Parents' Guide to

Eyewitness

By Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 15+

Adaptation of violent Norwegian crime drama lacks depth.

TV USA Drama 2016
Eyewitness Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

Community Reviews

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age 14+

Based on 2 parent reviews

Ms Bo
Ms Bo Parent of 12-year-old
September 9, 2022
age 14+

Gays

It's really gorgeous
Jenifersmith.
Jenifersmith. Adult
September 19, 2019
age 13+

Eyewitness Review

Can be violent but nothing too graphic

This title has:

Great messages
See all 2 parent reviews

What's the Story?

Based on the popular Norwegian drama Øyevitne, EYEWITNESS is a crime drama that centers on an unsolved murder and the two teens who saw it take place. When Philip Shea (Tyler Young) and Lukas Waldenbeck (James Paxton) witness a multiple homicide after a romantic encounter, they decide to keep what they saw a secret to protect their reputations. But when Phillip's foster mom, local sheriff Helen Torrance (Julianne Nicholson), begins to investigate with the help of partner Tony (Matt Murray) against the wishes of FBI agent Kamilah Davis (Tattiawna Jones), she soon realizes that there is much more to the case that meets the eye. But as she digs deeper, she becomes more disconnected from Philip, much to the dismay of her husband (played by Gil Bellows). Meanwhile, the lone surviving killer (Warren Christie), will stop at nothing to remain hidden.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (2 ):
Kids say (2 ):

This somber series offers a story that contrasts a big-time crime against the backdrop of a small, generic town. There are some harrowing moments, but as the story unfolds, some of the character interactions feel unnatural or lack dimension. Adding to this is the gray, monochromatic camera work, which visually washes out the story world.

The plot offers enough twists to create a consistent sense of foreboding, and it raises just enough questions to keep it interesting. Nonetheless, Eyewitness isn't a captivating viewing experience, and makes you wonder if something got lost in translation when it was adapted from the original. Regardless, some crime fans might be willing to commit to it.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about shows from foreign countries like Eyewitness that are adapted for U.S. audiences. What kinds of things that may be permissible in other places that can't be shown on American television?

  • Philip and Lukas choose to keep a dangerous secret from people who can potentially help them. Why? What impact does their choice have on themselves and the people around them?

TV Details

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