Critic Reviews

Fast-paced, very funny and ultimately life-affirming, Upload is (you guessed it) to die for. [27 Apr - 10 May 2020, p. 11]

At first it seems like Daniels is going to mainly satirize our modern world, which the show does reliably and deliciously. But as “Upload” progresses a conspiracy theory pushes forward and the underlying theme of income inequality becomes clear. Still, “Upload” never forgets to be funny.

“Upload” is more amusing than it is laugh-out-loud funny. But it’s quick-witted, clever (an Arnold Palmer bot appears on a VR golf course in episode four) and twisty with a thread of mystery.

It’s a genuine joy to watch—so much so that you almost forget the unrelenting cruelty (and distressingly familiar) strain of immiseration capitalism that makes up the show's beating heart.

Daniels and his writers room had a lot of primary characters already to play off of and offer fitting farewells, and while one or two could've used a little more time spent, this is still going down as one of the better TV endings of all-time.

There’s a lot of heavy stuff at play here, but it’s all handled with a deft touch. Even when “Upload” gets serious, it’s never more than a scene away from being funny as hell.

Smart, often hilarious series. ... Nathan and Nora's relationship is essential to the series, and Amell and Allo have electric chemistry.

The seven-episode second season retains the first's ability to simultaneously present a cynical outlook on the future and also argue that love can conquer (almost) all. It's a tricky tone to perfect, but the sharp acting and sharper scripts help immensely. "Upload" has also developed a distinctive visual language.

Amell settles into Nathan with more self-awareness, but it’s Allo, Johnson, and Edwards who come out swinging. The solid performances, and Upload’s timely arrival—when is scrutinizing affluent conglomerates and the impact of social media not relevant?—really transform the show in its second outing.

Upload Season 3 continues to prove that this series is more than just an R-rated version of The Good Place. It doubles down on its satire while also being unafraid to throw a curveball at its audience. Daniels and his team take some massive swings and, once again, they're able to pull it off and exceed your expectations, wherever they might be.