‘Dark Matter’ Review: Apple’s Sad Dad Sci-Fi Series Fails to Dive Deep
Overview
‘Dark Matter,’ Apple TV’s latest foray into science fiction, presents a visual feast set against the backdrop of Chicago’s architectural beauty, starring Joel Edgerton as a contemplative father. Adapted by Blake Crouch from his own best-selling novel, the series attempts to merge existential angst with quantum physics. Despite its promising premise and stellar cinematography, ‘Dark Matter’ struggles to deliver a narrative depth that matches its aesthetic allure.
Visuals and Performance
The series excels visually. Chicago is more than just a setting; it’s almost a character in its own right, with sweeping shots of the skyline and intimate glimpses into the bustling city life that add a layer of authenticity and grandeur to the story. Joel Edgerton, known for his nuanced performances, steps into the shoes of a conflicted father with a grave solemnity that is compelling to watch. His portrayal of a man wrestling with life’s what-ifs carries the emotional weight of the show.
However, this strong visual and acting foundation is not matched by the storyline’s depth. The narrative, which aims to explore the profound implications of the choices we make, often skims over the surface of these themes rather than diving into the complex emotions and ethical quandaries they present.
The Narrative
‘Dark Matter’ follows the journey of a married father who stumbles upon the ultimate question: what if you could live a life based on a different pivotal decision? The sci-fi element enters through the concept of a multiverse, where every choice creates a new branching universe. It’s a fascinating concept that promises to challenge the protagonist’s understanding of reality, identity, and love.
However, the adaptation from book to screen seems to have lost some of its original potency. The pacing feels uneven, and key emotional beats that should resonate feel rushed or underexplored. There’s a lingering sense that the show is more interested in maintaining its aesthetic and conceptual cool than truly exploring the human condition.
Adaptation Woes
Adapting a novel, especially one as beloved and intricate as ‘Dark Matter,’ is no small feat. The novel’s internal monologues and complex scientific explanations lend themselves to a literary form where readers can pause and ponder. In translating these elements to television, much of the novel’s introspective and complex narrative is simplified or omitted, leaving the show feeling somewhat hollow.
‘Dark Matter’ had the potential to be a profound exploration of life’s big questions through the lens of speculative science fiction. While it succeeds in creating an engaging visual and atmospheric setting, it fails to fully engage with the deeper emotional and philosophical issues it attempts to raise.
Fans of the book or viewers drawn in by the premise might find value in Edgerton’s performance and the scenic depiction of Chicago. However, those looking for a more thorough examination of the themes of choice, consequence, and existence may find ‘Dark Matter’ lacking in the depth required to make such a narrative truly resonate.
In summary, while ‘Dark Matter’ is undeniably handsome, it ultimately serves as a reminder that good science fiction should stir the mind as much as it pleases the eye. As it stands, the series may leave viewers longing for a bit more substance beneath its stylish surface.
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