413 reviews
A six season roller coaster
It's 2020 and I finally got around to watching this series. From start to finish there is so much wrong with it and so much right it left me loving it and hating it. At one point during my binge I felt enough is enough is enough and almost stopped. But, and there is always a but, I just had to know how the series ended, having no fore knowledge. The first two seasons showed me why it was such a talked about series. Then the roller coaster ride started. Same old stuff over and over only with a make over. The scheming, betrayals, and back-stabbing was getting on my nerves. If not for the occasional surprise to breakup the predictability and add new characters I might have given up. Fortunately, the guys kept it together enough to keep me interested. Not that the young ladies were not fantastic in their collective rolls. It was just that their characters were getting soooooooo annoying. The concept alone was great and even the worst episode had it high points. In short my rating started with a 10, bounced between 9 and 5 and was saved by the ending with 8 as the result.
- jerzbouy-427-23672
- Jun 24, 2020
- Permalink
good show
The show Gossip Girl is an insider's guide to the life of the elite. It is filled with teenagers acting like adults and adults acting like teenagers, with one person exposing their every move with the help of the entire Upper East Side. Secrets and betrayals are two things that this show revolves around, along with putting friendships and relationships to the test. If you are not interested in on going drama that seems to always circle back around to where it started, I would not recommend. However, if a show filled with interesting characters, dramatic plot twists, and an appealing setting, you will be hooked.
- maggiesullivan-81877
- Feb 21, 2017
- Permalink
It's all downhill from here.
- dudly-lajoie
- Jun 29, 2011
- Permalink
Strangely Addicting Amoral Guilty Pleasure
I binged this show on Netflix and found it quite addicting, even when it became increasingly farcical in the later seasons. While the characters and story lines could be silly at points I have to say the acting was better than on most teen shows. Leighton Meester, Ed Westwick, Taylor Momsen and Kelly Rutherford were particularly strong. I loved the fashion, the NY setting, and the music. I adored the copious film references as well. While the non-stop bed hopping and relationship merry go round got annoying, one of the main couples has the best chemistry I've seen on any television show in years. These two are reminiscent of Rhett Butler and Scarlett O'Hara, a touch like Bonnie & Clyde and very Beatrice & Benedick. This one relationship really carries the show emotionally and makes it worth watching until the end to see how it is resolved.
There are a large number of negative reviews on IMDb so I also feel compelled to offer some warnings: It's not a realistic TV show. It's hyper-realistic. A fantastical soap opera if you will. If you're the type of person that gets annoyed over characters traveling from Brooklyn to the UES in 15 minutes don't watch. You'll go mad.
It's not a show with warm fuzzy ethical teen show protagonists like Sandy or Seth Cohen. I was a big fan of The OC. This show has some similarities but is much darker and much more satirical. The characters on Gossip Girl that you expect to be the moral center (the "poor outsiders") end up being quite devious while the clearly wicked rich bad characters end up being the most emotionally compelling. Every lead character is gray. If you need a show with clearly delineated heroes and villains don't watch. You'll hate everyone by the end.
It's not a show with a moral code. It neither reflects traditional conservative values nor progressive liberal values. If you need a show that promotes "good values" of either kind, I'd stay away.
It deviates wildly from the books. If that matters to you, stay away.
But if you want a glossy glitzy glamorous guilty pleasure filled with beautiful people like Chace Crawford and Blake Lively, tons of drama, fashion, and some over the top but emotionally compelling characters and relationships? Give it a shot.
There are a large number of negative reviews on IMDb so I also feel compelled to offer some warnings: It's not a realistic TV show. It's hyper-realistic. A fantastical soap opera if you will. If you're the type of person that gets annoyed over characters traveling from Brooklyn to the UES in 15 minutes don't watch. You'll go mad.
It's not a show with warm fuzzy ethical teen show protagonists like Sandy or Seth Cohen. I was a big fan of The OC. This show has some similarities but is much darker and much more satirical. The characters on Gossip Girl that you expect to be the moral center (the "poor outsiders") end up being quite devious while the clearly wicked rich bad characters end up being the most emotionally compelling. Every lead character is gray. If you need a show with clearly delineated heroes and villains don't watch. You'll hate everyone by the end.
It's not a show with a moral code. It neither reflects traditional conservative values nor progressive liberal values. If you need a show that promotes "good values" of either kind, I'd stay away.
It deviates wildly from the books. If that matters to you, stay away.
But if you want a glossy glitzy glamorous guilty pleasure filled with beautiful people like Chace Crawford and Blake Lively, tons of drama, fashion, and some over the top but emotionally compelling characters and relationships? Give it a shot.
- nateyarchibald
- Apr 18, 2017
- Permalink
Leighton Meester is so great
I'm so addicted to Gossip Girl and Leighton Meester. Her acting is so great!!
- machteldanna
- Aug 14, 2020
- Permalink
More annoying as it went on
So one of my big annoyances is that from the off it's clear that one of the main plot lines will be "who is gossip girl?". But, realistically does it really matter? Any sort of justification on why they need to know is executed really poorly and in 6 seasons I recall them wanting to know who it is about twice (before the very end, obviously). It becomes such a pointless plot line. Because it's just a website that people post gossip on and very quickly the important plots end up being "will this character end up with this character?".
The "will this character end up with this character" got incredibly tedious the more it went on. We all know who's going to end as a couple and yet after 60-80 45 minute episodes and still not together, just becomes annoying and not fun to watch. Characters falling in love after about 15 seconds with other characters, then going nah I want the original one again. Tedious and repeated over and over. Really needed to mix it up a little, just became tiresome.
The characters I found to be frustrating, yet I think this was the point. These rich upper east teens do act this entitled. So although it can be very frustrating and almost making characters unlikeable, it's actually very well done from the writers/directors.
Although I've basically shunned the entire plot purpose of this show, it was still entertaining in parts. I just wish they did the whole romance plots better and a bit more in depth.
So I'll give it a 6/10. It's still watchable at the end of the day and I've seen much much worse TV shows in the past.
The "will this character end up with this character" got incredibly tedious the more it went on. We all know who's going to end as a couple and yet after 60-80 45 minute episodes and still not together, just becomes annoying and not fun to watch. Characters falling in love after about 15 seconds with other characters, then going nah I want the original one again. Tedious and repeated over and over. Really needed to mix it up a little, just became tiresome.
The characters I found to be frustrating, yet I think this was the point. These rich upper east teens do act this entitled. So although it can be very frustrating and almost making characters unlikeable, it's actually very well done from the writers/directors.
Although I've basically shunned the entire plot purpose of this show, it was still entertaining in parts. I just wish they did the whole romance plots better and a bit more in depth.
So I'll give it a 6/10. It's still watchable at the end of the day and I've seen much much worse TV shows in the past.
- danielmanson
- Aug 21, 2023
- Permalink
This series is addicting
I started to watch this series last month on Netflix (2015), and was so hooked I couldn't wait for the next episode. I also agree with all the positive comments. Being born and raised in Manhattan, I loved that it took place in my city. Even though I was not raised in affluence, The series made me imagine that I did. The acting was so superbly done by everyone, especially Ed Westwick and Leighton Bleester. Their chemistry was so intense and real, it seemed amazing they didn't get together in real life. I'm so sorry that it's over, but happy that I can play it over again whenever I want. I think that we will be seeing a lot more of Ed Westwick in the future; he is an amazing talent.
A Guilty Pleasure
Obviously, Gossip Girl will not be winning any awards for its script or acting any time soon. The dialogue is clunky, the plot unrealistic and predictable and the acting is, at times, painful to watch. However, Gossip Girl doesn't try to succeed in any of these areas. What it does try to do, and what it completely succeeds at, is entertaining the viewer.
I absolutely love watching Gossip Girl. It's addictive. I need to know what's going to happen next, who's dating who, what scandal will Gossip Girl uncover next. It is plainly an addictive show! I'm only midway through Season 1, yet I can already say I am obsessed with this show.
Many of the actors (I'm looking at you, Chace Crawford) are hilariously bad, their stiff performances almost unbearable. I also find Serena and Nate to be incredibly bland, one-dimensional characters. However, I find Blair, Chuck and Jenny very interesting to watch. Penn Badgley as Dan Humprey surprised me with his very fair acting abilities. Though many of the plots are very dry and predictable, just as many story lines are redeeming with their suspense and creativity.
Gossip Girl is not a technically fabulous show. What it is, however, is enjoyable, and this is why it has won over so many viewers. Cast aside your preconceptions about this show and you will find yourself enjoying it.
I absolutely love watching Gossip Girl. It's addictive. I need to know what's going to happen next, who's dating who, what scandal will Gossip Girl uncover next. It is plainly an addictive show! I'm only midway through Season 1, yet I can already say I am obsessed with this show.
Many of the actors (I'm looking at you, Chace Crawford) are hilariously bad, their stiff performances almost unbearable. I also find Serena and Nate to be incredibly bland, one-dimensional characters. However, I find Blair, Chuck and Jenny very interesting to watch. Penn Badgley as Dan Humprey surprised me with his very fair acting abilities. Though many of the plots are very dry and predictable, just as many story lines are redeeming with their suspense and creativity.
Gossip Girl is not a technically fabulous show. What it is, however, is enjoyable, and this is why it has won over so many viewers. Cast aside your preconceptions about this show and you will find yourself enjoying it.
- acciocaitlin
- Oct 2, 2010
- Permalink
Don't believe the trash reviews, it's a great show
I watched this show in 2019-20 and it did nothing but make me wish I became a fan back when the show was considered relevant. I am currently writing this review at 4:38 AM because I just sat in my bed and binge watched season 6. I have been watching Gossip Girl for months. Initially, I was just looking for a show to watch in my free time. I then spent months using whatever free time I had with my eyes pressed to the screen.
Some say the show is boring, but it is far from it. I can't possibly fathom how a show with this much drama can be called boring. It can get annoying how they can't ever have a public function without a side of public humiliation, but it's so fascinating you can't help but wonder what comes next. Ed Westwick was my favorite character on the show and had THE best character development out of everyone! The only complaint I have is finding another show to watch after I have dedicated months to completing Gossip Girl LMAO!
- sessionshamonne
- Feb 10, 2020
- Permalink
An exquisite production
- picassomanhdan
- Sep 7, 2016
- Permalink
Addictive
First of all, I've watched all seasons 1-6.
There isn't directly any storyline, or it might as well be a weak one. The story is a bunch of teenagers living a enormously privileged life with their parents's money. Drugs, scandals, sex, parties is the main thing this series is about. It is a highly unrealistic world they're living in.
When it comes to acting.. I have to say, I don't think Blake Lively (Serena VDW) is any good. The best performance through the series is Leighton Meester (Blair Waldorf). Ed Westwick (Chuck Bass) has some strong moments but sometimes I'm like.. what on earth was that? Chase Crawford and Penn Badgley is OK at points but I'm overwhelmed how they can make some scenes so incredibly bad.
The only real thing in this series, the only thing I feel like have some strength attached to it is the relationship between Blair (Leighton) and Chuck (Ed), its not fantastic but considered the other parts, then its acceptable
Another thing is the final episode was bad. I was so mad at how bad it was.. It felt like they squeezed everything into the last one, like it couldn't be over quick enough.
So why didn't I just stop watching it, if it had poor storyline and acting? Unrealistic events? I don't know actually.. its addictive, and fun to watch at some level, and I really felt satisfied watching these completely irrational, spoiled teenagers growing into adults. And then the gossip is.. again... unrealistic but funny. And I have to say I enjoyed watching this, maybe because its so far from my real life. And then I find the love story between Blair and Chuck extremely good.
People also tend to say the series is relatable. But the only thing I can see is stupidity, so if people can relate to that, fine
Watch it if you're bored on a rainy day, but don't let it go to your head, because after all its not that good.
(It gets 7 out of 10 because of its addictiveness and Chuck and Blair)
There isn't directly any storyline, or it might as well be a weak one. The story is a bunch of teenagers living a enormously privileged life with their parents's money. Drugs, scandals, sex, parties is the main thing this series is about. It is a highly unrealistic world they're living in.
When it comes to acting.. I have to say, I don't think Blake Lively (Serena VDW) is any good. The best performance through the series is Leighton Meester (Blair Waldorf). Ed Westwick (Chuck Bass) has some strong moments but sometimes I'm like.. what on earth was that? Chase Crawford and Penn Badgley is OK at points but I'm overwhelmed how they can make some scenes so incredibly bad.
The only real thing in this series, the only thing I feel like have some strength attached to it is the relationship between Blair (Leighton) and Chuck (Ed), its not fantastic but considered the other parts, then its acceptable
Another thing is the final episode was bad. I was so mad at how bad it was.. It felt like they squeezed everything into the last one, like it couldn't be over quick enough.
So why didn't I just stop watching it, if it had poor storyline and acting? Unrealistic events? I don't know actually.. its addictive, and fun to watch at some level, and I really felt satisfied watching these completely irrational, spoiled teenagers growing into adults. And then the gossip is.. again... unrealistic but funny. And I have to say I enjoyed watching this, maybe because its so far from my real life. And then I find the love story between Blair and Chuck extremely good.
People also tend to say the series is relatable. But the only thing I can see is stupidity, so if people can relate to that, fine
Watch it if you're bored on a rainy day, but don't let it go to your head, because after all its not that good.
(It gets 7 out of 10 because of its addictiveness and Chuck and Blair)
- cathrinevo14
- May 8, 2013
- Permalink
IYKYK
- OGmacadamia39
- Aug 27, 2022
- Permalink
Lifestyles of the rich and the famous. Why would someone bother?
First of all, this show is extremely clichéd in every single aspect. The characters are spoiled brats that have an easy life that deals with economic benefits, partying all the time, and love interests. Also, their main conflicts happen when "someone" or "something" doesn't behave or happen according to the unwritten rules of popularity or social conventionalism.
We've all seen that before right? The situations will remind you of "The O.C." and those kind of shows. So, why would I even bother commenting about this show?
Well, as much as I hate the characters and clichéd situations; some of them are actually entertaining because you don't even have to use your brain. What do I mean? this is mindless entertainment not to be taken seriously. It's like watching the rich people's life and commenting about it.
As a male, I watched it only because of the gorgeous Leighton Meester and the super sexy blonde with the best legs in the business, Blake Lively.
Give it a chance only for it's production values. The direction and soundtrack is remarkable.
This show should be popular in some years... it's just not very appreciated.
We've all seen that before right? The situations will remind you of "The O.C." and those kind of shows. So, why would I even bother commenting about this show?
Well, as much as I hate the characters and clichéd situations; some of them are actually entertaining because you don't even have to use your brain. What do I mean? this is mindless entertainment not to be taken seriously. It's like watching the rich people's life and commenting about it.
As a male, I watched it only because of the gorgeous Leighton Meester and the super sexy blonde with the best legs in the business, Blake Lively.
Give it a chance only for it's production values. The direction and soundtrack is remarkable.
This show should be popular in some years... it's just not very appreciated.
- insomniac_rod
- Jul 25, 2009
- Permalink
Not to be taken serious, strangely addictive
I may like the show just as much as it irritates the hell out of me. To be honest I don't really know what I do like about it.
The way the storyline is written is flat out ridicules. The main characters especially Serena, Nate, Dan and Vanessa, fall in and out of love at any second. The most dumb lies are believed. And minds are changed by the flick of the wrist. Nobody can be trusted, they all screw each other (physically and mentally) they believe the most obvious lies that are being told (I know I said it already, but it's ridiculous!) And some people get away with everything and anything! Mostly Serena and Blair of course.
And still I can't hate it. It's a show you need to watch and don't think. Seriously, do NOT try too figure out if there is any realism in it... because there isn't any.
And don't get me started on the fashion and riches, but that's a personal thing. It's not for me, so I can only think: The poor people who have too wear those horrible outfits and pretend to be so awful.
Verdict: This show is pretty bad, but strangely addictive.
The way the storyline is written is flat out ridicules. The main characters especially Serena, Nate, Dan and Vanessa, fall in and out of love at any second. The most dumb lies are believed. And minds are changed by the flick of the wrist. Nobody can be trusted, they all screw each other (physically and mentally) they believe the most obvious lies that are being told (I know I said it already, but it's ridiculous!) And some people get away with everything and anything! Mostly Serena and Blair of course.
And still I can't hate it. It's a show you need to watch and don't think. Seriously, do NOT try too figure out if there is any realism in it... because there isn't any.
And don't get me started on the fashion and riches, but that's a personal thing. It's not for me, so I can only think: The poor people who have too wear those horrible outfits and pretend to be so awful.
Verdict: This show is pretty bad, but strangely addictive.
- jadelovespat
- Jun 23, 2011
- Permalink
One of the greatest TV shows I've ever seen
- narine_tevosyan
- Apr 28, 2019
- Permalink
Sleek and sophisticated with B notes.
Almost 8 years have passed since I finished watching Gossip Girl. Missed it since very much.
It was a fun ride where I got to see and witness beauty, loveliness, memorable moments, naivety, sophistication, devilish and mischievous acts brought to life by a hord of extremely talented actors and actresses. Every one of them shone and played with near perfection. They brought me happiness and sadness. They brought me smiles and tears. I had the pleasure to live with them.
Who doesn't love the Upper East Side, its everyday life, surrounding and sceneries?
Who doesn't like the glossiness of the show varnished with devilish plots?
Who doesn't like the opulence of their everyday life?
And who doesn't like Blair Waldorf AKA Queen B?
She is my favorite character of the show. Beautiful, funny, mean and sensible at the same time, ever complaining (so sweet), always plotting mischief after mischief in ways that only she can pull it with ease, beauty and glory. Played by the ultra talented, glowingly beautiful and award-winning Leighton Meester who dazzles everyone with her smile, brings the series to life, gives it embodiment and makes it an unforgettable experience for all viewers and fans.
She is the epicentre of the show around whom all the others keep rotating and gravitating.
She is the one without whom the series wouldn't exist.
If you haven't watched it yet, please do so. Embrace its life like it's yours, let its current take you to the confines of the Upper East Side with its beauty and mystery and fully appreciate it.
XOXO
It was a fun ride where I got to see and witness beauty, loveliness, memorable moments, naivety, sophistication, devilish and mischievous acts brought to life by a hord of extremely talented actors and actresses. Every one of them shone and played with near perfection. They brought me happiness and sadness. They brought me smiles and tears. I had the pleasure to live with them.
Who doesn't love the Upper East Side, its everyday life, surrounding and sceneries?
Who doesn't like the glossiness of the show varnished with devilish plots?
Who doesn't like the opulence of their everyday life?
And who doesn't like Blair Waldorf AKA Queen B?
She is my favorite character of the show. Beautiful, funny, mean and sensible at the same time, ever complaining (so sweet), always plotting mischief after mischief in ways that only she can pull it with ease, beauty and glory. Played by the ultra talented, glowingly beautiful and award-winning Leighton Meester who dazzles everyone with her smile, brings the series to life, gives it embodiment and makes it an unforgettable experience for all viewers and fans.
She is the epicentre of the show around whom all the others keep rotating and gravitating.
She is the one without whom the series wouldn't exist.
If you haven't watched it yet, please do so. Embrace its life like it's yours, let its current take you to the confines of the Upper East Side with its beauty and mystery and fully appreciate it.
XOXO
A guilty pleasure for sure!
- Anemone978
- Aug 3, 2020
- Permalink
Switch off 99 % of your gray brain cells if you wanna enjoy GG!
The show has nothing to do with reality nor common sense, but I still love it. It's a nice escape from my every day life but I sometimes am bothered by all the very unrealistic events and characters. All the characters for example, have an incredibly high tolerance for remixing, reworking and rehashing the drama in their own lives. There were times when I felt fed up with all the new characters and the drama which created disjointed mess but there still are high points within the seasons. I miss Jenny and Vanessa as characters, especially Jenny who was one of the most down to earth characters. I love how things go with Chuck Bass and Blair but somehow I have the feeling that the character of Dan is missing the point. I'm not sure if it's the actor who's playing him or the screenwriters who slowly but very certainly 'kill' Dan's personality. And of course, there's Nate whose existence on the show I still can't figure out. All the critics aside, like I said in the beginning, it's a really enjoyable show which does its job - it entertains us.
- rebeccaredhot
- Jan 20, 2012
- Permalink
Complete mess
Yes I got addicted to this series...but to be honest when i think about it more deep it is ridicilous. I mean they hook up like dogs...only thing missing was for guys to start making out with each other so it would be a complete mess. If you miss just 2 ep you are lost they allready switches partners. Maybe while it was still filming and you watch episodes week by week you dont notice it...but watching it on netflix with a speed it is actually funny.
- ivanatrubarac
- Jun 21, 2020
- Permalink
Gossip Girl
It's a guilt pleasure type of show, but that ending...
- felipepm17
- Aug 11, 2020
- Permalink
very very good
Gossip girl was a great show (first seasons were perfect) the acting is decent, the cast has chemistry, refreshing story, great cinematography although the last few seasons have worn off, the show is still good.
biter sweet
The curiosity of the website 'Gossip Girl' is frustrating, fascinating and frightening. Everything about the show is incredibly amazing.
- alanhewitson
- Jan 6, 2017
- Permalink
Unrealistic but enjoyable
This is a show I love to hate and hate to love. It took awhile to get going. Although this show is about as unrealistic as it gets, you have to keep in mind it is tv..and not intended on being REAL. The characters have almost all been with each other romantically, sort of like Melrose place. Some of the storylines were not that great or interesting but at the end of the episode, I still found myself anxiously awaiting the next. I never watched the show when it aired. Just recently watched on Netflix. I watched all episodes over about a week's time. My least fave character was JENNY. There was something about her that I couldn't stand. The The character "Chuck Bass" had facial expressions and a voice that was exaggeratedly done and sort of annoying but I still liked him. I don't think there was one single episode that didn't include the line "I am chuck Bass" in it. I give the show a 7 because the storylines could have been better, but it was still entertaining enough to watch. I was bummed out that I ran out of episodes to watch. The ending was not what I hoped for but it is what it is.
- AdrienneGrayceMusic
- Jun 18, 2018
- Permalink
Soap opera gone wild