Is 'Foundation' Apple TV+'s Next Big Hit?
A new adaptation of Isaac Asimov's sci-fi classic has arrived
Every big science-fiction or fantasy title that’s released in the post-Game of Thrones era cannot escape comparisons. It’s convenient, easy for audiences to grasp immediately, and puts new television shows in a neat little bubble. Despite a monstrous budget and a sprawling galaxy-wide adventure, Foundation doesn’t really bring to mind Game of Thrones for me. It’s heavy science-fiction with a plot that hinges on a mathematical equation. One of the many protagonists, Gaal Dornick (Lou Llobell), literally recites math equations while she does laps in a swimming pool. I imagine for some of you reading this, that’s an immediate “I’m out” response. For those of you still here, Foundation morphs over the first season’s run. It starts off slowly, but will likely win you over with its winning cast and spectacular visuals.
I’ve told you what Foundation isn’t like. Now to tell you about what it is.
Based on Isaac Asimov’s seminal 1953 novel, Foundation begins with the trial of Hari Seldon (Jared Harris). Seldon believes that math has the ability to divine future events. Utilizing one of his formulas, he has seen the collapse of the planet Trantor, and the decline of the Galactic Empire. Not only do his theories signal a change of power in the universe, but they also inspire a legion of devoted followers. These followers are willing to follow Seldon to whatever end, in the hopes of finding salvation and continuing civilization.
Joining him at his trial is Gaal Dornick, a brilliant young mathematician who is brought into the fold to validate Seldon’s research. Her word could either add fuel to this new movement or it could immediately snuff out whatever subterfuge Seldon is suggesting. Proving these theories false would be of great interest to the Galactic Empire. The Empire has been ruling for centuries and holds great power over the universe. This Empire is made up of three individuals each at various stages of life. There is the boy/teenager known as Brother Dawn, then there is the adult known as Brother Day (Lee Pace), and the elder Brother Dusk. Despite being brothers, each one brings a different perspective on the dealings of the Empire.
*Spoilers for Episode 1 follow*
Even though Seldon’s math is proven correct by Dornick, the Empire is furious with the result. He tells Seldon to pack up and take his followers to a distant star system and the planet known as Terminus. If they can somehow start this new foundation away from the public, then they’ll be allowed to continue their work in private. Little does the Empire realize, but this was part of Seldon’s plan.
*Spoilers over*
The actions in the first two episodes set off a sprawling science-fiction story. At any given time the audience is following one of three of four divergent storylines. And just when you want answers to one particular plot development, you might find yourself waiting for another entire episode to find the solution. It can be a little frustrating, but the payoff is often worth the wait. In addition to jumping between various storylines, Foundation often throws the audience into different time periods altogether. If I have any suggestion for audiences taking in the premiere episodes it would be to consider those episodes as a prologue movie. These events will set the entire series into motion, but it will be awhile before the shockwaves of these events are actually felt.
Honestly, I felt a little disillusioned after the first two episodes. Those early episodes are doing a lot of heavy lifting; introducing audiences to a sprawling cast of characters, worlds, religions, and terminology. It’s easy to get overwhelmed from it all. I found myself wanting to spend time with specific characters.
Foundation isn’t an exact replica of Asimov’s text. A few vital parts are given to women for this adaptation, and while having no history with the novel myself, I thought it worked pretty organically and undoubtedly brings more interest to this story. The whole Empire system of power is also a new development, one that I find really clever. I imagine that the text is going to be used more as a guideline as this story continues.
More on the character changes since I really enjoyed Lou Llobell’s work as Dornick. Despite this gift for mathematics, she’s unable to find solace in the galaxy. Her character has tossed aside everything for a new beginning, one that is just out of reach. For me, the two other most compelling characters are easily those played by Lee Pace and Jared Harris. Whenever these two actors are giving elaborate speeches or chewing the scenery, Foundation soars to its epic science-fiction heights.
I’m not about to suggest that Foundation will have a following anywhere near some of Apple TV+’s biggest hits, but I do hope it finds an audience that will allow this series to grow. I found myself eagerly awaiting the next episode and how these stories would evolve. I’m positive Foundation will inspire some believers.