the very end. Imagination is everything. Anything is possible. It only appears as magic because we don't understand it. Rock on da Vinci

Good entertainment

[akj-35143 · 7/10 · 14 July 2022]

I and perhaps most other wannabes have a thing for Da Vinci like eccentric yet innovative characters. Solving problems through brain rather than brawn appeals to my intellect. Add Lucrezia's beautiful face to it and some mystery, agony, religious forces, and you have the recipe to keep me hooked. Some deeper material as the story progressed would have been better than the dog and pony show it ended up in. Good end of the day entertainment is my final word.

Da Vinci demons

[bmayank-98491 · 8/10 · 1 October 2021]

Show is good to watch to start I like the show is tell about How things change the life by invention and war

Good character development and also costume design is great 👍

"Time is river"

Truly Disappointing

[dmarmstrong53619 · 6/10 · 18 April 2013]

The advertising trailers were intriguing. However, the first episode not so much. I'm afraid the sci-fi/fantasy category was due to the lack of knowing what how to write a show based upon a man's life rich with intrigue. There are hints of brilliance that quickly vanishes;i.e. flight of birds released from a cage.

The factual accuracy was quite disappointing. Taking advantage of conflict between Da Vinci and the Medicis or even the Church as a background story was completely missed. Da Vinci was experimenting, exploring and exploiting all the areas that were taboo. Now, this would make good drama.

Uninspired Insulting Tripe

[nebudmusil · 1/10 · 18 May 2013]

"Circulez, il n'y a rien à voir!" Do not listen to the positive reviews of Da Vinci's Demon: the writers were paid because anyone with a modicum of good taste will find this series to be at best uninspired and/or a rip offs melting pot of better shows, and at worst utter tripe. The writers's biggest mistake in Da Vinci's Demon, increasingly common in Hollywood films, is to have taken the audience for idiots, showing total condescension for its ability to think and appreciate challenging TV. Rather than depicting the fascinating personal life of one of the greatest minds and artists of all time, they took the route of presenting Da Vinci as a modern 21st century arrogant know it all prick. The viewer is now supposedly unable to take an interest in a main character who is not a moronic pretty boy sleaze bag, who sprouts anachronistic inanities all day long. I really blame vampire shows and films for this, notably True Blood and the twilight series; da Vinci looks and acts like the typical vampire that all teenage girls twists their panties in a bunch up for: violent, brilliant, mad, metrosexually good looking, drugged up (whether on blood or other), passionate, not afraid of death and a touch of superpowers. Make da Vinci realistic? get a good professional actor, slightly older? No way, that doesn't sell, the real guy must have being a boring old fart who spent all his time working or praying. The writers don't realise the joke is on them, especially if the show gets cancelled, that da Vinci's life was far far more interesting than these frankly boring and oh-so-familiar story lines ( guy likes girl of powerful guy, so guy gets closer to powerful guy to get closer to girl). But the blame does not only lie with the main character, but also with all the show's other elements: insulting disregard for historical accuracy (down to the Orwellian police garb or the nauseating lack of etiquette - da Vinci would not have had a long life if he addressed nobles the way he does here -), cheap looking costumes, gratuitous nudity, cardboard CGI, plain bad one dimensional supporting characters. The most adequate way to describe the show is to compare it to the shows it unashamedly badly steals from: Sensationalism: sex and blood combined, a trend popularised by "True Blood" and found in most peplum and historical dramas ( "Rome", "Spartacus", "The Tudors" "The Borgias", "Vikings" for e.g) or fantasy ("Game of Thrones") A facade of openness: the depiction of homosexuality, found again in the mentioned shows. But here the hypocrisy is complete, as the writers felt that it would not sell enough to paint da Vinci as a homosexual, whereas there are records that he may well have been. Brilliant but slightly clinically deranged or drugged up lead male character. Recent shows always portray, as a form of social realism, the downside of genius: either the main character is socially inept ( Aspergers syndrome or whatnot, ie "Big Bang Theory", "Fringe", new "Doctor Who" etc..) or having to resort to drugs to deal with his problems ( the new "Sherlock Holmes", "elementary"). Here da Vinci is both: a bit mad and a bit drugged up. Just pathetic. Why not show da Vinci as he surely was, a brilliant man with human flaws living in dangerous times? Does not SELL. Heck even the recreation of Florence is ripped of from Assassin creed 2. The traumatising childhood well scene from TDK. Avoid this crap like the plague. It's everything you've seen before but in far worse.