Murderbot: The Surprising Wholesomeness Behind the Action-Packed Sci-Fi Series

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Although Severance might be Apple TV+’s standout sci-fi series, it’s not the only one worth watching. In fact, Apple TV+ has built a reputation for housing some of the most impactful sci-fi series from the past decade. This could be why Murderbot is resonating with its audience. Initially, the trailer for Murderbot gives off a tough, action-packed vibe with heavy bass and Murderbot’s sharp dialogue, making it seem like a typical macho action thriller, much like Deadpool. But don’t be fooled by the title or the trailer; while there is action and a touch of sarcasm, the series offers a surprisingly heartwarming storyline, reminiscent of Steven Universe.

The story, titled “Murderbot,” unfolds in a future where advanced androids known as security units accompany exploratory teams on space missions. These sec units possess both artificial intelligence and organic components, making them highly sophisticated yet potentially dangerous due to their sentience and lethal capabilities. However, they are primarily designed for human aid. In this narrative, Murderbot, portrayed by Alexander Skarsgård, has covertly tampered with its programming, giving it the ability to act independently. While it could potentially cause havoc, including a deadly rampage, it chooses to behave normally, especially when assigned to a group of harmless scientists on a mission.

However, during this mission, Murderbot starts to suspect a hidden plot concerning its creators, and as the story progresses, it becomes increasingly clear that there may be more to the situation than meets the eye.

‘Murderbot’s Fourth Wall Breaks? Deadpool. Everything Else? Shockingly High-Minded.

Absolutely! Murderbot’s sarcastic and grumpy thoughts bring to mind Deadpool, but don’t let that fool you. With only occasional strong language, it’s a series that could appeal to a broad audience, including families. It tackles themes of unity and independence while offering a critique on societal issues in an entertaining and humorous way. The humor doesn’t rely on vulgarity; instead, it stems from the fact that this group of scientists, who value community and cooperation so highly that they need consensus to make decisions, find themselves in situations where disagreements are frequent and conflicts with adversaries are constant. It’s quite ironic, as these open-minded individuals are now struggling to agree on anything, let alone dealing with their enemies.

In a somewhat unexpected comparison, both Murderbot and Steven Universe share a unique balance between heavy themes and humor, making them seem surprisingly alike. They both boast an adorable cast of humans and sentient beings, including characters that are as deep as they are lovable.

Delving deeper into the similarities between the characters, Dr. Mensah from Murderbot echoes Garnet from Steven Universe in many ways. Both are tranquil, overflowing with compassion, yet unyieldingly strong leaders. They each prioritize self-care to maintain their composure and reliability. For instance, Dr. Mensah focuses on her mental health, while Garnet nurtures her relationships for stability.

Moreover, the titular Murderbot is embarking on a journey similar to that of Peridot in Steven Universe. Much like how Peridot learns about humans by observing them from afar, Murderbot is now discovering human behavior not from a distance but up close, making for an intriguing parallel between the two series.

It’s been noticed that Peridot and Murderbot, though not human, were often perceived by viewers as characters who might be on the autism spectrum. This trend in sci-fi is quite common, where non-human characters can serve as representation. Murderbot himself seems to suggest this, with lines like “I hate eye contact.” Both series resonate strongly with neurodiverse and LGBTQ+ audiences, which could explain why Murderbot’s marketing might have missed its intended audience.

‘Murderbot’ Is Also Based on a Book Series With a Cult Following

Murderbot’s origins stem from “The Murderbot Diaries,” a cherished book series authored by Martha Wells. The first installment of this series is titled “All Systems Red.” Before the television show became available, Wells’ works had already amassed a devoted fanbase among individuals with autism, thanks to her personal experiences and struggles with neurodiversity. As one reader expressed: “…the books resonated deeply…

The unease we feel, stemming from difficulties in connecting and communicating with those who are neurotypical, often results in misinterpretations. This can lead us to prefer solitude, much like how Murderbot chooses to distance itself from its crew.

In a way that may have been deliberate or unconscious, Wells created situations similar to what many neurodiverse individuals face, striking a chord with viewers. It appears that the creators of the Murderbot series, Chris and Paul Weitz, grasped the essence of this portrayal effectively.

For instance, when Murderbot withdraws, it finds solace and rejuvenates (both figuratively and literally) by engrossing itself in extended periods of the fictional Star Trek. As Chris Weitz explained to Vanity Fair, “Many of us have these familiar methods for quieting our thoughts that don’t necessarily require grand intellectualism.” However, if you desire a blend of relaxation and excitement, new episodes of Murderbot become available every Friday on Apple TV+.

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2025-06-07 22:04