Fall TV Scorecard 2016

Critics Consensus: The Circus reveals a more human side of the candidates and paints a clear picture of how grueling life can be on the campaign trail, yet the show fails to provide the type of candid analysis and discourse it alludes to during this incredibly unique and cantankerous election cycle.

Starring: Mark Halperin, John Heilemann, Mark McKinnon

Critics Consensus: Berlin Station marks EPIX's first foray into scripted series with a respectable outing that provides reliable -- if not groundbreaking -- thrills.

Starring: Richard Armitage, Michelle Forbes, Richard Jenkins, Rhys Ifans

Critics Consensus: This throwback to classic gothic tales of yore is ideal viewing for audiences seeking a spooky sit without intense jolts and shocks.

Starring: Colin Morgan, Charlotte Spencer, Nicholas Woodeson, Kerrie Hayes

Critics Consensus: Masters of Sex closes the book with a stylish final season that doesn't aim to scale the heights of the series' artistic peak, but satisfies with its thoughtful investigation of its two protagonists' diverging paths.

Starring: Michael Sheen, Lizzy Caplan, Caitlin FitzGerald, Annaleigh Ashford

Critics Consensus: Good Girls Revolt features a compelling true story, told by a talented cast, even if the period drama hasn't yet achieved Mad Men-level mastery.

Starring: Genevieve Angelson, Anna Camp, Erin Darke, Chris Diamantopoulos

Critics Consensus: Quarry's distinctive setting and intriguing characters are just enough to offset a bleak narrative that struggles to make consistently compelling use of its assets.

Starring: Logan Marshall-Green, Jodi Balfour, Peter Mullan, Nikki Amuka-Bird

Critics Consensus: Frequency's confusing timeline and somewhat familiar dramatic framework are offset by solid acting and an intriguingly loaded premise.

Starring: Peyton List, Riley Smith, Devin Kelley, Anthony Ruivivar

Critics Consensus: The Exorcist doesn't come close to its classic source material, but still boasts a tense narrative that manages some legitimate scares and credible special effects.

Starring: Alfonso Herrera, Ben Daniels, Kurt Egyiawan, Hannah Kasulka

Critics Consensus: Chance is an entertaining and profoundly dark thriller primarily kept afloat by Hugh Laurie's outstanding performance.

Starring: Hugh Laurie, Gretchen Mol, LisaGay Hamilton, Paul Adelstein

Critics Consensus: Compelling performances from an excellent cast -- led by standout Billy Bob Thornton -- propel David E. Kelley's Goliath into must-watch TV territory.

Starring: Billy Bob Thornton, Tania Raymonde, William Hurt, Maria Bello

Critics Consensus: Increased character depth and effective world-building helps The Walking Dead overcome a tiresome reliance on excessive, gratuitous violence.

Starring: Andrew Lincoln, Chandler Riggs, Steven Yeun, Norman Reedus