First Impressions: Westworld on HBO

HBO’s new sci-fi western Westworld premiered on Sunday. The premium cable channel has a lot riding on its new offering. With the end of Game of Thrones already on the distant horizon, and lacking any other blockbuster dramas, HBO needs a new hit.

Westworld reviews have been mostly positive. According to Rotten Tomatoes it scored 86% with critics and 81% with viewers. IGN praised it, saying it delivered.

“After a lot of build up and some much-discussed production delays, would it deliver? The answer is a big yes, as those high expectations were met with a terrific, gripping premiere episode (airing October 2nd on HBO) that quickly draws you in.”

Deadline called it a “Violent Epic More Grand Theft Auto Than Game of Thrones.”

Based on Michael Crichton’s 1973 film, Westworld’s ten episode first season stars Anthony Hopkins, Evan Rachel Wood, Ed Harris, James Marsden, Jeffrey Wright and Thandie Newton. Season 1 wraps on December 4.

HBO also released Westworld’s opening credits.

HBO has reason to smile Monday morning. According to Deadline, the show pulled in 3.3 million viewers across TV and HBO Go/HBO Now streaming services.

What are your First Impressions of Westworld? Did you love it? Did you hate it? Or are you giving it a few more episodes before you decide?