Netflix’s new series The Abandons is being widely judged as a disappointment

 

What critics and viewers don’t like

Despite big names and high production value, The Abandons is often described as “shallow” and “over-blown.” Reviewers say its plot is clichéd, its dialogue feels forced, and many characters come off as one-dimensional. 

Many feel that the show tries too hard — borrowing heavily from well-known Western tropes — but fails to deliver originality. The writing is called derivative and heavily reliant on formulaic conflicts, which makes even dramatic moments feel predictable.

The pacing and tone have also drawn criticism: scenes jump quickly, character motivations and world-building are often underdeveloped, and the series is described as emotionally hollow — viewers struggle to feel invested in the conflict.

What few things work — but aren’t enough

The two leads, Gillian Anderson and Lena Headey, do deliver powerful and committed performances. Their presence lends a certain gravitas and watch-worthiness to an otherwise weak script. 

Production values — cinematography, set design, costume, and atmosphere — are polished. For fans of the Western genre, the show can afford some “gritty Western vibes.”

For viewers who enjoy dramatic showdowns, stylized violence, and frontier-style revenge plots — even if unoriginal — the show might still offer occasional entertainment.
What this means for Netflix and its audience

The negative reception of The Abandons highlights a risk for Netflix: star power and production budgets alone aren’t enough. If writing, pacing, and storytelling are weak, viewers and critics will notice — and complain.

For audiences, this could mean growing fatigue: another expensive “event” show that ultimately fails to satisfy. Many likely expected something on par with acclaimed Westerns or high-quality dramas; what they got felt hollow.

This also raises broader questions about Netflix’s content strategy. Are they prioritizing quantity over quality — releasing many shows quickly, hoping a few will hit, but accepting that many will underwhelm? The Abandons might be a sign of that gamble.