As a space enthusiast who has spent countless hours gazing at the stars and dreaming about Mars exploration, I found myself captivated by these three intriguing series that delve into the realms of human ambition and the challenges we face when pushing the boundaries of our understanding and survival.
Despite an abundance of science fiction movies and TV shows today, their popularity doesn’t seem proportionate. Audiences are fond of science fiction stories, but it’s unfortunate that there aren’t more filmmakers equipped with the necessary resources to create a captivating blend of classic sci-fi elements. This disproportionate representation could be due to a lack of trust and the financial success of other genres, which has relegated science fiction to the sidelines in terms of content production and marketing focus.
Nevertheless, this doesn’t mean there aren’t sci-fi movies and TV shows, apart from the classics and most popular, that don’t deserve a look. We took a trip through the streaming services to see what sci-fi miniseries may have flown under your radar, and we compiled a decent list for you to binge on.
9 Night Sky (2022)
Under the Starlit Canopy, Irene and Franklin York are an elderly duo harboring a momentous secret beneath their home: a portal that transports them to another world lies hidden in their basement. They’ve constructed a viewing chamber for glimpses of this alien realm, planning to safeguard their secret until the twilight of their lives. However, an intriguing stranger disrupts their tranquility, reminiscent of their late son, potentially threatening their carefully guarded secret.
It’s Not Only About the Chamber
The one-season television show, initially marketed as a science fiction series, is actually a drama in disguise that delves into complex themes such as aging, mourning, and discovering your soulmate amidst turmoil. Starring acclaimed actors like J.K. Simmons and Sissy Spacek, it has garnered praise with a 73% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
8 The Man Who Fell to Earth (2022)
According to Walter Tevis’s novel titled “The Man Who Fell from Heaven“, this story revolves around an extraterrestrial being (who later becomes known as Faraday). In a literal sense, he falls from the heavens onto Earth with one specific objective – locating a woman capable of aiding him and preserving his home planet. What’s intriguing is that Faraday remains unaware of the fact that by immersing himself in human culture, he will be contributing to an endeavor aimed at saving our very own world.
A Beautiful Adaptation That Was Sadly Not Renewed
Initially, the mini-series on Showtime faced some troubles during production and was eventually picked up by an underestimated streaming platform that initially approved its airing, only to cancel it after only one season.
As a lifelong sci-fi enthusiast who’s seen countless series and films in this genre, I can confidently say that this show takes the cake when it comes to high-quality production and storytelling. With an impressive cast featuring Naomie Harris, Bill Nighy, Jimmi Simpson, and Chiwetel Ejiofor delivering outstanding performances, every episode is a treat for the eyes and mind. The series consists of only ten episodes, but each one packs a punch, making it a satisfying yet bittersweet experience to watch. And with an impressive Rotten Tomatoes score of 87%, it’s safe to say that this show has earned its place among the greats in sci-fi television. If you’re looking for a thought-provoking and visually stunning series, look no further – this one is definitely worth your time!
7 Tales From the Loop (2020)
Tales from the Loop is an intriguing science fiction miniseries adapted from a graphic art book. Swedish artist Simon Stålenhag painted a collection of scenes depicting a futuristic setting, and Nathaniel Halpern took it upon himself to translate this unique vision to television, leading a talented team in the process. The outcome is eight episodes showcasing distinct stories about the inhabitants of a modest Ohio working-class town, all connected by a mysterious facility that pushes technological boundaries without limits.
A Remarkable Hard Sci-Fi Anthology Show
As a long-time fan of sci-fi, I must say that this Amazon original series is truly exceptional. With an impressive 86% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, it’s clear that both critics and audiences agree. What sets this show apart is its authentic and compelling dramas that seamlessly incorporate science fiction themes like robotics, quantum physics, and time travel. The visual effects are so well done that they blend effortlessly into the background, allowing the powerful narratives to take center stage. Having watched countless sci-fi series in my life, I can confidently say that this show truly embodies what good sci-fi should look like. I eagerly await each of the eight episodes, knowing that they will transport me on a captivating journey through space and time.
1. This cast is exceptional, boasting names like Rebecca Hall, Paul Schneider, Jane Alexander, Jonathan Pryce, and more. Still not convinced? Check out the lineup of directors: Mark Romanek, Andrew Stanton, Ti West, and Jodie Foster, to name a few.
You can stream Tales From the Loop on Prime Video.
6 Devs (2020)
Developed by Alex Garland for FX, Devs is a series that follows the tale of a software engineer whose partner meets an enigmatic demise within the very corporation they both served. As Lily delves deeper into Amaya, the quantum computing firm, she uncovers that its inventor has made the most groundbreaking technological advancement in human history.
A Very Effective Techno-Thriller
Without a doubt, the miniseries is influenced by the achievements of contemporary tech magnates. However, Garland, who both wrote and directed each episode, chooses to delve into an entirely fabricated universe that defies traditional hard science fiction norms and plunges headlong into a complex labyrinth that may leave viewers bewildered. This miniseries poses some profound questions about our very existence, but unfortunately, due to its non-continuation, these queries will go unresolved.
5 Years and Years (2019)
In the series titled “Years and Years,” the Lyons family grapples with various problems throughout Manchester over a span of 15 years. An unexpected event sets in motion a hypothetical dystopian scenario where technology doesn’t always serve our best interests, and humanity has taken unexpected evolutionary turns. This narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a controversial and populist politician who climbs to power within the nation.
The Best Dystopian Sci-Fi TV Show You Haven’t Watched
As a film critic, let me share my thoughts on the compelling drama, “Years and Years,” jointly produced by BBC and HBO. With an impressive 89% score on Rotten Tomatoes, this series leaves you questioning the future we might confront and the leaders we could potentially elect. The sci-fi element subtly woven into each episode intensifies, making us wonder if this is indeed our destiny. A captivating blend of drama and speculation that will undoubtedly leave you in a state of suspense.
Known for his work on shows like ‘Doctor Who’ and ‘Queer as Folk’, Russell T Davies takes the helm in a remarkable production boasting a talented cast including Emma Thompson, T’Nia Miller, Anne Reid, Russell Tovey, Rory Kinnear, along with several other distinguished actors.
You can stream Years and Years on Max
4 Bodies (2022)
In the vein of Si Spencer’s comic book series, the storyline of Bodies unfolds as a gripping mystery-thriller with a touch of science fiction. It follows the journey of four investigators who stumble upon the same deceased individual in four distinct timeframes: 1890, 1941, 2023, and 2053. As they delve deeper into this peculiar crime, they uncover a far-reaching conspiracy that intertwines these disparate eras. Rest assured, the intricacy of the plot will only become more captivating as you reach its conclusion.
Captivating Time Travel Mystery With a Satisfying Conclusion
In a blink of an eye, the Netflix miniseries spans across eight episodes, keeping viewers captivated regardless of how deeply they delve into its intricate details. Packed with unexpected turns and maintaining a relentless tempo, it’s noteworthy that it effectively solves the central enigma. Fans of the movie “Cloud Atlas” may find their craving for more satisfied with “Bodies.” The talented cast includes Shira Haas, Jacob Fortune-Lloyd, Derek Riddell, Kae Alexander, and the renowned Stephen Graham, among others.
3 Away (2020)
In the TV show titled “Away“, a team of astronauts embark on an adventurous yet perilous journey – their goal being to become the first humans to set foot on Mars. However, what was initially intended as a relaxed voyage takes a drastic turn for the worse when a crisis occurs, making it significantly more challenging and causing the crew to question the leadership of mission commander Emma Green. The series draws inspiration from the Esquire article with the same title, chronicling mankind’s pioneering Mars exploration in the not-too-distant future.
Once Again, Drama at Its Best
Although it may not have won over all critics (earning 59% on Rotten Tomatoes), the series manages to blend elements of comedy, suspense, and sci-fi seamlessly, creating an intriguing atmosphere that feels personal after just a few episodes. Away excels in character development amidst crisis, with Hilary Swank delivering a captivating and underappreciated performance as the lead, adding depth to the show beyond its potentially melodramatic elements.
It’s regrettable that Netflix opted against producing additional episodes for the impressive finale of the first and sole season of Away.
2 The First (2018)
The First starts with a tragedy. The crew of Providence 1, the first astronaut mission with the intention of getting to Mars, all perish during the launch. It’s up to Commander Tom Hagerty, who used to be attached to the mission as leader, to take the reins in the middle of the chaos alongside Laz Ingram, the CEO of the company in charge of the mission, in order to continue humankind’s most important space adventure with Providence 2.
A Solid Execution of the Genre That Not Many People Saw
The mini-series showcases Sean Penn in one of his uncommon TV roles, delivering a performance that promises to captivate audiences over the course of eight compelling episodes. The series seamlessly combines gripping drama with the fundamental aspects of astronaut life and explores the dramatic preparation for a perilous mission, as well as human ambition during the space race. Unfortunately, the series was prematurely concluded after only one season on Hulu.
1 Station Eleven (2021)
Station Eleven is adapted from Emily St. John Mandel’s novel sharing the same title. It narrates the journey of mankind into a dystopian era following a virus that nearly annihilated human civilization. Years later, in this post-apocalyptic landscape, a troupe of itinerant theater artists stumble upon a violent cult with a sinister and enigmatic purpose tied to one of the performers. With a remarkable score of 98%, it is currently the top-rated miniseries on Rotten Tomatoes.
A Strange Mix of Tones and Themes That Works
The miniseries, highly praised upon debut, exhibits a deliberate pace yet harbors grand ambitions in its complex narrative structure. Spanning all 10 episodes, it leisurely unfolds, but the connections between past and present are skillfully woven as it delves deeper into its primary character, Kirsten Raymonde, portrayed convincingly by Matilda Lawler and Mackenzie Davis.
The ending might not be as thrilling as expected, but it can be challenging for some viewers to comprehend that ‘Station Eleven’ isn’t just an ordinary science fiction miniseries; instead, it offers a thought-provoking exploration into the transformed way of life among disaster survivors.
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2024-08-17 04:32