191 reviews
Really wish Jesse Lee Soffer never left Chicago PD, one of the most gripping, well-written, consistently brilliant Police dramas on Tv today. I get that he maybe wanted to branch out as an actor, and leave his Jay character behind, but he deserves better than this show. I'll admit I've been watching season 4, mainly to see how Jesse goes in the show, but I'm quickly getting tired of the cookie cutter Hollywood scripts and storyline's. The acting is above average, and there is some decent yet over-blown action sequences. Maybe I've been spoiled by Chicago PD, but I just find it to be the pinnacle of law enforcement on television. Best of luck to those involved in FBI: International.
- justusvenator
- Nov 2, 2024
- Permalink
The FBI series isn't bad but I can't help but feel they coast off the success of Missy Peregrym and the Aussie guy from FBI most wanted. That being said, I will give this show a go as I like the idea of it going international. Episode 1 was good but not great. Looking forward to seeing where it goes.
- nicolerazz
- Oct 13, 2021
- Permalink
It's a decent enough show to watch if you have nothing else to do and need to fill your time with something to watch.
The first thing you have to overlook is the fact that American writers have zero clue about how the real world works. The writing is exactly how you would expect. Americans running all over Europe ordering people around and running the show wherever they happen to land. It's la-la-land writing and has nothing to do with how things work in the real world.
If you can live with the fact that it's very unrealistic, then you can enjoy a few episodes here and there. It's nothing we haven't seen before and it's filled with every american cop show cliche.
The first thing you have to overlook is the fact that American writers have zero clue about how the real world works. The writing is exactly how you would expect. Americans running all over Europe ordering people around and running the show wherever they happen to land. It's la-la-land writing and has nothing to do with how things work in the real world.
If you can live with the fact that it's very unrealistic, then you can enjoy a few episodes here and there. It's nothing we haven't seen before and it's filled with every american cop show cliche.
- jeppepalmari
- Sep 17, 2024
- Permalink
What a crap series.
The whole premise does not hold water as the FBI have no jurisdiction abroad. They also carry guns in countries where it would not be allowed etc.
It is also ridiculously patronising in that it tries to show all other police forces as being inept and that they are the only ones that can solve a crime.
The whole premise does not hold water as the FBI have no jurisdiction abroad. They also carry guns in countries where it would not be allowed etc.
It is also ridiculously patronising in that it tries to show all other police forces as being inept and that they are the only ones that can solve a crime.
- buccaneernl
- Dec 7, 2021
- Permalink
This version of the FBI franchise started promising but it's gone downhill since then.
It is tiring to see the male characters constant attitude and unrealistic bravado (lots of in your face, literally) postures. Not many people I've seen in my many places and years of work behave like that, and if they did, they got penalized or fired. As i said, unrealistic.
Soon I won't watch anymore.
It is tiring to see the male characters constant attitude and unrealistic bravado (lots of in your face, literally) postures. Not many people I've seen in my many places and years of work behave like that, and if they did, they got penalized or fired. As i said, unrealistic.
Soon I won't watch anymore.
Let me start by saying I enjoy all the FBI shows. I do believe International has really improved over the seasons. I think this show in particular has had some of my favorite episodes. I have watched International from the beginning.
New to the series? Expect tons of action. It's what I enjoy most about the FBI shows. I judge my favorite episodes based on how interested I am in re-watching them. I strongly recommend 2.9 Wheelman, where Andre Raines takes the center stage and goes undercover during a major art heist. This episode is amazing. Shoutout to Heida Reid for an excellent scene in 1.10 where everything is masterfully unraveled. Kellett is missed.
New to the latest season is Amanda Tate who allows us to see more of the technological side of their work. She and her small group add another nice aspect to the show.
I also wanted to mention how great Jaeger was. I enjoyed the episode where they brought her back.
My favorite characters are Smitty and Raines.
I'm particularly enjoying the friendships of Raines and Smitty & Raines and Amanda. We don't need romances to show deep connections and real chemistry. In 3.9 Raines and Amanda are ambushed and spend the episode together trying to survive. It was a fantastic way to build camaraderie between them. It had Amanda step out of her comfort zone and show her potential. Over multiple episodes now we see the building friendship between Smitty and Raines. These two are great on screen together - Understanding of each other during hard times and being there for one another, providing necessary light moments, and showing chemistry through a genuine friendship.
Something unique to International is the beautiful locations. Only on International do you get to see incredible chase scenes with beautiful roofs and architecture. I enjoy learning new aspects of different cultures - what major issues are in other countries, compared to my own. It showed me things I knew nothing about in other countries. I was shocked when I saw Amsterdam's red-light district. At times International deals with black arms smuggling, terrorists, kidnapping, assassination, trafficking, and bombings. It just feels like there's more to this series.
I strongly recommend the latest episodes and hope the show only improves. I like Forrester but Raines has been crushing it. He's a fantastic lead.
New to the series? Expect tons of action. It's what I enjoy most about the FBI shows. I judge my favorite episodes based on how interested I am in re-watching them. I strongly recommend 2.9 Wheelman, where Andre Raines takes the center stage and goes undercover during a major art heist. This episode is amazing. Shoutout to Heida Reid for an excellent scene in 1.10 where everything is masterfully unraveled. Kellett is missed.
New to the latest season is Amanda Tate who allows us to see more of the technological side of their work. She and her small group add another nice aspect to the show.
I also wanted to mention how great Jaeger was. I enjoyed the episode where they brought her back.
My favorite characters are Smitty and Raines.
I'm particularly enjoying the friendships of Raines and Smitty & Raines and Amanda. We don't need romances to show deep connections and real chemistry. In 3.9 Raines and Amanda are ambushed and spend the episode together trying to survive. It was a fantastic way to build camaraderie between them. It had Amanda step out of her comfort zone and show her potential. Over multiple episodes now we see the building friendship between Smitty and Raines. These two are great on screen together - Understanding of each other during hard times and being there for one another, providing necessary light moments, and showing chemistry through a genuine friendship.
Something unique to International is the beautiful locations. Only on International do you get to see incredible chase scenes with beautiful roofs and architecture. I enjoy learning new aspects of different cultures - what major issues are in other countries, compared to my own. It showed me things I knew nothing about in other countries. I was shocked when I saw Amsterdam's red-light district. At times International deals with black arms smuggling, terrorists, kidnapping, assassination, trafficking, and bombings. It just feels like there's more to this series.
I strongly recommend the latest episodes and hope the show only improves. I like Forrester but Raines has been crushing it. He's a fantastic lead.
- extreme-53324
- May 17, 2024
- Permalink
Many reviews say this spinoff is worse than Most Wanted, but I have to disagree. This show is pretty weak, but the mini-European vacation we get every week is nice. Also, the premise of the crimes committed are more feasible than they are on Most Wanted and I like the crime fighting dog! But make no mistake, this is not Must See TV.
- chrisreece-14896
- Feb 24, 2022
- Permalink
This is my fave of the three. I caught it by accident when watching CBS. Happened to be the three show crossover. I like this one best of the three. Since international, more interesting storylines, characters, actors, and scenery built in. Plus, as I said in previous review, I like the romance. Also like that it isn't the focus. Enjoy.
- shelbythuylinh
- Nov 4, 2021
- Permalink
American writers and directors should not attempt any form of series set abroad without significant help from the natives ! Once again this show makes Americans appear very arrogant and ignorant about anything outside of America !
It makes out that all European / International Police forces are full of incompetant and corrupt idiots and that only the FBI can do the job correctly ! I highly doubt that the FBI are allowed to storm in and take over an investigation in a foreign country like they do in this show !
The premise is just backward and wont work.
The characters in the show are bland and their acting is wooden. They have nothing that makes you want to pay attention to them. This show just fails.
It makes out that all European / International Police forces are full of incompetant and corrupt idiots and that only the FBI can do the job correctly ! I highly doubt that the FBI are allowed to storm in and take over an investigation in a foreign country like they do in this show !
The premise is just backward and wont work.
The characters in the show are bland and their acting is wooden. They have nothing that makes you want to pay attention to them. This show just fails.
- silversundance
- Sep 21, 2021
- Permalink
Especially in this day and age of violent extremism, human trafficking and political corruption in the International Community, law enforcement and co-operation of law enforcement agencies is very important.
So I think that such progressive TV series should also be made in those other big countries - such as China, India and Russia - where political corruption, human trafficking and gender-based-violence is a big problem.
One episode also deals with the IRA - and the political problems between the UK and Ireland. On that note, it pleases me to say, that these problems are no more - as Ireland and the UK have been recently united - by yours truly :) In the spirit of William the Conqueror, I have taken over the UK - but in a peaceful way.
The problem was basically this: That the former name of the UK entailed an element of a slight towards Ireland - namely that the UK did not include citizens from Southern Ireland, which caused considerable problems. For example, when I applied to MI6 in 2008 - and filled out forms for three hours, basically telling them my whole life story, they rejected me for not being a UK citizen - which is unacceptable, so I had to become a revolutionary and take over the UK - with the Queens blessings, of course :)
In short, in all humility, I would like to say that such critical TV series about Ireland are not necessary anymore, since I'm the new ruler of Ireland and the United Kingdom - with Boris Johnson being a super friend of mine, as he throws a lot of cool parties :)
PS: In view of the dreadful Partygate Scandal - which shook the UK to the core - my dear friend Boris Johnson should immediately resign as PM of the UK. In the meantime, we would be quite honored to spearhead the UK's defensive commitments in Ukraine and Afghanistan to uphold the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in the International Community.
So I think that such progressive TV series should also be made in those other big countries - such as China, India and Russia - where political corruption, human trafficking and gender-based-violence is a big problem.
One episode also deals with the IRA - and the political problems between the UK and Ireland. On that note, it pleases me to say, that these problems are no more - as Ireland and the UK have been recently united - by yours truly :) In the spirit of William the Conqueror, I have taken over the UK - but in a peaceful way.
The problem was basically this: That the former name of the UK entailed an element of a slight towards Ireland - namely that the UK did not include citizens from Southern Ireland, which caused considerable problems. For example, when I applied to MI6 in 2008 - and filled out forms for three hours, basically telling them my whole life story, they rejected me for not being a UK citizen - which is unacceptable, so I had to become a revolutionary and take over the UK - with the Queens blessings, of course :)
In short, in all humility, I would like to say that such critical TV series about Ireland are not necessary anymore, since I'm the new ruler of Ireland and the United Kingdom - with Boris Johnson being a super friend of mine, as he throws a lot of cool parties :)
PS: In view of the dreadful Partygate Scandal - which shook the UK to the core - my dear friend Boris Johnson should immediately resign as PM of the UK. In the meantime, we would be quite honored to spearhead the UK's defensive commitments in Ukraine and Afghanistan to uphold the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in the International Community.
- Dr_Mark_ODoherty
- Feb 2, 2022
- Permalink
Excellent choice by creators to set the show in Eastern Europe. The unusual setting and diverse cast, including multiple accents, evoke a tone and sense of foreign intrigue that is interesting to watch even with its flaws, as pointed out by other reviewers. As Dick Wolf fans we'll continue to watch. Remember the original L&O took a year or two to find its legs.
- stefanchikm-2018
- Mar 8, 2022
- Permalink
This show is impossible, poorly cast, and impossible. That said, it isn't one star unwatchable. Many of the one star reviews are from reviewers offended by the very concept of Americans operating in their country or by the numerous cultural liberties the show takes for the American target audience.
The biggest challenge with this show is the distracting premise. Without explanation or justification, we're handed a group of four FBI agents operating in Hungary. It makes no sense. The writers clearly never thought this through, so at various times they have armed FBI agents running around arresting suspects, unarmed FBI agents running around arresting armed suspects, and unarmed FBI agents standing around while local law enforcement arrests suspects.
What the show needs is some consistency and justification. Place these FBI guys on a joint Interpol-FBI task force. Have them begin chasing suspects in the US and continue their pursuit overseas after getting the necessary clearances. Have an army of State Department employees in the background burning the phone lines negotiating approvals. Have the FBI team be called in by local law enforcement who need some unique specialized skills or expensive ultra-high tech equipment the team is furnished with. Forget the FBI and make them a clandestine branch of the CIA. Something, anything, that is even remotely plausible.
The other major problem is the casting. The no more than adequate lead has 90% of the lines and 100% of the meaningful dialogue. His second in command, the living embodiment of beige, appears to exist solely to provide the lead with a thoroughly uninteresting love interest. The rest of humans on the team may as well not exist. Eleven episodes in and I couldn't tell you their names. They're given nothing to say, nothing to do, and no character development. It seems the only time they get involved is when the director realizes they've been hanging around the set for days and takes pity on them.
I like the dog. The dog is great.
Five stars for the settings, occasional plot twists, and interesting action scenes. No stars for the stupid premise and thoroughly inept casting. Five stars.
The biggest challenge with this show is the distracting premise. Without explanation or justification, we're handed a group of four FBI agents operating in Hungary. It makes no sense. The writers clearly never thought this through, so at various times they have armed FBI agents running around arresting suspects, unarmed FBI agents running around arresting armed suspects, and unarmed FBI agents standing around while local law enforcement arrests suspects.
What the show needs is some consistency and justification. Place these FBI guys on a joint Interpol-FBI task force. Have them begin chasing suspects in the US and continue their pursuit overseas after getting the necessary clearances. Have an army of State Department employees in the background burning the phone lines negotiating approvals. Have the FBI team be called in by local law enforcement who need some unique specialized skills or expensive ultra-high tech equipment the team is furnished with. Forget the FBI and make them a clandestine branch of the CIA. Something, anything, that is even remotely plausible.
The other major problem is the casting. The no more than adequate lead has 90% of the lines and 100% of the meaningful dialogue. His second in command, the living embodiment of beige, appears to exist solely to provide the lead with a thoroughly uninteresting love interest. The rest of humans on the team may as well not exist. Eleven episodes in and I couldn't tell you their names. They're given nothing to say, nothing to do, and no character development. It seems the only time they get involved is when the director realizes they've been hanging around the set for days and takes pity on them.
I like the dog. The dog is great.
Five stars for the settings, occasional plot twists, and interesting action scenes. No stars for the stupid premise and thoroughly inept casting. Five stars.
- bitbucketchip
- Jan 16, 2022
- Permalink
- Marcus1995
- Sep 22, 2021
- Permalink
The first episode of FBI: International was a good one. I think it does a good job setting up the rest of the season with it's characters, and a fine conclusion to the 3-parter.
There were some issues, like some of the characters being bland, acting was okay, but not great, and jumping from country to country was kind of hard to follow.
But I do like the concept of going International, and it was handled in a decent enough way. And some of the emotional beats hit.
Overall, it's a decent show with an interesting premise, but needs some more interesting characters, and the acting also needs some improvements.
There were some issues, like some of the characters being bland, acting was okay, but not great, and jumping from country to country was kind of hard to follow.
But I do like the concept of going International, and it was handled in a decent enough way. And some of the emotional beats hit.
Overall, it's a decent show with an interesting premise, but needs some more interesting characters, and the acting also needs some improvements.
- AnimatedCritic
- Sep 21, 2021
- Permalink
Great casting and writing with this latest installment. Luke Kleindeck is an excellent lead, convincing, tough and focused. Supporting actors are all good. Direction is solid and love the soundtrack.
- cockezville
- Oct 10, 2021
- Permalink
I like the show b/c it's not your run of the mill US crime shows which is basically all cetnered on drugs, sex, murder and your typical US cities of LA, Chicago, NY, etc.
Gives viewers a little variety for those who've never been outside the US.
Although the acting is okay and some of the sub plots are kind of predictable as it relates to Americans romanance life and living overseas alone and away from family I still like the show.
I have friend and family in Europe and having lived in Europe it's nice to have a crime drama show based across the pond.
All shows have room for improvement based on a viewer's likes.
Gives viewers a little variety for those who've never been outside the US.
Although the acting is okay and some of the sub plots are kind of predictable as it relates to Americans romanance life and living overseas alone and away from family I still like the show.
I have friend and family in Europe and having lived in Europe it's nice to have a crime drama show based across the pond.
All shows have room for improvement based on a viewer's likes.
- davizinhosouthwell
- Mar 16, 2023
- Permalink
I don't understand the bad reviews on this website. I really like this show for many reasons. First, I love the European locals and the great scenery. Second, I like the cast, particularly Luke Kleintank who I remember from the very enjoyable "Man in the High Castle" series on Amazon Prime. The rest of the cast is very able and works well together. It appears that German actress Christiane Paul is moving on, and I'm sorry to see her go. There is a lot of intense action, particularly chase scene through European cities. Also, the Wolf production folks took the time to recruit actors from just about every European country. Does the FBI have international jurisdiction....who cares? It's a TV show and very fun to watch. I also like Tank the dog (a Giant Schnauzer). Hopefully, this doesn't start a trend in getting those dogs, as I have never seen one here. All in all a good show and one I never miss.
- fredscifi-07903
- Jun 1, 2022
- Permalink
Season 1 was actually good enough to have me looking forward to season 2 but season 2 has so far been bad. That seems to be the trend with the FBI universe. Season 1 generally starts off good but the next season starts faltering. I didn't think I would be I miss Christiane Paul. The new lady is no good, I can't stand her. The show itself is lacking something. Guts, coherent plots and even though the actors themselves are not bad, there is nobody really all that strong helping to pull it together. Most of the time the FBI team is just stampeding over the locals, if the locals raise any concerns even legitimate ones they are ignored. Perhaps if the team was forced to obey the laws of the country the are in and in more episodes have a better working relationship with the locals it might improve things. As it stands the FBI charges in, takes over, fights with the locals nearly all the time. It is getting tiresome.
- Tellyvixen
- Nov 19, 2023
- Permalink
Where to start.... The acting is bad, the writing is bad, the storyline is bad. There's not a single thing on the show that I enjoyed. It's American propagenda at it's finest. Americans are the good guys here to save the world and everyone else is either corrupt, evil or foreign friends that are just there to serve the Americans or are bumbling fools. This show is a joke.
- asterblasterth
- Sep 21, 2021
- Permalink
So far really liking this show. I like the lead characters and actors. The dog. The storylines. I like that there is a romance from the start so there isn't the will they won't they (which I do enjoy, but something new is interesting)
- cliff-691-165609
- Jan 4, 2022
- Permalink
The idiot who dreamed this load of nonsense up hasn't ever been to Europe, so much is clear.
The fbi has only jurisdiction in the US and has to say 'pretty please' if they want to do anything abroad. But not according to the writers. Because "the yanks will save the day!"
Supernatural has a more believable premisse.
The fbi has only jurisdiction in the US and has to say 'pretty please' if they want to do anything abroad. But not according to the writers. Because "the yanks will save the day!"
Supernatural has a more believable premisse.